Lesser known things to check out?

[Megara5115]

We have always been the go on as many rides as possible/ADR/planning type of vacationers and it has always worked for us. This trip we will have a baby with us for the first time so we are going to have to change that completely. I am actually looking forward to being able to "stop and smell the roses" a bit and just soak in more of the atmosphere.

What are some things to check out in the parks that are things you might miss if you are usually focused on rides? We are doing rider swap (also have an 11 year old) so it will be nice to have some tips about where to wander then as well as just some lesser known things to see in general. Thanks!

 

[Delirium]

A lot of fun things and entertainment on Main Street. We normally just catch things in passing like the Dapper Dans, Trolley Show, Characters of Main Street, etc., but have never 'scheduled' time to see them before., This year, we are planning one whole morning at MK on Main Street with the specific intent to catch those things.

 

[bbjunkie]

Hidden Pascals in the Tangled bathrooms area and around Rapunzel's tower.

 

[alliecat523]

We get out the hidden Mickey book and look for those.

 

[cassie58]

At AK there are the trails that go up close to the Tree of Life - hopefully they are still open, since I know last yr. they were partially closed for construction. It is a cool view of the tree and they had some animal exhibits as well. Also, if your 11 yr.old would enjoy it, there is the Wilderness Explorers booklet, where they visit different stations around the park and do little tasks to get badges. My DD was 12 in Dec. last yr., and brought her book back to finish(she is big animal lover and was still into it.)

Epcot has the performers in some countries, and the Phineas and Ferb missions in each country to explore with if your child would like those.

Don't know if you've played the Sorcerer's game in MK yet, but that is a fun activity to do throughout the park.

What time of yr. are you going? There would be some different things to do depending on the season. Also maybe some resort time with some kids' activities for your older one.

 

[caliope]

There have already been some good recommendations offered. I'd just like to add that traveling with a baby really changes your perspective in the parks. It's amazing what you can see and experience when viewing things differently. Enjoy!

 

[Megara5115]

Thank you for the great suggestions!

 

[Huff]

Ask a CM to go up with the captain to the wheel house on Liberty Belle. Kids will can 'steer' the ship and blow the whistle.

 

[stephmarty]

There are some inexpensive books available on Amazon about the "secrets" of Walt Disney World. I ordered for my kids (who think they know all about WDW) for our upcoming trip. The ones I looked at got good reviews.

 

[TheBigErn]

I learned to water ski at Disney when I was a kid in the 1970's. Your 11 year old can do that while the rest of you enjoy the boat ride.