Hi Everyone,
I'm new to the forum and I've actually never been to Disney World. I'm so excited to take my first trip!
My fiance and I are getting married in May 2015, and we'd love to go to Disney for our honeymoon (1st time for him too). We were thinking of staying near Epcot at either BC, YC or BW. Thoughts?
Also, for you Disney Veterans out there...since this is our first trip and I know it's impossible to do everything, what are the top attractions/rides/shows, etc. that are an absolute must for first timers like us?!
Your feedback is appreciated. Thanks in advance!
- Jen
Hi Jen! Welcome!
How long are you staying? If you're there for a week, I think you can pretty much do the parks, no problem. If you're thinking you want to do the waterparks and stuff...maybe you'd need more time.
As for the hotel recommendation, I've stayed about both YC and BC and LOVED them both. I think I'd put my preference at BC, but both are very nice. Plus, if you become an Epcot lover, you will fall in love with the location. BW is also within walking distance of Epcot. DF and I are desperately trying to get into a DVC contract for BC (we're on a waiting list) just because of that 'walking distance' factor. Epcot is our FAVORITE park.
The following is representative of just my opinion
For a first time WDW person...I'd say start with Magic Kingdom. At this point, just because it is so new, I'd say you have to do the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. I personally think it's over-hyped...but it's worth getting a fast pass for to ride at least once. And, as silly as it sounds, I'd say make sure you do Enchanted Tales with Belle in New Fantasyland. It's really a little kid thing...but it's COMPLETELY worth it to see some of the technology they've employed into the attraction. I was frankly blown away. And if you're a "Beauty and the Beast" fan, you'll really enjoy it.
Definitely make sure you hit the classics at MK...Pirates of the Caribbean, Big Thunder, Haunted Mansion, and Jungle Cruise. In Adventureland, they have a pavilion, too, to get a Dole Whip. GET DOLE WHIP!!!!
I'm frankly not that impressed with Tomorrowland anymore...but it's still good to go over. As cheesy at is sounds (because it's such a dated ride)--Carousel of Progress. The attraction meant so much to Walt Disney, and is really representative of what Disney is all about. And, while I'm not a huge fan (heresy!), everyone I know
loves Buzz Lightyear.
Also--stay for the fireworks at least once.
Hollywood Studios is sort of in shambles right now with all the construction they're doing (and going to do). Depending on when you go, if the Great Movie Ride is still open, GO ON IT. I've heard that ride is on the chopping block (purely rumors--but it's a dated attraction, so I can see them removing it). It's a classic HS ride, and you should try to experience it at least once before they take it out. Definite rides you NEED to go on are Rockin' Rollercoaster and Tower of Terror. And while I am never willing to fight people to stay for Fantasmic (it's really just that I'm too lazy to fight crowds now), Fantasmic (assuming it's open) at HS is one of the best shows (IMO).
AK most people can do in a half a day...but I always take a full day there. Best attractions are the Kilimanjaro Safari, Everest, and Kali River Rapids.
The rest of the park is sort of a big zoo...so I'd just give yourself plenty of time to walk around and enjoy. This is frankly my second favorite park (right after Epcot) because I'm such a big animal person. There's a lot to see there, and so many educational opportunities. I
love this park.
Finally, my
favorite park is Epcot. Sadly, I think they've taken out the best ride (Maelstrom)--so you won't be able to experience that. That said, I think it's a great park. Head over to the innovations pavilion and all their little areas....but frankly, my
favorite part of Epcot is the World Showcase. It opens after the park itself (park is usually open around 9 AM, and World Showcase opens at 11 AM). It's composed of several "countries"--basically just mini-pavilions representative of some of the most overt (and sometimes subtle) cultural features. They try to bring in students from the actual countries to work on an exchange program--so you can really learn a lot and enjoy people who are actually from the country they represent. There's
a lot to eat there--so be hungry!
My other favorite part of Epcot is "The Land" pavilion. It's a little building in the main part of the park, but they have a short (and slow-moving) boat ride in there that takes you through a massive greenhouse where Disney is trying to develop and pioneer new agricultural techniques and practices. I think a lot of it is probably just for show nowadays (for example, they have alligators there...they really serve no practical purpose other than to show that they can be farmed)...but Disney still retains a partnership with the USDA, and still does some research. I found this to be FASCINATING. If you have the time, DEFINITELY book the "Behind the Seeds" tour to get a more up-close look at the greenhouse (it's a walking tour that lasts about an hour).
Finally...and while I like "Finding Nemo," this isn't my favorite ride. That said, a lot of people love "Finding Nemo" and enjoy the "Finding Nemo" attraction at "The Seas" pavilion in the main part of Epcot. My favorite part of this attraction though is that it actually lets you off into an actual aquarium--so it's pretty awesome.
Illuminations (Epcot's fireworks show) is also pretty awesome, but comparatively short (IMO). I still prefer the MK fireworks.
Also--while I haven't been in YEARS...Disney Quest is pretty awesome (or aws). It's a separate ticket...so if you have the time and money some evening, I think it's worth it for a night (not an entire day).
Tiffiny
