Underrated Gems!

[Gabby01]

In EPCOT, I like to check the purple martin condos to see if anyone's home. There are also a lot of birds, especially on the islands in the lake, that you might not see at home. See if you can spot an anhinga, a double-crested cormorant, a white ibis, a great egret . . . (just google image search if you don't know what they look like). And of course, sample the international soda flavors at Club Cool.

I would also recommend downloading the Play Disney Parks app. You can use this to play special games in the queues for different rides (I especially like Resistance Encampment for the usually-long line for RotR), and, if you have a magicband+, to keep track of all the gold statues you find in each park.

 

[scrappinginontario]

We enjoy the Epcot scavenger hunts.

 

[hardcorestitch]

Ok - what are the underrated gems at the parks! The things you did that really helped make your day that I can't find in a Disney Blog somewhere. We are definitely ride focused, trying to use LLs, and going at a busy time, but I also don't want to be so rushed I miss some truly special stuff. Special snack, favorite shop, attraction that doesn't get any attention in online articles.

I know we can't do it all, but would like do make it to more that a list of rides. Also would love to have other options if the day goes off plan due to weather, rides breaking down, etc.

We will be visiting all four parks and Typhoon Lagoon (weather permitting). Husband, myself, and teen daughter (her 1st time to Disney)

If you’re scripting your Magic Kingdom window, might I suggest meeting up with Elena of Avalor? She’s one of the lesser known princesses, but she’s so darn gorgeous! She usually meets just outside of the Town Square Theater until 2:30pm.

 

[SDA]

For us, the hidden gem is family time. Between dance and basketball and cheer and college essays and SAT prep and chorus and guitar and work and home improvements, we don't get to spend as much time together as I'd like. And we are always exhausted by the end of the day. WDW does a great job of providing a place where our family can stay together and enjoy each other's company. Sure, we split up here and there, but for the most part the kids are stuck with us.

YES!! We are a dance family and so busy all the time. As I'm going through my daily tentative plans, I keep reminding myself of this part - just hoping to be able to hit some fun rides but also just remember to take the day as it comes and enjoy each othere.

 

[SDA]

One of my favorite things to do is when walking the trails at AK to stop and talk to the CMs stationed there. They are full of knowledge about the animals there and love talking about them. So many people just pass them by. I spent a good 10 min. talking to the CM at the tiger enclosure, just asking him questions.

I also love to talk to the CMs in World Showcase at Epcot. Again, they love to talk about their home country and can really tell you some interesting stuff.

If you are a fan of gardens, all the ones in Epcot are great. Canada, GB, France, Japan, China all have some great ones.

Yes! Wonderful suggestions!

 

[SDA]

In EPCOT, I like to check the purple martin condos to see if anyone's home. There are also a lot of birds, especially on the islands in the lake, that you might not see at home. See if you can spot an anhinga, a double-crested cormorant, a white ibis, a great egret . . . (just google image search if you don't know what they look like). And of course, sample the international soda flavors at Club Cool.

I would also recommend downloading the Play Disney Parks app. You can use this to play special games in the queues for different rides (I especially like Resistance Encampment for the usually-long line for RotR), and, if you have a magicband+, to keep track of all the gold statues you find in each park.

Great idea! My daughter will love this. I think we are getting her a magic band as well.

 

[SDA]

These are all such amazing ideas, thank you!! Exactly what I was looking for.

 

[pixiedust2u]

Engaging with the CMs. Building rapport with CMs can really make time even more magical- and I don’t mean in the sense with intent to get pixie dusted.

We love the little lesser explored areas in Epcot like the koi pond area in Japan. Also love mariachi Cobre in Mexico.

Chatting with other guests when waiting for nighttime spectaculars or in lines. Joy is contagious.

Embracing inclement weather. Jumping in puddles, running to through the rain, finding a rainbow.

 

[Simba's Mom]

Absolutely agree. Some folks say there's not that much at AK, but we love it. The trails are amazing, Rafiki's Conservation Station, and our gkids just absolutely love the African music and dancing that goes on throughout the day in Harambe - such a great time. Last trip we spent an hour in Harambe just enjoying the energy of the music and the performers!

I love talking to the Cast Members there and getting information on different animals. For example, did you know that when one Meerkat has to go to Veterinary Services for something, they all go? The Meerkats are such herd animals that they don't like being separated. Then the ones that are just there to see what's happening to one of "their own" act like they all want to have the same procedure.
And below the fruit bats, there are peacock-like birds walking around, cleaning up (eating) the watermelonlon seeds. I always learn something new.

 

[Miffy]

Tree of Life Awakening at DAK (an after-dark experience). Really beautiful.

There's also a bird show at DAK that's near Island Mercantile (not the bird show in the theater in Asia). I've never planned for it but I've caught it several times and I always enjoy it.

The puppeteers at DAK in the wintertime with the white-and-blue puppets. Very cool.