Monthly Archives: December 2022

Attraction Profile: Walt Disney World Railroad

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Walt Disney World Railroad had been closed for over 4 years. It was inoperable while construction was in progress on Tron: Lightcycle/ Run. But as of December 2022, it has finally reopened. Because of this extended closure, there are many people who have never enjoyed a ride on the rails. Additionally, there will be many who are totally unaware of this attraction. Don’t let this experience be forgotten.

The Walt Disney World Railroad is unique in that it is an attraction, but is also a mode of transportation. There are three train stations around Magic Kingdom. The first one is at the park entrance. The next two are in Frontierland and Fantasyland. The train only operates in one direction in that order. It can be a quick way to get around if the timing is right. It is also a relaxing way around the park and a nice break.

The Walt Disney World Railroad is a scenic ride that provides an opportunity to see some interesting views of Magic Kingdom. During the construction update, imagineers added a tunnel through Tron Lightcycle/Run. Similar to Tomorrowland’s People Mover, Disney World guests will feel the magic when riding the Railroad. It is such a simple attraction that would be completely ordinary at other amusement parks. But, at Walt Disney World, that indescribable feeling of joy and wonder is perfectly captured.

Another EPCOT Hidden Gem

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EPCOT is a BIG park. To be honest, I find out something new every time I go. It is too big to really get to know in one day. But at the same time, it lacks some of the thrill rides that Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios have. It is hard to justify spending multiple days there on a vacation that is not super long. So there are sections of the park that people don’t get to explore and they unfortunately miss out on experiences. This is totally understandable as there is just not enough time to do everything.

The Seas with Nemo and Friends might just be the most overlooked area of EPCOT. There are no thrill rides here. The Finding Nemo right is cute, but it is not a big draw. Turtle Talk with Crush is not one of my favorites. Even the restaurant Corral Reef (which I personally love) is one of the easiest places to get a reservation. It doesn’t help that the area is basically tucked away in the corner of EPCOT. However, there is one thing here that should be a bigger draw.

There is a really nice aquarium here that you should spend some time checkingout. Sea turtles, dolphins and sharks can all be found in the massive tank. It is a wonderful indoor (think A/C) space where kids can run around and enjoy some freedom. I’m a big proponent of letting them run free at times as a little break from waiting in lines and being forced into compliance with the itinerary. Bigger kids can also learn from many of the friendly cast members.

The aquarium is accessible after the Finding Nemo ride or by walking into the unadvertised entrance to the left of the Nemo entrance.

Remember: It’s a Vacation

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Planning a trip to Walt Disney World for me is incredibly fun. I have the knowledge and experience necessary to fit everything together. But that wasn’t always the case. There was a time when the planning seemed overwhelming and stressful. I wish someone told me then to remember this. It’s a vacation and no matter what happens, it will be fun.

Now there is room for disappointment in the planning process. But it is important to move past it quickly. Little can be done if you do not get the dining reservation you really wanted. You can keep checking, but do not obsess over it and don’t let it bug you. Whatever secondary choice you make, it will be amazing. Walt Disney World will be amazing. There will be memories made.

This type of logic should also remain in focus during your vacation. If you don’t get the lightning lane reservation you want, yes you can be disappointed. But again, don’t let that get you into a funk. Push past it, accept it, and enjoy your day. This is absolutely critical. There can be other setbacks or interruptions that might derail your plans. Again, do not let this ruin your day. Walt Disney World is an endless source of fun and excitement. It really is the most magical place on earth.

On another more sensitive topic, remember that whatever party you are travelling with, there will be disagreements and mishaps. Roll with the punches. Do your best to forgive and forget. You do not want to look back on a vacation and realize you lost a significant portion of it while you were in a foul mood.

Always remember, you are there to share a magical experience with your children. They will most certainly be energetic, excited and happy. They will not let disappointments stop them. Neither should you.

There is only one way to avoid the biggest crowds at Disney World

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Walt Disney World is one of the busiest tourist destinations. There are tens of millions of guests each year. So it will be crowded when you go. But you do have some control over how crowded it will likely be. There is one ultimate rule above all others when it comes to crowd size. When school is out, it will be most crowded.

Animal Kingdom at park open

Families with small children are best able to take advantage of smaller crowd sizes. I have found the absolute best time is during September and early October. Columbus Day is a sneaky Holiday in October that you want to avoid. Other than that, late summer, early fall, is certainly the best time to visit Walt Disney World. Most schools are just starting up and most people have finished their summer vacations. On another note, the weather in Florida in September and October is wonderful. The heavy rain days are likely over, and it is still hot but not oppressive. Once November begins, the crowds slowly start to increase until December when it gets real busy again.

We traveled to Walt Disney World several times during October and November before our children were enrolled in school. Once they were, we did not feel comfortable taking them out for a vacation to Disney World. We have since realized that was probably a mistake. We went to Disney World in August a few years back. It was really hot and it rained a bunch. We lost almost half a day one night because it became a wash out. We did not want to repeat that. It is a balancing act and a parenting decision that won’t be right for everyone. But we would prefer less crowds, better weather and an overall better vacation. In the whole scheme of life, we don’t think missing a few days of school will have an effect on their education. And trips to Walt Disney World are most magical with your little ones, and they are only little for a little while.