13 Must-Dos at Disney World (Don’t Miss These!)
Our family absolutely loves going to Disney World. Even after dozens of trips, we still haven’t seen or done it all. That’s the magic of Disney: it’s always evolving, offering something new to discover every single visit. As you plan your trip, here are the must-dos at Disney World you don’t want to miss.
1. Snap a Photo in Front of Cinderella Castle
Nothing says Disney World like the iconic Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom.
Ask a Cast Member (photographer) to take a photo on your phone. Or have it linked to your Disney PhotoPass profile where you can view and purchase later.
Other must-do photo spots at Disney World include:
- EPCOT’s giant silver geosphere
- Tree of Life (Animal Kingdom’s carved trunk)
- Hollywood Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios’ spooky backdrop)
2. See the Nightly Fireworks
The fireworks at Magic Kingdom are breathtaking.
Arrive around 7 PM to secure your spot for the best view.
If you’re bringing little ones, consider noise-canceling headphones so they don’t get startled.
Here’s a list of other toddler essentials we recommend packing for Disney trips.
Bonus Tip: Fantasmic! at Hollywood Studios is another must-see nighttime spectacular with water effects, music, boat floats, and appearances from some of our favorite Disney characters.
Again, start lining up early to snag the best seats in the house.
3. Ride the Best Rides at Disney
Disney has rides for every age, but a few standouts include:
- Avatar Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom)
- Space Mountain (Magic Kingdom)
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (EPCOT)
- The now-retired Dinosaur ride (still one of our nostalgic faves!)
Oh, and nothing tops watching our toddler’s face light up on ‘It’s a Small World.’
4. Enjoy Sit-Down Dining Experiences
Are you a foodie?
Make time for a signature dining experience. Two favorites worth booking include:
- Be Our Guest Restaurant (Magic Kingdom): Dine inside the Beast’s (From Beauty and the Beast) enchanted castle with a three-course prix fixe menu.
- Garden Grill Restaurant (EPCOT): A rotating restaurant where you’ll meet Farmer Mickey and friends while enjoying all-you-care-to-eat family-style dishes. Kids under three eat free!
5. Get Your Minnie Ears
It took us a long time to finally buy a pair of Minnie ears.
Now, we grab a new pair every trip!
They’re a festive, fun way to express your Disney style.
Our collection is slowly taking over our bookshelf!
6. Visit During an EPCOT Festival
EPCOT festivals are a must — each one has its own theme and unique flavor:
- Flower & Garden Festival: Gorgeous topiaries, butterfly pavilions, and outdoor kitchens with spring flavors.
- Festival of the Arts: A creative celebration with art booths, live performances, and colorful photo opps.
- Food & Wine Festival: International food booths, cooking demos, and culinary events.
- Festival of the Holidays: Seasonal treats, holiday storytellers, and festive decorations around the World Showcase.
Listen to this podcast episode for the ultimate guide to the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival.
Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | Any player
7. Try Classic Disney Snacks
You cannot go wrong with any of these traditional bites.
- Mickey Ice Cream Bar
- Fresh Popcorn
- Mickey-shaped Pretzels
- Churros
8. Go on Safari at Animal Kingdom
Hop on Kilimanjaro Safaris to see giraffes, elephants, lions, and more, all from the comfort of your safari truck. It’s educational and fun for all ages.
9. Meet the Characters
Don’t skip the character meet-and-greets, especially if visiting Disney World with toddlers.
Collect photos and autographs from Mickey, Minnie, the princesses, and more. (Trust us, adults love this activity just as much as kids!)
Listen to this podcast episode for more tips for experiencing Disney World with toddlers.
Listen on Apple Podcasts | Spotify | Amazon Music | YouTube | Any player
10. Catch a Live Show
Walt Disney World is known for spectacular entertainment.
At Hollywood Studios, catch ‘For The First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along’ (lots of laughs), the Broadway-style ‘Beauty and the Beast’ (around 25 minutes), or the thrilling ‘Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular.’
Attending a show is also a great way to escape the Florida heat in summer.
11. Watch a Parade
Disney parades are pure joy!
Dancing characters, floats, and music make them unforgettable.
We’ve got the new Disney’s Starlight Parade on our wish list.
12. Cool Off at a Waterpark
If you’re staying at a Disney World resort, like Coronado Springs or Caribbean Beach Resort you get complimentary waterpark access on arrival day. Take advantage of it.
Our favorite Disney waterpark, Typhoon Lagoon, features include:
- A massive wave pool
- Sweet mini donut treats
- Thrilling water slides and a lazy river
13. Build a Custom Lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop
For Star Wars fans, building a custom lightsaber at Savi’s Workshop in Galaxy’s Edge (Hollywood Studios) is an unforgettable experience.
This is more than just a souvenir, it’s a fully immersive ceremony where you choose your kyber crystal, select your hilt pieces, and assemble your lightsaber while guided by the “Gatherers.”
It’s pricey (around $250), but the experience is truly one-of-a-kind.
There you have it: 13 must do’s at Disney World.
Save this post for later so you don’t miss any of these magical experiences on your next trip.
Read Next: How Much Does a Trip To Disney World Cost?
