8 Fun Things to Do at Walt Disney World Besides Rides

Disney World can be very overwhelming, especially if you have a smaller child in tow. There is so much to do it is sometimes hard to know where to start. So I gathered up some ideas for you to cover 10 fantastic not-to-miss aspects of the park.

Meet the Mouse – I am talking Mickey Mouse, be sure and greet the guy who launched this huge enterprise (well actually that was Mr. Walt Disney ) but Mickey is how Walt lives on. You can see Mickey at Town Square Theater in Main Street, U.S.A.

Buy Mouse Ears – While Disney still offers the traditional Mickey and Minnie ears there are a head spinning variety of ears available all over the park. Big fan of Goofy? Wear his ears! Visiting on your honeymoon or anniversary? They sell Mickey and Minnie ears with top hats and wedding veils attached. You can find Maleficent, R2D2, cheetah print, and much more at stores in every section. Don’t forget to have your name stitched on!

Character Dining – Sit down, rest and recharge from the day while you and your kids enjoy the atmosphere and interaction with your favorite Disney characters. There are several places to choose from

• Cinderella’s Royal Table( Magic Kingdom)

• Akershus Royal Banquet (Epcot)

• The Crystal Palace (Magic Kingdom)

• JEDI Mickey’ Star Wars Dine at Hollywood & Vine (Disney Hollywood Studios)

Make reservations in advance for character dining!

Behind the Scenes Tour – Keys to the Kingdom Tour, this is a 5 hour event that takes includes history of the park, little known facts, urban legends, park tips,  lunch, and a keepsake.

Trade Pins – Cast Members are wearing pins on lanyards that are available for trade, bring some Disney Pins you have from home or pick up some new ones in the gift shop. Start a collection

Photo in front of THE castle – I think it is almost a requirement of visiting the Magic Kingdom. There are several place you can stand and have the famous castle looking magnificent in the background, this makes for an amazing keepsake. Just look for another friendly family looming buy and offer to take their entire parties picture if they will do the same for you.

Catch a show – Here is just a sampling of the fun shows you can catch in all throughout the park from beginning to end.

• Captain Jack Sparrows Pirate Tutorial-Adventureland

• Casey’s Corner Pianist- Main Street, U.S.A

• Dream Along with Mickey- Main Street, U.S.A

• Incredibles Super Dance Party-Tomorrowland

• Magic Kingdom Welcome Show-Main Street, U.S.A

• Main Street Trolley Show- Main Street, U.S.A

• Mad Tea Party- Fantasyland

Night Parade and Fireworks – You must end your park experiences by watching the night parade and fireworks. Even if you have seen night parades and fireworks there is nothing like a Disney Style celebration!