If you and your family are heading to Disney World soon, first let me say, I am so excited for you!!!!
Okay, okay, deep breaths. Let’s try to stay cool here.
There are some rules I‘d like to make you aware of. These are unwritten rules, but if you don’t follow then strictly, you’ll turn back into a pumpkin or turn into a frog or some other, awful fate!
Did I mention I’m excited for you?
Ok, here’s what you need to do in Walt Disney World.
Ride It’s A Small World
No, really, you must try this ride. It’s like you didn’t even go to Disney World if you don’t. Yes, the song repeats over and over. It’s tradition. Now, get in the boat!Enjoy a Mickey-Shaped Treat
You may be tempted to pass right by the snack vendors throughout the parks but you'd be missing out on some classic deliciousness! It doesn’t get any better than the Mickey ice cream bar, if you ask me. It’s beyond good.Meet Mickey
Actress and country music artist Jamie Lynn Spears with her six-year-old daughter Maddie and Minnie Mouse in front of Cinderella Castle at the Magic Kingdom park. Chloe Rice/Disney Parks via Getty Images
Speaking of Mickey, do not let your trip end without meeting the Mouse himself! Woah—that kind of oversight can get you banned from the Kingdom forever.
Ride the Monorail
And forever engrain in your mind the smell. The monorail has a very specific scent. It’s hard to pin down, but it’s the smell of happiness. This I know. ;) You get extra points if your family can recite the safety instructions in Spanish by the end of your trip.Take a Family Portrait in Front of the Castle
I mean, come on! This is it. This is the moment. If you need bribery to ensure everyone smiles in the picture, tell the kids you'll buy them whatever they want from The Emporium if they cooperate.Sport Mickey Ears
A woman takes a selfie with Disney balloons at the Magic Kingdom park in Orlando on May 22, 2016. Benjamin Chasteen/Epoch Times
You’re about to cross a line here, before which you‘ll still hang onto a shred of coolness and after which you’ll let go of that nonsense and go all out for The Disney magic. Do it!! Sport those ears and enjoy the look on your little ones’ faces.
Eat Well
There’s an opportunity to eat in Disney World every couple of feet. Not all opportunities are created equal, however. Do some research and find the best meals you can afford. The very best are truly phenomenal. Don’t do the fast food thing through your whole vacation.Wake Up Early
Actors portraying different Disney characters, sing to the crowd during the opening ceremony at the Magic Kingdom park in Orlando on May 22, 2016. Benjamin Chasteen/Epoch Times
News flash: this is not one of those roll out of bed in time for your massage before laying all afternoon at the pool kind of trips. There’s a lot to see here and crowds get heavier as the day gets later. Set alarms and motivate. If you are really on top of things, you'll get up and out early enough to enjoy the Magic Kingdom’s opening ceremony.
See a Parade
Check park schedules for parade times and be sure to enjoy at least one while you’re there. Depending on the time of year you’re visiting and the crowd levels, gauge the time you'll need to scope out a viewing spot for your family. Packed with Disney characters they are a total treat!Watch the Fireworks
Disney World fireworks. ©Disney
Ending your day with fireworks, perhaps paired with ice cream, is the way to go at Disney World. They are extraordinary productions and allow you to pause and appreciate these very special memories you’re creating with your family.
Wishing you a magical time!
