The more you vacation in Walt Disney World, the better it gets. With more experience you learn about the best not-so-secret places throughout Walt Disney World. Knowing about these locations on property can make your vacation experience so much better, as they can help you escape the heavy crowds, and are just fun places to visit on property. Walt Disney World veterans get more bang for their buck because they have a plan, and know how to tackle a day in a Disney park efficiently. Part of being efficient in Walt Disney World is knowing the best places to go. If you are not a Walt Disney World veteran this article will provide you with the first couple not-so-secret places that Disney World veterans know about.
1) Observation Deck at the Contemporary Resort
Located between the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a perfect view of the Magic Kingdom. The views from the balconies that overlook the Magic Kingdom are spectacular, but as a deluxe resort it can be expensive for a family on an economical budget. Have no fear, you as a Disney veteran know that you can still access the views on the observation deck of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Be warned it is a long climb of stairs at end of the observation deck that is outside closest to the Magic Kingdom. Technically this observation deck is for guests of the California Grill, so if you feel inclined you can order a drink from the open bar located within the restaurant.
2) Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue
As the longest running show on Walt Disney World property, the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue located at Fort Wilderness is a hidden gem. Because of the show’s longevity, families from many generations come back to the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, and after you experience the show for the first time it is a tradition your family will want to start as well. If you are not staying at Fort Wilderness or the Wilderness Lodge, it can be a little difficult to get to Pioneer Hall, but it is well worth it. The combination of the food, unlimited drinks, and the show itself make this a restaurant a secret many Walt Disney World veterans like to keep to themselves.
3) Disney Chase Visa Picture Spots
If you own a Disney Chase Visa credit card, you have access to picture locations that will save you time and money. Located in Epcot’s Innoventions is a picture spot for only Disney Chase Visa cardholders that comes with a free print of the photo that you take. This location usually has 2 or 3 of the the “Fab Five”, otherwise known as Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto. Additionally, there is now a Disney Chase Visa picture spot located in Disney’s Hollywood Studios in the Star Wars Launch Bay where you can take a picture with Chewbacca or Darth Vader.
4) Second Floor of the Columbia Harbor House
The Magic Kingdom is almost always crowded. For some it can be overwhelming to feel like you are constantly shoulder to shoulder with strangers, and that is why I recommend escaping to the second floor of the Columbia Harbor House. Walt Disney World veterans know that the second floor is almost always fairly empty. With plenty of open tables and less people you can escape the normal buzz of the Magic Kingdom. Even if I am not hungry I like to sit upstairs in the Columbia Harbor House with a large Coca-Cola and just relax for 20 minutes just to take a break from the heat and the crowds.
