Let’s face it, moms wear a lot of hats, serving as everything from chef to chauffeur in order to make sure that each day runs smoothly. And planning family vacations are no exception—who else is going to remember to pack the extra sunblock? This is why I like to create a list of must-see attractions to maximize the awesomeness of our annual Walt Disney World family vacation. With so many amazing rides, character experiences, and tasty dining options to choose from, it can be a challenge to finalize the family itinerary.
This year, we’ll be prioritizing five of Disney’s newest attractions and lands that offer something for everyone, whether your family’s jam is up-close nature encounters, thrilling rides, or a journey to the prehistoric past. Even my night-owl husband will be grinning ear to ear when he finds out about the seriously amazing fireworks display that happens after sundown.
If you’re scratching your head about what to do on your upcoming Walt Disney World trip, don’t worry. I’ve created this cheat sheet of five attractions that you should definitely not miss in 2018.
Toy Story Land
Kids and kids-at-heart alike will want to make a beeline for Toy Story Land, where you’ll feel like you’ve become the size of a toy and will be able to explore Woody’s backyard. Families can take a thrilling ride on the new Slinky Dog Dash, a family-friendly roller coaster that twists through a sea of toys, and then take an intergalactic spin on the new Alien Swirling Saucers. And don’t miss the out-of-this-world Toy Story Mania or the tasty eats at Woody’s Lunch Box. Toy Story Land is now open at Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
UP! A Great Bird Adventure at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Who says bird watching is boring? Not when it’s lead by a Senior Wilderness Explorer and hosted by Russell and his furry friend, Dug, from Disney•Pixar’s smash hit, “Up.” Families can get an up-close birding experience with incredibly beautiful bird species from around the world, including a marabou stork that has an impressive 10-foot wingspan. I wonder if it goes by the name Kevin?
Donald’s Dino-Bash!
Donald Duck learned that his distant ancestors were dinosaurs, so of course, he created a fantastic new land of adventure to celebrate his big discovery. Little wannabe paleontologists will flip when they see a whole attraction dedicated to their favorite prehistoric animals: dinosaurs! Plus, expect sightings of favorite characters, like Donald, Daisy, Goofy, Pluto, and even Launchpad McQuack! Now open at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Pandora – The World of Avatar at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
If your family loves nature, you’ll be right at home in Pandora – The World of Avatar. You can fly on a 3-D mountain banshee in Avatar Flight of Passage or marvel at the beauty of a bioluminescent rainforest. Talk about cool! You can even hike the Valley of Mo’ara and see floating mountains, ooh and aah at glowing fauna and flora, and dance to the beats of an incredible drum circle.
Happily Ever After
Looking for your very own happily ever after? You can totally have it when you end your epic Walt Disney World vacation with the biggest bang in history: a glorious, 18-minute firework showcase at Magic Kingdom. The fantastic display is the perfect capper to a dream vacation.
