WDW Rides -- EPCOT

To tell you the truth, there are very few rides in Epcot. Disney has been ramping up the ride focus, but there are other sights, stores and restaurants to visit instead of ride.

Here's the 2013 map of Epcot:



Here's the older map version of Epcot.



Sorry, but this true north aspect of the maps is just too bizarre for me to comprehend. Just put the entrance near the bottom and let it go!

Again, when you enter the park pick up a map AND a Times Guide. The maps come in numerous languages, but I'm not sure about the Times Guides. If there isn't a map in your language, check out Guest Relations (to your left after the first fountain and Spaceship Earth.

FUTURE WORLD EAST

Spaceship Earth -- is the focal point of Epcot. It's the large golf ball sphere. It's a mellow ride, 2 in front, 2 behind in each car. We enjoy it as it's a nice way to cool off in the afternoon heat. As soon as you enter the building you walk onto a moving circular platform. You have to be able to get out of your scooter or wheelchair to ride this ride--though I think Disney does it's best to make all rides accessible for everyone.

Ellen's Energy Adventure -- It's been a long time since we rode this one. There are three sections in this auditorium that break apart and move around for the show. Accessible for everyone . . . just be sure you take a potty break BEFORE you ride as it's a looong show. 45 min.

Mission: SPACE -- Fast Pass -- 44" height requirement, shoulder harness -- Orange team = intense experience -- Green team = less intense. I've ridden both sides. Green usually has less of a line, but that doesn't mean less of an experience. The Orange team still has the centrifugal action going, so if you get motion sickness, this is NOT the ride for you! Very cold air is circulating around the cockpit that holds four people. Each seat is given a job, which is a good way to keep you focused on the video screen and NOT on the thought of spinning around. You will feel pressure on the Green team, but not the G-forces you will experience on the Orange team. You're strapped in pretty tightly and I didn't experience any issues with my neck.

Test Track -- Fast Pass -- singles line -- 40" height requirement -- for almost a year, this ride was down as the reimagined the concept. The actual ride is still the same, but the pre-ride is very different. Different, not necessarily better. Not as much of a fan of the reimagined ride. Even the singles line takes longer than you would expect since these riders also go through a version of the design a car concept. If you are preggers, or have neck or back issues, you might want to skip this ride. It is a little harsh on the body.  

Sum of All Thrills -- We never got a chance to do this. It's in the Innovations East building. Every time we wanted to try this out, there was a LONG line. You basically design your own rollercoaster and then you get into a pod (a mechanical arm with a bucket on the end) and then you 'ride' your own roller coaster design.

**I think this ride might also be at Disney Quest, which is in Downtown Disney.**

FUTURE WORLD WEST

The Seas: numerous exhibits featuring very small and very large aquariums. Take some time to explore this area. You will also find Turtle Talk with Crush in this building.

The Seas with Nemo & Friends -- This is the reimagined entrance into the Living Seas. You ride in a clamobile (2 or 3 people depending on everyone's size) through various scenes. The Disney imagineers have done a great job mixing a real aquarium with action, scenes, etc from Nemo.

The Land: This building has quite a few restaurants and a couple of different shows, but most people go into The Land to ride . . .

Soarin' -- Fast Pass -- 40" height requirement. Love this ride as you are basically hang gliding with about 80 of you best friends. :-) It's very smooth, but you are up in the air and they don't want people to get hurt, which is why there is a height requirement.

Living with the Land -- Fast Pass -- boat ride. Slow boat that takes you through Disney greenhouses and a fish farm. The only time this ride is crowded is during peak season. Erm, I would never consider getting a fast pass for this ride, but each to their own. 
 
Imagination: This area has been reimagined a few times, but it still needs some work. Very few people come over to this area.

Journey into the Imagination -- Ride with Figment. Fun, mellow little ride to get you out of the heat. You will be singing the song for awhile because it's an earworm like "It's a Small World"

Captain EO -- 3-D Michael Jackson film as he plays Captain EO as he rescues the world through dance, music and a light show . . . good, but very dated.

WORLD SHOWCASE -- clockwise around the lake. I'm including each of the worlds even if they don't have a ride. Many of them have exhibits that change periodically, sit down restaurants, quick service type of restaurants, and, of course, shopping!

Mexico -- gentle raft ride around Mexico, featuring the three caballeros (Donald Duck, Jose Carioca, and Pancito Pistoles). Some rafts are equipped to have wheelchairs. Mariachi shows periodically throughout the day along with character greetings.

Norway -- Fast Pass -- Maelstrom--Viking boat ride through Norway's past. Some drops, but no restraints on the boat, so it's very gentle . . . as you travel through TROLL COUNTRY! This is a fun ride, and yes, when there is a long line we've been known to get a fast pass. There is a short film after the ride, but if you don't want to watch it, then just walk through into the gift shops. Every meal at the Akershus Restaurant is a character meal with Princesses. If you want to see Epcot empty, then make reservations for breakfast--family style--where everyone at your table digs into the same dish. Hope you like the people you're with!  

China -- 360 movie theater. Standing rails only. But I love this movie! Throughout the day, there are acrobats putting on shows. Don't miss the pint-sized rendition of the Terra Cotta Warriors. Very Impressive!

Germany -- If you time it well, you can see the giant cuckoo clock chime. The restaurant is the show. Buffet meal with seating at long, communal tables. Meet new people as you sing "Ein Prosit" together while swilling large steins of beer . . . not that I would ever do that . . .

Italy -- again with all the eating. Sometimes they will provide a clown/mime/juggling act. If you have little ones, you might warn them that the statues might move. . . You'll know if it's a show.

The American Adventure -- three different shows. Yeah, and I'm one of those terrible American's who bypass this whole section. The food is standard stuff for the US, though they do serve Sam Adam's beer.

Japan -- In the past, they've done the advent of tin toys, and how anime ties into their history. A couple of shows are throughout the day. If you get a chance to see the Taiko Drummers-- DO! They are amazing!

Morocco -- This area was getting a facelift to help draw guests into their country. Throughout the day, there is a belly dancer who performs. She's really good at getting the little tykes up to dance.

France -- Impressions de France film is in a sit down auditorium. It's a nice trip to the very different areas of France.

United Kingdom -- Various shows throughout the day. I totally enjoyed British Revolution . . . but then it might have been the beer speaking when I sang along with them to a Billy Idol song. Yes, I embarrassed the kidlet . . . that's the point, right??

Canada -- 360 film of Canada. Standing rails only. Off Kilter, a Canadian/Celtic rock group performs throughout the day. If you want to splurge, Le Cellier has some of the best steak I've ever eaten. It's right up there with really good steakhouses like Morton's and Flemings.

There are a few things to keep the kiddies occupied, instead of whining about how tired they are.

1) Kidcot -- I didn't pay attention to the fan that kids can color this year. In the past, it was a mask on a stick. The kiddo goes to each county's kidcot area to get a stamp and many times the cast member will write the kiddo's name in that language. It's fun to see what each name looks like in Arabic, Japanese, Chinese, etc.

2) Phineas and Ferb: Agent P's World showcase adventure -- This isn't just for tweens or teens, you will see adults playing with their F.O.N.E., finding clues, and foiling Dr. Doofenschmirtz. If you see someone with an old style FONE, hang around them to see what they set off!

3) Every night, Epcot does a IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth at 9 PM. The only time they might postpone this show is if there is lightning. There are a few better areas to view the firework, lights, and laser show, but almost any place around the lagoon will work . . . just try to stay away from buildings and trees that might get in the way as the show is on the water as much as it is in the air!

Epcot provides this wonderful show at the end of an exhausting day. It's a must see!

Magic Kingdom is the last park I'm chatting about. It might take me longer than the rest since virtually everything in the park is a ride!

WDW Rides -- Hollywood Studios

Trying to figure out this particular park is a mess. . . and the map certainly doesn't help as the entrance is in the upper right hand corner. Hollywood Studios highlights movies and television, and though there are rides, there are more shows to see. Many of the shows we haven't seen, but I'll put them on the list.

Again, be sure to check the times guide when you enter the park as it will have the most current show times.

Did I mention that I HATE these new maps??

Here's the 2013 version of the map:

Here's the 2012 version of the map:

Since there is no rhyme or reason to the layout of this map, I'll just follow the color coded system on the old map to help you figure out where everything is situated.

HOLLYWOOD BOULEVARD

The Great Movie Ride -- This ride takes the guest through various movie scenes. Though the line might seem long, each car is HUGE. It's a very mellow ride with the exception of the Alien movie . . .

ECHO LAKE

The American Idol Experience -- Never saw it. It runs through auditions picking the best of the best until the end of the day when they choose a winner who makes it through directly to the judges at the American Idol tryouts.

ABC Sound Studio -- Saw it once a long time ago. How sounds are made in the movies.

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular -- Must see show -- Basically, this is a stunt show that showcases the first Indiana Jones movie, Raiders of the Lost Ark.

Star Tours -- fast pass -- A couple of years ago this ride was updated. This motion simulator is now 3-D, and every time you ride the ride you get a different experience. There are three sections to the experience and they rotate through the different movie options providing a new experience every time.

STREETS OF AMERICA

Muppet Vision 3D -- A wonderful 3-D show for the whole family. 25-minutes long

Honey, I Shrunk the Kids Movie Set Adventure -- This is a great place for the little tykes to burn off some energy. It's fun for the parents, too, but some of the areas are hard to get to unless you are a little kid or a very nimble adult.

Lights, Motor, Action! Extreme Stunt Show -- Must see show -- A vehicle stunt show--cars, trucks and motorcycles. Very loud. Very hot since it's outside. But it's nice to see how they do some of those car stunts in the various movies.

Studio Backlot Tour -- Tram ride through the backlot sets.

PIXAR PLACE / MICKEY AVENUE

Toy Story Midway Mania! -- fast pass -- Must ride -- The fast passes go quickly on this ride. Many times we'll be getting fast passes only 15 minutes after the park opens with a return time after noon. Before getting a fast pass verify the return time, remembering you can't get another fast pass for another ride until the fast pass window starts. Sometimes we will just wait in line for up to an hour first thing in the morning because the times will only get longer as the day goes on, especially during the high season. Each car holds four people, two on each side. Word of warning: your shooting arm will get really, really sore and tired!

Walt Disney: One Man's Dream -- never saw it.

ANIMATION COURTYARD
 
Voyage of The Little Mermaid -- fast pass -- Must see show --  Can be scary for the little ones due to being in the dark, and Ursula gets HUGE!

The Magic of Disney Animation -- Walk-thru. You get to watch various artists working on the next Disney movie.

Disney Junior--Live Onstage -- show. It's been awhile since we saw this show. I would guess that it keeps getting updated and relevant.

SUNSET BOULEVARD

Beauty and the Beast--Live Onstage -- Must see show -- Outside on benches. Can be steamy hot.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster, starring Aerosmith -- fast pass -- Indoor, in the dark rollercoaster. Zero to fifty takeoff. This ride has a singles line also. Sometimes it's quicker to hit the singles line, but when you get to loading the cars, many times you have to wait until there's an odd number.

--while waiting in the singles line, we had the chance to overhear the cast member training another cast member. They manage the crowds by altering the ratio of standby to fast pass guests. It had escalated to level two and she was letting 30 fast pass holders in for every 6 standby guests. This ration meant the standby line was over 2 hours long. Every time they filled another group for the pre-show, they let 10 singles through.

--another point is that they do NOT tolerate line jumpers. One group thought to jump the large group in the pre-show area to the singles line, but when it came time to load the cars they wanted to be seated together. Disney cast members wouldn't bow to their complaints.
*Go Disney Cast Members!*

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror -- fast pass -- Must ride -- This is a dropping ride. Every time you ride it, the computer does a different sequence of drops. It's dark and can be scary with the 'electricity people'--which scared my daughter far more than the drops. Great view.

Fantasmic! -- Must see show -- Night time show -- laser lights, dancing water, special effects, and fireworks. This show fills up quickly. During peak season, they will have the show twice a night. They open the gates 90 minutes before the show. During the summer months, it is HOT waiting for the show. . . and crowded when everyone wants to leave!

And that's it for WDW Hollywood Studios!

Later, Peeps!

WDW Rides -- Animal Kingdom

*These blogs are taking me far longer than I anticipated. I'll post them when I get each one completed. Sorry, but I can't stick to a schedule with them.*

The Animal Kingdom is probably one of the most missed parks at WDW. Many times people only have a few days to spend and this park is knocked off the list in favor of the other parks. To attract more guests, Disney has added some spectacular rides to go along with their view of conservation education, along with Wilderness Explorers adventures for the kids/parents to complete various challenges throughout the park to win badges.

When you get into the park, be sure to pick up a Times Guide along with a map. This weekly guide (Sun-Sat) posts important information for various shows, restaurants, and other entertainment along with the daily hours when the parks open and close.

 Front

Back

 

I'll post the map and then continue on with the ride breakdown following the clockwise pattern I've been using.

--to tell you the truth, I really, REALLY, REALLY don't like the current Disney maps for any of the parks. They are hard to read, hard to decipher, hard to even see what is what, and they face true north, which means if the entrance to a park is any direction other than south (at the bottom of the map), you have to keep turning the map to figure out where you are! The biggest problem is they numbered everything--shows, attractions, rides, food and stores--so if you need to find something you constantly have to consult the map legend. So instead of just looking for a knife and fork symbol on a page, you have to look at the legend and then back to the map to figure out where everything is.
If an old pro like me (visited WDW 10 times in the past 10 years) has a hard time finding things, I can't imagine how a newbie would fare!

HATE THEM!

Here's a current map of Animal Kingdom:

And here's an older version of the Animal Kingdom map:

The main thing to remember about the Animal Kingdom is that the Tree of Life is the center of the park. It is the hub to all the spokes.

When you enter the park, you cross the Oasis, which has lots of nook and crannies housing various types of animals from colorful parrots, to fish, to giant anteaters. Many times, cast members will be stationed throughout this area with various cages, filled with anything from small mammals to tarantulas, or bones, or other interesting educational things.

Once you pass over the bridge you enter:

DISCOVERY ISLAND : There are various trails you can wander, exploring hidden coves containing various critters off the beaten path (tamarin, otter, porcupine, or lemur), or simply play spot the animals carved into the Tree of Life.

It's Tough to be a Bug! -- is a must see 4-D show. If you have timid children, you might want to hold them in your lap since it's dark, and Hopper can be scary!

CAMP MINNIE-MICKEY: Mainly a character greeting area. BE WARNED! Some of the character greeting lines are just as long as riding Expedition Everest! There will also be various locations throughout the park that will have character's pop up from time to time. Yes, this info is on your times guide.

The Festival of the Lion King show is here, too, but I've never watched it.

AFRICA

Kilimanjaro Safaris -- Fast Pass -- must ride This line can seem very long, but each truck holds around 32-40 guests so it goes fairly quickly. Just make sure you take a potty break before going in line. The road is very rough--cement molded to make it seem like mud--which does make for a jarring ride if you have neck or back issues, but it's worth the ride. The truck traverses various parts of Africa and, in the Disney way, as a tourist you don't see the enclosures unless you look for them.

Pangani Forest Exploration Trail -- a walk-thru path that takes you past gorillas, hippos,  various birds, etc.

Wildlife Express Train (5-7 min. ride) takes you behind the scenes of Africa to . . .

RAFIKI'S PLANET WATCH : After disembarking from the train, animals highlight an outdoor discovery trail to . . .

Conservation Station -- animal encounters, interactive exhibits  and view the veterinary facility. Sometimes they are doing surgery/dental on an animal and will explain what's going on while they are doing the procedure--not for the squeamish.

Affection Section -- petting yard. Your basic goats and sheep, and sometimes something a little more exotic.

ASIA

Flights of Wonder -- bird show. Never saw it.

Maharaja Jungle Trek -- a walk-thru path that takes you past tigers, bats, Komodo dragons, etc.

Kali River Rapids --Fast Pass -- must ride --VERY WET! -- turbulent river raft ride that takes you through parts of Asia. Personally, I would save this ride for the heat of the day when I'm about to leave the park. . . unless you brought a change of clothes and a towel. If you can get out of a wheelchair, you can ride this ride. It is rough, but there is a high back to help you protect your neck.

Expedition Everest --Fast Pass -- must ride -- seriously fun rollercoaster. It goes forward, backwards and forward again, but don't let that scare you! The best, and scariest, part of the ride is the ride up to the top of the mountain, as the track has no sides! The view is fantastic! You can see the Kali River Rapids ride and clear to Blizzard Beach. The ride isn't too rough, or too fast, but it's too much fun! There is a singles line, which is just to the left of the gift shop exit.

DINOLAND U.S.A. : Many parts of Dinoland are like a county fair with various games to play.

The Boneyard -- dinosaur dig-site playground. Let the kids get dirty while the parents recover!

Finding Nemo -- A musical show. We did see this and it's a pretty good show. It's in a black light dark for most of the time, but the various characters are fluorescent, which makes them glow. They advise you to get in line 30 minutes pre-show time, but if the park isn't crowded, then don't worry about it. The show is 40 minutes long.

Primeval Whirl-- Fast Pass -- four people per car. This ride will jerk the snot out of you. Personally, it isn't worth it, especially if there's a line.

TriceraTop Spin -- think Dumbo ride with dinosaurs.

DINOSAUR--Fast Pass -- must ride -- Each car seats three rows of four. You are sent back into time to retrieve a dinosaur, right before the meteor shower destroys life on this planet. It's a dark, and can be very scary,  ride especially for little kids. If you have ear plugs, you might want to wear them--especially children. Very loud. Very dark. Very scary. Very jerky. Very fun. It can hurt your neck or back as the jeep evades dinosaurs and meteors.

Since we've ridden this ride numerous times, we've become a tad jaded . . . until this last year when we had a couple of newbie British girls behind us screaming the entire time. I don't think I've laughed so hard in years. It made the ride really, really fun.

And that's it for this particular park.

I'll do Hollywood Studios next . . . hopefully, I'll have it written by Thursday.

Later, Peeps!

Universal Florida Rides -- Islands of Adventure

Islands of Adventure

FYI: This park contains the Wizarding World of Harry Potter.

If you are coming from the Universal parking garage and through City Walk, this is the first park you will see as you walk straight to the gates. If you are arriving via water taxi, you will have to go to your right and around the lagoon to get to the gate.

Disclaimer: I am simply trying to give the blog reader an idea of what to expect from these various rides. If you have a health issue--I am not a doctor, nor do I play one here on this blog--please follow your physician's advice and use your best judgment.

To refresh your memory, here is a copy of the map. The entrance is at the bottom of the map, and I'll start my ride tour with Marvel's Super Hero Island and move about the map in a clockwise manner.

MARVEL SUPER HERO ISLAND

The Incredible Hulk Coaster -- Express pass -- High speed coaster, once the cars leave the boarding area, it will shoot onto the track. Shoulder harness-type security and you can brace your feet against the flooring. Loose articles will fly away unless secured. This coaster has some serious G's as I have blacked out more than once on this ride, but only for a second or two. Loops, corkscrews and high drops.
Storm Force Accelarton -- Express Pass -- think Disney's spinning Teacups as each pod rotates while the entire floor rotates. The faster your child turns the wheel, the faster you go. Those with weak stomachs are advised to sit this one out.
Doctor Doom's Fearfall -- Express Pass -- Even with the Express Pass, you can wait upwards of 30 minutes for this ride. It's a fun dropping type of ride. Actually, it's the anticipation that gets you before it shoots you into the sky. The view is wonderful. Though it drops you a couple of times, it isn't that bad.
The Amazing Adventures of Spiderman-- Express Pass -- Use your pass if you have one. 3-D with a little 4-D water sprinkling you. Each car seats eight, four in front, four in back. Front is the best! The cars spin, jerk and careen in various patterns according to what is on the 3-D screen. The front has the best view, but it doesn't have any neck support. The back seat has better support. You can brace yourself against the seat, but if you've never ridden it you can't anticipate the direction it will go next.

TOON LAGOON

Me Ship, The Olive -- interactive play area. You can squirt water at the people on the Bilge-Rat Barges. Hubs and kidlet played here. I sat and waited.
Popeye & Bluto's Bilge-Rat Barges -- Express Pass -- I would call this a basic round raft ride, but there's nothing basic about it. Waterfalls, rapids, and drops are just a few surprises you will get in this river raft. YOU WILL GET SOAKED. Pack extra clothes accordingly. Near this ride, there are 'dryers' to dry you--for a price, of course. If the janitorial service catches you trying to dry off in the bathrooms, they will kick you out of the bathroom. Yeah, been there done that.
Dudley Do-Right's Ripsaw Falls -- Express Pass --YOU WILL GET SOAKED. Pack extra clothes accordingly. This was one of the best water flume rides I have ever been on! It's big drop is sizeable, which makes it extra fun!

JURASSIC PARK

Pteronodon Flyers -- this is really a kiddie ride. Each flyer seats two. If you are taller than 56", you will need to be accompanied by a kid. It was okay, not worth the long wait in line.
Camp Jurassic -- large playground. If you let your kids loose in there, either go with them or make certain they know where to meet you. It's confusing and easy to get lost  as there are different exits.
Jurassic Park River Adventure -- Express Pass -- water raft ride through Jurassic Park . . . .and escaped dinosaurs. One big drop at the end. You will get wet, but not necessarily soaked like the rides in Toon Lagoon. It was an okay ride. The problem is that many of these rubber rafts tend to leave you smelling 'sour'. Many times, we'll give a ride like this a miss just so we don't smell sour all day. If you've never ridden it, then ride it, but be prepared for the stink.
Jurassic Park Discovery Center -- Interactive play area. Universal is trying to 'teach' park patrons. We don't want to be taught, we want rides to ride! Though we did 'grow' our own dinosaur once. There is NEVER a line unless it's from people escaping the Florida heat.

THE WIZARDING WORLD OF HARRY POTTER

Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey -- before entering this ride, you MUST put all loose articles, bags, etc. into a free locker. Though there isn't an Express Pass for this ride, there is a single rider queue (hidden unless you know where to look!) If you are staying onsite at a hotel, use the early entry time to blow through parts of this line. You must stand in line to ride this ride at least once! The standby queue takes you through Hogwarts: Professor's Sprout's classroom, Dumbledore's office, Defense Against the Dark Arts classroom, and various other corners of Hogwarts. You see status of the founders, the House points counter, various talking pictures, etc. When you use the single rider path, you miss the best part of the castle! The ride itself seats four across, with a shoulder harness to keep you in place. Keep it snug! The ride takes you through a visual journey, where you experience flying, dragons, and the dark forest. Though the car rotates forward, backward, and side to side, you are strapped in pretty well. It is a dark ride and might scare some riders who have not seen any of the first four movies. A DO NOT MISS RIDE!
The singles rider line is to the left, through an open door and up about 3 or 4 stairs. It is almost directly across from the doorway leading from the lockers. If you pass a cast member, you have gone too far.
Flight of the Hippogriff -- Express Pass -- Kiddie rollercoaster that takes you to Hagrid's home and by the Hippogriff nest. Only way to see inside the hippogriff nest is to ride the ride.
Frog Choir -- in a courtyard on the way to the Harry Potter Ride--check times for show
Triwizard Spirit Rally -- in a courtyard on the way to the Harry Potter Ride--check times for show
Ollivander's Wand Shop -- though this isn't on the list of attractions, it is a not-to-be-missed show. The line forms quickly since only a limited number of people can be allowed into the shop for each show. A kid is picked out of the audience to portray Harry Potter. Of course, it exits out into the gift shop. :-)
Honeydukes -- Mmmm candy . . .
Three Broomsticks and Hog's Head Pub -- The Three Broomsticks serves breakfast and lunch--pretty much all day. It's an experience just to sit in the main room and look around. If you want to look around, be prepared to eat as they won't let you inside without ordering food. Hog's Head Pub is adjacent to the Three Broomsticks, but there isn't much seating since the restaurant "reserves" numerous tables. I don't like this practice AT ALL! The Pub offers non-alcoholic beverages, including butterbeer along with real beer--which is pretty tasty.
Dragon Challenge -- Express Pass -- formerly known as Dueling Dragons. Shoulder harness, dangling feet, each row seats four. The rollercoasters haven't changed, but the path to the ride has been embellished with Harry Potter stuff, namely the flying car. There's either the red or blue dragon to ride. Both rides are different. They used to send them off in tandem, so you criss-cross with the other coaster, but the last two years, they didn't time them. Normally, we like to ride in the back of the coaster, because it feels faster, BUT the front row of this ride is pretty cool! It has enough speed that you don't feel like you're waiting for the rest of the cars to catch up before you start. And with no track below your feet, it's totally fun!

THE LOST CONTINENT

The Eight Voyage of Sindbad Stunt Show -- Express Pass -- check times for the show. We haven't watched this in years, but I seem to remember a lot of standing, which didn't do my back any favors.
The Mystic Fountain -- squirts the clueless . . . or children.
Poseidon's Fury -- Express Pass -- guided tour. Tell you the truth, we never did this attraction. If we did, it was forgettable.

I hate to say it, but this area is dying just like the Jurassic Park section. They need to come up with a big ride to rejuvenate it. There is a restaurant called, Mythos, but we've never eaten there.

SEUSS LANDING

The High in the Sky Seuss Trolley Train Ride --Express Pass -- Four seats per car, two front, two back. Sort of tight due to it being a kiddy ride. It's fun to do since it takes you above the walkways, but if there is a long wait you can skip it without missing anything
Caro-Seuss-el -- Express Pass -- merry-go-round. 'nuff said.
One Fish, Two Fish, Red Fish, Blue Fish -- Express Pass -- wet interactive play area. We started to do this one, but as soon as we got squirted, we quit not in the mood to get wet. Probably lots of fun for the little tykes. Bring extra clothes.
The Cat in The Hat -- Express Pass -- ride the couch car through the story. This one was killer on my neck with all the spins, jerking and other stuff. There's a lap bar, but that's it. And since it's a couch, there is no upper back support. Fun, but painful.
If I Ran the Zoo -- interactive playground.

And that's it for today. I'll put together the rides from the Universal Studios park on Thursday!

Later, Peeps!

Wally World Tips & Tricks- Parks-- part three

Okay,  you figured out which hotel you're staying at. You've rented a car, or not. And now, you want to go to the various WDW parks. There are four parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.

Here's a map to give you an idea of how the parks are situated:

And here's a more fun looking map to show you the locations of hotels compared to the parks:

Sorry about the quality. Check the Disney site for a current map.
Each park has a particular logo or landmark.

Magic Kingdom is Cinderella's Castle
Animal Kingdom is the Tree of Life
Epcot is the Spaceship Earth sphere
Disney Hollywood Studios is Mickey's Sorcerer's Apprentice Magic Hat

Let's start with the most popular park--The Magic Kingdom

If you have wee little tykes, well, and even big tykes, they will want to go to Magic Kingdom (MK) first . . . the kingdom where all the princesses reside, many characters have special meet and greets, and my favorite--RIDES.

The biggest problem with going to the MK before any other park because every other park will be an emotional let-down. It all boils down to each visitor's expectations. None of the other parks come close to meeting a visitor's vision of all things DISNEY, except MK.

Don't get me wrong.

All the parks are wonderful and provide a very individual feel and style, but when people talk about going to Disney, they are really talking about going to the MK.

Here is a link to the 2013 map of the Magic Kingdom. If you happen to have an old map, then you need to realize Toon Town is no more and Fantasyland has expanded. The map is so large that I wasn't able to download it and have it be legible.

Familiarize yourself with this map. The more you can spend memorizing it the less time you waste trying to figure out what to do or where to go next. This map is available in the tunnel under the WDW railroad tracks and after you go through the turnstiles. The maps are also available in numerous languages . . . if you want to practice your foreign language or for those visitors from other countries.

So if you have one day or a few days to spend in WDW, the key is to be prepared and prioritize. If you purchased the Unofficial Guide to WDW, then they will give you all sorts of 'touring' plans to see it all, or almost all, of the park according to the time of year and traffic patterns.

Well, forget that!

Why?

Because of ALL those other people using those plans!

So how do you prioritize the park for your family?
How do you know what the height limit is for the rides?
How do you know if it's a wet ride/dark ride?
Which rides offer a fast pass?
What times do the characters have meet and greets, and where?
Which rides suggest possible motion sickness/neck and back issues?

How you figure it out is that you will do what I did--you will design a spread sheet. This section of a spreadsheet is from ten years ago when we went to Disney with our almost three year old.
Three years old is the magic number when they start charging for your child. The closer your kid is to three, the more fun everyone will have!

Rides  MK

Main Street USA

WDW Railroad

Adventureland

Swiss Family Treehouse--playground

Jungle Cruise                                            FP

Magic Carpets of Aladdin

Pirate of the Caribbean                        D

Enchanted Tiki Birds--show

Frontierland

Splash Mountain    D FP 40" SO WET

Big Thunder Mountain     FP  SO  40"

Country Bear Jamboree--show

Tom Sawyer Island--playground

Diamond Horseshoe Revue--show

Shootin' Arcade

WDW Railroad

Liberty Square

Hall of Presidents--show

Liberty Belle Riverboat

Haunted Mansion                       D  FP SC

Fantasyland

It's a Small World

Peter Pan's Flight                             D   FP

Mickey's PhilharMagic 3D--movie  FP

Cinderella's Golden Carrousel

Winnie the Pooh                                D  FP

Snow White's Adventures                     D

Ariel's Grotto--meet/greet--fountain

Dumbo the Flying Elephant

Mad Tea Party                                          MS

Mickey's Toontown Fair

WDW Railroad

Mickey's Country House

Minnie's Country House

Hall of Fame--meet/greet--pictures

Barnstormer at Goofy's Farm

Donald's Boat--fountain/playground

Tomorrowland

Space Mountain                D  FP 44" SO

Indy Speedway                    52" to drive

Astro Orbiter                                           MS

Transit Authority

Carousel of Progress--show

Timekeeper--show, seasonal

Buzz's Space Ranger Spin            D   FP

Stitch's Great Escape    D  FP SC 40"

 Here is my color key to the definitions:

EXHIBITS

FOUNTAINS/PLAYGROUNDS

THEATER/SHOWS/FILMS

MEET/GREET CHARACTERS

D--Dark

MS--Motion Sickness

FP---Fast Pass

SO---Switching off option

SC---Scary



This spreadsheet was originally designed when my daughter was almost three and visited WDW for the first time. Many of the rides have changed, but you can see at a glance what the rides/shows offer. This information is available on the Disney website and the unofficial guide. Take the time to design your own spreadsheet.

Only you know what information is pertinent to your family's choices for fun. We're a ride family and rarely go to the shows, but if you like the shows, then you need to know that the lines form roughly 30+ minutes prior to the show.

Switching Off -- this is an option where one parent rides the ride and switches off by taking the child so the second parent can ride the ride. It's quite common for parents to do this, so don't feel bad if you have to switch off. Disney is all about making the experience 'magical' for every member of the family.

Fast Passes -- think before you get a Fast Pass.

1. Fast passes have return times. Check the time window for your return. Is it during a parade, or show, your daughter has her heart set on seeing? Do you have meal reservations on the other side of the park at this time? Will your kids be 'Disney'ed out' for the day and need to chillax at the hotel pool?
2. A specific number of fast passes are generated for a particular window of return time. Some of the popular rides (Toy Story at Disney Studios, for example) will run out of fast passes within an hour of opening their gates. Or the return time will be 8:00 PM. Will you really be at the park at that time?
3. Once you get a fast pass, you are locked from getting another fast pass until an hour before your fast pass is useable. For example: At 8:00 AM, you get a Fast Pass for Space Mountain with a return time of 2:00 PM. But you discover the line for Splash Mountain is 90 minutes long and you don't want to wait. You won't be able to get a fast pass for Splash Mountain until 1:00 PM. . . and, by then, the return times will be during the fireworks in the evening.
4. Some fast passes simply aren't worth it, mainly fast passes for shows--Mickey's Philharmagic,  or Stitch's Great Escape, for example. The auditoriums for the shows are HUGE, larger than you think when looking at the piles of people in the queuing areas. Don't fass yourself about it, and just plan to wait.
5. Some fast passes are worth it, BUT you miss the pre-ride areas for a particular ride. The new-and-improved Winnie-the-Pooh ride is one example. The pre-ride area has fun things for the little ones to play with in Rabbit's garden.
6. We've been known to get a Fast Pass for a later time AND then wait in line to ride the ride. Space Mountain is one we do this on. This gives us the opportunity to enjoy the queuing area with it's 'space invader' type games, but then we can usually turn right around and blow past everyone to ride the ride again.

*Hints & suggestions:

• Prepare your children to the fact that the characters are BIG. They might look small on TV, but they are big in person!
• Go early, leave early--whether it's for a nap or a swim in the pool. Everyone needs to decompress.
• Adults--stop at WalMart or a liquor store to buy adult beverages for your hotel room. You might want a beer at the Magic Kingdom, but you won't find any . . . unless they are serving it at the new Be Our Guest Restaurant in Fantasyland.
• Don't expect your little one's to be able to handle getting up early AND staying up late for the fireworks. Pick your poison, and plan to return to see it all when they are older
• Find a good seat early if you want to enjoy a parade. Sometimes you can walk up to a great place, but if it's the crowded time of year, budget some time to sit and chill.
• Keep hydrated. Florida is freaking hot and humid. Tempers flare when one is hot, hungry and tired.
• Don't push your kids to do something they don't want to do. If you have to, ride the ride first and then truthfully tell them what to expect.
• Even if you have older kids, don't miss out on some of the 'kiddie' rides. Peter Pan is NOT to be missed!
• Sometimes you can get on rides when everyone is waiting for the parade or fireworks. There's something about watching the fireworks while riding Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, or Astro Orbiter. Been there, done that!
• If you don't want to wait in line for Dumbo, then ride Aladdin's Magic Carpet or the Astro Orbiter, both are a similar type of ride.
• Space Mountain seats one visitor behind the other, NOT side-by-side. If you have back or neck issues, you might want to rethink this ride. Have a family member reconnoiter the ride before you get on. I love it, but  . . . it does jerk the crap out of you.
• Don't bother renting a stroller. Teach your kid to walk OR take an umbrella stroller.
• Some rides you might not be interested in, but take your time and wait in line. You've all heard of the It's a Small World song--yes, that particular earworm will stick with you the entire day!--but the ride is fun, colorful, and the kids love it.
• I didn't want to ride Peter Pan for the longest time since I never really liked the movie--GO ON THE RIDE! How many times do you get to ride in a flying ship??

That's it for now. I'm sure I've forgotten more than I wrote down. If you want more info then please ask me in the comments or email. I love Disney and will always talk about my experiences!

Later, Peeps!