If you’re a super Star Wars fan, you probably have your countdown clock set for August 29, 2019. While you anxiously wait for the grand opening of Galaxy’s Edge, what does a frequent flyer of Walt Disney World do? You may think you’ve experienced every nook and cranny of the Happiest Place on Earth. But there are a few experiences you just might have overlooked.
Wander the Discovery Island Trails at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Weaving around the Tree of Life are tranquil trails with foot-bridges, tunnels, and wildlife. My favorite surprise on the Trail? You are able to get a closer look at the 300 plus animals carved into the Tree of Life. And while you’re on Discovery Island, check out the newly reopened Otter Grotto.
Stay awake, don’t go to sleep, and experience the Kiss Goodnight at Disney’s Magic Kingdom. This magical moment takes place 30 minutes after close (except during special evening and holiday events). It’s an opportunity to hear everyone’s friend, Mickey Mouse, send guests off with a sincere “See you real soon!” The show lasts approximately three minutes and is well worth it. Read Vanessa’s WDW Tip of the Week – A “Kiss Goodnight” at the Magic Kingdom from April 7, 2019, for her review.
Have you heard about Walt Disney World Resort tours? My first tour was the Behind the Seeds experience at The Land Pavilion at Epcot, followed by The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour at the Magic Kingdom. There are often special tours to coincide with special events, such as the Holiday D-Lights tour and once-in-a-lifetime experiences, such as the Up Close With a Rhino tour at Animal Kingdom. Check online for tour schedules, or check with Guest Relations at all four theme parks.
Catch some of the local talents at select Walt Disney World Resorts. At Scat Cat’s Club in Port Orleans French Quarter, visit with Jason and Billy, an acoustic duo who will entertain with classic favorites. If your preference is more genteel, the Grand Floridian Orchestra performs Dixieland and ragtime in the lobby of the Grand Floridian Resort. For rip-roaring fun, don’t miss Yehaa Bob Jackson at River Roost Lounge in Port Orleans Riverside.
Visit the cultural galleries located in select World Showcase pavilions at Disney’s Epcot. Some exhibits share the history of a country, while some display artifacts that communicate cultural traditions. The exhibitions in the galleries update every few years, so you never know when a new display may appear! Galleries are in the Mexico, Norway, China, the American Adventure, and Morocco Pavilions.
As I write this blog post, there are less than 60 days until the opening of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, which gives you plenty of time to enjoy the rest of Walt Disney World!
(Logo property of WDW Radio. Photos from the author’s personal collection.)
To learn more about Kathy Wicks and read some of her other posts on the WDW Radio Blog, visit her author page.
