Firstly, yes – we know Ever After is two words. We promise, we aren’t starting this whole endeavor off with a typo or a misunderstanding. Truth be told, it was actually a typo, but we loved the idea behind it. The idea that EverAfter wasn’t just “evermore” or “forever” – but rather that it was a euphoric feeling of both past and future, memory and anticipation, gratitude and optimism, nostalgia and hope. For us, the phrase stemmed from Disney’s Happily Ever After, and many other fairy tales, but chasing our own ever after had more to do with that idea; continuing to be grateful for the magical life we’ve been blessed with while also prioritizing the importance of making more memories going forward. We wanted to remember what it took to make these moments as a family, we wanted to figure out how to continue making them, and we wanted to share this journey with others in hopes that maybe it inspires or assists them in their pursuit of their own, Happily “EverAfter”!
Our focus is primarily Disney World, because why not chase happily ever after in the most magical place on earth, right? While we have discussed the possibility of expanding to Disneyland, Disney’s numerous resorts and parks around the world, and Disney Vacation Club resorts outside of the “bubble” (looking at you Aulani), we typically vacation each year in Disney World, so that is our primary area of discussion. Therefore, our goal with this new venture is to share our love of all things Disney with anyone who is interested; friends, family, or even those just as addicted to reading/seeing/watching as much about Disney as we are!
With that in mind, we invite you all to enjoy our website, our YouTube channel, and our social media pages as they grow and evolve. We will do our best to share content as often as possible and to capture as much as possible in the hopes that you may find useful tips, tricks, and recommendations should you ever decide to book a trip to Walt Disney World – or even if you just prefer to live vicariously through us (we don’t judge!) We appreciate any and all who decide support us and we hope you will find something worth while as you share in our journey chasing our EverAfter (and maybe we can help you chase yours, too!)
Coming in at number 3 in our list of rankings is Epcot!
Epcot’s Spaceship Earth
We’re continuing our series ranking the four parks that make up Walt Disney World, and coming in at number three is none other than the educational vision of Epcot.
Now just to reiterate, these rankings are based on our own opinions and experiences from visiting the parks over the last year and a half. These rankings can (and likely will) change with future trips and as park construction completes on the different projects that are currently underway. Picking apart a ranking of the four parks is like splitting hairs, the reality is they are all incredible and they could all vie for first place, but we have to rank them in some order, and in our rankings, Epcot slides in at number three.
Epcot is considered a top park for many avid Disney goers, and is also a popular pick for first time visitors. Combining a futuristic atmosphere with educational and exciting rides, as well as the incredibly popular world tour, makes Epcot a must do for anyone visiting Disney World. On top of that, Epcot has some of the most sought out and delectable dining options at any Disney park, so it is often a hit with big foodies. The park becomes even more popular (and quite busy) during festivals, which happen seasonally and include the Festival of the Arts, the Flower and Garden Festival, the Food and Wine Festival, and the Festival of the Holidays, with each offering their own unique experiences, decor, and dining.
One of the many topiaries during the Flower & Garden Festival
Starting off with the atmosphere, right when you enter Epcot, you can feel the futuristic vibes combined with the deep appreciation for earth and space. The park’s icon is none other than Spaceship Earth, designed to resemble our beautiful planet while also serving as an attraction park goers can experience, bringing the riders through the history of human communication. It’s the first of many impressive sights you’ll notice when walking through the main entrance, and it sets the tone for much of Epcot’s theming throughout. The park is separated into several sections, with each taking a portion of earth and space to flesh out the environment. There is the World Celebration, your central connecting hub to all other areas in the park and where Spaceship Earth is located. Then there is World Nature, consisting of the Land and the Seas sections, where you can be educated about the advancements in agriculture while relaxing through Living with the Land, fly around the world on Soarin’, enjoy the ocean with Nemo and Friends, or learn about the Journey of Water with Moana. To the opposite end of the park, there is World Discovery, where you can step into space and experience incredible attractions such as Mission: Space, Test Track, or the truly thrilling Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.
Cosmic Rewind is an exciting and memorable coaster experience
The real star for Epcot however tends to be the World Showcase, where you can enjoy a drink around the world, visit the pavilions of different countries while you learn about their culture and enjoy their cuisine, journey into Arendelle on Frozen Ever After, or escape Chef Skinner while you experience a larger than life (or smaller than) trackless ride on Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure. The truth is, while some call Epcot the “adult park” at Disney, there really is something for everyone and all ages. Our kids loved the aforementioned rides, playing with the mischievous water in Moana’s walkthrough, seeing the marine life in the Sea’s aquarium, and learning all about the many parts of earth and beyond explored here, and all of that doesn’t even mention Figment!
Figment is the Epcot and Imagination! mascot
Epcot also offers multiple character dining opportunities, such as Akershus in the Norway Pavilion or Garden Grill inside the Land. Akershus offers you the chance to dine while being greeted by different Disney princesses, and is often a great option for those who were unable to snag a similar reservation at Cinderella’s Royal Table in Magic Kingdom. Garden Grill is a spinning restaurant (very fun to experience and it’s a slow spin, we promise) that rotates around with views of Living with the Land, which is also where some of your food is being grown. You’ll get to meet Mickey, Pluto, Chip, and Dale all while eating a harvest fresh family style meal that we found to be one of our absolute favorites!
Meeting Mickey at Garden GrillStrawberry Shortcake from Garden Grill
Epcot also offers a wide variety of quick service and table service options throughout the park, and has a range suitable for anyone from the pickiest of eaters to those with more adventurous cravings. This combination and the ability to try signature drinks and dishes from different cultures is one of the many reasons Epcot stands as one of the most popular Disney parks, especially during the International Food and Wine Festival. I mean, who doesn’t want to sip champagne or a mimosa while relaxing in France, and then grab a steak from Le Cellier Steakhouse, or dine in outer space at Space 220? The options are endless and both the food as well as the experiences are enough to make Epcot stand out as a truly unique Disney World park.
Sipping mimosas and eating crepes in the France pavilion was everything we had hopedSweet and Savory Crepes at Le Creperie in France
And while talking about popularity, any festival for that matter will increase attendance in the park, and we had the pleasure of going this past April during the Flower and Garden Festival. We will be doing a full post on visiting during a festival at another time, but since this has to be considered when ranking the parks, it really does add even more to what is already an amazing visit. The entire park was adorned in beautiful topiaries, lush gardens, floral displays, and more. They even have special events and attractions during festivals, such as the Butterfly Garden of the Flower and Garden Festival, which was a must do and a big hit once again with our girls.
The butterfly garden during the Flower and Garden Festival
Now when it comes to rides, Epcot is certainly no slouch. As mentioned before, the Guardians of the Galaxy ride in World Discovery was an incredible and exhilarating experience that is not for those who don’t love roller coasters. Our oldest daughter rode it once and vowed to never ride it again, and then Rebecca rode it with me in June and made the same vow (LOL!) but for me, it might be one of the best rides I’ve ever been on. It’s no wonder it’s the top rope drop option in the park for many. There is also Test Track, which was a lot of fun and checked off the educational boxes, and then there is Mission: Space. This is a spaceship launch simulator that offers two versions of the ride, one slightly less intense than the other, and comes with its own bags for the riders who get sick. While I am typically willing to try any ride once, this is one I have avoided so far, as it’s been described as highly realistic and not for those who suffer any form of claustrophobia. I mean come on, who really wants to ride a ride that comes with it’s own barf bags?! But, if you’re adventurous and daring, or planning to become an astronaut some day, you may just be a fan!
On the less intense side, you have rides like Soarin, where you can fly around the world on a suspended simulator, or Living with the Land where you can enjoy a relaxing boat ride while viewing some of the food you can then try in Garden Grill. For Frozen fans, Frozen Ever After is an enjoyable ride for all ages, and while you’re in Norway, you can also meet Princess Anna and Queen Elsa, too. Remy’s in France puts you in the view point of a rat running around the walls of the restaurant while making sure not to get stepped on or caught, and the Seas with Nemo & Friends is a family-friendly adventure where you search for Nemo and then end up in the SeaBase aquarium, where you can see plenty of marine life. One of our favorites however, has to be the Three Caballeros ride in the Mexico pavilion. We enjoyed waterside dining at La Hacienda de San Angel, before watching Donald, Jose, and Panchito serenade us on a relaxing boat ride through their Grand Tour, and then finished our night with Epcot’s fireworks display, Luminous: Symphony of Us.
Walt at Epcot
Overall, Epcot is yet again another incredible Walt Disney World park and definitely one we recommend experiencing more than once. Whether you go for the atmosphere, the rides, or the unique dining options, there really is something for everyone to enjoy here. With festivals included, there are plenty of reasons to visit Epcot again and again, as you’ll almost always have the opportunity to experience something new. There are also many unique character meet and greet opportunities here, and despite visiting twice in the last six months, we still have so much to do that we haven’t experienced yet. It’s safe to say we will be repeat Epcot goers moving forward, and we would highly recommend it to anyone planning to visit Disney in the future, whether it’s your first time or your tenth!
Keep an eye out for the next park in our series, where attending is sure to make you feel like you’re one of the stars!
We have had the pleasure of visiting all four Disney World parks in a year’s span, and with that thought what better time to share our ranking of each one, what to expect if you’re visiting anytime soon, some planning tips, and our overall experience!
Now to begin, we want to disclose that these rankings are based off of the parks from when we went, not necessarily how they are today or what changes will be coming soon. More so these rankings are meant to reflect our overall experiences and thoughts on what made one park maybe a little more enjoyable than another, and we tried to be as unbiased as we could in taking a fair viewpoint of each ranking. With that being said, we are starting things off with our fourth ranked Disney park, Animal Kingdom!
Here’s the thing – we actually LOVED Animal Kingdom and could have easily ranked it number two, if not number one. We had an incredible time here, and we truly left thinking it was an extremely underrated park and deserving of more love. This was our first time ever visiting Animal Kingdom, and going in we heard a lot about it being the fourth ranked park, a glorified zoo, not a whole day park, yada yada. We left thinking those reviews were crazy, and that we could easily see this being one of our absolute favorites for years to come, and we still fully feel that way. But, with some of the things taking place when we visited, and after much discussion, we decided to rank Animal Kingdom last out of the four parks. This review will explain why we feel that way but also why we feel it can (and likely) will be jumping rank in the very near future.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom is so much more than a Zoo
Starting off with what we loved about this park, the easiest thing to jump to is theming. While Animal Kingdom truly is “not a zoo” (shout out to the 1998 commercial) it certainly does provide plenty of beautiful animals to observe. From giraffes, elephants, and hippos, to lions, tigers, and goats you could pet (oh my!) Animal Kingdom lives up to its name and then some. Right when you walk in, you feel like you’ve stepped into the wild, and the adventure grows and grows as you walk through the different lands. You start off in Oasis, which offers several animal viewing areas, as well as a chance you could meet Pocahontas to start your day. Then as you continue into the center of the park, you arrive in Discovery Island, home of the incredible Tree of Life, Animal Kingdom’s signature landmark. This man made tree towers in the center of the land, and offers walking trails where you can get up close looks of the many carved animals that are on display. It’s a really fun way to get great pictures and to challenge yourself or your party as to who can spot the most animals.
The many carved animals of the Tree of Life are a sight to behold
Discovery Island also has several animal viewing areas, including Winged Encounters – The Kingdom Takes Flight exhibit where you can see different types of South American macaws show off their beauty. This area is also home to some of the best character meet and greets the Animal Kingdom offers, including of course Mickey and Minnie (in their safari gear,) Dug and Russell from Pixar’s Up, Moana of Montunui, and occasionally you may even meet Kevin in all of her glorious tallness (this was a super fun and surprising meet and greet right after we stepped out from getting pictures with Mickey and Minnie, that our kids absolutely soaked up.)
Beyond that, Discovery Island also offers several dining options, including Creature Comforts, where coffee addicts can access their morning Starbucks fix. The island also connects you to all of the other lands in the park, including Pandora: the World of Avatar, Africa, Asia, and what was formerly DinoLand U.S.A. but sadly is no more (more on that later.) After spending our morning getting breakfast, meeting characters, and observing different animals, we then made our way up to Africa for some really special experiences.
Africa was a beautiful portion of the park, showing off excellent themes, some fun and exotic dining, and some great options for families or adults alike. Africa is also home to Tusker House, Animal Kingdoms character meet and greet dining option. After taking pictures and discovering the area a bit, we headed over to the theater to take in the Festival of the Lion King. This is a truly unique and adventurous stage-show, starring the characters from Lion King and some new pals who celebrate the music of the movie through puppetry, acrobatics, dancing, and more. You’re invited to sing, cheer, and be amazed as they jump, flip, spin, and twirl on the ground and in the air, putting on a performance that will captivate you and make you feel immersed in the fun. Our four year old, who happens to be a massive Lion King fan, was focused on it all for the length of the show (no easy feat) and was especially excited when Simba came out on Pride Rock to observe and sway his head to the music in approval.
Simba definitely approves of the Festival of the Lion King
Africa also offers the Kilimanjaro Safari ride, which takes you on a guided tour through Animal Kingdom’s safari while educating you about the different forms of wildlife that call Animal Kingdom home. This is a great opportunity to see the many animals that inhabit the park, and both a fun and informative way to spend a hot afternoon or early morning seeing these incredible creatures.
Baby elephants are just one of the many exciting animal viewing opportunities on the Kilimanjaro Safari ride
Heading over to Asia, you will immediately notice the effort and detail that goes into making each land unique and accurate to the culture it represents. Asia offers some delicious dining options, including Yak & Yeti and Anandapur Ice Cream Truck, where you can get a Yeti Sundae to cool off with something sweet. And speaking of the Yeti, Asia also offers several fun rides including the Kali River Rapids, a raft ride through the jungle, and Expedition Everest, a thrilling trek through the Himalayas while you escape the Yeti of legend in the mountains.
The thrill of Expedition Everest is well worth it
Asia also offers the Feathered Friends in Flight show and the Maharaja Jungle Trek, where you can see trained exotic birds, or walk the trails to spot Tigers, Komodo Dragons, Malayan Flying Foxes, and a variety of other animals native to Asia.
Animal Kingdom also offers Pandora: The World of Avatar, and let us just say, this part of the park is a wonder to behold. With floating islands, unique theming, and impressive rides (as well as dining,) you will feel like you’ve stepped directly into this world for yourself and become fully immersed. The land itself is beautiful all day, but is especially impressive in the evening as it becomes lit up against the night sky and leaves you with memories that won’t soon be forgotten. For dining options, Pandora stands out as a truly unique experience, where you can head over to Pongu Pongu or grab a bite at the mess hall that is the Satu’li Canteen. Offering one of a kind options such as the cheeseburger pods or the customizable bowls, and the Night Blossom, a boba concoction that comes non-alcoholic but can have rum added for those who wish for a little extra grown-up kick, Pandora makes sure that even dining here makes you feel like you’re on another world.
The Night Blossom is a big hit, especially for boba fans
Pandora offers two fun ride experiences, including the Navi River Journey, a slow boat ride through a stunning visual river that is great for all ages, and Flight of Passage, one of the funnest rides I have ever had the pleasure of experiencing and one that my oldest daughter, who is newer to riding roller coasters and “big” rides, absolutely loved. From walking through the ride queue, to enjoying the pre-show that turns you into an Avatar, to flying through the incredible world of Pandora, Flight of Passage is an experience that will stick with you and leave you wanting to ride again and again.
From the floating islands to the lit up walkways at night, Pandora is a Disney must do
Now one portion of the park that is (and was) undergoing major changes is what was formerly DinoLand U.S.A. This part of the park was previously dinosaur themed, but has been under construction as it gets reimagined into the Tropical Americas: Pueblo Esperanza, where it will feature a new animal themed carousel, an Indian Jones ride, and an Encanto themed ride (which we are psyched for) but none of that was fully ready yet. Instead we experienced a land on its way out, which was unfortunate as our youngest loves dinosaurs and much of what was available had already been shut down. That is the risk though when you plan a vacation far in advance, and while it was disappointing, we still enjoyed seeing the overall theme that remained and meeting Donald Duck in his archeologist attire.
Donald’s Dino-Bash was one of the remaining dino-themed attractions when we visited
The projects and construction taking place when we visited were part of the reason Animal Kingdom was selected to come in fourth place, but truly this was an amazing experience and one of our personal favorites when it comes to the parks. We missed out on seeing the Finding Nemo show due to time, and when we were there, the It’s Tough to be a Bug show had just closed but not yet been replaced by the new Zootopia experience. Since our last visit, not only has Animal Kingdom made headway on the Tropical Americas and added Zootopia: Better Zoogether!, but they have also added a new Bluey and Bingo meet and greet, replacing Rafiki’s Planet Watch (where you could meet Rafiki, Timone, and pet goats) with Conservation Station and Bluey’s Wild World, where beyond the aforementioned meet and greets with everyone’s favorite blue dog, you can also play keepy uppy (incredible, we know) and learn all about the care for wildlife, such as the Jumping Junction where you can learn about Kangaroos and Wallabies.
Even with the changes being made and those yet still to come, we would one hundred percent recommend this park to anyone and everyone. If you have littles, or even if you don’t honestly, we would also highly recommend becoming a wilderness explorer (does everyone love Up as much as we do?!) where you can get your wilderness explorer badge for going to different stations around the park and learning all about the wildlife and wilderness that makes Animal Kingdom (and the wild in general) such an incredible place.
The Wilderness Must Be Explored!
Ranking any Disney park is like choosing between your kids or your pets – the reality is we love them all and they’re all first place in our hearts. The difference between the parks is like a 1A, 1B situation more so than an actual ranking, as they all offer unique reasons for why they are worth experiencing multiple times. But since we have to rank them in some order, and since Animal Kingdom was undergoing a LOT of changes during our visit, it comes in fourth place in our initial rankings. Could that change? Absolutely. Do we think that is likely to change? (With Bluey here now, a Zootopia experience, and an Encanto ride on the way?!) Absolutely. For the time being however, Animal Kingdom comes roaring in at number four on this list, but maintains a special place in our hearts for our family. So if you’re thinking of including Animal Kingdom in your next Disney trip, we think that would be a smart idea and lead to plenty of excitement. Just keep in mind that if you want the full experience, Tropical Americas won’t be up and running until 2027, so if you did have to miss one of the parks, we could understand choosing Animal Kingdom to be the park on the chopping block. But if you’re an animal lover, a Pandora fan, or determined to earn your Wilderness Explorer badge, then go find the adventure out there that is the Animal Kingdom!
Even undergoing changes, plenty of magic remains in the Animal Kingdom
Want to know who comes in third place for our Disney park rankings? Stay tuned to hear all about what makes our third place park a showcase of Disney World; you won’t want to be ‘COT missing it!
Disney’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district
When people think of Disney, often their thoughts jump right to the parks. The outdoor adventures of Disney’s Animal Kingdom, drinking around the world in Epcot, Galaxy’s Edge in Hollywood Studios, and the dazzling display of Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom. However, while Disney Springs may not be at the forefront of one’s mind when considering their Disney trip, it often becomes a highlight for many and has become a must do for most Disney vacations. We’re happy to provide our breakdown of Disney’s shopping, dining, and entertainment district as well as some insight on our favorite spots in the Springs!
Disney Springs is broken into four separate sections, Town Center, The Landing, Westside, and Marketplace, with Town Center being a central hub and primary entrance. Each section has its own vibe and atmosphere, with the Landing focusing heavily on dining and beautiful water views, Westside being a more modern and entertainment focused area, and Marketplace offering family friendly stores, attractions, and snacks, such as Goofy’s Candy Company, where you’ll find an array of sweet treats (and even be able to design your own) or Marketplace Snacks and their selection of sundae filled bubble waffles.
The bubble waffles at Marketplace Snacks are a BIG hit!
Disney Springs is both free to enter and offers free parking, and while you’ll certainly find plenty of shopping and dining options to spend that Disney cash on, there are also plenty of sights to see and free entertainment that can make coming to Disney Springs feel like a park day without the cost of a park ticket. Some of the entertainment options include live music at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage, being serenaded by the Strolling Piano, building your own designs at the LEGO Imagination Center (a free play zone for kids – and kids at heart,) photo opportunities with larger than life creations and statues of some of your favorite Disney characters, as well as plenty of window shopping and beautiful water views. If you’re willing to pay to see more, you can enjoy incredible experiences like Cirque Du Soleil, riding through Lake Buena Vista in a Vintage Amphicar tour, or seeing Disney Springs like never before by taking a ride in Aerophile, a tethered helium balloon.
Aerophile is a unique and adventurous experience
Beyond the plentiful opportunities to enjoy entertainment, Disney Springs is also home to many different dining opportunities, offering snacks, quick service, and table service options with enough variety to satisfy any craving. Looking for something sweet and cold to beat the Florida heat? Swing over to Swirls on the Water to get your Dole Whip fix. Maybe you’re looking for something savory? Try the Chicken Guy and their collection of signature sauces. Seeking that caffeine pick-me-up to carry you through the day? Head on over to Joffery’s Coffee & Tea Company, where you can get custom art designs on the top of your latte. And if it’s a memorable experience you’re after, try Raglan Road, where you can have a great meal while enjoying live Irish music and river dancers, or head to The Boathouse to feast on seafood while relaxing by the lake.
Swirls on the Water offers a variety of Dole Whip flavors
Disney Springs also offers great dining options for families with small children, with exciting and over the top themed restaurants such as Rainforest Cafe, T-Rex (think Rainforest Cafe, but with dinosaurs,) and Planet Hollywood, where your kids can jam out to their favorite Disney songs while you indulge your inner child with out of this world shakes and Cap’n Crunch crusted chicken tenders. While these may not be pure Disney experiences, they do offer plenty of fun for your kids while they enjoy the music or watching the animal and dinosaur animatronics come to life, and they come at a price that doesn’t drown your wallet in regret.
When it comes to shopping, Disney Springs hits all the marks. From art galleries, jewelry stores, and clothiers, to toy stores, gift shops, and plenty of Disney themed speciality outlets, like Disney Ever After, where you can create your own headband with different Disney characters to pick from in your design. The pinnacle of this all comes together in the well known World of Disney, a massive and eye-catching retailer that is actually the largest Disney merchandise store in the world. Filled with all types of souvenirs, apparel, home goods, and more, World of Disney is the ultimate stop for anyone looking to bring a little magic home with them. You can also find more common retail outlets as well, such as the LEGO store, Columbia Sportswear, Vera Bradley, and many more. All in all, Disney Springs consists of over 100 shops and over 50 dining options, making it a go-to destination for anyone from their first time to a seasoned Disney adult.
The LEGO store is surrounded by incredible LEGO creations
So if you’re planning a Disney trip and looking for a recommendation, we would absolutely say Disney Springs is a must do. While you’re there, consider checking out some of our favorite go-to spots, including Gideon’s Bakehouse, a delicious bakery with incredible cakes and cookies among other options. A pro tip – if you’re planning to head to Gideon’s, consider making it your first stop in the morning, as lines fill up fast and you may be waiting a while to enter the bakery. Trust us though, the cookies and cakes are worth the wait, and their cold brew coffees are pretty impressive as well.
The half pound cookies at Gideon’s need their own lightning lane
For a dining option that never disappoints, The Polite Pig is a highly rated quick service that offers an incredible selection of smoked meats and BBQ (did the name give it away?) as well as a bourbon bar and a wide variety of craft cocktails. Recognized on the Michelin guide, The Polite Pig is owned by award winning chefs James and Julie Petrakis and has steadily grown into a must try destination for many. We’ve enjoyed The Polite Pig on multiple occasions and it has quickly become one of our favorite eats in the Springs. We would personally recommend the Butcher Board for Two, which will give you a well rounded taste of the menu. For drinks, the Pigsty is both delicious and comes with an adorable little pig on top (yours to keep) and the Grapefruit Margarita is the perfect refresher under the sun. Plus, did we already mention the bourbon bar? (We know we did, but it’s worth mentioning twice!)
The Butcher Block for Two doesn’t disappoint The Pigsty is as delicious as it is adorable
And finally, if you’re looking for a little extra fun and a way to commemorate your trip, consider heading over to the Disney PhotoPass Studio, where you can get magical photos taken by the same professional photographers that work in the parks. Whether it’s a fun shot flying through London on your way to Neverland, getting the scare meter filled to power Monstropolis, or having a dream in the Snuggly Duckling, this is sure to be a hit with your whole party.
From dining and shopping to entertainment and sightseeing, Disney Springs truly has something for everyone. It has become such a popular attraction with our family, that even when we’re in Florida for trips that have nothing to do with the house of mouse, we still take a day to head over, grab a bite, and feel that Disney magic. So if you find yourself in the Orlando area, whether you’re there for your next Disney trip or any other reason, be sure to spend a day exploring and enjoying all the Springs has to offer; we’re sure you won’t be disappointed!
Our review of Disney’s original DVC resort, Old Key West:
A Key Full of Magic
While traversing Disney World, have you ever noticed the kiosks stationed with cast members and signs that read “Disney Vacation Club” and wondered, what’s that all about? Disney Vacation Club is Disney’s point based vacation club program, or otherwise, a timeshare program through Disney that gives access to certain resorts and perks when members purchase a contract. The original DVC is none other than the beautiful Old Key West resort, located in the Disney Springs area. We had the pleasure of staying at this resort last October and are excited to share our thoughts on our experience and our overall take on what makes this resort a home away from home.
Themed after the romanticized Florida Keys, Old Key West combines island atmosphere with relaxing vacation vibes, to offer one of the more tranquil Disney resorts available. The rooms here are a bit more spacious than those of other DVC resorts, and the property takes a mostly subtle approach to interweaving the Disney aesthetic (with one very fun exception.) While the rooms may have minimal decor compared to some of the more in-your-face stays at Disney (looking at you, Art of Animation), they do still offer some fun Disney touches for your party to enjoy, and the resort is filled with hidden Mickey’s, including a massive “hidden” Mickey in the main pool that’s hard to miss.
The Sandcastle pool at Old Key West
Old Key West is also a very large DVC resort, with several sections spread throughout the property, which is good to keep in mind when making a room selection. Room type and location are divided by studios and villas, standard location or near the hospitality house. The hospitality house is the main hub on property built along the Sassagoula River and includes the reception area, dining options, the resort gift shop, recreation, the fitness center, a super fun playground themed with larger than life beach buckets, the main resort pool, and more.
For amenities, Old Key West has all the standards, including bell services, quick service and table dining options, spacious rooms, and the more Disney specific perks. This includes free transportation to all four parks and Disney Springs, free standard parking and 30-minute early access, and extended evening hours on select park nights. They also offer the standard Disney resort activities, including pool parties, free roasted marshmallows with s’mores kits available to purchase, movies under the stars, the ability to rent surrey bikes, and fun games for all at the Conch Flats Community Hall.
Beautiful and relaxing views at Old Key West
There are also several pools to enjoy on property beyond the main pool, with different room sections built around or nearby quiet pools – which offer a little more peace and solitude from that of the main pool. If you are looking for the games, music, and excitement however, you will have to stroll on down to said Sandcastle pool and be amazed by the detail that was put into this area. Beyond offering a 125-foot water slide built into the aforementioned Sandcastle, you also have a sand play area, a kids splash and play zone, a whirlpool spa, and a sauna built into a lighthouse – talk about theming!
Old Key West also offers several fun dining options, including Good’s Food to Go, Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks, and Gurgling Suitcase Libations & Spirits. The only table service dining on property is Olivia’s Cafe, offering brunch and dinner, but while there may not be a wide variety of dining options, the resort certainly makes the most of what they offer. Olivia’s brunch was a delight, where we enjoyed options both sweet and savory, and Good’s Food to Go was perfect for quick meals and snacks for our kiddos, including the resort exclusive Key Lime Dole Whip.
The Key Lime Dole Whip from Good’s Food to Go
For those looking to work off those Mickey waffles, beyond the fitness center at the hospitality house, Old Key West also offers a walking/jogging path throughout the resort, which can be a beautiful way to start your day or end your evening. Nothing like doing your daily cardio while watching a magical sunrise or sunset inside the bubble. The path takes you through the different sections of the resort and also coasts along Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course for serene fairway views. And while touching on the ability to walk through the resort, that is one thing worth notating; this resort is quite large and spread out. We did not mind walking from our room to the main building and pool, but there were some days where the walk back was a chore for our littles. On the bright side, this resort offers an internal bus route that can be used for traversing between your room and the main building, or of course you can simply drive down and park at the hospitality house as well.
Touching on the buses, these are going to be your only option to get to and from the parks short of driving. The good news is that Old Key West does not share a bus loop with any other Disney resorts, however the internal loop can add time to your park commute, which is something to consider if you have reservations to catch or are hoping to rope drop. Old Key West does offer boat transportation, as well as buses, to Disney Springs. This was a truly fun and relaxing experience, as you will float on down the Sassagoula River and arrive at Disney Springs back entrance, exclusively for guests staying at one of the Disney Springs area resorts. This ease of access to Disney’s shopping and entertainment district also makes up for the limited dining options, as you will have a wide variety of options available in the Springs.
Disney Springs is just a short boat (or bus) ride away
Now when it comes to our recommendation, there really isn’t a Disney Resort we wouldn’t recommend, so the question becomes more so, who would we recommend Old Key West to? Well, anyone looking for a more relaxed stay, and those who don’t mind being a little more removed from the parks on those resort days. Old Key West maybe does not offer the transportation options of those resorts on the monorail loop or the skyliner, and it may not have the views of those in the Magic Kingdom or Epcot areas, but what it lacks in transportation and scenery, it makes up for with peaceful atmosphere and subtle touch. Make no mistake, you’re still going to feel like you’re staying at a Disney Resort, as the nuanced theme is done just right, and the amenities are still magical. In fact, on the first day of our stay, we went down to the Sandcastle pool only to see Donald Duck walking about and greeting guests! Talk about an exciting way, especially for those with kids, to start a vacation, right? If you’re the type who likes to take a day and unwind after being in the parks, this is the perfect place to do just that. Maybe you’re not interested in going to the parks at all, and you just want to enjoy a Disney resort staycation? Old Key West fits the bill once again.
Truly, while Old Key West doesn’t always get picked as one of those “must stay” Disney resorts, it does seem to always get glowing reviews from those that go. Old Key West was actually our first time staying on Disney property, and now it holds a special place in our hearts. The resort is beautiful, the dining, while limited, is delicious, and the pool and additional activities were a lot of fun. You also still get the incredible Disney cast members with their commitment to making your trip so memorable.
We would be remiss if we did not shout out Hannah, a cast member working in the pool area who came over and sat with our youngest daughter for about 30-minutes while she played in the pool and showed off all of her “tricks” (which was the ability to jump from the stairs into the pool very cautiously again and again.) Hannah was so kind and sweet to our daughter and made her whole trip. When we went to leave the pool, she came over and gave both our girls some stickers and a little squishy apple toy that my youngest still has and refers to as her “Hannah apple.” This trip was about 8-months ago and yet my daughter still gets excited anytime we talk about Disney to go back and see her friend, Hannah. When people talk about the magic you get from a Disney vacation, that’s what they mean.
So if you’re booking a trip to Disney soon and not sure where to stay, consider a few things. If you’d like somewhere peaceful, relaxed, with island vibes and the ability to unwind, Old Key West might be the pick for you. Emerse yourself in the Florida Keys island atmosphere, and be prepared to soak in the calm and cool Disney vibes from the moment you approach the gate and hear, “welcome home!”
Check out our review of our recent stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House
When considering which Disney resort to stay at, what things are important to you? If your answer includes dining, theming, atmosphere, views, and the overall experience, then Animal Kingdom Lodge might just be the right place!
Animal Kingdom Lodge is divided into two separate resort buildings, Jambo House and Kidani Village. Having recently stayed at Jambo House, we wanted to share our experience, thoughts, and overall take on what makes this resort so special.
Animal Kingdom Lodge – or AKL as it will henceforth be called in this review – is part of Disney’s deluxe resorts collection, and stands out for its unique theming, affordability, and availability in comparison to other Disney deluxe resorts. And when we say unique theming – this resort fully stands out from any other Disney resort – in a really cool way!
The resort consists of multiple savannas that are home to over 200 animals, expert cast members who can teach you more about the wildlife, and incredible rooms available to book that offer balcony views of the animals eating, sleeping, and living their best life right in Disney. Ever dream about having your morning coffee while you relax on a balcony, watching giraffes and zebras enjoy breakfast? This is the only Disney World resort that can turn that dream into reality.
AKL is a wild time for all, including the wildlife
With an African safari theme, AKL not only delivers on incredible views of wildlife at every turn, but it also offers a beautiful, relaxing resort atmosphere that is just Disney enough to make you feel like you’re always in the magic, without ever feeling overwhelming. Arriving at Jambo House was an experience all on its own, as the main resort building is astonishing both inside and out. Walking up to the lobby instantly fills you with the excitement of what’s ahead, and walking in will make your jaw drop. This resort is breathtaking to take in for the first time (and each time thereafter, too.)
Jambo House lobby is a sight to behold
Filled with African art and inspired by traditional South African wildlife reserve lodges, Jambo House let’s no detail go to waste. From the incredible chandeliers that resemble Maasai warrior shields and spears, the Great Window, a floor to ceiling glass wall at the rear of the lobby overlooking the Arusha Savanna, Ogun’s fire pit, a gorgeous indoor hearth, and an incredible suspension bridge on the 5th floor, offering an elevated view of the African-inspired architecture, Jambo House stands second to none in providing incredibly themed atmosphere.
The wonders don’t stop there however, as every section of this resort is brimming with African culture and Disney magic. Heading outside of the lobby, you will find yourself immersed in a beautiful savanna consisting of several dozen animals, including giraffes, zebras, wildebeests, ankole cattle, pelicans, and more. Looking to cool off from the Florida heat? Head over to the massive Uzima Springs pool, with a zero-entry section and a fun waterslide for the kids. Craving something special to satisfy your hunger? Check out one of the many fantastic dining options this resort offers, with unique African cuisine and more tame options for the picky eater in your group.
Sanaa is one of the many incredible dining options available at AKL
Speaking of dining – AKL has no shortage of options, and each one of them has something unique to offer. Stop by the breakfast buffet at Boma to get a new take on what it means to be in a food coma, or as it’s called here, the Boma Coma. Head over to the Mara to enjoy quick service meals and snacks that range from African offerings to grab and go options, perfect for a snack or a coffee fill-up before hitting the parks. Grab a drink at the Victoria Falls Lounge, or aim for something truly memorable by dining at AKL’s signature restaurant, Jiko – The Cooking Place. Maybe you’re wanting a wonderful view to go with your dinner? Over at Kidani Village, Sanaa offers the ability to dine while enjoying incredible savanna views and indulging in their Indian style bread service – which we would highly recommend for anyone who hasn’t tried it before.
Sanaa Indian style bread service – a must try
Beyond the sights and delicious dining, this resort also offers all of your typical amenities; from beautifully themed rooms that are comfortable for families, couples, or single-rider resort goers, to a full fitness center for those looking to burn off the Boma cals, to bell services able to help you with inquiries and requests throughout your stay. On top of the typical amenities of staying at a resort, you also get the Disney perk amenities such as free transportation to and from the theme parks, as well as Disney Springs, free standard parking at all four parks, early park entry as a Disney resort guest, allowing access to the theme parks 30 minutes before opening, and as a guest of a Disney deluxe resort, extended evening hours in the park after they have closed for everyone else, on the nights this is offered. This is a fantastic perk and a great way to ride some of the highly sought after attractions without having to battle the larger crowds.
While transportation isn’t a highlight of this particular resort in comparison to those on the skyliner or monorail loops, you can still take the Disney buses to get just about anywhere you need to go within the Disney bubble for free, or you can reserve a Mini Van, Disney’s exclusive transportation option through the Lyft app, and enjoy being chauffeured around by a Disney cast member in style; Minnie Mouse style that is. And though this resort may be a little further removed from the rest of the Disney World parks, it is located right next to Animal Kingdom (surprise, I know) and is a great option for those who want to be stimulated while in the parks and relax when not.
On top of everything else, AKL also offers plenty of excitement for guests of all ages, without ever having to leave the resort during your stay. There’s an arcade to get your game on, nightly marshmallow roasting (completely free and with s’mores kits available to purchase,) movies under the stars on select nights each week, poolside activities and music, playgrounds, and themed resort activities such as the Jambo House lobby art tour. If you’re looking for something truly unique for your young ones, head over to the pool at Kidani Village (fully available to guests staying at AKL regardless of which building they choose) where they have the impressive Uwanja Camp water playground, which is guaranteed to be a hit with the kids. Truly – it’s like a little mini water park, stationed right next to a gorgeous pool equipped once again with zero-entry, a 128-foot water slide, and a small slide for the littles. But it gets better, it’s also right next to the Maji pool bar, so you can enjoy a cocktail and a gourmet grilled cheese while your kids soak up all the sun and all the fun.
The Uzima pool and Samawati pool both make a splash with guests
So once it’s all said and done, how would we rate this resort? To answer plainly: quite high! We loved our stay at Jambo House from the moment we arrived to the moment we begrudgingly checked out. The overall aesthetic and theming truly amazed us, and between the incredible views of the animals (both from our balcony and from the many viewing areas throughout,) the endless activities, and the unique delicious dining options, we had a trip that will be remembered forever. The only negative thing we could honestly say was that the transportation was limited and that it was further from the other parks, but in reality we didn’t mind taking the buses to get around and with free parking, driving to the parks wasn’t a bad option at all, especially when utilizing early access and extended evening hours. That “far away” drive by the way, was a whole 15 minutes give or take – so nothing really to complain about. If asked, would we recommend this resort to others? 100% we would!
Regardless of whether you’re a frequent flyer in the Disney bubble or a newcomer looking for that once in a lifetime Disney trip, Animal Kingdom Lodge has something for everyone to fit your needs. So if you’re looking for a wild time that’s sure to be a roar amongst your pride, consider AKL for your next visit, we have a feeling you won’t regret it.
Considering staying at one of the many resorts on property in Disney World, but not sure which one to choose? Keep an eye out for our upcoming resort reviews to help you decide which resort will help make your vacation truly go the distance!
Chasing EverAfter 