The First-Timer’s Must-See Must-Do Guide To Walt Disney World

If you are planning a first-time visit you are probably overwhelmed. There is so much information out there what is truly “must-see must-do” at Walt Disney World?

When I can’t sleep at night, I often “daydream” about how much time I’ll need to see and do it all at Walt Disney World. One month would probably do it. But ONE month? It is a financial challenge for most of us to spend one week at Walt Disney World, let alone one month.

As you are planning, just set aside the notion that you’ll be able to do it all. Establish your budget. Choose your time frame. Pick your resort.

Now? The real planning begins.

Here is your First-Timer’s must-see must-do guide to Walt Disney World.

Tickets

• Park Hopper’s are NOT a must-do for a first time visitor. The learning curve is too steep to effectively take advantage of this expensive option.
• The only time a Park Hopper is an advantage to a first-timer is if you are staying for more than 8 days. This isn’t practical for most visitors.
• One park per day is the most economical ticket to purchase. The price point decreases the more days you stay.
• FastPasses are a unequivocal MUST DO. For help on how to navigate the mysterious world of FastPasses click here and here. 

Magic Kingdom Must See/Must Do

• Meet Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater. Sure, you can meet Mickey in the other theme parks, but classic Mickey is found at Magic Kingdom. If this is an imperative meet and greet for your party, make sure you get a FastPass.
• The newest coaster is Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. The other classics are Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Thunder Mountain Railroad. If your family loves coasters you need to experience all four.
• Haunted Mansion is more campy fun than scary. It’s definitely a must-see.
• With up to 5 parades a day, stopping to smell the roses and enjoy Disney’s favorite entertainment is a must-do.
• Have a PhotoPass Photographer snap your pic in front of the iconic castle.
• Enjoy a Dole Whip. A great treat to cool off in the Florida heat.
• Speaking of heat, cool your jets on the following attractions: Pirates of the Caribbean, Tomorrowland Transit Authority, Mickey’s Philharmagic
• Visit the Beast’s castle with reservations for breakfast, lunch or dinner at Be Our Guest.

EPCOT Must-See Must-Do

• Soarin’ and Test Track are the top ticket items in EPCOT’s Future World.
• Turtle Talk with Crush, also located in Future World, is pure Disney magic. Even those without small children will get a kick out of it.
• The best way to experience World Showcase is to interact with the Cast Members. Walt Disney World sponsors a cultural exchange program with paid internships. International Cast Members then share a few of their customs and culture with EPCOT guests. Introduce yourself, ask questions. They are eager to share their culture.
• Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure is a great way for kids (ages 12 and under) to get the most out of the magic of the countries. An interactive scavenger hunt is fun for the whole family.
• Any of the musical acts located throughout the park. You’ll find The Jammitors in Future World on your way to Mission Space and Test Track. There are also various acts around World Showcase. Check showtimes on your My Disney Experience App or the information boards located around the park.
• Spaceship Earth is a perfect way to rest your tired feet on your way out of the park.
• IllumiNations is a must-see. It’s an evening fireworks/pyrotechnics/musical laser light show. Best viewing areas are La Cantina (Mexico), Showcase Plaza, Italy’s Bridge, Japan, and with late-night dinner reservations at Rose & Crown (United Kingdom.)

Disney’s Hollywood Studios Must-See Must-Do

• The powerhouse attractions are Millennium Falcon: Smuggler’s Run, Toy Story Mania, Slinky Dog Dash, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror and Star Tours.
• The on-stage entertainment: Beauty and The Beast – Live On Stage, Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular and any entertainment on the main stage.
• Immersive dining at Oga’s Cantina,  50’s Prime Time Cafe, Sci-Fi Diner or The Hollywood Brown Derby.

Animal Kingdom Must-See Must-Do

• The newest attractions, Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey, are widely popular.
• Other popular attractions include Kali River Rapids, Expedition Everest, Dinosaur and Kilimanjaro Safari.
• Festival of the Lion King is a wonderful show and a great way to escape the heat.
• Animal Kingdom is another great place to interact with Cast Members visiting and working here from their native countries.
• Many opportunities to see animals in a natural setting. Kilimanjaro Safari, Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail, Maharajah Jungle Trek, and Rafiki’s Planet Watch.
• This is your chance to see Mickey and friends in non-traditional costumes. You can have a meal at Tusker House or at various locations around the park.
• Rivers of Light is a gorgeous nighttime show. The perfect way to end your day.

Happy Planning!