Think of the happiest things. It’s the same as having wings.
As 2021 draws to a close, we’re met with so many “best of” lists. Maybe you lack all interest in the best TV shows, books, and songs of the year as compiled by your favorite magazines, newspapers, or celebrities. Or maybe you, like me, will quickly scan such lists to find new treasures to add to your Netflix queue or book wish list.
And so, in this tradition, and in light of Walt Disney World’s fiftieth anniversary this year, I give you fifty of my favorite things about “The Vacation Kingdom of the World.” Maybe herein you’ll find something new to enjoy on your next vacation.
No, they’re not in any particular order. I could never…
Disney’s use of “smellitzers” in places like the Main Street Confectionery.
The distinctive smell of the water in Disney’s boat-based attractions.
The lazy-eyed hippo in it’s a small world.
The differing signature scents of the resort hotels.
Monorail rides (por favor manténgase alejado de las puertas).
Boat cruises through the resort areas and Disney Springs, especially if the boat captain has extensive Disney trivia knowledge. In the Magic Kingdom area, ask about “the bear of the Wilderness Lodge.”
The subzero chill of the bus air conditioning at the end of a long day.
The Sherman brothers catalog of music, but especially “Great Big Beautiful Tomorrow.”
Disney’s attention to detail in the soundtracks of each resort, restaurant, and theme park.
Disney Cast Members who make magic every day, and the memories they make for our families.
Sitting on our hotel room balcony, or as my children say “eating on the view.”
Beautiful landscaping year round, but especially in the winter when it’s soothing to leave the grey behind and see flowers in bloom.
Snacks. They don’t have to be Mickey-shaped, but it’s fun when they are. Tasty snacks abound.
The joy of a hotel lobby (even if it’s not where I’m staying). Pull up a cozy chair and take in the sights, sounds, and smells.
Themed signage. If you think about it, you’ll notice that almost every bit of signage fits the theme of the area it’s in. How many different ways can you advertise the location of the nearest bathroom facilities? It turns out, a lot. I love these little details, and I appreciate that they don’t disrupt your visual experience of whatever location you’re in.
The “antique” attractions. Sure, I am a fan of the flashy new attractions and technology Disney employs. I’m also quite fond of the “oldies” like The Carousel of Progress and The Enchanted Tiki Room. They represent significant technological advancements of their era, and I’m so pleased they’re still around for us to enjoy.
Merchandise — I said it. In case you couldn’t tell by my extensive ear collection, I LOVE souvenirs.
Mickey waffles. They deserve their own place on this list. If you don’t eat them ears first, you might be a monster.
Popcorn buckets. Sure they are refillable, and they represent a good value for your snacking dollar, but also I think we should be able to consume food from our favorite movie icons, like Guinevere from Onward or the Millennium Falcon. Don’t you?
Thrill rides — from taking flight aboard a banshee, to Aerosmith-themed roller coasters, to haunted elevators.
The quiet of our resort after everyone is asleep. Nighttime strolls are peaceful and lovely.
Fountains! We take pictures at the Muppet fountain in Hollywood Studios on almost every trip, but there are fun and beautiful water features in lots of places.
Swanky restaurants like California Grill and Jiko. Don’t believe me, ask the dishes! Or just, you know, read the online menus like a normal person.
Character meals, because eating brunch with Winnie the Pooh is a “hunny” of a treat.
The exhibits at “Walt Disney Presents.” It’s usually a good mix of past and present, history and innovation.
An afternoon ride on the Tomorrowland Transit Authority. Tomorrowland may not be an authentic representation of the future we have to look forward to, but I like its past-informed campy version of the future, and I’ll also welcome the opportunity to sit down for a few minutes.
Dame Judi Dench’s narration of Spaceship Earth. I would listen to her read the phone book.
An early morning safari in the Animal Kingdom when the animals are most active.
Resort specific food items, like the monorail cupcake at The Contemporary, zebra domes at the Animal Kingdom Lodge, or strawberry soup at the Grand Floridian.
Epcot festivals. All of them. But mostly Food and Wine.
PhotoPass photographers. They get everyone in the picture, and they can also help with unique poses or by adding extra magic to your photos in the form of Disney characters (want to hold Tinkerbell in your hand?)
Ride videos from Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Tower of Terror. Want to see your little one’s initial reaction to a new experience over and over again, captured for perpetuity in video form? Wish granted.
Starbucks, but in a Disney cup.
Competitive attractions like Toy Story Mania, because it’s not vacation if you can’t beat your family at something. Or is that just me?
Water slides. Yes, they’re fun, but it’s another chance for your kids to show you how brave they are, and I find that precious.
First haircuts at Harmony Barber Shop. They cut my 11 month old’s hair when there wasn’t much to cut, but I’ll savor that memory forever.
The way the parks feel at night, when the lights come on. I don’t know why, I just know that it’s good.
The dedication plaques in each park. Read them, if you think about it.
Holiday decorations, anywhere and everywhere. Just a little extra sprinkle of magic.
The castle, and particularly the chance to dine like royalty within its regal walls.
Searching for all the animals carved into the Tree of Life.
Hollywood Studios’ version of a Hollywood that “never was and always will be.”
The eighth wonder of the world… the back side of water!
The chaotic peals of laughter my children emit when giving me whiplash on the Tomorrowland Speedway.
There is always something new to look forward to.
Hidden Mickeys.
The heavy sleep of children who have been in a theme park all day.
Broadway quality shows like Festival of the Lion King.
The chime of your Magic Band when you enter a theme park or attraction.
The fact that it’s my job to care about all of this. What a dream.
