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| by Lindsey Allmon |
It’s no surprise that Rockin’ Roller Coaster, Space Mountain, Expedition Everest, and a slew of other attractions get pages and pages of press. The sentimental value of some and the thrill factor of others make big ticket attractions well known and well-traveled. But the Walt Disney World Parks have plenty of small time attractions that are unique and often a lot less crowded. Continue after the break for a new hit list for your next vacation...
The Magic Kingdom
If you are a history buff, your stop should be the Hall of
Presidents in Liberty Square. This attraction was one of the personal loves
of Walt Disney as his animatronic creations were perfected to bring Abraham
Lincoln to life. The attraction features every US President including current
president Barack Obama. It’s a rather long show by Disney standards, clocking
in at 23 minutes, but it is air conditioned with plenty of seating and features
authentic presidential artifacts prior to seating. Oh, and did I mention it’s
narrated by Morgan Freeman?
This next one is silly, but if you have a Tangled obsessed
princess or prince in your family it is a must stop. In the new Fantasyland
there was a small section dedicated to Tangled. There really isn’t anything there
except for some restrooms, yet that is exactly where you should stop when you
pass by. Both the men’s and women’s restrooms are decked out a la Flynn Ryder
and Rapunzel. From featuring gorgeous painted walls just like Rapunzel did to
showcasing the handiest weapon ever, a frying pan, these pit stops bring the
beloved movie to life.
Epcot
Do you like soda? Do you like carbonated beverages of any
sort? Do you love trying different food and drink from around the world? Then
you must make a quick stop at Club Cool. On the left hand side of the fountain
pavilion past Spaceship Earth sits the Coca Cola sponsored mecca of
international soda flavors. The spot features different flavors of soda from
Germany, Italy, Japan, China, Mexico, Israel, Costa Rica, and Mozambique and
the best part? It’s FREE! While you can’t take the soda with you it’s a great
chance to quench your thirst. My personal recommendation? The watermelon soda
from China!
If you are traveling with young kids, PAY ATTENTION! There
is one spot that hails above all others for the mid afternoon nap and it’s
located at the very back of the United Kingdom pavilion. Tucked away behind the
shops and fish and chips stands is a mock-up of a row of houses like you would
find in downtown London. While the courtyard occasionally features a cover band
or two it is eerily quiet ninety percent of the time. I can vouch for it myself
as my grandmother took me there for naps all the time when I was little.
Animal Kingdom
The Animal Kingdom Park has the least to do of all of the
parks, and most things that do exist are rather well known. Yet one character
is notorious but can be completely missed by passerby's as they sprint towards
Expedition Everest to use their Fast Passes. This character is the lovely Ivy
Woman that blends into the trees surrounding the walkways of the park. The
blending is stunning and she really is a sight to see if you can spot her. The
trick to finding her? Look out for cast members that are standing off to the
side of the path but aren’t doing anything. Cast members are always busy,
cleaning, taking pictures, helping or greeting people. This cast member won’t
stray from their post as they are there for the Ivy Woman’s assistance.
Hollywood Studies (MGM)
If you love to draw the Art of Animation attraction is
perfect for you. A short video shows the process of creating and drawing a
character, followed by hands on activities such as voice overs, coloring, and
even an art lesson. The section also has character meet and greets on occasion
and showcases new movies coming out. There also is a great exhibit showing
aspects of animation. As of July 2013 there was scenery in animation which
showcased films such as The Hunchback of Notre Dame and Brave. Oh, and it also
features an impressive display of some of the Academy Awards won over the
years.
Well there you have it. Use this list to add extra fun to
your next Disney Vacation and have a swell time exploring all the wonders of
the Disney Parks.
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