The most famous amusement park on Earth is Disney World Florida, but what many people do not realize is that there are several different parks in Disney’s 25,000-acre complex. The original one that opened in 1971 is the Magic Kingdom, which features Cinderella Castle along with dozens of rides from fairy tale experiences to rushing roller coasters. A more recent addition, Disney’s Hollywood Studios includes thrill rides as well as shows that reveal some of the secrets behind movie magic. Epcot with its enormous geosphere towering over the park offers visitors pavilions showcasing innovations in energy, technology, space, and architecture, while Disney’s Animal Kingdom allows guests to take an actual safari featuring live animals displayed in their natural habitats.
Disney World is more than just theme parks, however. The complex also offers tourists two water parks, including Blizzard Beach, designed to represent a ski resort on a summer day — all the snow has melted. Blizzard Beach abounds in thrill slides, whereas its sister park, Typhoon Lagoon features gentler attractions — but not too gentle, since guests can snorkel alongside live sharks.
Downtown Disney offers a wide variety of shopping and dining opportunities and features the LEGO Imagination Store, where children can choose from sets that are rarely offered for sale. 24 AMC movie theatres show the latest releases and restaurants include Wolfgang Puck, Planet Hollywood, and the Rainforest Café.
Fortunately, the many Disney vacation rentals in the vicinity mean that tourists are not far from the fun.