Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Walt Disney World has always been a place where dreams come true, but recent changes due to health and safety guidelines have transformed the guest experience. While there are some benefits, like shorter lines and smaller crowds, fans of the park also miss some things.
From character meet and greets to beloved shows and dining experiences here’s what we miss most about the classic Walt Disney World magic.
1. Character Meet and Greets: The Heart of Disney Magic
For many, character meet and greets are a quintessential part of the Disney experience. Kids and adults alike cherish the chance to interact with their favorite Disney characters up close, whether it’s giving Mickey a hug or getting a selfie with Cinderella. The special interactions with characters create magical memories, and the Disney PhotoPass photographers capture those unforgettable moments.
Credit: Disney Parks Blog
While characters still appear throughout the parks, the experience is different—they wave from a distance, and there are no hugs or high-fives. Although it’s fun to spot them in unexpected places, there’s something irreplaceable about that personal connection that we can’t wait to have back.
2. Spectacular Shows: Entertainment That Makes Disney Unique
Disney parks are famous for their rides, but their live shows are equally magical. Productions like Festival of the Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom and Beauty and the Beast at Disney’s Hollywood Studios offer top-notch performances that become family favorites. Shows also provide a welcome break from the heat, allowing guests to relax while enjoying Disney storytelling magic.
For families with young children or guests who prefer a slower pace, these shows are must-do experiences that create shared memories. Thankfully, the Festival of the Lion King has made a triumphant return, but many beloved shows remain paused. We eagerly await the day when all the entertainment options are back in full swing, filling the parks with music and joy.
3. Social Interactions: Missing the Disney Community Spirit
One of the unexpected joys of visiting Walt Disney World is the chance to interact with fellow Disney fans. Whether it’s chatting with the party ahead of you in line, receiving a “Happy Birthday!” from strangers after they spot your celebration button, or watching kids make new friends in the splash pad, Disney has always been about community.
With current safety measures like mask-wearing and social distancing, these interactions are limited, and the sense of connection among guests feels different. While it’s nice to have more space in the parks, we miss those moments of camaraderie that make Disney trips even more memorable.
4. Favorite Dining Spots: Hoping for a Full Culinary Comeback
Dining at Walt Disney World is an adventure of its own, with so many unique and themed restaurants to explore. However, due to limited park capacity, several beloved dining locations remain temporarily closed. For example, Casey’s Corner on Main Street, U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom is a go-to for many guests craving a classic hot dog, and Restaurant Marrakesh in EPCOT offers a taste of Moroccan flavors that are hard to find elsewhere.
Credit: Disney
While Disney has done a fantastic job ensuring that open dining spots continue to offer delicious experiences, we miss these iconic restaurants that add a special touch to each Disney day. We hope they return soon to complete the Disney dining magic.
5. Resorts We Love: Awaiting the Return of Iconic Stays
Staying at a Disney resort is all about immersing yourself in the magic from start to finish. With a variety of options available, from the budget-friendly Disney’s All-Star Resorts to the luxurious Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, there’s something for every traveler. However, with current restrictions, some of our favorite resorts remain temporarily closed.
For example, the Port Orleans French Quarter, known for its beignets and relaxing atmosphere, is still unavailable. While Disney has done an excellent job relocating guests to other open resorts—sometimes even upgrading them—it’s still a bummer for those who had their hearts set on a specific theme and experience. We can’t wait for all our favorite Disney resorts to be fully operational once again.
6. Character Dining Experiences: More Than Just a Meal
Character dining is one of the most magical ways to meet Disney characters while enjoying a delicious meal. Although some options like Chef Mickey’s, Topolino’s Terrace Breakfast, and Garden Grill Restaurant offer modified experiences, several beloved character meals remain unavailable.
From princess encounters at Akershus Royal Banquet Hall in EPCOT to breakfast with Winnie the Pooh and friends at The Crystal Palace in Magic Kingdom, these meals are not just about food—they are about creating magical moments. We miss the joy of dining with characters and seeing the excitement on children’s faces when their favorite characters arrive. While we’re grateful for the modified experiences available, we’re looking forward to the full return of these beloved meals.
7. Nighttime Spectaculars: The Magic of Disney Fireworks
Nothing caps off a day at Disney like a nighttime show. From EPCOT’s Harmonious to the Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After, these spectacular displays of fireworks, music, and lights are unforgettable experiences. The emotion that these shows evoke as they light up the sky, coupled with the magic of Disney storytelling, makes them the perfect way to conclude a day in the parks.
Currently, nighttime shows are on pause, and while we appreciate the safety measures, we dearly miss the dazzling displays that create the most magical memories. We’re counting down the days until we can once again gather in front of Cinderella Castle and watch the sky come alive.
8. Seasonal Events and Parades: Festive Magic on Pause
One of the highlights of a Walt Disney World visit is experiencing seasonal events and parades. Whether it’s seeing Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Parade, the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, or the daily character cavalcades, these events add a special touch that makes each visit unique.
Credit: Hideya Hamano, Flickr
With some seasonal events currently on hold or limited, it’s hard not to miss the festive atmosphere they bring. We hope to see these beloved events fully return so that the parks can be filled with seasonal cheer and joy once again.
Looking Forward to the Return of the Magic
While Walt Disney World has adapted brilliantly to current circumstances, it’s natural to miss some of the classic elements that make it the “Most Magical Place on Earth.” From character meet and greets to nighttime spectaculars and everything in between, we’re hopeful that these cherished experiences will be back soon, making our next Disney vacations even more magical.
Until then, we’ll cherish the memories and make the most of the new magic unfolding every day at Walt Disney World.
