Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Walt Disney World Resort is often known for being “twice the size of Manhattan,” but that’s not the only way it’s similar to the big city! The people-watching here can rival any major city, with plenty of unusual sights around the parks and resorts.
Here’s a roundup of some of the most fascinating (and sometimes downright strange) things you might witness on a trip to Disney World!
1. Nap Time… on the Ground
Whether it’s the hot sun or a long day, some guests take their naps wherever they can—even on the pavement! During my Disney College Program, I once had to alert security about a man napping on the ground in DinoLand, U.S.A., who wouldn’t wake up. Thankfully, security was able to rouse him, and he confirmed he was just “resting.”
Another popular napping spot is in gift shops at the exit of rides, where some guests wait for their family members and doze off on the floor. At least it’s indoors, but we wouldn’t recommend it as a resting option!
Credit: Inside the Magic
2. “Making an Exit” Mid-Ride
The moment a ride pauses, guests tend to assume it’s “broken down.” But ride stops happen frequently, and it’s not always a breakdown! Sometimes, stops occur for guest loading, for creating space between ride vehicles, or to allow guests with mobility needs to board safely. The strangest cause for ride stops? Guests trying to exit their ride vehicles mid-ride! It’s hard to imagine getting out of a moving attraction, but it happens more often than you’d think.
3. Decorative Fountains Mistaken for Drinking Fountains
For your own safety, any fountain that doesn’t look like a drinking fountain probably isn’t meant for drinking! Disney World’s many decorative fountains are popular spots for tossing in coins and can even be chlorinated. Sipping from these means risking germs, chlorine, and more. Stick to the clearly marked drinking fountains!
4. Cast Members in Costume Off the Clock
Cast members have strict guidelines for where they can move in costume, especially in Magic Kingdom. But in other parks, the rules are more flexible. For example, cast members at Disney’s Animal Kingdom often walk by the main entrance in costume to get to work, since their parking area is nearby. Occasionally, you might spot cast members out and about in Orlando (minus their name tags) grabbing groceries or eating out in costume!
Credit: Inside the Magic
5. Lines to Nowhere
Ever get in a line without knowing where it leads? At Disney, guests sometimes line up for… nothing! This can happen near the curb on Main Street U.S.A., where crowds gather even when no parade is scheduled. Guests also sometimes end up in merchandise lines by accident, only realizing their mistake after waiting. And at shows like Lights, Motors, Action!, I’ve seen guests wait in line only to realize they were expecting a ride and leave when they saw the stadium.
6. Unexpected Climbers
Climbing is definitely not encouraged at Disney, but some guests can’t resist. The most famous incident was a guest climbing the pyramid in the Mexico Pavilion at EPCOT—a highly dangerous move. But climbing over barricades, fountains, and even stadium seating is fairly common too. Remember, these structures aren’t meant for climbing and can be risky!
7. The Giant Turkey Leg Share
Disney’s famous turkey legs are iconic (and huge!). While sharing snacks can be a great budget-saver, turkey legs are tough to split, given their size and bones. With over 1,200 calories each, it’s understandable why families want to share, but as a germ-conscious person, I’d stick to sharing popcorn or a churro!
8. The “Not So Clean” Ice
Ice used to keep bottled drinks cool at outdoor carts isn’t for eating, but some guests still grab handfuls to munch or put in their drinks. This ice isn’t restaurant-grade and is handled frequently as Cast Members refill and shift drinks, so it’s best to ask for ice at a quick-service spot instead.
9. Keeping “Character Integrity” Intact
In Disney’s language, “character integrity” is all about maintaining the magic for guests, especially young ones. That means Cast Members work hard to keep each character “real” and unique, which is why there’s only one Mickey or Minnie at a time. It’s always surprising when some guests question costumes or point out that characters might be hot in their outfits. If you’re near little ones, keeping the magic intact makes a huge difference in their experience!
Credit: Disney
10. Surprise Sales
While Disney merchandise usually sticks to standard pricing, you might come across occasional sales! Look for red price tags in stores, discounted festival items in EPCOT, or markdowns on kid’s jewelry that fits adults. There are also special “purchase with purchase” discounts. If you’re looking for deals, stop by the Disney Character Warehouse at Orlando’s outlets for official Disney markdowns.
Disney World is a magical place where unusual and amazing things happen every day. From quirky sights to surprising guest behavior, there’s always something new to discover—and maybe even laugh about!
