Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
Since Universal Studios Orlando opened its doors in 1990, there has been a friendly rivalry between the two entertainment giants—though not necessarily between Disney and Universal themselves, but among the fans who frequent these parks. Walt Disney World fans are loyal to the magic and immersive experiences found in Disney’s four parks, while Universal fans rave about their own unique thrills.
However, as Disney enthusiasts, we believe there are certain things that make Walt Disney World stand out. Here are 9 reasons why Walt Disney World shines in ways that Universal simply doesn’t.
1. Over 50 Years of Magic-Making History
Walt Disney World’s history stretches back much further than Universal’s. While Universal Orlando Resort opened in 1990, Walt Disney World welcomed its first guests on October 1, 1971, nearly two decades earlier. Walt Disney had a vision for this magical place even before Disneyland was completed in 1955. After Disneyland’s resounding success, Walt began planning “The Florida Project” and secretly purchased thousands of acres of swampland in Central Florida to create his vision.
Though Walt sadly passed away in 1966, his brother Roy Disney oversaw the completion of Walt Disney World. Now, nearly 50 years later, the park continues to create magic for millions of guests, carrying on Walt’s legacy in ways Universal Orlando, with its much shorter history, simply can’t match.
Credit: Flickr, Ussamam
2. A Selection of Over 25 Resort Hotels
Disney fans know that the magic doesn’t stop when you leave the parks. With over 25 Disney Resort hotels to choose from, your entire vacation can be an immersive experience. From the luxurious Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to the fun Disney’s Pop Century Resort, each Disney hotel has its own distinct theming and benefits.
In comparison, Universal Orlando offers only seven on-site hotels. And while they do offer perks, they don’t come close to the magical, immersive experience that Disney’s themed resorts provide. Want to stay in an African savanna or a Polynesian paradise? Disney’s got you covered.
3. Two Themed Water Parks
When it comes to cooling off, Walt Disney World offers not just one but two incredible water parks: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Both parks feature unique theming, thrilling water slides, and family-friendly areas. Whether you’re braving the Crush ‘n’ Gusher at Typhoon Lagoon or sliding down Summit Plummet at Blizzard Beach, Disney’s water parks provide endless fun.
Universal, on the other hand, only has one water park—Volcano Bay. While it’s an impressive park in its own right, Disney takes the lead in terms of variety and theming.
4. A Galaxy Far, Far Away: Star Wars
Disney has brought the magic of Star Wars to life at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge immerses guests in the world of the galaxy, which is far, far away, with attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run. From the moment you step into the land, you are part of the Star Wars universe, with opportunities to build your own lightsaber, interact with characters like Rey and Kylo Ren, and even enjoy blue or green milk.
Credit: Ed Aguila, Inside the Magic
Universal simply can’t compete with the power of the Force when it comes to Star Wars experiences.
5. A World of Space to Explore
One of the most jaw-dropping facts about Walt Disney World is its sheer size. Covering 47 square miles, the resort is roughly the size of San Francisco. Walt Disney specifically purchased vast amounts of land to ensure there was always room for growth, famously stating, “There’s enough land here to hold all the ideas and plans we can possibly imagine.”
By comparison, Universal Orlando Resort is much smaller, covering only 840 acres. To put that into perspective, Disney’s Animal Kingdom alone takes up over 500 acres. When it comes to size and room to expand, Walt Disney World has a clear advantage, offering guests more space to explore and new experiences on the horizon.
6. Immersive Storytelling in Every Corner
One of the hallmarks of Walt Disney World is the imaginative storytelling woven into every experience. Disney’s Imagineers are world-class storytellers, crafting detailed backstories and immersive narratives that bring each attraction to life. Whether you’re flying with Peter Pan, riding Pirates of the Caribbean, or traveling to a galaxy far, far away, Disney attractions share a unified theme of enchantment and wonder.
At Universal, while attractions are exciting, they often lack the same depth of storytelling. Walt Disney World excels at pulling guests into its stories, creating lasting emotional connections that make each ride feel part of a larger narrative.
7. Disney Imagineers
The creative minds behind Disney’s attractions, resorts, and shows are called Imagineers—a unique combination of “imagination” and “engineering.” These talented individuals are responsible for designing the most iconic experiences in the parks, from the magical floating lanterns in Tangled to the thrilling turns of Expedition Everest.
Credit: WaltDisneyImagineering Instagram
Universal does not have an equivalent to Disney’s Imagineers. While they have talented designers and engineers, Disney’s Imagineers have built a legacy of innovation and creativity that remains unmatched in the world of theme park design.
8. Mickey Mouse: The Heart of It All
As Walt Disney famously said, “It all started with a mouse.” Mickey Mouse is not just a character—he’s the symbol of everything Walt Disney World stands for. From his early days in Steamboat Willie to his beloved appearances throughout the parks today, Mickey is the heart and soul of Disney. You’ll find him in parades, shows, and special meet-and-greets throughout the resort.
Universal may have its own iconic characters like Harry Potter and The Simpsons, but they don’t come close to the cultural and emotional impact of Mickey Mouse. No other theme park has a character as universally beloved as Disney’s signature mouse.
9. Walt Disney’s Vision and Inspiration
Perhaps the most important factor that sets Walt Disney World apart from Universal Orlando is Walt Disney himself. Walt’s incredible vision and creativity are evident in every corner of the park. He wanted to create a place where families could make memories together—where parents could play alongside their children, not just watch them from afar.
Credit: Inside the Magic
Even though Walt Disney passed away before Walt Disney World opened, his spirit of innovation, magic, and family connection can still be felt in the parks today. From the Haunted Mansion to the Jungle Cruise and beyond, Walt’s fingerprints are on many of the attractions that continue to inspire millions of guests. Universal may be fun, but it simply doesn’t have the emotional connection and legacy that Walt Disney left behind.
Final Thoughts
Walt Disney World’s 50+ years of magic, immersive experiences, world-class storytelling, and innovative design make it a top destination that goes beyond just theme park thrills. Whether it’s Mickey Mouse or the unique genius of Walt Disney’s vision, there are countless reasons why Disney continues to outshine its competitors across town.
Universal may have exciting attractions, but Disney’s combination of history, imagination, and heart keeps it unmatched as the most magical place on Earth.
