Our recent trip to Disney was nothing short of magical!
From thrilling rides to enchanting shows, we packed 6 days with Disney magic. But let’s be real – not every experience was a 10/10. So, I’m ranking our Disney highlights, from the absolutely unforgettable to the underwhelming. There are some things we weren’t able to do, because honestly, you can’t do it all at Disney World. We didn’t get the chance to ride Tron or watch Fantasmic, but we were able to hit a lot of rides and attractions we were excited about.
BEST
- Beach Club Resort: Located just a short stroll from Epcot and a boat ride to Hollywood Studios, this resort offers easy access. The resort’s stunning New England-style design, complete with sandy beaches and picturesque views creates a relaxing coastal vibe. Stormalong Bay, is a massive pool complex with a lazy river, waterslides, and a sandy-bottomed pool, making it a paradise for kids.
- Disney’s Cake Bake Shop (Boardwalk): If you’re a fan of beautiful desserts, elegant spaces, and a little touch of Disney magic, the Cake Bake Shop is DEFINITELY worth a visit. It’s perfect for something whimsical and Instagram-worthy. They even have a private champagne room for large parties. Keep in mind, it might not be for everyone. If you’re on a tight budget or looking for hearty meals over delicate desserts, you may leave feeling underwhelmed. Read my complete review here: An Honest Review of Disney Boardwalk’s Cake Bake Shop: Is It Worth the Hype?
- Rise of the Resistance (Hollywood): When people say Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance is a game-changer, they mean it. This ride is more than just an attraction – it’s an experience. We were able to do the ride at night, which I think added to the experience. Whether you’re a Star Wars fan or not, it’s a must-ride. If there’s one thing worth the wait or an early park arrival, this is it.
- Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom): Soar through Pandora in this thrilling and visually stunning ride. All 4 of my big kids did this ride and loved it.
- Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Parade (Magic Kingdom): If the idea of a special, festive Disney experience with fewer crowds and unique entertainment excites you, this is worth the price tag. Read my complete review on this party here: Is the Very Merry Mickey’s Christmas Party Worth The Cost?
DISAPPOINTING
- Disney Genie+ / Lightning Lane Confusion: I have to be honest: Disney’s new system left me a bit frazzled. Managing reservations for rides, figuring out which ones were included, and dealing with limited availability added some stress. Do your research BEFORE heading to Orlando. I wish I would have.
- Magic Kingdom Mid-Day Crowds: Let’s talk about the crowds – specifically mid-day at Magic Kingdom. We expected it to be busy, but parts of the park felt gridlocked. Focus on rope drop mornings and evenings for Magic Kingdom magic.
- Space 220 (Epcot): The prices at this restaurant are out if this world, while the food falls flat. Half of my kids didn’t like their macaroni and cheese and Eden said the spaghetti sauce tasted like it came out of a can. Our bill for 7 people (2 adults) was almost $500. For $500, we would have expected a lot better quality and ambiance. This restaurant has so much potential, sadly though, this was a one and done for us.
- Luminous: The Symphony of Us (Epcot’s Night Show): I had high hopes for EPCOT’s nighttime spectacular, but unfortunately, it left me feeling underwhelmed. The show lacked the emotional impact and creative flair Disney is known for. The storytelling felt disjointed, with visuals that didn’t seem to connect to the music in a meaningful way. While there were a few impressive moments, they didn’t make up for the overall lack of innovation.
Final Thoughts:
Our Disney trip was an unforgettable adventure, full of memories we’ll cherish. While some moments shone brighter than others.
If you’re planning your Disney trip, prioritize the must-dos, pace yourself, and remember to stop and enjoy the magic around you.
What’s your favorite Disney experience? Let me know how you’d rank your trip!
