Disney's Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom, in actual size, is the largest Disney park. Containing 7 different areas which consist of the Oasis, Camp Minnie-Mickey, Dino Land, Discovery Island, Asia, Africa, and Rafiki's Planet Watch. If there was only one thing I could recommend it would be to walk through every path that comes up. I discovered several unmarked trails while on Discovery Island which brought me to quiet areas with no people and lots of interesting animals.

I would highly recommend seeing the shows that are available at the park. The Lion King Musical allows flash photography and the best seating is up a couple of rows if you can manage it, the actors mostly perform on a raised stage. Finding Nemo is another good show to see. A little secret I learned is that the "Tusker House Restaurant", a buffet, has priority seating at the Nemo shows if you eat during noon and 3; just make sure you ask! There are lots of side shows that happen in the Africa section of the park, drummers and dancers.

The most popular ride in the whole park by far has to be Everest. With the twists, turns, several seconds of backwards mayhem, and other such wonderful attributes, this ride is definitely not for the faint of heart, or stomach. The ride does not go upside down but there are some tight curves that cause some serious G-forces. If the line is not long i whole-heartedly suggest taking the time going through the full line to see the props that are so artfully scattered through out the queue. If you are in a hurry to make some reservations/show times, or you just don't want to wait for an hour, there is the Single Rider line. I personally think this is one of Disney's smartest additions. If you are in a group they will separate you at the end of the line and put you in the empty spots left on the ride. Usually this takes much less time than standing in line but you also do not get to see all of the accessories in the full line.

 If you are getting tired of the animal, and human, noises take the train to Rafiki's Planet Watch. Once at the the Conservation Station go in the building and along the left hand side, from the main entrance, are small rooms where you listen to the sounds of a rain forest for a few minutes. If you need to use the restroom while here, I will only give you the warning of be ready to be startled!

Dino Land is perfect for small children. There is a dig site, small roller coasters, and arcade style games to play for prizes. The counter service restaurant in the area is a very neat place just to spend a little time in the air conditioning checking things out. It always amazes me how much detail the Imagineers put into every area. Every room is dedicated to a separate living or work space and you'll find different quirky puns or memorabilia related to each area, and don't worry it's quite alright to stare around the rafters I bet you won't be the only one!

What ever area of the park you find to be your favorite always remember:
Have a Wild Day in Disney's Animal Kingdom!

Magic Kingdom: Main Street U.S.A

With all of the construction going on in Magic Kingdom it's a little bit harder to talk about than I originally thought. The once usual sitting spots and secret rooms have been taken out of commission for the time being and I am on a quest for new areas. My favorite spot on Main Street to just chill was the back of the Kodak building to the right as you enter the park. In this hidden gem there was a small theater which featured classic Disney cartoons such as "Steamboat Willie". This building, as is the case with many, is currently under the Disney construction facade.
In search of a new relief from the summer sun during my last visit I climbed the stairs of the Main Street Train Station. The inside is a treasure trove of old fashioned coin Stereoscope viewers. These old school flip-book style pictures are free to look through even though their casings say other wise. I suggest you take a look at all of them and get an even greater sense of the era represented on Main Street. Another nice air-conditioned sitting area is at the end of Main Street in the back of Casey's Corner. You'll find stadium style seating in front of a large screen playing classic sports cartoons.

I had heard rumor that when mailing letters or postcards from Disney property a special post stamp would be stamped on for approval. I tried this but sadly it was not true. The only thing stamped on (other than your stamp) will be an over stamp for Orlando, FL.

Main Street is known for it's shopping, mostly because it is all shops. Don't forget your discount for Seasonal/Annual Passholders! The shops include everything from Apparel, Food, Stationary, Scrapbooks, Toys, and more. 

  After shoppping when you are walking down the street during the day you'll run into some of Main Street's inhabitants, the Citizens of Main Street.  Some of the citizens will not autograph (especially Ms. Ing DePointe), but all will be more than happy for photos. They are not from any movie. From the Mayor to the town gossip, Pinthusiasts to Politicians these time traveled cast members are well in their era. Ask them about any modern technology and they will appear completely flabbergasted.

Once construction is cleared up I'll update on the changes made to the entrance of the Magic Kingdom.

Until then, Have a Magical Day!