Disney World Crash Course #6 - Free Disney Magic 101
Money doesn't grow on trees. And I would love to win the lottery. And no, Disney World is not free.
But did you know that there's a lot to do at Disney World without ever stepping foot into one of the parks? In this Disney World Crash Course I've put together some free ideas for you to consider during your next visit to the Orlando area.
- Downtown
Disney is often overlooked by Disney World guests. I'll admit that
my first visit to Downtown Disney was not until 8 or 9 years ago.
This unique shopping area boasts one of a kind stores and
restaurants. Take a stroll throughout the entire East and West sides
of Downtown Disney and you've got a full day of free browsing ahead
of you. During most warmer months there's even a water fountain area
where kids can get their feet wet.
- Take
a ride on the Monorail! This is a fun experience for all ages. And
you do not need to be a Disney Resort guest to hop aboard. The
Monorail can be accessed from the Transportation and Ticket Center,
Epcot, Magic Kingdom, the Grand Floridian Resort, the Contemporary
Resort, and the Polynesian Resort. If you ask a Cast Member about
riding up front with the driver you may be lucky enough to
experience an even better ride.
- Another great place to visit is the Animal Kingdom Lodge – the resort is gorgeous! Inside the grand entrance you'll find African style décor and a massive window overlooking one of the Savannas. Take a step outside the “back” door and walk down the path to find any animals that may be hiding in the Savanna. Back inside the building you'll find a great gift shop and access to the pool. I always enjoy checking out the pools at the Disney Resorts – each one is unique! Stroll around the pool and you'll also find another Savanna that may have animals nearby.
- Looking for a great place to watch Wishes (the nightly fireworks display over Cinderella's Castle)? Visit the Polynesian Resort and find a spot on the beach. This is a perfect place to stand with a cold, fruity drink in hand and watch the fireworks. While Wishes has great music piped into the Magic Kingdom, if you've seen the show before standing on Main Street then you may be able to sacrifice the music for viewing it from the beach at the Polynesian.
- Pin
trading is a really fun way to meet new people and talk with Cast
Members from around the world. While you'll need to invest in a
small collection of pins in order to trade, the actual trading is
free. It's a great way to find pins that you'd otherwise not have
access to – discontinued, pins from other Disney parks, or Cast
Member only pins. All you'll need is a lanyard to display the pins
around your neck and a few pins. Start up kits can be purchased at
most Disney gift stores.
Next up - Disney World Crash Course #7 - Kids Pitch in for Pennies