Walt Disney World in Florida is one of the most popular family vacation destinations in the United States. The mammoth location covers more than 40 square miles in the Lake Buena Vista, Florida area near Orlando. Disney World Florida vacations can include a wide variety of activities, including water parks, theme parks, live entertainment, cultural exhibits, restaurants and shopping.
The most important part of any Disney World Florida vacation is the planning. Because there are so many choices available, it is crucial that visitors have a plan in place before their trip. For families with small children, the Magic Kingdom theme park may be the number one choice. Older children may enjoy Disney's Hollywood Studios theme park and the entire family may want to spend time at one or both of the water parks at Walt Disney World. No matter what is atop the list, having a proper plan makes for a smooth vacation.
There are four theme parks at Disney World: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios and Animal Kingdom. The Magic Kingdom, highlighted by a famous statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse in front of Cinderella's Castle, features fairy tales and many of Disney's beloved characters. Epcot is divided into Future World, which focuses on technological advancements, innovation and wonder, and World Showcase, which showcases the culture and cuisine of 11 nations. Hollywood Studios focuses on entertainment and Animal Kingdom is the home of more than 1,700 animals.
Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon are the two water parks at Disney World. Among the highlights at Blizzard Beach is one of the world's tallest waterslides, along with rides and other water slides for the entire family. Typhoon Lagoon includes Shark Reef, where visitors can snorkel alongside real sharks. Also at Typhoon Lagoon are a surfing pool, waterslides and an area especially for young children that includes raft rides.
Accommodations at Disney World are as varied as the activities and sites. Choices in Disney Resort hotels range from animal themes to sports or movies, Polynesian to Caribbean or French Quarter, and cabins to beach villas or spas. Camping is also available on the Disney World property. Budget-conscious travelers may stay in locations outside Disney World; these offer less convienence but, in many cases, come at a lower cost.
