Hey guys! I thought I'd share a few tips with you about my second favorite park in Walt Disney World; Animal Kingdom!
The first thing you will want to do is the Kilimanjaro Safari. It is a great way to introduce yourself to Animal Kingdom and the focus of the park. Not to mention it gets super busy super fast, so i recommend making a beeline to this attraction. Its at the very back of the park, so you need to trek all the way across to get to it. Then, you can make your way back through the park throughout the day.
You won't need more than one day for this park, as you can see all you need to see within a day.
Once you've done the safari, there are a few nature trails nearby with more animals to see. This is where you can spot the tigers and silverback gorillas, so its definitely worth doing these trails.
From here, I would recommend making sure you have fast passes if the rides here are important to you! Biggest ones here are Dinosaur and Expedition Everest. Both of these rides pretty much constantly have long lines, so you really should make sure you get a fast pass set up for these rides. Despite being terrified, i'm glad I rode Everest and I suggest everyone try it at least once. Dinosaur can be scary for young children, but it is an amazing and fully immersive ride!
Also, make sure you don't miss the festival of the Lion King show! It really is a sight to behold, and I think it had to be my favorite show in the entirety of Disney World.
As far as food goes, there is no shortage! This park closes fairly early, so I actually recommend eating at Rainforest Cafe, which sits just outside the entrance to the park. It goes along great with the theme of Animal Kingdom, not to mention they have great food. As of this year, It actually looks like this park will be open later, complete with new events and entertainment! I look forward to seeing all of this in action.
Tuesday, September 13, 2016
Monday, September 12, 2016
Disneyland Mickey's Halloween Party Tips
Its that time of year again! Halloween time at the Disneyland resort! I went around this time and had a blast. If you're a fan of fall or Halloween, this is one of the best times to go to Disneyland. Not only is Disneyland in September less busy, its still quite warm.
Halloween Parties at Disneyland usually start mid to late September, and if you can I highly recommend making a Halloween Party one of your days in Disneyland.
Halloween Party entry is basically the same as a park entry ticket. Halloween Parties start at 7 p.m., at which time regular park guests must leave Disneyland (they may still visit California Adventure park) Halloween Party guests also gain early entry to the park, allowing you to start your day around 4 p.m.
Halloween costumes are encouraged during these parties and even adults are allowed to dress as Disney characters! They just have one condition- you don't do autographs or pose for photos as if you were the character. They also ask you not bring anything sharp or wear masks that would make it difficult to breathe. Basically use your brains! Its still California- it's going to be hot out! And there are children in the park, so dress appropriately.
There are several things that are exciting about Mickey's Halloween Party. First of all, there are meet and greets with villains and other Halloween characters. If you want to meet Jack and Sally, I either recommend starting with this or doing it at another time- ie not during the Halloween Party. Their line will be constantly long during the party.
Villains also do meet and greets in the Main St. Square right near the entrance to Disneyland, and I suggest getting the jump on these as well if its something you want to do.
Trick or Treat lines are the next cool thing about the party. It doesn't take long to fill your complimentary treak or treat bag from these lines. They have both healthy treats and normal candies, pretzels, etc. I got a huge mix and variety of candy and treats and I only went through about three treat lines. It doesn't take long to fill your bag, so I'd save going to get treats until later at night.
The Halloween Party is also a great time to get on some rides that tend to be busier- with the exception of Haunted Mansion of course, this one is still quite busy during the party. So get on a bunch of rides during the party!
You can find various entertainment around the park during the party as well, but by far the best entertainment is the Halloween fireworks! This past year, Zero flew over the castle and there was plenty of fire, and some fireworks I had never seen before. The fireworks alone are more than worth going to the Halloween party.
So, all in all, this is my recommended plan of action for the Halloween party:
1. Start with any character meet and greets you want to do.
2. Ride the rides that tend to be busier on regular park hours
3. Save trick or treating for close to the end- it won't take long to get plenty of candy!
4. Make sure not to miss the Halloween fireworks. They are a real treat.
Sunday, September 11, 2016
How and where to get character photos in Disneyland
Characters can be fairly elusive in Disneyland- they don't have a comprehensive app like Disney World to tell you when characters will be present. Thankfully, Disneyland's website now lists approximate times and locations to find characters. I wanted to bring some of my own insight to this and help you and/or your little ones make the most out of finding characters in a less typical situation.
1- Finding Mickey and Minnie
There are a plethora of places to find Mickey and Minnie. The biggest one is their homes in Toontown- all you need to do is take a tour of their home and wait in line to get your photo with them! They aren't always guaranteed to be here- but it is certainly your best chance at finding them.
You can also find these two at the character breakfasts- these include breakfast at the Grand Californian, Paradise Pier, and at the Plaza Inn. If you're looking for the most character variety, Plaza Inn is your best bet.
Sometimes, you may also find them in the plaza of Main St. right when you enter Disneyland park. I've only seen these two available to meet and greet on Buena Vista St. as far as California Adventure goes.
2-The gang
You can also find most of the main gang somewhere in Toontown at different points of the day- I've seen Goofy outside of his house, Pluto outside of the jail, etc. These guys will also be found on Main St, most commonly near the fire hall.
I've seen a few of them at the character breakfasts as well.
If you're lucky you can catch Goofy as a conductor outside by the World of Color fountains- I believe it's a fun way they test the fountains to make sure they are working for each night's show!
I've also seen Pluto near Soarin' in California Adventure.
A secret spot I've happened to see Chip n' Dale is the big empty space right near the Hollywood Tower of Terror! You may spot other characters here as I believe it is close to a backstage area for cast members.
Oswald is easy to spot as he is usually on the main st into California Adventure- definitely in the shade if it's hot out. I found him hanging out there mid day, not far from the shop that sells only Oswald merch.
3- Princes and Princesses
The biggest spot Princesses do meet and greet is at the Fantasy Faire- but these lines can get quite long and I wouldn't say its the most unique experience to meet the Princesses.
The best place to find the main Disney Princesses is at Ariel's Grotto when you book a meal there. Be warned, this place is ALWAYS busy so you do need to make reservations. You won't find the Princes here, but you can see Ariel, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and Snow White. I believe some of these Princesses can also be seen at the Plaza Inn, depending on the day.
Another place you can find these gals is right inside the entrance to Disneyland Park. Sometimes they can be found under the shade of the trees near the flower arrangements.
Tiana can be found in New Orlean's Square- because of course that makes the most sense. I've seen her on the raised platform near the Rivers of America and I've also seen her on the staircase hidden in between the shops.
Merida still has her own meet and greet spot near it's a Small World, unless that has changed recently.
Anna and Elsa can be found at their Royal Welcome in Animation Academy in California Adventure. As far as I'm aware the line is constantly long for this and its the only place to see them. Whereas Olaf can be found outside in Hollywoodland.
Jasmine can only be found with Aladdin at Aladdin's Oasis- along with Genie at times and even Jafar. It's never known who will be here at any given time- and I've rarely seen them here on hot days.
4- Disney Jr.
These characters are most commonly found outside the shops near the Disney Jr. Stage or outside Disney Jr. Itself.
5- Sulley and Mike
These two have their own special meet and greet spot not far from their ride- before you get into the Mad T. Party area, there is a small apartment made to look like it is from Monsters Inc. If Sulley or Mike are doing meet and greets, you will find them standing here. I've never seen them at the same time, just one or the other.
6-Marvel Superheros
Most commonly found in Tomorrowland, but apparently they can now be found in Hollywoodland as well. I believe that is a recent development.
7- Character breakfasts, a good chance to see rare characters
Paradise Pier's Breakfast roster includes Stitch! So if you're looking for him, make sure you book this breakfast. I don't believe I have seen him elsewhere, but I wouldn't put it past him to be at Plaza Inn every now and then. I've also seen Daisy here, and she seems to be a more hard to find member of the gang.
The Grand Californian Sports more rare characters- especially those from Brother Bear. There isn't a plethora of characters here, but the food makes it well worth a visit.
I haven't been to Goofy's Kitchen- but I imagine you'd see Goofy here no matter what!
Plaza Inn has a great roster too- the time I was there I saw Captain Hook, Eeyore, The Fairy Godmother, Minnie, and more! I believe a lot of them change day to day but it is fairly certain you will see Minnie here no matter what.
8-Seasonal Events
If you go during a certain season I can almost guarantee you will see more of the rare characters. Halloween you will spot more villains, as well as Jack and Sally. Christmas tends to bring out some more rare characters, and the gang in special costumes. But also consider events such as Valentine's day- where you will find some special characters out just for the day.
This has been my guide to find characters more outside of their norm locations. Hopefully my experiences can help you find who you're looking for in the parks!
Meeting Minnie at the Plaza Inn!
1- Finding Mickey and Minnie
There are a plethora of places to find Mickey and Minnie. The biggest one is their homes in Toontown- all you need to do is take a tour of their home and wait in line to get your photo with them! They aren't always guaranteed to be here- but it is certainly your best chance at finding them.
You can also find these two at the character breakfasts- these include breakfast at the Grand Californian, Paradise Pier, and at the Plaza Inn. If you're looking for the most character variety, Plaza Inn is your best bet.
Sometimes, you may also find them in the plaza of Main St. right when you enter Disneyland park. I've only seen these two available to meet and greet on Buena Vista St. as far as California Adventure goes.
2-The gang
You can also find most of the main gang somewhere in Toontown at different points of the day- I've seen Goofy outside of his house, Pluto outside of the jail, etc. These guys will also be found on Main St, most commonly near the fire hall.
I've seen a few of them at the character breakfasts as well.
If you're lucky you can catch Goofy as a conductor outside by the World of Color fountains- I believe it's a fun way they test the fountains to make sure they are working for each night's show!
I've also seen Pluto near Soarin' in California Adventure.
A secret spot I've happened to see Chip n' Dale is the big empty space right near the Hollywood Tower of Terror! You may spot other characters here as I believe it is close to a backstage area for cast members.
Oswald is easy to spot as he is usually on the main st into California Adventure- definitely in the shade if it's hot out. I found him hanging out there mid day, not far from the shop that sells only Oswald merch.
3- Princes and Princesses
The biggest spot Princesses do meet and greet is at the Fantasy Faire- but these lines can get quite long and I wouldn't say its the most unique experience to meet the Princesses.
The best place to find the main Disney Princesses is at Ariel's Grotto when you book a meal there. Be warned, this place is ALWAYS busy so you do need to make reservations. You won't find the Princes here, but you can see Ariel, Belle, Sleeping Beauty, Cinderella, and Snow White. I believe some of these Princesses can also be seen at the Plaza Inn, depending on the day.
Another place you can find these gals is right inside the entrance to Disneyland Park. Sometimes they can be found under the shade of the trees near the flower arrangements.
Tiana can be found in New Orlean's Square- because of course that makes the most sense. I've seen her on the raised platform near the Rivers of America and I've also seen her on the staircase hidden in between the shops.
Merida still has her own meet and greet spot near it's a Small World, unless that has changed recently.
Anna and Elsa can be found at their Royal Welcome in Animation Academy in California Adventure. As far as I'm aware the line is constantly long for this and its the only place to see them. Whereas Olaf can be found outside in Hollywoodland.
Jasmine can only be found with Aladdin at Aladdin's Oasis- along with Genie at times and even Jafar. It's never known who will be here at any given time- and I've rarely seen them here on hot days.
4- Disney Jr.
These characters are most commonly found outside the shops near the Disney Jr. Stage or outside Disney Jr. Itself.
5- Sulley and Mike
These two have their own special meet and greet spot not far from their ride- before you get into the Mad T. Party area, there is a small apartment made to look like it is from Monsters Inc. If Sulley or Mike are doing meet and greets, you will find them standing here. I've never seen them at the same time, just one or the other.
6-Marvel Superheros
Most commonly found in Tomorrowland, but apparently they can now be found in Hollywoodland as well. I believe that is a recent development.
7- Character breakfasts, a good chance to see rare characters
Paradise Pier's Breakfast roster includes Stitch! So if you're looking for him, make sure you book this breakfast. I don't believe I have seen him elsewhere, but I wouldn't put it past him to be at Plaza Inn every now and then. I've also seen Daisy here, and she seems to be a more hard to find member of the gang.
The Grand Californian Sports more rare characters- especially those from Brother Bear. There isn't a plethora of characters here, but the food makes it well worth a visit.
I haven't been to Goofy's Kitchen- but I imagine you'd see Goofy here no matter what!
Plaza Inn has a great roster too- the time I was there I saw Captain Hook, Eeyore, The Fairy Godmother, Minnie, and more! I believe a lot of them change day to day but it is fairly certain you will see Minnie here no matter what.
8-Seasonal Events
If you go during a certain season I can almost guarantee you will see more of the rare characters. Halloween you will spot more villains, as well as Jack and Sally. Christmas tends to bring out some more rare characters, and the gang in special costumes. But also consider events such as Valentine's day- where you will find some special characters out just for the day.
This has been my guide to find characters more outside of their norm locations. Hopefully my experiences can help you find who you're looking for in the parks!
Meeting Minnie at the Plaza Inn!
Friday, September 9, 2016
Best Photo Spots in California Adventure
Hi and welcome to the companion list of the best photo spots in Disneyland, and today we are covering California Adventure park.
1- In front of Carthay Circle Restaurant
a short walk down Buena Vista St. when you first enter Disneyland will find you at the Carthay Circle Restaurant. This is a great piece of Disney history as its design and name are based on the movie theatre where Snow White was first shown, the true start of Disney films.
2- Walt and Mickey Statue on Buena Vista St.
I love this statue, where Walt looks like he's just arrived in Cali, Mickey and his suitcase in tow and his coat over his shoulder.
3- In front of the Hyperion
The Hyperion is a huge theatre where they used to perform the Aladdin show for many years. It is now home to a Frozen stage show, which I haven't had the opportunity to see for myself. We won't get into the debate about the show changing, as I know there are people that both love and hate Frozen now making its way into so many places in the parks.
4- At the end of Buena Vista St.
Here, right next to the Hyperion, you will find an illusion painting that makes it look as if the street continues for a long distance, making it a good photo op!
5- On Route 66 in Cars Land
If you can, take this photo at night! The bright neon of this street at night is incredible- it feels like you have stepped right into the Cars movie.
6- The walkway next to Radiator Springs Racers
they did an awesome job recreating the landscape of this ride and there are plenty of awesome photo spots along this walking path.
7- Cove Bar at Paradise Pier
If you're wanting the best view of Paradise Pier in your backdrop, snag yourself a seat at the Cove Bar. Not to mention, they have some of the best food and drink this side of the park. (did somebody say cocktails?!)
8- World of Color Viewing area
This area will get you a great photo of Mickey's fun wheel during the day! Not to mention there isn't a lot of foot traffic on these boardwalks, ensuring you can get an uninterrupted photo.
9- Entrance to Paradise Pier
At the start of the boardwalk there's a great photo op- as there is a sign for Paradise Pier! At night, its even lit nicely, making it a good photo spot both day and night.
10- Under the replica San Fran bridge
this one's hard to miss- as you will see it right as you come into the park!
11- Bridge entrance to Pacific Wharf
This is another great spot thats well lit at night- great for a photo both day and night!
12-In front of the Bear at Grizzly River Run
Pretty self exploratory- great shot to take in front of a huge wooden bear statue! A great way to get a "before" shot before getting on Grizzly River Run.
13-In front of Ariel's Undersea Adventure
The building for this ride is gorgeous! You can get a good photo under the giant dome or in front of the beautiful glass windows on the side.
14- The exit of the Art of Animation building
this is a cute little photo op because the wall reads "... and they all lived happily ever after" a very sweet and very Disney sentiment.
15- Inside the main room of the Art of Animation building
This room is breathtaking, showing a panoramic of images and video from different classic Disney films, accompanied by a song from the film. It changes about every minute or two and besides photos its the perfect place to relax and take a break.
1- In front of Carthay Circle Restaurant
a short walk down Buena Vista St. when you first enter Disneyland will find you at the Carthay Circle Restaurant. This is a great piece of Disney history as its design and name are based on the movie theatre where Snow White was first shown, the true start of Disney films.
2- Walt and Mickey Statue on Buena Vista St.
I love this statue, where Walt looks like he's just arrived in Cali, Mickey and his suitcase in tow and his coat over his shoulder.
3- In front of the Hyperion
The Hyperion is a huge theatre where they used to perform the Aladdin show for many years. It is now home to a Frozen stage show, which I haven't had the opportunity to see for myself. We won't get into the debate about the show changing, as I know there are people that both love and hate Frozen now making its way into so many places in the parks.
4- At the end of Buena Vista St.
Here, right next to the Hyperion, you will find an illusion painting that makes it look as if the street continues for a long distance, making it a good photo op!
5- On Route 66 in Cars Land
If you can, take this photo at night! The bright neon of this street at night is incredible- it feels like you have stepped right into the Cars movie.
6- The walkway next to Radiator Springs Racers
they did an awesome job recreating the landscape of this ride and there are plenty of awesome photo spots along this walking path.
7- Cove Bar at Paradise Pier
If you're wanting the best view of Paradise Pier in your backdrop, snag yourself a seat at the Cove Bar. Not to mention, they have some of the best food and drink this side of the park. (did somebody say cocktails?!)
8- World of Color Viewing area
This area will get you a great photo of Mickey's fun wheel during the day! Not to mention there isn't a lot of foot traffic on these boardwalks, ensuring you can get an uninterrupted photo.
9- Entrance to Paradise Pier
At the start of the boardwalk there's a great photo op- as there is a sign for Paradise Pier! At night, its even lit nicely, making it a good photo spot both day and night.
10- Under the replica San Fran bridge
this one's hard to miss- as you will see it right as you come into the park!
11- Bridge entrance to Pacific Wharf
This is another great spot thats well lit at night- great for a photo both day and night!
12-In front of the Bear at Grizzly River Run
Pretty self exploratory- great shot to take in front of a huge wooden bear statue! A great way to get a "before" shot before getting on Grizzly River Run.
13-In front of Ariel's Undersea Adventure
The building for this ride is gorgeous! You can get a good photo under the giant dome or in front of the beautiful glass windows on the side.
14- The exit of the Art of Animation building
this is a cute little photo op because the wall reads "... and they all lived happily ever after" a very sweet and very Disney sentiment.
15- Inside the main room of the Art of Animation building
This room is breathtaking, showing a panoramic of images and video from different classic Disney films, accompanied by a song from the film. It changes about every minute or two and besides photos its the perfect place to relax and take a break.
Wednesday, September 7, 2016
Photos you need to take in Disneyland
Hey all! I'm back with some more info on Disneyland, and today I'm covering good spots to get your photo taken in the park. We will cover some of the biggest ones as well as some lesser known areas.
1- the classic, in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle
The only problem is, it can be hard to get this photo depending on the time of day. There's always a lot of people crowded around here trying to get this opportunity. For a fresh take, try taking the photo closer to the bridge and from a lower angle, or even go back into the garden where the Walt and Mickey statue is- it will be less crowded here and you may even get more of the castle in your shot!
2-On Main ST, USA
Try getting this photo at either the busiest or least busy time of day! Other people won't ruin the shot, it will just show how this truly is the happiest place on earth. Get yourself in the middle of main st to pose.
3- The fire hall on Main ST
When you first enter the park and go through the tunnel, you will be at the tail end of main st in a plaza. On the west side you will see the fire hall- the location of Walt's private apartment! He used to turn the light on in the top window so that workers of the park would know when he was visiting. This is an excellent opportunity to take a photo- since Walt's passing, they always leave he light on in his apartment- symbolizing that he is with the park in spirit.
4- the flowers at the entrance to Disneyland
This is another classic- here you will see the flowers have been grown into a design, which is usually the shape of Mickey's head! Its a great photo opportunity, but I recommend doing this later in the day so you aren't trying to wait in line or beat a crowd of people to the punch. This is actually also a great place to find a couple of characters to take photos with- Mostly Disney Princesses. This is the place I actually found Ariel and had one of the best interactions with her.
5- Finding Nemo lagoon
This lagoon is so pretty- and if you love Finding Nemo, you can get a shot of yourself with the seagulls from the movie. You will also have plenty of time to take this photo if you're waiting in line- this ride can have long wait times during the day!
6- Entrance to Tomorrowland
Here at the entrance to Tomorrowland, there is a rather large ride called the Astro Orbiter, which is complete with a sign for Tomorrowland!
7-The Sword in the Stone- in front of King Arthur's Carousel
A few times a day, there is an event involving the sword in the stone- otherwise, its a great place to take a photo, and try your hand at removing the sword! You can also get a shot of the carousel in the background.
8-At any of the Disneyland Railroad stations
You usually have to wait for the train anyway- so take some time to stop and pose in front of the station!
9- Toontown Entrance
Since the entrance to Toontown is under a tunnel, this is a great spot to get some photos taken . Above the tunnel there is a sign for Toontown as well as a population counter that's a little wacky!
10- Mickey and Minnie's homes
If you're having trouble getting a photo with Mickey or Minnie, go through the tour of their homes in Toontown and if you're lucky Mickey or Minnie will be waiting at the end to take a photo with you! The line can sometimes be long, which also leaves you plenty of chances to take photos inside their homes.
11- Around the gag shop
Toontown is full of silly photo opportunities, such as bending jail bars, weights stuck in the ground, and gas pumps that are actually fish tanks! Take a minute to wander around here and take a silly photo or two- it's never to busy to get a few in.
12- Eating a Dole Whip
a Dole Whip is without a doubt a quintessential element of any Disney trip. Dole Wips + Tiki Room= Happiest day ever! You can get a Dole Whip while waiting for the Tiki Room- this area is full of Tiki statues and will make for a great photo.
13- The Rivers of America in New Orleans Square
The front paths closest to Rivers of America usually aren't too crowded- and if you catch this right you can also get the Mark Twain Riverboat or the Pirate ship in the background!
14- The stairs in New Orleans Square
Tucked away in the shops of New Orleans Square, there is a set of stairs! You can't ascend them all the way, but you can get a nice photo here as well as a break from some of the crowds. The odd time you may also find Tiana here.
15- Club 33
Club 33 is more well known than it used to be. If you don't know what Club 33 is, its an exclusive restaurant inside Disneyland, where only members of Club 33 can eat. Members include mostly the wealthy or families that have had a membership for a long long time- the waiting list is quite long to get in the club and the club fees per year are quite hefty. Regardless, you can find the entrance to Club 33 hiding in plain sight next to the Blue Bayou Restaurant.
These are some of the best photo spots in Disneyland- be sure to look out for my guide for California Adventure as well as a future guide to finding Characters for photos.
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