BlakeOnline.com: Blake’s Picks – The Best of Walt Disney World, #20-11

By Blake

Originally posted October 19, 2011 as part of 40 Days at 40.

We've been celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Walt Disney World Resort with a 40-day party filled with fun looks into what makes WDW such a magical place. Today we continue with a countdown of my favorite WDW attractions today with #20-11, after starting with #40-31 and #30-21. Of course, this is just my own personal list and I realize it by no means is definitive or absolute. What's your favorite Disney experience? Do your must-do's match up with my list?

20. The Monorail

There’s just something cool about riding the monorail. It’s such a “Disney” mode of transportation that you can’t help but smile while onboard. The distinctive narration voice and, of course, “Please stand clear of the doors” are just a few of the audio hallmarks of a ride on the monorail.

Video by usji.

19. Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

One of Walt Disney World’s best stage productions, this show is pure Disney magic. The brilliant music from the film (written by Alan Menken and Howard Ashman) are what make this such a worthwhile attraction. “Belle” and “Be Our Guest” in particular are real showstoppers.

Image belongs to Blake's family.

18. Turtle Talk with Crush
Epcot

It’s not thrilling. It’s not extravagant. It includes no pyrotechnics. But Turtle Talk with Crush has its own brand of Disney magic that is truly enthralling. The wonder here comes in the form of simplicity. Seeing children light up as they talk one-on-one with Crush is great, and one of the highlights of a visit to Epcot.

Image copyright Disney/Pixar.

17. The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Disney’s Hollywood Studios

This is the ultimate thrill ride. It’s spooky, but not too scary. It’s exciting, but not too gut-wrenching. And tying everything together is an intricate story told through exquisite details. The abandoned hotel lobby queue is some of the Imagineers’ finest work. The building really does look as if it hasn’t been touched for seventy years. Besides, going up and down quickly over and over is just plain fun no matter how you slice it.

"Please...do enjoy your stay..." Image copyright Disney.

16. Polynesian Resort Ambience

In a word, Disney’s Polynesian Resort is relaxing. Even if you’re not staying here, it’s worth a visit, if for nothing else but to spend a few minutes lounging on the beach looking over Seven Seas Lagoon with Cinderella Castle visible in the distance. While you’re at it, soak in the ambience of the area, including the volcano pool, flatbread pizzas (or Dole Whips!) at Captain Cook’s, or a character breakfast at the excellent ‘Ohana (with, of course, Lilo and Stitch…and pineapple bread and guava juice!).

Video by PopSong1.

15. The Haunted Mansion
Magic Kingdom

One of the most elaborate Audio-Animatronics attractions ever created, the Haunted Mansion is an undisputed classic. The ghosts, the special effects, the script, the stretching room, the new interactive queue…what’s not to like? Just beware of hitchhiking ghosts.

Can you spot the hidden Mickey? Gotta look closely! Image copyright Disney.

14. Pirates of the Caribbean
Magic Kingdom

Here’s another Audio-Animatronics classic, and one of the extravagant individual rides on Disney property. From the mood set by the Caribbean atmosphere outside the attraction and the dark, cavernous, piratey queue line to the actual ride itself (with scenes ranging from ocean battles to village chases), Pirates of the Caribbean has everything. Yo ho!

Image copyright Disney.

13. Citizens of Hollywood
Disney's Hollywood Studios

This group of performers is without a doubt the most underappreciated experience in all of Walt Disney World. I can’t tell you how many times I zoomed through Hollywood Studios on my way to headliner attractions and completely passed by this troupe of improv 1940’s Hollywood citizens. I actually grew to appreciate them via YouTube, and was instantly hooked. The citizens portrayed range from directors and agents to starlets and wannabes. Now taking the time to catch the Citizens of Hollywood in action is a must-do on each visit to Hollywood Studios.

Video by queenofthehouse0.

12. Chef Mickey’s
Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Here’s the best character meal on Disney property. The cream of the crop of Disney characters (the fab five: Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Donald, and Pluto…complete with their entertaining personalities) + great food (especially breakfast, which includes delicious cinnamon bread and breakfast pizza) + immersive atmosphere (with the monorail passing through the lobby and some tables having a view of the Magic Kingdom) = an ultimate Disney experience. Try to make your reservation for a late morning seating, when less Guests will be dining and the characters will be able to spend more time at your table.

Image copyright Disney.

11. Wishes
Magic Kingdom

Wishes is the signature nighttime spectacular of the Magic Kingdom. Think of it as a magical bedtime story that only Disney can tell. The fireworks show celebrates dreams of all shapes and sizes, as told through hallmark Disney characters, stories, and music. Tinker Bell’s flight from Cinderella Castle and the amazing finale are among the highlights of Wishes. The best spot? Somewhere in between Main Street, U.S.A. and the Hub – close enough to the Castle to clearly see Tinker Bell and the Castle projections, but far enough away from the Castle to fully experience the wrap-around fireworks. Just be prepared to be packed like sardines once the show concludes, whether you plan on leaving the park or not. It’s a madhouse in the Hub for about ten minutes once the show ends! To prevent this, consider watching the show from the Tomorrowland or Liberty Square bridge.