Author: Elle MacRae

Categories
Disney Florida Orlando United States

How to Meet Characters at Disney

disney land, castle, night

Meeting Disney characters is one of the highlights of a child’s trip to Disney World. In fact, as soon as you tell your kiddo about your trip they’ll probably start dreaming of all of the characters they’ll get to meet.

It takes a bit of calculating to meet characters at Disney these days. I started visiting Disney when I was a kid and I remember queueing up to meet Mickey, Pooh, the Disney Princesses, and other characters. Things have changed since then, you have to be a bit more methodical. In this post, we’ll outline for you how to meet characters at Disney World.

Our Family at Disney World

How to Meet Characters at Disney

The Basics

Chances are, you won’t see a ton of characters wandering around the park. If you do, it not likely that they’ll stop for photos, autographs, or a chat. Instead, the characters at Disney World host meet and greets in fixed locations periodically throughout the day. The locations, and their times, are posted and can be found via the Disney World app.

The Big Wigs

The most popular characters require you lining up and waiting your turn for a meet and greet. You can actually use a FastPass to bypass the line for some of these characters. In fact, we strongly recommend using one of your FastPasses each day on a character meet and greet!

Disney World Meet & Greet Locations with a FastPass

Magic Kingdom
  • Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theater
  • Cinderella and Elena at Princess Fairytale Hall
  • Rapunzel and Tiana at Princess Fairytale Hall
  • Ariel at Ariel’s Grotto
  • Tinker Bell at Town Square Theater
Animal Kingdom

The Adventurers Outpost has two greeting rooms that have two identical sets of characters so the lines move quickly. We had our very best character experience here! Mickey and Minnie took their time with the kids, they didn’t seem to be in any rush and they were so welcoming and playful.

Most of the year, this is the only place to meet Mickey and Minnie together at Animal Kingdom!

Character Meals

Character dining is a huge deal at Disney. During a character meet you get to chow down on some tasty (and pricey) food while the characters circulate the room making pitstops at each of the tales.

We got to ride the Prince Charming Regal Carrousel with Cinderella’s sister, Anastasia!

Pop Up Greetings

At each park, there are greetings that are a bit more sporadic. They’re typically only listed in the app or times guide. The greets can be as quick as 15 minutes or last for half-hour or more. This is where we’ve met characters like Mary Poppins, Cinderella’s step-sisters, Buzz Lightyear, Goofy, Donald, Chip, and Dale.

Where to Find Information About Meeting Characters

Park Map & Times Guide

Most people’s instinct will probably be to check the park map and times guide for meet and greets. Honestly, this is probably the worst place to start. While, yes, the map does have some character greeting locations listed for the fixed character greetings, it doesn’t give you many details regarding times.

The times guide actually lists out what times certain characters hold their meet and greets. However, it doesn’t include every character. But you do you know what does? The My Disney Experience app.

My Disney Experience App

The app is the holy grail to finding out all of the details on meeting characters in the park. The app is available for iPhones and Androids and is essential to planning out your trip. You can use the app to view the park map, check wait times for lines, book FastPasses, order meals, look at photos, and check out information for character meet and greets.

Character Meals

If you visit the Disney World dining website, you can filter for restaurants offering character meals relatively easily. Just click “Dining Experience” and select “Character Dining.” Be sure to read the descriptions carefully, some restaurants only have characters available during certain meals or time periods.

Dining reservations can be made up to 180 days in advance. Trust me, you’ll want to book these way ahead of time because they fill up quickly.

When to Meet Characters

Some characters are only available during extremely short windows of time. If that’s the case, and you’re absolutely dying to meet them, you’ll have to plan accordingly. Otherwise, you have a bit of flexibility.

We recommend meeting characters between noon and 6 PM. Why? This is the busiest time of the day at the park. The wait lines get really ridiculously long and you can use this time do other things like eat, meet characters, and catch a show.

Arrive Early. Plan on arriving at least 5 to 10 minutes before the character. Many guests aren’t as savvy as you and might not know when and where the characters will be. As soon as they spot them they’ll haul ass to try and meet them.

Mickey and Minnie Plant Sculptures

Tips for Your Meet and Greet

You’ll want to have these things handy when you meet the characters: a camera, an autograph book, and a large pen. The larger pens make it easier for gloved characters (like Mickey and Minnie) to hold. Not all characters can sign autographs, but it is great to have the pens on hand, just in case.

A professional photographer will be on hand to capture your meet and greet. You’ll be able to view and order these photos via the app.

If there isn’t a photographer, the character’s handler will be able to take a photo using your phone or camera.

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Updated 2/20/21

Categories
Aruba Caribbean Cruise Travel Packing South America

The Perfect Aruba Packing List

So you’re heading to Aruba, eh? That’s awesome! I’d love to help you with your Aruba packing list. Aruba is an awesome country that is totally different than the rest of the Caribbean. Did you know that much of Aruba is covered in a desert? There are tons of things to do here ranging from the Aruba Ostrich Farm, the Natural Bridge, the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins, and the Ayo Rock Formations. Oh, and of course there’s also the beach.

View from the Bushiribana Ruins

Let’s Talk About the Weather

The weather in Aruba is tropical, but not extremely hot. The weather here is pretty much a constant 82° F (28° C). However, Aruba is located just over 860 miles north of the equator so the sun is hot and you can easily get sunburned. Be particularly careful of the mid-day sun! Luckily, trade winds cool the island down making the hot sun much more bearable.

Since Aruba is so far south, it is rarely impacted by hurricanes. However, tropical systems tend for form close by and do have effects on ABC islands (Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao).

The rainy season ranges from October to January. The rainfall averages about eighteen inches a year.

Natural Bridge

The Nitty Gritty

Since Aruba is a tourist destination, there are plenty of places to shop and pick up essentials that you may have left at home. Keep in mind you may not be able to find the same brands in Aruba and you should plan on spending a bit more.

To make sure nothing important gets left behind, I’ll be breaking down the ultimate Aruba vacation packing list. I hope this packing list and these travel tips will help you have a great time on your vacation!

Aruba Packing List Essentials

When you’re getting ready for Aruba, there are some things that you absolutely must have with you. All of these items should be in your suitcase, purse, and/or carry-on.

Passport

You absolutely must have your passport to travel to Aruba. Most tourists will not require a visa to visit One Happy Island.

Driver’s License

If you are a terrestrial traveler (aka not arriving by cruise ship), then it is strongly recommended that you rent a car during your stay. You’ll need a US or International Driver’s License to rent a car.

The island is very small, and it’s hard to get lost. The locals will tell you, “If you don’t know where you’re heading to, just keep driving, and eventually you’ll end up there.”

Gas stations work a bit differently in Aruba. Most gas stations will offer an attendant that will pump the gas for you.

Portable and Plug-in Chargers

Obviously, you’re going to be taking a ton of pictures on your trip. You most definitely are going to want to pack a portable power bank for your phone. While you’re thinking about chargers you better grab all of the chargers for your electronics: phone charger, laptop charger, tablet charger, smartwatch charger, and maybe even an electric toothbrush charger!

The Anker PowerPort Cube Power Strip has 3 outlets, 3 USB ports and includes a 5-foot extension cord.

I use the Anker PowerCore 10000 Portable Charger.

Aruba uses 110 volts, 60 cycle electricity, same as the US. Plugs are typically the 2 pronged flat types so US travelers will not typically need a converter or adapter. Outlets rarely have 3 holes so if your device has a third prong, bring an adapter.

Camera & SD Card

Sure, you could just bring your phone along for photos but you’ll probably want to bring a legit camera along as well. I suggest a Nikon D5600 for high-quality photos. While you’re grabbing your camera, don’t forget our SD card! I travel with a 64 GB memory SD card. If you’re feeling wild, you can go for a 128 GB SD memory card.

If you’re planning on spending time at the beach or pool, you’ll probably want to have an underwater camera, as well. Those of you who will be using a phone as a camera, make sure you get a waterproof phone case. I take one of these with me on all of my trips to Central America and the Caribbean.

Cash $

It’s always a good idea to have some cash on hand. I would be careful about carrying around large amounts of money. I would suggest only having $100 (broken into small bills) on your person. You do not have to exchange your money for Aruban florin; Merchants will gladly accept USD.

Credit Cards

Good news, you can use your debit card in Aruba! You can also use your debit card to withdraw cash from ATM’s. Larger hotels, restaurants, and shops will typically be able to accept Visa and MasterCard. I use a travel wallet to keep my passport, cards, and money safe in one place.

Travel Umbrella

Remember, Aruba doesn’t get a ton of rain (only averaging 18 inches annually). However, if you are visiting during the rainy season of October through January you’ll want to pack an umbrella. The good news is the storms tend to be very brief, so don’t cancel your plans just because there’s a little rain in the forecast. I pack an EEZ-Y Windproof Travel Umbrella.

Sun Care

I said it before but I’ll say it again, the sun in Aruba is BRUTAL. Since Aruba is situated so closely the the equator the rays are stronger than most of us are used to. It is especially worse at mid-day. You will most definitely want to apply sunscreen throughout the day.

Even as a Florida girl, I managed to get burned on my trip to Aruba. Trust me, there’s nothing worse than getting sunburned on a vacation. Plan on using a strong sunscreen to protect your skin. If you are hitting the reef, you’ll want to pack coral reef-safe sunscreen. While you’re at it toss some Chapstick with SPF into your bag. You may also want to consider a hat and a sun shirt, as well. I always pack a bit of aloe with me on vacation- just in case. Better safe than sorry, right?

Medications

You should always pack your necessary prescription medications in your carry-on bag. Make sure they are in their original containers.

What to Wear on the Plane to Aruba

Although you’ll be traveling to a tropical destination, you may want to dress a little more warmly on your flight. Since airplanes are typically cool, you’ll want to dress in layers. Consider wearing a tank top with a light sweater, a light hoodie, or a long sleeve shirt. I also usually don’t wear shorts on a plane because my legs tend to get cold.

Make sure you wear shoes that are easy to slide on and off and consider leaving your belt in your suitcase. If you plan on packing a large floppy sun hat, you may want to bring it on the plane so that it doesn’t get squished in your suitcase.

FUN FACT:

These adorable little cocktail sets are perfect for a drink on the go. Believe it or not, they are TSA compliant! They are great for travel days but also would be great for an impromptu picnic!

Aruba Ostrich Farm

What to Wear During the Day

Keep in mind that the average temperature in Aruba is 82 degrees. It’s also situated really close to the equator so it will feel much hotter. Consider packing clothing that will be comfortable in this climate.

You’ll also want to consider what activities you’ll be doing on your trip. If you’re spending most of your time on the coast you’ll want to focus on coverups, bathing suits, and sandals. If you’re planning on going off-roading (which we totally recommend) or climbing at the Ayo Rock formations, you’ll want to pack activewear. I usually wear breathable yoga pants, a t-shirt, comfortable tennis shoes, sunglasses, and a hat when I’m doing more strenuous activities.

Misc. Electronics

Kindle

If you don’t want to lug a guide book around, you may want to invest in a Kindle. These are a great alternative to packing physical books. They take up way less space! The Kindle Paperwhite is waterproof making it a great option for travel.

AirPods

These headphones are MADE for travel. They are compact, lightweight, and recharge themselves when they are in the case. AirPods are great to have on the plane, train, or when relaxing by the pool or on the beach!

I hope you found this Aruba packing list helpful. Enjoy your stay on “One Happy Island!”

Other Items for Your Aruba Packing List

Scanned Copies of Important Items

It is always smart to carry a scanned copy of the information page of your passport. That way, if you misplace them it’s easier for you to get a replacement. Make sure you pack it in a different place than you keep your physical passport. You can also take a photo of it and store it on your phone.

Packing Cubes

Guys! Packing cubes are LIFE! They are the perfect way to keep your suitcase neat and organized. They have been a total game changer for me!

First Aid Kit

Raise your hand if you’re a klutz like me! Anybody? If you’re anything like me then you totally need to pack a first aid kit. I take one with me when I travel.

Guide Books

If you are a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you may want to pack along a guide book. I’m a Lonely Planet fan.

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Categories
Florida St. Augustine United States

St. Augustine Pirate Museum- An Honest Review

St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum is a must-see if you’re traveling with children. Located in the heart of historic downtown St. Augustine is an amazing museum dedicated to the scoundrels who once ransacked Florida’s Historic Coast. The St. Augustine Pirate Museum houses the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate relics including the original jolly roger, treasure, and even movie props from famous pirate movies.

Local Pirate History

In 1586, pirate Sir Francis Drake and his fleet of 23 ships and more than 2,000 crew sailed up the Florida coast after raiding Cartagena, Colombia. The raiders spotted a burning light coming from a Spanish watchtower marking the entrance to the St. Augustine harbor. Out-gunned, out-manned, out-numbered, and out-planned, the Spanish defenders and townspeople retreated into the nearby woods, swamps, and marshes. Sir Francis Drake took everything of value and burned the entire town to the ground.

Fast Forward just over 100 years, when the Jamaican pirate Robert Searles captured a Spanish ship and sailed it until the harbor. Searles and his men pillaged the town murdering anyone that crossed their paths. Among the dead were several women and children.

St. Augustine Pirate Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum houses the world’s largest collection of authentic pirate relics. Visitors are transported into the Golden Age of Piracy 300 years ago in Port Royal, Jamaica. The museum has interactive components such as computers, touch screens, and a replica of a pirate ship.

One of our favorite parts of the St. Augustine Pirate Museum was the Discovery Drawers. Throughout the museum, there are drawers marked with a skull and crossbones. Inside each of the drawers is a small piece of pirate history. The kids enjoyed scouring the room for the hidden treasure.

Just off the Main Deck (a replica of a pirate ship), kids can play with models of cannons. The boys enjoyed pretending to load the cannons and firing them. On the opposite side of the Main Deck is an Interactive World Map of Piracy. Smiley really enjoyed this room and the Interactive Book of Pirates.

Another slightly scarier feature is “Below Deck.” Here, visitors enter a small room, close the doors, and put on a pair of headphones. The lights dim and you hear the story of Blackbeard’s last battle. Disney’s Blackbeard Show is a must if you’re visiting the museum with older kids. It is a bit scary for the little ones.

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum also features props from famous Hollywood pirates.

Our Thoughts on the St. Augustine Pirate Museum

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum is really cool- especially if you’re traveling with children who are interested in pirates. Hell, the museum is cool even if you aren’t traveling with kids. They have done a great job collecting pirate treasure, relics, and pieces of pirate history. There is quite a bit of reading that needs to be done if you really want to absorb everything there is to see.

Our kids loved all of the interactive components. They got a kick out of the touch screen computers and maps.

The St. Augustine Pirate Museum, as a whole, is great. I mean, how can it not be with it boasting the largest collection of pirate swag in the world? I mean, they even have the oldest Jolly Roger and only surviving pirates chest! I will say that our kids were a bit young to truly enjoy the museum. Don’t get me wrong, they loved the St. Augustine Pirate Museum- I just think they would have appreciated it a bit more if they were older.

Other Pirate Events in St. Augustine

St. Augustine is famous for honoring its history and hosting reenactments. Each March there is a reenactment of the Searles raid. You can also check out a reenactment of Drake’s pillage in June.

Plan Your Visit

Hours of Operation: 10am to 7pm

Phone: (877) Go-PLUNDER (877.467.5863)

Address: 12 S. Castillo Drive, St. Augustine, FL 32084

The St. Augustine Pirate & Treasure Museum is located across the street from Castillo de San Marcos. There is a pay-by-plate parking lot that allows for easy access to the museum.

What Else Is There To Do in the Area?

The museum is located in the heart of the historic district of downtown St. Augustine. There are a ton of things to do in the area.

  • Castillo de San Marcos– The Castillo de San Marcos is the oldest masonry fort in the continental United States.
  • Oldest Wooden Schoolhouse- Historic cedar-and-cypress building offering a glimpse of school life in Spanish Colonial times.
  • St. George Street– A pedestrian-only thoroughfare, St. George Street is the epicenter of downtown St. Augustine. The historic street is lined with shops and some of the best restaurants in the area.
  • Flagler College– Flagler College, housed in what was once one of Henry Flagler’s most opulent Gilded-Age hotels in St. Augustine, is a private four-year college. It’s also my alma mater! I strongly suggest taking a tour! There’s nothing quite like it.
  • Ripley’s Believe It or Not!- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! deals in bizarre events and items so strange and unusual that readers might question the claims. 

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

 

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Updated: 4/13/21

Categories
Aruba Caribbean Cruise Travel South America

Is a Visit to the Aruba Natural Bridge Worth the Trip?

The Aruba Natural Bridge is one of the most popular tourist attractions on the island. Each year 2 million tourists flock to One Happy Island. During their stays, they migrate to attractions such as Aruba Ostrich Farm, Seven Mile Beach, Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins, Ayo Rock Formations, and the California Lighthouse.

But, as we all know, not all attractions are created equally.

Aruba is an anomaly. When I first started looking into visiting Aruba, I pictured it to be just like all of the other Caribbean islands. Although it does have beautiful beaches, the island is completely different than any other Caribbean island I’ve been to. I was expecting lush green hillsides however, much of the island is actually a desert.

The Small Natural Bridge Near the OLD Natural Bridge

What is the Aruba Natural Bridge?

The Aruba Natural Bridge formed on the eastside of the island. The natural bridge was made from coral and limestone. It spanned approximately 100 feet long and 25 feet high making it one of the largest spans in the world! This natural wonder was the remnants of an ancient cave.

Have you caught on to the fact that I’ve been writing in the past tense? That’s because the natural arch collapsed on September 2, 2005.

The Aruba Natural Bridge, Today

Despite the collapse, tours still visit the site today. Next to the collapsed bridge, there is a second, smaller bridge. While the views here are impeccable, the bridge itself is kind of meh.

I mean…a natural bridge is just limestone and coral that’s been battered and beaten by waves until the point an arch is formed. I suppose if you’re really into geology it’s pretty awesome but if you’re just a normal person, like myself, it’s just a rock with a hole in it.

Waves Crashing at the Natural Bridge

I will say, that we weren’t disappointed with our visit to the natural bridge. While it’s no longer a wonder of nature, the area itself is still drop-dead gorgeous. We took a moment to pause, sit, and just enjoy what mother nature has to offer.

We try to keep things light and positive on 5 Suitcases but honestly, a trip to the bridge isn’t really worth it if you’re crunched for time. But, if you’re in the area visiting the Ayo Rock Formations or the Gold Mill Ruins, you might as well make a pit stop.

Another Natural Bridge

Don’t fret! There’s another natural bridge! Wariruri Beach is home to a smaller, yet still super rad natural bridge. It’s easy to climb for picture sake. Wariruri Beach is located near the Bushiribana Gold Mill Ruins.

Local tour guides lead Jeep and ATV tours to the natural bridge which makes it busy, at times. Tours are typically on a strict schedule so the crowd most likely won’t last long.

Should I Visit Aruba?

If you ever get the chance to visit Aruba, take it. Don’t hesitate, just go! There is so much to do on the island, you could keep yourself busy for a week! Many of the island’s visitors arrive by cruise ship and have only a day. There is still plenty for you to see and do in just a few hours that will give you an excellent introduction to the island. If you are cruising, be sure to check out our recommendations for what to do with one day in Aruba. Our suggestions will make sure you see all of the best “One Happy Island” has to offer!

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Categories
Disney Florida Orlando United States

Disney Springs Has 20+ Totally Awesome Kid-Friendly Things to Do

Disney Springs is essentially an outdoor mall and entertainment complex following many of the Town Center models found in most cities. It features countless Disney themed stores, as well as other shops and restaurants centered around Lake Buena Vista. There’s also a splash pad, train ride, hot air balloon ride, movie theatre, bowling alley, and a ton of other really cool things!

The Layout

  • The West Side– Tons of restaurants, AMC Movie Theatre, and Splitsville Bowling Alley
  • Town Center– Over 30 shops plus more dining options
  • The Landing- More restaurants and shopping
  • Marketplace- Shops, restaurants, splash pad, train, carousel. and more kid-friendly stuff.

Kid-Friendly Things to do at Disney Springs

Build LEGO

Outside of the LEGO store, there are large bins of LEGO where kids can build whatever their heart desires. There are even racetracks where they can race their LEGO vehicles. This is a free activity however, there are tons of AMAZING LEGO kits available for purchase inside.

Take Photos with “Characters” and Lego Figurines

There are some unbelievable LEGO sculptures on the property. Grab your camera, pick your favorite filter, and Instagram away! There are also some pretty alright Disney Statues, as well. Sure, they aren’t real characters, but kids still love taking photos with them.

Splash Pad

There is a free splash pad located in the Marketplace section of Disney Springs. It’s nestled near the Earl of Sandwich and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.  Be sure to pack your kids suits!  This is the perfect way to cool down and break up the day at Disney Springs!

Carousel

Isn’t it crazy how much kids love carousels? I mean, it’s truly one of those things that has stood the test of time. For just $3 a pop our kiddo can hop on the Venetian carousel and go for a bit of a whirl.

Train Ride

Choo choo! All aboard! Located in the Marketplace area of Disney Springs there is a small train perfect for little kids. Don’t worry grown ups, you can ride too! Rides are just $3. The train departs from just outside of the Star Wars Trading Post.

Face Painting

There is a popular face painting kiosk in the Marketplace. You can select from a menu of options or have a custom design painted. If you can dream it, they can do it.

Aerophile- Hot Air Balloon Ride

If your family is feeling a bit more brave, you can check out the Aerophile. This hot air balloon is the largest tethered helium balloon. The balloon will soar up to 400 feet giving you amazing views of Lake Buena Vista and the surrounding area. The cost is $15/child and $20/adult. The ride is located in the West Side of Disney Springs near Splitsville.

Catch a Movie

Okay, so maybe soaring in the air isn’t your thing. If you want to try something a bit more low-key (and air-conditioned!!), check out the AMC Dine-In Movie Theatre. You read that right, Dine-In! You can feast on delicious food while you catch a film- and escape the heat.

Food options include nachos, wings, sushi, loaded brisket fries, salads, wraps, burgers, sandwiches, tacos, churros, ice cream sundaes, and more.

Splitsville Bowling Alley

Dude, this place is MASSIVE! It offers 50,000 square feet of bowling, pool tables, live entertainment, food, and air conditioning. They serve pizza, burgers, sushi, and appetizers. They also serve beer, wine, and specialty drinks.

NBA Experience

Alright sports fans, this one is for you! Get in the game at this basketball themed venue. There are 13 interactive activities including dribbling and skills courts, the Replay Center, and arcade style games.

 

Inside Rainforest Cafe

Rainforest Cafe

Your kids will love the fun rainforest and jungle theme at the Rainforest Cafe. Just wait until you see their reaction when the rainforest comes alive for a thunderstorm! The restaurant serves American cuisine such as shrimp tacos, steak, ribs, burgers, pulled pork sandwiches, turkey wrap, and more. Reservations are recommended.  

T-Rex Restaurant

The restaurants pretty much explain themselves at Disney Springs…don’t they? So, obviously, this is a dinosaur themed restaurant. Your kids will freak out over the prehistoric atmosphere. There is also a giant sandpit with bones for them to excavate. If they are lucky, they may even find jewels! Menu items include nachos, flatbread, pasta, shrimp, salmon, meatloaf, ribs, chicken, steak, and burgers. Reservations are recommended.

Planet Hollywood

Disney Springs is also home to the infamous Planet Hollywood! If you’re a fan of the Food Network, make sure you pop in to try one of Guy Fieri’s burgers. Trust me, they are legit!

Build a Dino

Speaking of dinosaurs, there is a Build a Dino shop where kids can create their own dinosaur (like Build A Bear only…more ferocious).

Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

If your little one isn’t the dirt under their fingers, dino-loving type, perhaps the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is more up their alley. Kids 3-12 are welcome to visit this fancy schmancy salon to get made over into princesses or knights. Reservations are strongly recommended. You can reserve your time slot up to 180 days before your visit.

Shopping

Okay….so normally kids don’t love shopping, but this is shopping Walt style. They will be amazed at all of the super cool Disney, Marvel, and Star Wars toys!

Here are some that your kiddo’s will probably love:

  • Word of Disney (the largest Disney character store on the globe…and probably the universe)
  • Marvel Super Hero Headquarters
  • Disney Style
  • Once Upon a Toy
  • The LEGO Store
  • Star Wars Trading Post
  • Star Wars Galactic Outpost

World of Disney

Yes…this is a store, but it’s not just any store. It’s a store that stands above all of the rest. The World of Disney is the largest Disney character store in the world! If you only go into one store while you’re in Disney Springs, it should be this one! It’s remarkable. It’s the perfect place to shop for Disney souvenirs, Mickey Ears, stuffed animals, clothes, toys, and even kitchen decor!

The Candy Cauldron

This show kitchen lets visitors catch a glimpse of how Disney’s iconic candy creations are made. Of course, you can pick up some goodies, as well.  The candy apples are iconic and to die for! Other classic confections include chocolate covered strawberries, marshmallow wands, Rice Krispie Treats, cupcakes, and pre-packaged treats.

 

Mickey Mouse Rice Krispie Treats anyone?

Goofy’s Candy Shop

This place is heaven. Not only do they serve candy but they also serve Rice Krispie Treats, cake pops, cupcakes,  candy apples, flavored popcorn,  fudge, and other sweet treats and baked goods.

Sprinkles Bakery

This cupcake shop features made from scratch cupcakes. The flavor combinations are out of this world! Some favorites include, red velvet,  sprinkle, black and white, salty caramel, and triple cinnamon.  There is even a cupcake ATM! You can also get ice cream, cookies, and coffee drinks here.

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Updated: 11/14/21

Categories
Caribbean Cayman Islands Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Grand Cayman

Taking a Trip to Hell, Grand Cayman

The town of Hell, Grand Cayman is one of the most popular pit stops on the island. Let me tell you, these people have mastered the art of creating a tourist attraction. They have taken the theme of Hell to the extreme!

Hell is a group of short, black limestone formations. Although visitors can’t walk on the rock formations, there are viewing platforms that allow you to get a closer look. So….basically people congregate to stare at a bunch of rocks.

Where is Hell, Grand Cayman?

The town is located in the West Bay neighborhood of Grand Cayman. It is about a 10-minute drive north of the famous Seven Mile Beach. It’s not far from the controversial Cayman Turtle Centre.

Map courtesy of Google

Why is This Area Called Hell?

When you ask the locals why this area is called Hell, you’ll get one of two answers. The first story states that a Brit was visited the area with some friends on a birding expedition. He raised his firearm and took aim at a bird. When he shot at the bird, he missed and muttered, “Oh, Hell!”. According to this legend, the area became known as Hell from this day on.

However, at the site of Hell, there’s a sign posted that tells another story.

The “Club Inferno,” opened in 1964, is the original and main gateway to this unusual site known as “Hell.” Located in this area is the largest and most visible portion of “Hell” which is ironically owned by a family named “McDoom.” This bizarre rock formation is said to be millions of years old. In spite of its volcanic appearance, they are actually natural rocks eaten away by algae and ravaged by the elements. The name Hell is said to have evolved a long time ago when an early British commissioner was touring the island. It is alleged that he arrived at this site, took one look, and exclaimed, “My God, this must be what Hell looks like!” The site then forever became known as Hell.

Regardless of how the area got its name, the name has stuck and the locals have taken the idea and ran with it. From the fiery red hell-themed post office where you can send postcards postmarked from “Hell” to a Satan impersonator asking “How the hell are you”?”.

Things to See and Do Here

Check out the rock formations

First off, you have to check out the rock formations. After all, that’s what this place is all about. The site is covered with really rad locking rocks that are made of limestone and dolomite. The rocks have been stripped of their calcium leaving them black in color.

Take Cheesy Photos

Secondly, no trip to Hell would be complete without taking ridiculously cheesy photos. There are cut-outs where you can be the Devil himself. If you’re feeling a bit more angelic, there’s an angel cut out as well.

Pick up a Souvenir

Want to pick up a special gift for your mother-in-law? This is the perfect place! They sell postcards, t-shirts, magnets, and a ton of other Hell souvenirs.

Get Your Passport Stamped

Lastly, there’s probably no cooler souvenir than having your passport stamped in Hell! When in Rome…errrr Hell, right?

Whatever you do… don’t take the rocks!

I don’t really know what the penalty is but I’m sure it’s hellacious….see what I did there?

Is it worth the visit?

Honestly, I wouldn’t go out of my way to visit this super cheesy attraction. As I said, people literally just stand around looking at rocks here. Trust me, you’d have a better time spending the day snorkeling, sailing, or lounging on the beach.

That being said, if you are in the area and want to send your mother-in-law a postcard from Hell, you could easily get in and out of this place in less than half an hour.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today!

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Updated 10/19/21

Categories
Airbnbs Aruba Caribbean South America

5 Amazing Airbnbs in Aruba

Natural Bridge, Aruba

Airbnbs in Aruba: Are you searching for the perfect Airbnb for your trip to Aruba? We’ve gathered up a collection of our favorite vacation homes in Aruba for any budget.

Aruba, along with the rest of the ABC Islands (Aruba, Bonaire & Curacao), is truly magical. Aruba is located in the Southern Caribbean, just north of South America. In fact, it’s so close that you can see lights from Venezuela once the sunsets. Although it is located on the South American continent, it is often considered to be part of the Caribbean.

The island was originally inhabited by the Arawak Tribe from Venezuela. Today, the island is primarily inhabited by the Dutch and ex-pats now (as it is a constituent country of the Netherlands).

“One Happy Island” is one of the easiest countries for new travelers to visit. The locals speaks English so communication is a breeze. The island is also really easy to navigate. With its near-perfect weather year round, it’s clear to see why so many people visit Aruba each year!

Waves Crashing in Aruba

There are so many amazing adventures waiting to be had. There are tons of things to do here ranging from the Aruba Ostrich Farm, the Natural Bridge, the Bushiribana Gold Mine Ruins, and the Ayo Rock Formations. Oh, and of course there’s also the beach.

If you’re a terrestrial traveler, rather than a cruiser, you’re going to need a place to stay. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered!

5 Amazing Airbnbs in Aruba

Movida Inn

Location: Noord, Aruba
Guests: 4
2 bedroom
2 bathroom

This recently renovated Caribbean-style home features a swimming pool with a whirlpool and a large solarium. The apartment is bright and spacious and comes well equipped with everything you might need.

The Movida Inn is less than 1/4 mile from Palm Beach and just an 8-minute drive from Eagle Beach. It is also conveniently located near shopping and restaurants.

Does this Airbnb sound intriguing? Check it out!

Tibushi Gardens

Location: Oranjestad-West, Aruba
Guests:2
1 bedroom
1 bathroom

This gorgeous apartment is located just minutes from the top beaches, dining, shopping, casinos, and golf course. It is located in a safe and quiet neighborhood. The 475 square foot apartment has a private entrance, pool, and a patio with a barbeque.

Does this Airbnb sound intriguing? Check it out!

Deluxe Pool View

Location: Noord, Aruba
Guests:4
1bedroom
1 bathroom

This stunning villa is the perfect space for your Aruba vacation. It is located in the exclusive Palm Beach area near the best beaches on the island. It is also conveniently located near shopping and restaurants.

Does this Airbnb sound intriguing? Check it out!

Casa Carmella- Luxury Private Villa with Pool

Location: Palm Beach, Aruba
Guests:2
1 bedroom
1 bathroom

This brand new private villa is the perfect place for a couples retreat. There are a large private pool and outdoor oasis awaiting you. It is also conveniently located near shopping and restaurants. It also located near Palm Beach and about 10 minutes from the popular Eagle Beach.

Does this Airbnb sound intriguing? Check it out!

Villa Island Time

Location: Noord, Aruba
Guests:6
3 bedrooms
2.5 bathrooms

This spacious villa features a private pool and is close to the beach, supermarkets, and the restaurants of Palm Beach. The villa has a large outdoor patio and deck area and is equipped with a BBQ.

Does this Airbnb sound intriguing? Check it out!

More on Aruba

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Categories
Disney Florida Orlando United States

Free Disney Stroller Tag Printables

If you’re heading to Disney with the littles, chances are you’ll be bringing or renting a stroller. Really, it’s the only way to tackle the massive park when you’re traveling with small children. If you have been to Disney before, you know that there are countless strollers that flood the park.

Why Are These Disney Stroller Tag Printables Necessary?

Since strollers are not permitted in the lines, visitors park their strollers in one of the designated parking areas. Sometimes, several rides will share the same stroller parking lot which means you could easily have hundreds of strollers crammed in a single area- especially near the toddler-friendly rides in areas like Fantasyland.

Here’s where it gets even trickier! There are stroller valet people who actually move around strollers so that it is easier for other people to park. This means that your stroller will most likely. This makes it even more difficult to find. Trust me, there is nothing worse than trying to hunt down where your stroller has been moved to when you’re hot, tired, and cranky!

Never fear! We have a solution for you! DIY Stroller tags make it easy to identify your stroller in the sea of strollers in the Disney parks.

Disney Stroller Tag Printables

Supplies Needed

Free Printable
Heavy-duty Cardstock
Clear contact paper or laminator and laminating pouches (this makes it waterproof!)
Scissors
Permanent Marker
Single Hole Punch
String or Zip Ties

Instructions

  1. First, download and print a Disney Stroller Tag Printable on heavy-duty cardstock paper.
  2. Next, add your family’s name to the printable using a permanent marker.
  3. Then, laminate or use clear contact paper to cover the printable. This will also help make it waterproof.
  4. Afterward, cut out the laminated printable.
  5. Use a single hole punch to create holes.
  6. Lastly, attach to the stroller using string or zip ties.

Grab Your Free Disney Stroller Tag Printable

These Disney Stroller Tags are typically available for purchase at our online store however, we’re offering these printables to our readers for free!

Mickey Sunglasses- Red
Castle- Blue
Mickey Head

There are tons of adorable options available for SUPER CHEAP at our store.

Stroller Guidelines for Disney World

  • Strollers larger than 31” (79 cm) in width and 52” (132cm) in length are not permitted. Stroller wagons are also not permitted.
  • Strollers are not allowed on escalators. Use of strollers is permitted on elevators and ramps, available at certain locations.
  • A child must be removed from his or her stroller while riding on a parking lot tram.
  • Do not leave personal belongings in an unattended stroller.
  • Strollers may be moved by a Cast Member due to operational needs.

Renting a Stroller at Disney

Single Stroller

Recommended for children 50 lbs. or less.

  • Daily: $15
  • Multi-Day (Length of Stay): $13

A $100 USD credit card deposit is required for strollers rented at Disney Springs.

Double Stroller

Recommended for children 100 lbs. or less.

  • Daily: $31
  • Multi-Day (Length of Stay): $27

Length of Stay Rentals

Disney has this neat program where you can save money by renting strollers for the duration of our stay. You purchase a Length of Stay rental ticket and then show your receipt at Guest Services when you enter the park and you’ll be issued your stroller for the day.

Strollers cannot be removed from the parks, so if you’re park hopping, you’ll show your rental receipt at each park you visit.

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Updated: 11/10/21

Categories
Caribbean Cruise Excursions Cruise Travel Nassau The Bahamas

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Nassau?

Parliament Square, Nassau

“Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Nassau?” This is a question that I get asked a lot. Quite frankly, there are some cruise ports where you absolutely must book an excursion, and then there are others where you really don’t have to. Honestly, you definitely don’t NEED to book an excursion in Nassau, however, there are lots of really great options available.

What is an Excursion?

An excursion is an activity that you book in a cruise port. The excursions range from historic tours, snorkeling and beach tours, visits to popular attractions, activities that will get your adrenaline pumping, and cultural activities. They are booked through local tour companies and cost additional money. Excursions can go from anywhere from $39 to hundreds of dollars for scuba diving, golfing, and helicopter tours.

 

Downtown Nassau

Do I Need to Book an Excursion in Nassau?

Nassau is one of the cruise ports where you can absolutely get away without booking an excursion. If you’re looking to cruise on a budget (or want to spend the money elsewhere), you can skip booking an excursion. The ships all dock on the northern side of the island right in the heart of downtown Nassau. From here you can easily walk to the world-famous Nassau Straw Market, Pirates of Nassau Museum, Parliament Square, and other local attractions.

You can also easily access Paradise Island and Atlantis from here via taxi or the Nassau-Paradise Island ferry. I recommend visiting Atlantis at least once in your life!

If you do decide to book an excursion in Nassau, there are plenty of great options, which we’ll cover below.

Nearby Beaches

Another option is to hail a cab and head towards one of the nearby beaches. We recommend:

Western Esplanade Beach– First off, this beach is located within walking distance from the pier making it super convenient. You could easily hit up the Straw Market and then make your way to this beautiful beach known for sea glass.

 

Cove Beach

Cove Beach– This picture-perfect beach is located on the Atlantis property. The sand is pillow-soft and the water is PERFECT! There are two bars close to the beach that offer food and drinks. If you head to the northernmost tip of the beach you’ll be able to check out the stacked rocks and carvings made from driftwood.

 

Cabbage Beach

Cabbage Beach- This beach is located not far from Atlantis. It is honestly one of the best beaches I’ve been to. The water is stunning and there is tons of space to spread out and find your own little piece of paradise.

Cable Beach- This is another popular beach with both locals and tourists. The beach is on the smaller side and can get a bit crowded due to its proximity to bars and restaurants. Snorkeling can be a bit of a challenge here because the water gets a bit choppy.

 

Jaws Beach

Jaw’s Beach- Don’t let the name intimidate you! If you’re looking to get away from the crowds, hop in a cab to Jaw’s Beach. If you take a cab there, arrange a time for the cabbie to pick you back up. It can be hard to get a taxi back to the port.

 

Recommended Excursions in Nassau

Again, although you can definitely get away without booking an excursion in Nassau, there are plenty of great options. When we visit, we love sailing on catamarans, visiting Atlantis, or doing an island tour.

Catamaran Sail & Reef Snorkel & Beach

Although the reef off of Nassau isn’t the prettiest we’ve ever been to, we still had a blast on this excursion. The catamaran out to the reef takes you past Atlantis and some pretty spectacular homes. After you’ve snorkeled for a bit, you are taken to a private island for a brief 30-minute beach stop. The tour lasts about 4 hours.

Top 10 Best of Nassau

On this 4-hour tour you’ll get to see the sights of Nassau and Paradise Island (home of Atlantis) from an air-conditioned bus. You’ll also get to try local food and drink samples (the cost is rolled into the tour!). You’ll get to check out the Parliament Buildings, the Rum Cake Factory, Atlantis, and make a stop at Queen Anne’s Staircase and Fort Fincastle. This tour combines local history with local cuisine.

SeaTurtle & 4 Island Snorkel Adventure with Beach Break

This tour crams a ton into 4 hours. You’ll hit up all of the best beaches and snorkel spots. What’s even cooler is you get to zip around in a high-speed boat! While you’ll only be able to view some from your vessel, others you’ll get to check out up close. You’ll get to see the island where they shot Gilligan’s island and get to scope out sea turtles and fish while you snorkel at Green Cay. Then it’s off to Rose Island for more snorkeling.

Sun, Sites & Beach Day

This 4-hour tour takes you by some of Nassau’s historic sites including Parliament, the Garden of Remembrance, and more. After seeing a bit of the island, you’ll be taken to a secluded beach for a bit of fun in the sun. There are free chairs available and you can rent an umbrella. There is a bar and restaurant nearby.

 

Atlantis

Atlantis

Honestly, you can’t go wrong with spending a day at Atlantis. The place is absolutely stunning and there’s truly something there for everyone. Whether you want to check out the water park, lazy river, casino, or aquarium, this place has it all! It’s no wonder many people consider this the #1 excursion in Nassau. Curious about Atlantis? Here are 5 Things to Know Before Your Trip to Atlantis!

Other Excursion Options

Did you know that you don’t have to book an excursion directly through the cruise line?  You can book an excursion through an outside vendor!  Often times, booking a trusted outdoor vendor is cheaper than going through the cruise line, because you’re cutting out the middle man.  Other benefits of booking with an outside vendor include helping the local economy, smaller tour groups, and most tours don’t fill up like they often do on a cruise.

If you’re choosing to book an excursion in Nassau with an outside vendor, we suggest going with a trusted company.  See the options below for more great excursions in Nassau.

Make Sure You Take These Along With You!

If you plan on hitting up the beach, we suggest you bring along snorkel equipment!  You’re guaranteed to find something interesting in the turquoise waters that surround the island.

Let Us Help You Plan Your Trip

Check out our Ultimate Guide on How to Plan a Cruise and start planning your dream vacation today! 

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Updated: 11/30/22

 

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Categories
Disney Florida Orlando United States

The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Disney with Toddlers

One of the first big trips that we took the kids on was a visit to Disney World for Smiley’s 6th birthday. Visiting the park with a 6-year-old is a cakewalk, but visiting Disney with toddlers is a totally different ball game. It takes planning, patience, and a little bit of spiked Dole Whip to make it through the day(s).

Enjoying treats at Disney Springs

As Floridians, we grew up going to Disney several times each year. I’ve had the chance to visit as a child, as a teen (with and without my parents), as an “adult”, and as a parent. After three decades of visiting Disney, we’ve come to learn the in’s and out’s of the theme park and we’d love to share some advice with you!

What is the Perfect Age to Visit Disney?

Honestly, if you have the opportunity to take the kids to Disney World- do it. I now know what people mean when they say, “You haven’t experienced Disney until you’ve seen it through your child’s eyes.”

Regardless of your child’s age, Disney will be a magical experience. Sure, you kid might not remember their trip but you will. Even young children will have an amazing time. Even better, children under the age of three get into the park for free so the trip can be even more affordable when they are younger.

Of course, the older a kid is the more rides they’ll be able to experience. However, there is still plenty to do if you are planning on hitting up Disney with toddlers. There were several rides that the twins were able to ride.

Watching the Rope Dropping Ceremony at Magic Kingdom

Our Guide to Visiting Disney with Toddlers

Don’t Set the Bar Too High

Experiencing Disney with a toddler is totally different than hitting it up with older kids or even as adults. If you go as a grown-up or with older kids, you’re able to cram in a ton of rides, stay at the park all day, and end the day by staying for the fireworks.

Throw all of those ideas out the window if you’re going to Disney with a toddler. Instead of planning on hitting every ride possible, narrow that down to 2 or 3 a day. Yes, you read that right.

Don’t worry though, there is so much more to Disney World that doesn’t involve long lines that your kid will absolutely love! There are parades, random appearances by characters, play areas, and shows to entertain them.

Drumming some sick beats at the Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh

Determine Which Park(s) You Want to Visit

Most of the rides at Magic Kingdom are kid friendly. This will probably be your best bet if you only have one day at the parks. Do yourself a favor and don’t even think about park hopping with a toddler!

Our Suggestions when visiting Disney with Toddlers

1 Day- Magic Kingdom
2 Days- Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom or Hollywood Studios
3 Days- Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios
4 Days- Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot or Magic Kingdom again!
5 Days- Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Magic Kingdom again!

Create a Loose Itinerary

If your toddlers are anything like ours, they are up at the crack of dawn. Seriously, our kids are normally up around 6:30 every morning. For us, this meant that being at the park when it opens is totally feasible! We were able to watch the Rope Dropping Ceremony, take advantage of short wait times, and be out of the park in time for a late nap.

Keeping in mind that you’ll want to only focus on 3 “Must Dos”, you’ll want to loosely plan your day. We planned out what two rides we wanted to experience and one character meet and greet each day. Not knowing what the wait times would be like while we were there, we didn’t want to set the bar too high and be disappointed. Everything else that we experienced was a bonus!

We planned on being out of the park by nap time, and we were off by about 1 hour. The twins (then early 2 year-olds) and Smiley both passed out in the car after exhaustion. After their nap, we hit up Disney Springs for dinner at Rainforest Cafe and more Disney-themed fun.

Can you tell it is nap time?

Research the Stroller Regulations

If you’re heading to Disney with toddlers, chances are you’ll be bringing or renting a stroller. Really, it’s the only way to tackle the massive park when you’re traveling with small children

Stroller Regulations

  • Strollers larger than 31” (79 cm) in width and 52” (132cm) in length are not permitted. Stroller wagons are also not permitted.
  • Strollers are not allowed on escalators. Use of strollers is permitted on elevators and ramps, available at certain locations.
  • A child must be removed from his or her stroller while riding on a parking lot tram.
  • Do not leave personal belongings in an unattended stroller.
  • Strollers may be moved by a Cast Member due to operational needs.

Stroller Tag Printables

Since strollers are not permitted in the lines, visitors park their strollers in one of the designated parking areas. Sometimes, several rides will share the same stroller parking lot which means you could easily have hundreds of strollers crammed in a single area- especially near the toddler-friendly rides in areas like Fantasyland.

Here’s where it gets even trickier! There are stroller valet people who actually move around strollers so that it is easier for other people to park. This means that your stroller will most likely. This makes it even more difficult to find. Trust me, there is nothing worse than trying to hunt down where your stroller has been moved to when you’re hot, tired, and cranky!

We have TONS of Stroller Tag Printables available at our shop.

Download the Disney World App

Ya’ll, the Disney World app is a totally game changer! You can use to to check the wait times for rides, view maps, order food, scope out show times, and schedule Fastpasses.

We while we were in line for one attraction/ride we were able to look to see what is nearby and how long the wait times are. We even pre-ordered our lunch so that it was ready for us when we got to the restaurant.

This is about as good as it gets…

Take Advantages of FastPass+!

I’m sure you won’t be surprised to hear that your toddler probably won’t last longer than 30 minutes waiting in line. With the purchase of all Disney World tickets, you get 3 free FastPasses a day! A FastPass means that you are reserving your spot for a ride or attraction during a one-hour window of time. Now, this doesn’t mean you won’t be standing in line, it just means that it will be a much shorter line.

We like to use them to secure spots for 2 rides and 1 character meet and greet.

You can book your FastPass+ slots 30 days in advance, or 60 days in advance if you are staying at a Disney Resort. The earlier you try to book these time slots, the more likely you’ll be able to reserve your favorite ride. Some Fastpasses go quickly!

Mad Tea Party time!

Use Rider Switch/Single Rider Lines

If you can’t resist some of the big kid/adult rides that your toddler can’t go on- don’t worry, Disney has a plan! They have a system called Rider Switch Passes. See a cast member at one of the qualifying rides and they’ll hand you a Rider Switch Pass. Basically, one grown-up waits in line and goes on the ride while the other grown-up hangs out with the kids. Once, they’ve exited the ride, you pass off the kids and they hand you the pass. You get to ride the ride without having to wait in line again! Holla!

If just one of you wants to ride one of these rides, some rides offer a single rider line. Basically, you’ll fill in any empty seats on the ride. There are 4 rides in Disney World that offer single rider lines. They are Expedition Everest, Test Track, Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster, and Millennium Falcon Smuggler’s Run. 

Best Rides for Toddlers

Magic Kingdom

  • Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin (no height requirement)
  • Dumbo the Flying Elephant (no height requirement)
  • It’s a Small World (no height requirement)
  • Mad Tea Party (no height requirement)
  • Magic Carpets of Aladdin (no height requirement)
  • Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh (no height requirement)
  • Peter Pan’s Flight (no height requirement) Get a FastPass!
  • Prince Charming Regal Carousel (no height requirement)
  • The Barnstormer (no height requirement)
  • Tomorrowland Speedway (32 inches to ride)
  • Tomorrowland Transit Authority People Mover (no height requirement)
  • Under the Sea: Journey of the Little Mermaid (no height requirement)

Animal Kingdom

  • Kilimanjaro Safari (no height requirement) Get a FastPass!
  • Na’vi River Journey Location (no height requirement)
  • TriceraTop Spin (no height requirement)
  • Wildlife Express Train (no height requirement)

Epcot

  • Frozen Ever After (no height requirement) Get a FastPass!
  • Gran Fiesta with the Three Caballeros (no height requirement)
  • Journey into the Imagination with Figment (no height requirement)
  • The Seas with Nemo and Friends (no height requirement)

Hollywood Studios

  • Alien Swirling Saucers (32 inches)
  • Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway (no height requirement)
  • Toy Story Mania (no height requirement) Get a FastPass!

What to Bring When Visiting Disney with Toddlers

  • Stroller: Sure, travel strollers are great but you’ll want a full-size stroller for storage. Trust me.
  • Snacks & Drinks: We plan on eating lunch, 1 snack, and 1 treat while we’re at the park. Since we arrive so early, we bring something along for breakfast (or grab something at the hotel). With all of the excitement of being at Disney, and being outside, the kids are starving and thirsty all day long. We bring a cooler with drinks and throw a butt-ton of snacks into the diaper bag.
  • Diaper Bag: Obviously you’ll want to pack a fully-stocked diaper bag. If you happen to forget something, there are Baby Care Centers that have things available for purchase. This is also an ideal spot for feedings, diaper changes, and quiet time. Toss a blanket in if you’re going to be wild and visit at night.
  • Change of Clothes
  • Sunscreen: It’s Florida, lather up.
  • Umbrella: It rains almost every day during the summer. Pack an umbrella.
  • Portable Charger: Let’s face it, you’ll be taking a gazillion photos and probably be checking the app often! Pack a portable charger, or you’ll regret it.
  • Safety Harness: Okay…never in my life did I think that I’d be a parent that uses a safety harness. And then the twins came along. Like most 2-year-olds, they are wild and love to wander and run around, especially when they are excited. We found these adorable little Mickey Mouse safety harnesses that are perfect for visiting Disney with toddlers!

    We hope that you found this guide to visiting Disney with toddlers helpful. Remember with a bit of planning, preparation, and spiked Dole Whip, visiting Disney with a toddler is totally doable. We truly hope that you and your family have the adventure of a lifetime!

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Updated: 10/25/21

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