Florida, known for its vibrant culture, beaches, and of course, its world-renowned amusement parks, is home to some of the most beloved Disney parks. With four theme parks and two water parks, Disney’s presence in the Sunshine State offers a variety of attractions, entertainment, dining, and shopping options for visitors to enjoy.
Disney owns six parks in Florida: four theme parks and two water parks. The theme parks include the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The two water parks are Disney’s Blizzard Beach and Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon. Each park offers a unique set of attractions, dining, and shopping experiences.
Disney’s Theme Parks in Florida
Magic Kingdom
The Magic Kingdom, which opened its gates on October 1, 1971, is the first of Disney’s Florida parks. It is home to some of the most iconic attractions, such as the Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Pirates of the Caribbean, Haunted Mansion, Peter Pan’s Flight, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and the upcoming TRON Lightcycle Run.
EPCOT
EPCOT, which stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow, was the second Disney park to open in Florida on October 1, 1982. It is divided into two main areas: Future World, which includes attractions like the Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, Soarin’, Spaceship Earth, and Test Track; and World Showcase, which features pavilions representing 11 countries.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Hollywood Studios, opened on May 1, 1989, immerses guests in the golden age of Hollywood. Visitors can experience the thrilling Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Slinky Dog Dash, and Toy Story Mania!
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which opened on April 22, 1998, is not just a zoo but a fully-themed park dedicated to the natural environment and animal conservation. Guests can ride the Avatar Flight of Passage, take a journey on the Kilimanjaro Safaris, brave the Expedition Everest, and explore with Dinosaur.
Disney’s Water Parks in Florida
Disney’s Blizzard Beach
Disney’s Blizzard Beach is a melting ski resort turned water park with a wide range of slides, a wave pool, lazy river, and kids’ play area.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon offers guests a tropical paradise to explore with water slides, a surf pool, and a lazy river.
Future Plans for Disney Parks in Florida
Disney has big plans for its parks in Florida, including a $60 billion investment over the next decade. Some of the future projects include a Pirates of the Caribbean-themed lounge in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom Park, a Zootopia show at the Tree of Life theater in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and the largest-ever expansion for Magic Kingdom.
New Attractions Coming to Disney World in Florida
Disney World in Florida is continually evolving, bringing new attractions and experiences to its guests. In the coming years, visitors can look forward to attractions like the TRON Lightcycle Run in Magic Kingdom, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT, and new acts in the Country Bear Jamboree and the Haunted Mansion.
In conclusion, Disney’s parks in Florida offer a world of magic, adventure, and fun for everyone. Whether you’re a fan of classic Disney characters, thrilling rides, or immersive storytelling, there’s something for everyone at Disney’s Florida parks.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours of Disney’s parks in Florida?
Operating hours for the Disney parks can vary depending on the season and specific park. It is best to check the official Disney World website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Are there any discounts available for the Disney parks in Florida?
Disney often offers various discounts on park tickets and vacation packages. These can include Florida resident discounts, military discounts, and special offers for annual passholders. Again, always check the official Disney World website for the latest deals and promotions.
How can I get from one Disney park to another in Florida?
Disney provides complimentary transportation between its parks and resorts. Options include buses, monorails, and boats. There’s also a new gondola system called the Disney Skyliner that connects EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with several Disney resorts.
Are there dining options available in the parks?
Yes, each Disney park offers a wide range of dining options, from quick service to fine dining. Additionally, Disney offers a Dining Plan for guests staying at a Disney resort, which can provide savings on meals throughout your visit.
What safety measures are in place at Disney’s parks in Florida in response to COVID-19?
Disney has implemented numerous safety measures in response to COVID-19, including enhanced cleaning procedures, physical distancing guidelines, and mask requirements for guests and cast members. For the most current information on Disney’s health and safety policies, please visit their official website.
