Walt Disney World is an iconic theme park known around the world. It has been thrilling generations of visitors since it opened in 1971 and continues to evolve each year. In 2023, Walt Disney World will be celebrating its 50th anniversary and there are sure to be new attractions, shows, and experiences to enjoy. Before you visit Walt Disney World in 2023, here are 10 interesting facts you may not know about this magical place.
1) Walt Disney World is the Most Visited Theme Park in the World
Visiting Walt Disney World is an experience like no other. As the most visited theme park in the world, it is truly a magical place for families and friends to explore. With four theme parks, two water parks, 25 themed resorts, and over 150 dining experiences, there’s something for everyone.
The first of the four Walt Disney World theme parks, Magic Kingdom, opened in 1971. It was followed by EPCOT Center in 1982, Hollywood Studios in 1989 and Animal Kingdom in 1998. Each park has something unique to offer, with attractions that you won’t find anywhere else in the world. In addition, guests can experience over 50 different experiences and attractions that range from thrilling rides to interactive shows.
Walt Disney World is not only the most visited theme park in the world but also the size of the city of San Francisco. This means that it’s easy to spend days exploring all that the park has to offer. From exciting roller coasters and animal encounters to shopping, dining, and watching shows, there is something for everyone to enjoy during their visit to Walt Disney World.
2) The First park, Magic Kingdom, Opened in 1971
When it comes to a visit to Walt Disney World, many people don’t realize that Magic Kingdom was the first park to open in 1971. This iconic park is the most visited theme park in the world and welcomes millions of guests each year. Magic Kingdom is home to six magical lands: Main Street USA, Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland. Each land features exciting attractions and entertainment, as well as classic Disney characters like Mickey Mouse, Donald Duck, Goofy and many others. Some of the most popular attractions include the iconic Cinderella Castle, the Pirates of the Caribbean ride and the Space Mountain roller coaster. This park is sure to please everyone in your family and is definitely worth a visit on your trip to Walt Disney World!
3) EPCOT Center was the Second park and Opened in 1982
Visitors to Walt Disney World will be excited to know that the second park to open in the Walt Disney World Resort was EPCOT Center, opening its doors to guests in 1982. A visit to Walt Disney World isn’t complete without a trip to this iconic park. With its unique and innovative pavilions from around the world and futuristic attractions, it’s easy to see why EPCOT Center has remained a favorite for so many years. Stroll through the different “countries” such as Mexico, Japan, and Morocco, each of which contains attractions, shows, and food experiences reflective of the culture they represent. And don’t forget to try out some of the rides in Future World! No matter what your age or interests may be, EPCOT Center is sure to have something special that everyone can enjoy during their visit to Walt Disney World.
4) Hollywood Studios Opened in 1989
When planning your Visit to Walt Disney World, make sure you don’t miss out on Hollywood Studios! Opened in 1989, this theme park was originally called Disney-MGM Studios and was designed to be a show business production facility. It contains several theaters, a working backlot, soundstages and other venues that have been used for television and film production.
Today, Hollywood Studios is the place to experience thrilling attractions, entertainment and dining. You can take a 3D ride through The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror, explore the Star Wars universe with Star Tours, and discover the world of Toy Story with Slinky Dog Dash. There are also special events like fireworks shows, character appearances and live entertainment.
At Hollywood Studios, you can also watch classic films at the Chinese Theatre, explore the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, see the sights at Echo Lake or even attend the nightly show Fantasmic! Don’t miss out on the fun and excitement that awaits you at Hollywood Studios when you Visit to Walt Disney World!
5) Animal Kingdom Opened in 1998
When Animal Kingdom opened in 1998, it marked a major milestone in the history of Walt Disney World. As the fourth theme park in the area, Animal Kingdom was a unique and exciting addition to the list of attractions that guests could experience during their visit to Walt Disney World. Featuring a combination of thrill rides, live animal shows, and interactive experiences, Animal Kingdom became an instant hit with both locals and visitors alike.
The star attraction of Animal Kingdom is its signature ride, the Kilimanjaro Safari. The safari allows guests to explore the Serengeti Plain and observe wild animals up close, including elephants, giraffes, zebras, gazelles, and more. Other popular attractions include Expedition Everest – a high-speed roller coaster – and Avatar Flight of Passage, a flight simulator ride set in the world of Pandora. In addition to these exciting experiences, Animal Kingdom also offers numerous dining options, shopping opportunities, and other entertainment options for visitors.
Since its opening in 1998, Animal Kingdom has become one of the most popular attractions at Walt Disney World and continues to delight guests on every visit. With its unique combination of thrills and educational experiences, Animal Kingdom is the perfect place to explore and discover something new during your trip to Walt Disney World.
6) There are 4 theme parks and 2 water parks
When you visit Walt Disney World, you have access to four incredible theme parks. The first one is the iconic Magic Kingdom, with classic attractions like Space Mountain and Cinderella’s Castle. Then there’s EPCOT Center, a park focused on science, technology, and culture. Hollywood Studios showcases the magic of movies and television, and Animal Kingdom features rides, shows, and interactive experiences with animals.
In addition to the four theme parks, there are two water parks: Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach. Typhoon Lagoon has thrilling slides, rapids, and a wave pool. Blizzard Beach is a snow-themed water park with plenty of slides and rides. Both parks have plenty of activities for kids of all ages.
So if you’re planning a visit to Walt Disney World, don’t forget about the two amazing water parks!
7) There are over 25 themed resorts
Visitors to Walt Disney World can stay in one of the many themed resorts, located across the property. Many of the resorts are inspired by Disney movies, such as the All-Star Movies Resort and Art of Animation Resort, while others feature theming based on classic Disney characters, like the Pop Century Resort. For those looking for a luxurious experience, there are several deluxe resorts, including the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, which is modeled after Florida’s grand turn-of-the-century resort hotels. No matter what your taste or budget, there is something for everyone when you Visit to Walt Disney World.
8) There are over 150 dining experiences
Visiting Walt Disney World is an amazing experience, and one of the best parts about the resort is its wide variety of dining experiences. From upscale restaurants to quick-service eateries, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for a sit-down meal with family and friends or a casual bite on the go, you can find it at Walt Disney World.
You can enjoy a variety of cuisines from around the world, from classic American favorites to Italian, French, Asian, Mexican and more. There are also plenty of themed restaurants offering unique meals and experiences. No matter what your dietary needs are, you can find something to suit your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for vegan or vegetarian options, or even low-carb dishes, Walt Disney World has something for everyone.
Of course, no visit to Walt Disney World would be complete without sampling the iconic treats that have been served throughout the years. You can get your hands on classic Mickey Mouse ice cream bars, Dole Whip and other snacks found in the theme parks and resorts.
From signature restaurants to quick-service spots and sweet treats, you won’t be disappointed by the delicious dining experiences available at Walt Disney World!
9) There are over 50 different experiences and attractions
If you are planning a Visit to Walt Disney World in 2023, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to different experiences and attractions. The four theme parks offer over 50 experiences, from classic Disney favorites like Space Mountain and Pirates of the Caribbean to unique experiences like Flight of Passage or Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. You can also explore the two water parks at Walt Disney World, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, for a full day of fun in the sun. Other attractions include Walt Disney World’s two miniature golf courses, an NBA Experience, Cirque du Soleil’s La Nouba, and several nighttime spectaculars such as Happily Ever After or Fantasmic! With all these incredible experiences, it’s no wonder that millions of people plan their Visit to Walt Disney World each year.
10) Walt Disney World is the size of the city of San Francisco
Visiting Walt Disney World is like visiting an entire city! The sprawling complex of theme parks and resorts covers more than 47 square miles, which is larger than the size of the city of San Francisco. Not only that, but Walt Disney World consists of four theme parks, two water parks, 25 themed resorts, over 150 dining experiences, and more than 50 different experiences and attractions. With all this in mind, it’s no wonder Walt Disney World is the most visited theme park in the world.
