Wednesday, December 31, 2008


Walt Disney World Welcome Sign
Location: Hotel Plaza Boulevard
Time: Morning

Although this is a welcome sign, we passed it on our way out of the Walt Disney World Resort.  Every time you enter the Disney property you are welcomed.  I always get excited when I see these signs because it means that we are *finally* here!

Tuesday, December 30, 2008


Main Street Musicians
Location: Magic Kingdom
Time: Afternoon

So, my "inner-band nerd" forced me to take and post this picture.  Actually, musicians at Disney World are of the highest caliber selected through a rigorous audition process.  This particular ensemble, made up of brass and percussion, was performing festive music at the front of Main Street USA.  They are professional musicians in every sense of the word, playing with great musicality even on the cheesiest of songs.  They create a fun atmosphere and had my 4-year-old dancing in the street! 

Monday, December 29, 2008


Sorcerer Mickey Hat
Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios
Time: Early Morning

As mentioned before, this became the park icon for the Studios in 2001.  It was built for the "100 Years of Magic" Celebration which honored the 100th birthday of Walt Disney.  There has been much debate amongst die-hard Disney fans as to the authenticity of this park icon.  Many people prefer the "old school" original park icon...you can decide for yourself.  The only "attraction" that this building contains is a Pin Trading store.  In my opinion, this is a beautiful structure at night when everything is lit up and shiny...but I do prefer the original park icon of the Chinese Theatre or the Earffel Tower...but more on that later. 

Sunday, December 28, 2008


The Tree of Life (and Anandapur village)
Location: Disney's Animal Kingdom
Time: Early Afternoon

I took this picture on the first lift hill of Expedition Everest.  From the top of this ride you can experience many great arial views of the park, including this one.  Notice that the "leaves" on the Tree of Life are a different color than the real trees that surround it.

Saturday, December 27, 2008



















The Great Movie Ride
Location: Disney's Hollywood Studios
Time: Dusk

This was the park icon for the Studios (formerly known as Disney-MGM Studios) until the new park icon was built in 2001.  The exterior is modeled after the famous Chinese Theatre in Hollywood, CA.  The Great Movie Ride itself takes park guests through scenes celebrating some of the greatest movies in cinematic history.  The best part about this ride is that it combines live action, audio animatronics, and extensively detailed sets that make you feel like you are really a part of the movies!




Friday, December 26, 2008


Cinderella Castle
Location: Magic Kingdom
Time: Early Morning

This is the most famous park icon at Walt Disney World.  There are two "attractions" housed in the castle, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Cinderella's Royal Table.  The Boutique is fairly new (opened in 2007) and allows guests to receive a royal makeover.  Cinderella's Royal Table is a highly sought after character dining experience with the Disney Princesses.