Haunted Halloween Wagon Ride

Explore the woods of Disney's Fort Wilderness on a wagon ride. Your group will sit in a wagon, drawn by magnificent, large horses as your driver tells you creepy tales of mysterious travelers from long ago. Make sure your driver stays on your path, because it's said that the woods are roamed by a headless horseman who chases after the lost. But with over 700 acres of woods, it's easy to get lost...

This is a first come, first served ride, and tickets begin selling in the morning. Because of its popularity, there are no guarantees that you'll even get on if there is a wait and you haven't bought tickets. Tickets are $15 for anyone 10 and older and $10 for anyone 3-9. If you'll be at Disney in October, make sure you look into this!

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror

Do you hear those screams of terror?

This creepy hotel will scare the socks off of you. Spend some Halloween fun at the Disney-MGM Studios, on the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. This attraction allows you to meander up, through the walkway and gardens of the hotel and brings you into its lobby, where you'll find elevators and Rod Serling waiting to take you to your destination. Will you survive?

I've ridden this ride several times and it is one of my favorites at MGM-Studios. It's especially eerie at night, in the dark, when the plummet comes unexpectedly.

Warning! The attraction does have height and health restrictions so be sure to read the signs and take precautions. Also, make sure you get a FastPass! because this attraction is very popular.

Also, there is a rumor that there really is a ghost that dwells in this hotel. One that glides along mysteriously, but does not respond when called out to. Ask the cast members...

Halloween Outside of the Parks

You don't need to go to the parks for Halloween to have fun at Disney. The resorts often have fun things to do. Both Downtown Disney and Disney's BoardWalk offer trick-or-treating and also have other activities for the children and the young at heart. I've seen in the past few years that the BoardWalk has had a pumpkin carving contest, in which the guests are the judges and the cast members display their creative side. They also had a d.j. and candy for everyone. Other resorts offer displays and candy, just make sure to ask at the front desk or concierge, they usually have notice of what they will be doing.

The Writer's Stop

This tiny, nondescript shop is the perfect place to get off of your feet and enjoy a pastry and drink. You can also peruse their collection of books. It is located between the ABC Commissary and the Sci-Fi Dine-in Theater at Disney-MGM Studios. It's so small you'll miss it on your way to an attraction or eatery but they have a great assortment of gifts and souvenirs for those who like to draw, write or read. Once in a while they will have celebrities sign autographs there as well so keep an eye out!

Disney on a Budget: Boating

Boating is a great way to spend a day in Disney and out of the theme parks. You can rent boats at various locations depending on what resort you're staying at. You can even rent boats at Downtown Disney. The rates vary for the type of boat and the duration that you rent it for. You have a choice of kayaks, pontoon, sailboats and even SeaRaycers and Boston Whalers.

My husband and I have kayaked along Fort Wilderness' creeks and have seen gators sunning themselves. We have rented SeaRaycers and zipped around the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake, and have seen the mysterious shores of abandoned "Discovery Island" on a Boston Whaler.

This is truly Disney on a budget because prices are reasonable and if you ask you may find that there are discounts. Pack a picnic lunch, idle along the different canals and see if you can spot the unique wildlife or jet around and let the mist of the water and the breezes refresh you.

If you're interested in parasailing, line skiing or wakeboarding visit Sammy Duvall's Watersports Centre at Disney's Contemporary Resort.

Japan Pavilion

The Japan pavilion in Epcot's World Showcase is a scenic spot to stop, shop and eat. The pavilion has several places to eat, both counter and table service. Walking around you'll notice the pagoda and torii gate. You'll even see beautiful koi fish swimming in pools and creeks. The Mitsukoshi Department Store is a great place to shop for unique gifts that symbolize Japan. You can even watch as they retrieve fresh water pearls from oysters! There are plenty of entertainers from Matsuriza (Japanese drums) and storytellers to someone who fashions candy into animals and flowers. Also, check out the exhibits, located inside Japanese castle, called "White Heron".

This pavilion has plenty of shade and plenty to do so either grab your credit card or grab a kaki-gori (shaved ice topped with an assortment of fruit flavors) and relax as you enjoy a trip to Japan.

Tomorrowland Indy Speedway

Located at Disney's Magic Kingdom, in Tomorrowland, the Tomorrowland Indy Speedway is a fun little ride for the whole family. Approximately 5 minutes long, you run a course in a mini speedcar around the track. There is a height restriction to be the driver, however, there is no height restriction for a passenger. It is one of the original attractions of Walt Disney World and gets you off your feet for a while, but of course, it is one of those attractions that always has a line so grab a FastPass!

On the downside, the gasoline fumes that emerge from all those cars. It can be a little much for those with allergies or just a sensitivity to fumes. Also, the ride can be extremely bumpy if you don't keep the steering wheel straight.

Harmony Barber Shop

The Harmony Barber Shop is an actual barber shop located between the Car Barn and the Emporium at Disney's Magic Kingdom. I was surprised when I found out that you can get an actual haircut here but you really can! It's an interesting little shop full of the turn-of-the-century effects.
If you need a haircut, here's the place to do it. The cast members are cheerful and who doesn't want to go into a barber shop that still has the pole!

Tusker House Restaurant

The Tusker House Restaurant is located in Disney's Animal Kingdom at Africa's Harambe Village, right after the bridge. It used to be a counter service restaurant that served delicious platters of salmon, rotisserie chicken, salads and sandwiches. Connected to the restaurant is the Kusifiri Bakery window that has a selection of assorted pastries and beverages.

At this time, Tusker House Restaurant has been closed for renovations and will re-open some time in early November as a buffet with a Character breakfast. This is a good change since the Animal Kingdom did not have a table service restaurant within the park, with the exception of the Character Breakfast, known as Donald's Breakfastosaurus. Also, Tusker House has enough room to seat large amounts both inside and outside.

I can't wait for the opening of the new buffet restaurant, although I am a little saddened because Tusker House Restaurant was a hidden jewel that served great food at great prices.

Nine Dragons Restaurant

Located at Epcot's China pavilion, Nine Dragon's serves both lunch and dinner, with separate menus. For the most part you need reservations for all of the sit-down restaurants at Epcot, however, Nine Dragons is usually easy to do a walk-in, the reason being the very fast delivery of your food and the large seating area.

The wait staff are not like many of the other restaurants, they do not stop to chat and tell you about China and what part of the country they are from, they just take your orders and serve your food. The restaurant itself is grand, with windows facing the walkway and lake. There are tall pillars and archways and the tables and chairs are carved and dark.

I have eaten at the Nine Dragons several times (we held our wedding rehearsal lunch here) and the food is always delicious, although a little on the pricey side. One of our favorites is the General Tso's Chicken and another favorite is the Canton Pepper Beef, all served with white rice. I've also had the Sichuan Kung Bao Chicken, which was very, very spicy. Overall I liked the lighter lunches here rather than dinner and it's always good as a backup if another restaurant is booked up.

Liberty Square Riverboat

Take a ride on the Liberty Belle along the Rivers of America. Located at Liberty Square in Disney's Magic Kingdom, this authentic paddle steamer takes you on a leisurely tour around Tom Sawyer's Island. You'll also get a great opportunity to take photos of The Haunted Mansion, Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, as well as life along the river.

This is great way to take a break from lines and walking. The riverboat has three decks and plenty of room for everyone. Check at the dock for departure times and make sure your camera's ready!

Voyage Of The Little Mermaid

Voyage Of The Little Mermaid is a live musical, with songs from this classic movie. Both live actors and puppetry, combined with special effects make it seem as if you're really part of it all. Parts of the show are dark and maybe scary for younger children. This show lasts about 20 minutes and is located at the Animation Courtyard of Disney-MGM Studios. The attraction is often busy so get there early or get a fastpass!

The Enchanted Tiki Room (Under New Management)

Zazu (feathery friend from "The Lion King") and Iago (from Disney's "Aladdin") show off a few musical numbers at this attraction. The Enchanted Tiki Room (Under New Management) is located in Adventureland at Disney's Magic Kingdom, right across from the spitting camel. Your hosts, along with other Audio-Animatronic birds, will serenade you with some familiar songs. So sing along and join the party!

The show is about 10 minutes long and often there are no long lines, but you will have to wait outside until the theater is available for the next group.

Celebration's Ocktoberfest

Celebration's Ocktoberfest (October 12 & 13)

The Disney built town of Celebration, located at the outskirts of the Walt Disney property will be holding a two day festival called Ocktoberfest. This is the first annual celebration of its kind.

Market Street, the downtown area of Celebration, is closed to vehicles and is festively decorated with hanging pumpkins and banners. Every hour, beginning at 6 p.m. until 9 p.m., leaves fall onto the brick-paved street and after that a live band plays. Tonight it was "Heimatland Musikanten", playing popular German tunes, even some yodeling. Tomorrow night it will be the band "Orleans".

The streets are lined with tents from the town restaurants and shops offering tasty bites, from bratwursts to grilled shrimp to bananas foster. They also offered hayrides, face painting and pumpkin painting. It was a great treat that celebrates the arrival of Autumn and brings the community together for merrymaking.

"Honey, I Shrunk The Kids" Movie Set

This is an interactive play area where you and your children will feel as if you really have been shrunk. The "Honey, I Shrunk The Kids" Movie Set is located right next to the Flatbread Grill eatery at the Disney-MGM Studios. There are large ants, a roll of film, LEGO's and other larger-than-life objects that you can climb and ride. Have a good time!

Port Orleans French Quarter

This lovely resort captures the New Orleans style with it's tree-lined, brick-paved streets (known as rues) and wrought iron architecture. Stroll down the many 'rues', such as Rue De Baga, or take a walk alongside the Sassagoula River. There is a boat to Downtown Disney from the dock or you can take the boat back and forth between resorts and Downtown Disney for a relaxing ride that's free!

There is no sit down restaurant at this resort but it does offer a quick service restaurant called "Sassagoula Floatworks and Food Factory" where you can also purchase the refillable mug. The French Quarter's sister resort, Riverside, does have a restaurant or you can enjoy the many at Downtown Disney.

Discovery Island Trails Photostop

At Disney's Animal Kingdom's Discovery Island you'll find a few trails that lead you around the base of the Tree of Life. This is a great way to get wonderful pictures of the beautiful carvings of the tree of life and for the most part it is not well-traveled so you can pose as many pictures as you'd like, there is also a waterfall close by. You'll find some exotic animals and lush scenery, so make sure your camera's ready!

Spelmanns Gledje

With a mix of accordion, bass, fiddle and guitar, Spelmanns Gledje are my favorite performers at Epcot. Situated at Epcot's Norway pavilion, the band plays a variety of polkas to waltzes. They usually play right outside of the Stave Church, either under the big tree or closer to the bakery's outdoor seating, so grab a rice cream (rice pudding found at Kringla Bakeri og Cafe), find a place to sit, listen to the music and get a taste of Scandinavia.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

The "Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith" is located at Disney-MGM Studios' Sunset Boulevard, right next to the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. The premise of the attraction is that the band is late for their concert and since they couldn't spend time with their fans (you) they offer you backstage passes and a ride in their limo to take you to the show. So the attraction has you take a harried ride around Tinseltown so you can catch Aerosmith's show.

This ride is fast, loud and exhilirating with many twists and turns. I've been on this ride once and that was enough for me! The g-force was very strong, the music was so loud and the darkness and unpredictability was a little much for me, however, I do know a little, old, lady that loves this ride and goes on it often. So you decide...

Living With The Land

Living With The Land is located at the Land Pavilion in Epcot's Future World (also home to Soarin'). It is an enjoyable and worthwhile boat ride that takes you through a simulated farm, desert and rainforest to teach you how our planet and our land has provided for us. It also takes you through their greenhouses where you'll see gigantic pumpkins, tomatoes, peppers, bananas and other fruits and vegetables and the new technology that creates bigger, more nutritious produce. Along the way you'll also get to see a portion of their fish and aligator farm. You'll learn that most of the things grown there are used and served in their restaurants.

If you'd like to have a more intimate look at the greenhouse, I suggest that you take the 'Behind The Seeds' tour.

This is one of my favorite attractions in the park, not just because it gets you off your feet and into a cool atmosphere but you go away inspired and having learned and seen a thing or two.

Disney-MGM Studios Sorcerer Mickey Hat: Photostop

When you walk into Disney-MGM Studios, past the shops and trees you will see this well-known icon. It's hard to miss at 122 feet but it was not the original icon of the park. The original icon was the Earful tower (a water tower with Mickey Ears atop of it), which you can find now if you take the The Studios Backlot Tour.

This is a great opportunity for a photo. As you walk down Hollywood Boulevard the hat looms larger and you can actually make it seem as if the whole family were under the hat. You can even pose it so that it looks as if someone in the group has pulled it down slightly. If you'd prefer to be in the picture ask any cast member to take it for you, or get it done by the Photopass cast (they're trained in photography) who are always around with their cameras at hand.

Beneath the Hat is housed a little souvenir stop where you'll find autograph books, lanyards and of course pins. This is also the spot where character greeting occur, just check what time and which character.

Voices of Liberty

The Voices of Liberty is a touching, eight-part a cappella group of singers that perform at the American Adventure pavilion at Epcot's World Showcase. Because of the great acoustics, they sing inside the rotunda of the American pavilion. Their songs range from patriotic to folk music, classics such as 'God Bless America' and 'Oh! Susanna'. For me, it's one of those things that I must go see every time I go to Epcot, so don't miss out!

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

Located close to the Animal Kingdom, the lodge is categorized as a 'deluxe' resort. When you first drive in you'll see tall grasses and peaking above are thatched roofs, setting the theme for a trip to the wild. When you enter, the lobby is expansive, surrounded with warm colors, topped by a domed roof with fanciful lights and even a swinging walk bridge.

Outside there are walkways that lead you to private areas where you can watch giraffes, zebras and other animals feeding and walking around. If you get a room with a savanna view you would be able to see the animals when you wake up in the mornings.

If you are in the lobby and your and smell something delicious follow your nose downstairs to the restaurants: Boma and Jiko-The cooking place. We've gone to both restaurants and loved them. Boma is a buffet that features African-style cooking. Jiko is a little more upscale (there is a dress code), but like Boma it features African inspired foods.

The Animal Kingdom Lodge is a great hotel to spend your stay at or just to come for the day to enjoy the food, architecture and the animals.