one of Animal Kingdom ’ s unique offerings , like a one-of-a-kind beverage in Pandora , or challenge yourself to eat “ around the world ” at EPCOT ( I recommend ordering a sweet treat from Norway ).
TIP : If you want to eat at a specific Table-Service restaurant , book dining reservations in advance . They go fast , and you don ’ t want to miss a great opportunity and delicious food .
8 . SKIPPING THE CLASSICS Yes , there ’ s no beating Avatar Flight of Passage , Space Mountain , Slinky Dog Dash , and other thrill rides , but WDW wouldn ’ t be what it is without classic attractions .
If your schedule allows , try at least one , like Country Bear Jamboree or Walt Disney ’ s Enchanted Tiki Room . It ’ s attractions like these that have made WDW what it is today and keep the spirit of Walt Disney alive .
9 . WEARING THE WRONG SHOES Visiting WDW isn ’ t a relaxing vacation ; it ’ s a walking vacation . A surefire way to ruin a day at Disney is wearing the wrong shoes . Very quickly , your feet may start to hurt , or you might even get blisters .
You know your feet best , so wear something that will make your feet happy . You don ’ t want to ruin your entire day because of bad footwear .
The classic rides are classic for a reason ! Don ' t miss out on these fan-favorites . PHOTO BY JUDD HELMS
10 . VISITING FOR THE FIRST TIME DURING THE HOLIDAYS Do not visit for the first time during Christmas . I repeat : Do not visit for the first time during Christmas .
Seeing as so many people have off during the holidays , visiting WDW seems like a great idea . But the holidays can be the busiest time of the year , and that ’ s not what you want , especially for your first trip .
If possible , try to go another time , even if it ’ s during the summer . You want to enjoy your first visit as much as possible , and holiday crowds aren ’ t the way to do it .
Thinking about visiting WDW for the first time is definitely overwhelming , but if you can keep all of the above in mind — and trust in that Disney magic — you are sure to have an unforgettable experience .
It ' s important to temper your expectations when visiting at the holidays . Yes , it is extra magical , but it can also be extra crowded . PHOTO BY JUDD HELMS