Returning to Disney: A Magical Anniversary Celebration

The last time I set foot in Walt Disney World was 2006 - back when I was a kid, rocking a Disney autograph book and chasing characters down Main Street. But what could be even better than going back as an adult? Going back with my newlywed husband, who had never been before! And let me tell you- if you’re ever celebrating something special, don’t even think twice about choosing Disney. They go above and beyond to make it unforgettable!

©️victoriaam

©️victoriaam

Checking In: The Disney Magic Starts Early

We stayed at the Swan Hotel, right on Disney’s Boardwalk, which was perfect for late-night snacks and strolls. The moment we checked in, we hit the boardwalk, grabbed Mickey pretzels, and soaked in the atmosphere.

Then, while browsing a shop, a cast member asked, “Do you like mint?” I hesitated. “Eh, kind of. I’m more of a chocolate person.” She disappeared and returned with a chocolate mint Mickey ice cream sandwich - FOR FREE! She smiled and said, “ I hope you have a wonderful Disney experience.” And just like that, the magic had begun.

©️victoriaam

Day 1: Animal Kingdom & Epcot’s Fireworks

Bright and early at 7 AM, we grabbed our MagicBands and hopped on the shuttle to Animal Kingdom.

Animal Kingdom opened in 1998, it’s Disney’s largest park (500+ acres) and is dedicated to nature and wildlife.

It’s the only Disney park with live animals, featuring more than 2,000 animals across 300 species.

 The Tree of Life in the center of the park is 145 feet tall and has over 300 animal carvings on its trunk.

 The safari ride felt like a real African expedition! We saw giraffes, zebra’s, and even a lion lounging in the sun.

We completed the Wilderness Explorer Quest and were officially sworn in by Russell himself!

 My husband met Kevin the bird, which made for hilarious pictures.

 Lunch at Yak & Yeti? 10/10. The nachos were next-level.

With Park Hopper, we had the flexibility to leave and return whenever we wanted. So after exploring Animal Kingdom, we headed to Epcot just in time for the nighttime fireworks show over the World Showcase Lagoon. Absolutely stunning! But we saved the full Epcot experience for another day.

©️victoriaam

Day 2: Hollywood Studios - Toy Soldiers & Andy’s Coming!

We took the water ferry from Disney’s Boardwalk to Hollywood Studios, where, as resort guests, we got early access!

Hollywood Studios Facts & Highlights

 Originally opened in 1989 as Disney-MGM Studios, inspired by Hollywood’s golden age.

It’s home to the fastest ride in Disney World.  The park features Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, a 14-acre immersive land that makes you feel like you’ve stepped onto another planet. We took a selfie here and were sent on quests!

We hung out with Toy Soldiers from Toy Story, and more ice cream, obviously. Tower of Terror was just as thrilling as I remembered!

We ended with Dinner at Roundup Rodeo BBQ, which was an experience. At random moments, the speakers would announce “Andy’s Coming!” Everyone’s servers, and guests, literally the whole restaurant had to freeze!

We ended the night with Mickey’s evening spectacular, and it was pure Disney magic.

©️victoriaam

Day 3: Epcot - Our Favorite Park!

Since we’re not big drinkers but total foodies, we decided to eat our way around the world!

Epcot opened in 1982. Epcot stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow- a vision Walt Disney had for a futuristic city. The Spaceship Earth (the giant geodesic sphere) is 165 feet tall and contains an educational ride about human innovation. Very cool experience on this ride!

 Epcot’s World Showcase has 11 different country pavilions, each featuring authentic food, culture, and cast members from their respective countries. We devoured tacos in Mexico, poutine in Canada, and pastries in France (surprised we didn’t explode).

 The mariachi band in Mexico serenaded us! With a  Mexican love song to celebrate our anniversary. Every cast member we met congratulated us on our anniversary and first-time visit together. It was crazy! The pins we wore made us feel like royalty.  Dinner at Coral Reef Restaurant was another magical moment where the server surprised us with desserts and chocolates to celebrate!

They also opened the new Moana interactive water exploration next to the Crush talk!

Disney really knows how to make a celebration feel special, and this day left us with unforgettable memories.

©️victoriaam

©️victoriaam

Day 4: Magic Kingdom - A Bit Overrated?

I know, I know - Magic Kingdom is supposed to be the ultimate Disney park. But compared to Epcot, it just didn’t hit the same.

Magic Kingdom opened in 1971, it was the first theme park at Walt Disney World and the most-visited park in the world.

Cinderella’s Castle is 189 feet tall, and the golden spire at the top is made of real gold leaf!

It was really crowded, especially with the fireworks at the end of the day. Unfortunately this parks attractions are geared toward kids, with fewer thrill rides. We did enjoy turkey legs and the parade on Main Street! We stoped for some quick sweets and ate Nutella covered Mickey waffles and churros… and…. Funnel cake…..sugar overload!!

We took a train ride around the park, which was a fun way to take it all in and all parts of the park. The train station can be found at the top of Main Street and is free transportation from one side to the other.

We ended the night with a Happily Ever After Celebration. The fireworks behind Cinderella’s Castle? Breathtaking! Best firework show out of all four parks, hands down.

©️victoriaam

@victoriaam

©️victoriaam

Day 5: Rest & Pool Day

After walking 12 miles a day for four days, our bodies needed a break. We spent the entire day relaxing by the pool and even went over to the Dolphin Resort across the pond to use their pool facilities. Grabbed some piña coladas from the frozen chill bar inside the hotel and hit the lounge chairs!

©️victoriaam

Final Thoughts: The Magic of Disney as an Adult

This trip was so different from my childhood visit, but in the best way. I felt nostalgic while also seeing Disney through a whole new lens. Experiencing it with my husband made it even more special, and I know that one day, we’ll be back with our future kids.

Until next time, Disney! You truly are the most magical place on Earth. Thank you for our Happily Ever After!