If you’ve read our other blog from when we visited Disney in California, you’ll already know that I’m not the biggest fan of what’s apparently the world’s happiest place. However, thinking of the greater good, we found ourselves this time in the biggest theme park in the world, surrounded by crowds of Disney fans adorned with Mickey ears and huge, permanent grins.
The day started with an embarrassing surprise for Oscar, our 16-year-old (at the time) son who, despite being over six foot tall and built like a brick outhouse, instantly turns into a giggling six-year-old when presented with anything Disney.
Unbeknown to him, Deb had secretly had three T-shirts made for the day, proudly displaying “Mummy Mouse”, “Daddy Mouse” and “Little Mouse”. The shame was very real. Oscar, and father understandably, were mortified.
Arrival and First Impressions
Getting to the park was straightforward enough and parking was absolutely fine — although expensive, as it felt like Disney had probably purchased most of Florida purely to turn it into parking lots.
The walk from the car to the entrance was a fair old trek, but before long we found ourselves inside the park and fully immersed in Disney chaos.
Florida Weather Doing Its Thing
With it now being six years since we visited — and the fact I’ve probably tried to wipe large parts of it from my memory — I can’t give you a detailed blow-by-blow account of the day.
The weather was typically Floridian. Red hot when we arrived, followed by the mother of all storms, and then back to warm and humid again. Apparently this is completely normal for July and definitely something to bear in mind if you’re visiting at that time of year.
When storms hit, the roller coasters shut down. Annoying at the time, but understandable from a safety point of view — nobody wants to be stuck at the top of Thunder Mountain when lightning starts cracking overhead.
A Handy Tip from Guest Services
One useful tip — although I’ve no idea if it’s still relevant — is that if you’re visiting with someone elderly, or someone who struggles on their feet, head to Guest Services and request a wheelchair.
It’s a pain to push around, but it does come with certain perks, including skipping some queues or booking your place and returning later when it’s your turn.
Thanks, Mum.
Rides, Queues and Roller Coaster Cred
As far as I’m aware, Oscar managed to get all his roller coaster “creds” for the day. We zig-zagged back and forth across the park as he hunted down the next ride with the shortest queue.
I seem to remember suffering through It’s a Small World, we definitely did the log flume, Thunder Mountain, and plenty more besides. Well… Oscar did. I was quite happy waiting with the bags for most of the rides.
Final Thoughts (Such As They Are)
Anyway, like I say, I can’t remember much more.
Oscar enjoyed the day. Granny and Grandpa enjoyed the fact that Oscar enjoyed the day. Deb moaned at me for being grumpy all day. And I was allegedly grumpy all day — which doesn’t sound like me at all.
Davenport, Kissimmee & Villa Life: Our Florida Base Away From the Theme Parks
Florida Railroad Museum, Parrish: Birthdays and a Perfect Surprise
