2025 Walt Disney World Must-Do Highlights for Every Park
Planning a 2025 Disney World trip? Here’s your park-by-park guide to the top attractions, shows, and must-try experiences—from Magic Kingdom to Typhoon Lagoon and Disney Springs. Perfect for first-time visitors!
Your 2025 Walt Disney World Must-Do List: Park-by-Park Highlights for First-Time Visitors
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World in 2025? Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning after a few years away, the parks have evolved—and there's never been a better time to experience the magic. From thrilling new attractions at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, to splash-worthy adventures at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach, this guide will help you discover the top must-do experiences at each Walt Disney World destination.
In this easy-to-follow, park-by-park guide, I’ll walk you through the best rides, shows, restaurants, and hidden gems across all four theme parks, the two water parks, and Disney Springs. If you're overwhelmed by all the options and not sure where to start, this post is for you.
Let’s dive into the best things to do at Disney World in 2025—so you can make the most of your vacation and create unforgettable memories.
Epcot
welcome to a place where the impossible becomes possible. A place that inspires you to look at the world differently. A place that shows how amazing our world can be when we dream together. And a place that inspires you with the magic of possibility. Welcome to Epcot
!Celebracion Encanto!
Experience an interactive and spirited sing-along that celebrates the magic and music of Encanto… and the marvelous Madrigal family… at the CommuniCore plaza stage
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure
Join Chef Remy on a daring 4D culinary caper that will captivate all your senses as you zip and scurry through Gusteau’s famous restaurant in Paris
Journey Of Water, Inspired By Moana
Come stroll along a lush exploration trail where you can interact with water as it journeys from the sky to the oceans and back again. This immersive experience allows you to witness the water cycle firsthand, engaging with educational exhibits and natural landscapes that highlight rain, rivers, evaporation, and ocean currents. Ideal for families and nature enthusiasts, the trail offers a peaceful retreat within Orlando’s busy environment while providing insightful lessons on the importance of water in our ecosystem. Comfortable walking paths and shaded areas make it a perfect way to connect with nature and learn about the critical role water plays in sustaining life.
Luminous The Symphony Of Us
Designed to bring us all together, this nighttime spectacular is a dazzling pageant of fireworks, fountains, music, and lights set to an original composition. Each element is meticulously choreographed to create an immersive experience that resonates with guests of all ages. The fireworks explode in vibrant colors against the night sky, while fountains dance in perfect harmony, synchronized to the uplifting musical score. The lighting design enhances every moment, highlighting architectural features and adding depth to the visual storytelling. This show not only entertains but also evokes a sense of unity and wonder, making it a memorable centerpiece for any Orlando theme park evening.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park offers an unparalleled blend of adventure, wildlife, and immersive storytelling. Here, you can encounter exotic animals from around the globe in carefully crafted habitats that emphasize conservation and education. The park’s standout area, Pandora – The World of Avatar, transports guests to the lush, bioluminescent moon of Pandora, where innovative rides like Avatar Flight of Passage provide a breathtaking experience beyond imagination.
Beyond exploration and discovery, the park features unique entertainment options such as the Festival of the Lion King and the thrilling Expedition Everest roller coaster. Whether you’re admiring the towering Tree of Life or embarking on a safari across the African savannah, Disney’s Animal Kingdom delivers a magical experience that honors the wonders of nature while captivating visitors of all ages.
Expedition Everest-Legend Of The Forbidden Mountain
Race through icy Himalayan peaks on a speeding train and brace yourself for a close encounter with the legendary Yeti
Festival Of The Lion King
Delight in this larger-than-life show filled with songs, pageantry and puppetry celebrating the classic movie, The Lion King
Kilimanjaro Safaris
This safari journey takes you over 110 acres of African-like savanna where you’ll encounter giraffes, elephants, lions, and more. Here no two safaris are the same.
Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… AND BEYOND!
Dive into a spectacular stage show- filled with puppets, singers and other performers-set in the underwater world of Disney and Pixar’s Finding Nemo
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Come experience favorite stories and characters in a place where you, your friends and family all become part of the story itself- At Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Star Wars: Rise Of The Resistance
Join the resistance in an unforgettable battle against the First Order on this exciting attraction. The mission is bound to have unexpected twists and turns, but you’ll have the help of fighters including Rey and BB-8 to give you a fighting chance
New! Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After
Debuting in summer 2025, enter the realm of the Magic Mirror and behold a fiendishly funny and fantastical new stage show that, with your help, will reveal which DIsney villain has been treated the most unfairly of them all
Slinky Dog Dash
Take off on a family-friendly coaster as Slinky Dog’s coils twist around curves, hills, and drops. It’s just part of the fun inside Toy Story Land
New! The Little Mermaid- A Musical Adventure
Also beginning 2025, relive Ariel’s story during this dazzling new theatrical production. Get swept away by moving musical numbers, favorite characters, puppetry, live performances, stunning set pieces, and cutting-edge effects
Magic Kingdom
Welcome to this timeless place full of never-ending enchantment, one-of-a-kind attractions and unforgettable moments. Welcome to Magic Kingdom Park-where storybook fantasy becomes everyday reality.
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
The bayou meets Disney magic on this thrilling, can’t-miss attraction. So drop on in for a good time with Princess Tiana and a jazz-loving alligator Louis as they embark on a musical adventure that leads to a spirited Mardi Gras celebration
Dumbo The Flying Elephant
Board this classic attraction that lets you soar high in the sky and see lots of elephants fly! With the help of Timothy Q. Mouse and his “magic” feather, of course.
Tron Lightcycle Run
Climb aboard your very own Lightcycle and take off on a high-speed adventure across the Grid-a dark, computerized world with no horizons. Here, there’s no limit to the excitement
Happily Ever After
Go on a dazzling journey of color, light, and song that captures the heart, humor and heroism of beloved Disney stories during this astounding nighttime fireworks extravaganza featuring lights, lasers, and special effects.
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon
Escape to this tropical paradise born from a fabled storm that left everything from fun-filled flumes and a lazy river to a kid’s area and one huge wave pool in its wake!
Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool
Enjoy an epic body surf experience as you’re propelled to shore in North America’s largest wave pool. With a continuous set of swells, you’re sure to catch a gnarly one!
Crush ‘N’ Gusher
Enter an abandoned fruit-processing plant and prepare for a thrilling water coaster ride through a 400-foot-long “fruit chute.” Hang on as your raft takes you on uphill climbs, down sudden drops, around sharp turns and beyond.
Miss Adventure Falls
Gather your crew and climb aboard this thrilling whitewater adventure. Feel the rush of excitement with family and friends as you rush down the whitewater, discover hidden jewels and have a whole lot of fun.
Ketchakiddee Creek
This fun area features mini waterslides, crawl tubes, waterfalls and even a leaky tugboat with a water cannon.
Disney’s Blizzard Beach
This melted ski resort doubles as a water wonderland of some of the fastest, largest downhill thrills under the sun-with lots of fun for grown-ups and kids alike!
Tikes Peak
in this Frozen-themed area, little ones get to have big fun on mini snow-banked slides, side-by-side downhill slides, a junior inner tube ride and snow chutes. They can even see Frozen friends like Olaf, his snowgie pals and more!
Summit Plummet
Plunge 12 stories down this body slide that sends you rocketing through a darkened tunnel and into a spray of whitewater after a 360-foot-long descent.
Cross Country Creek
Kick back and chill out as you float on an inner tube down this lazy river that encircles the entire Water Park. Mysterious caves and illuminated grottoes included.
Teamboat Springs
Prepare to be propelled through 1,200 feet of twists and turns on this superlong,superwide whitewater raft ride.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
Orlando Travel Guides
▸ History of Disney World Offers
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Dates, Tickets & What’s New
Planning to visit Disney World for the holidays? Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party—dates, tickets, returning favorites, and festive surprises.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a seasonal, ticketed event held at Magic Kingdom in Walt Disney World Resort. It typically runs on select nights during November and December, offering guests a festive, holiday-themed experience featuring exclusive entertainment, character meet-and-greets, and themed attractions.
The event includes highlights such as a special holiday parade, enchanting fireworks show, live stage performances, and opportunities to meet Disney characters dressed in their holiday attire. Complimentary snacks like cookies and hot cocoa are also provided throughout the park. Additionally, many popular attractions remain open with shorter wait times, contributing to a more enjoyable visit.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party provides a unique way to celebrate the holiday season at Disney, combining festive decorations and entertainment with the charm of Magic Kingdom. Tickets are sold separately from regular park admission, and attendance is limited, making it a popular and memorable experience for holiday visitors.
Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dates
The 2025 Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party dates will run on select nights from Friday, November 7 to Sunday, December 21. They are:
Nov. 7, 10, 11, 13, 14, 16, 18, 20, 21, 25, 26, 28, 30
Dec. 2, 4, 5, 7, 9, 11, 12, 14, 16, 18, 19, 21
Reminder: Guests can begin their holiday cheer early! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party guests can enter the park as early as 4:00 p.m. Even though the party officially starts at 7:00 p.m., guests have the option to arrive three hours earlier to kickstart their time in Magic Kingdom.
Mark your calendar: tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party will go on sale July 16, 2025 for guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, and Shades of Green. Tickets for all other guests will be available beginning July 22, 2025.
Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members can take advantage of special pricing. Tickets can be purchased online or by calling the Disney Reservation Center.
Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade
Experience the magic of the holidays with Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade, a festive celebration that captures the true spirit of Christmas. This enchanting parade features lively performances from dancing gingerbread men, elegant ballroom dancers, and iconic marching toy soldiers, all set to cheerful holiday music and delightful seasonal scents that instantly bring the holiday spirit to life.
Join beloved Disney characters in their holiday finery as they parade through the park, culminating in a special appearance by Santa Claus spreading Christmas cheer and New Year wishes to all.
With the parade route extending from Frontierland to Main Street, U.S.A., guests can enjoy multiple prime viewing spots throughout the park for an unforgettable holiday experience.
Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks
This is a magical nighttime show hosted by Minnie Mouse that brings the holiday spirit to life at Magic Kingdom. This dazzling spectacle features classic holiday songs like “Deck the Halls” and “We Wish You a Merry Christmas,” perfectly synchronized with impressive pyrotechnics, castle projections, and lighting effects.
Cinderella Castle transforms into a giant holiday gift, wrapped in colorful, festive scenes that complement the music and fireworks overhead. Ideal viewing spots include the central hub in front of the castle, where guests can see the intricate projections, as well as Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland, all offering fantastic vantage points.
For a premium experience, visitors can reserve a spot at the Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party held at Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant. This separately ticketed event provides an array of delicious holiday treats and spectacular views of the fireworks show. Reservation details will be announced soon, so keep an eye out to secure your place for this unforgettable holiday celebration.
Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration
During this energetic performance on the Cinderella Castle stage, Disney Characters bring the holiday spirit to life, reminding guests why it’s the happiest season of all. The show features a lively medley of joyful tunes that have audiences tapping their feet and singing along. Beloved characters like Clarabelle Cow, Daisy Duck, and Woody join the live performers, adding charm and excitement to the festive atmosphere. This celebration perfectly captures the magic of the season, making it a must-see experience for visitors of all ages at Walt Disney World.
Frozen Holiday Surprise & Dance Parties in the Park
Experience the magic of the season as Cinderella Castle transforms into a breathtaking frozen wonderland during the Frozen Holiday Surprise. Join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the adorable snowgies for a sparkling celebration filled with enchanting moments and holiday cheer.
Keep the festive spirit alive with multiple dance parties throughout the park. Show off your best jingle bell rock moves at Club Tinsel, located at Rocket Tower Plaza Stage in Tomorrowland, or join the fun at the Disney Junior Jingle Jam inside Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café, also in Tomorrowland. These lively dance parties feature some of your favorite holiday friends, making every step a celebration this season.
Meet Santa at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
It’s the perfect time to meet Santa at Santa’s Christmas Carnival! Get your holiday wish list ready and head on over to Storybook Circus to visit your favorite friend from the North Pole.
Located near Dumbo the Flying Elephant and The Barnstormer, this festive holiday stop is ideal for young families. Along with a special meet-and-greet with Santa, guests can enjoy holiday-themed crafts and interact with other characters brimming with Christmas cheer. Don’t miss this magical opportunity to create lasting memories during your Orlando vacation.
Rides Available at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Adventureland
Pirates of the Caribbean: Dive into a classic dark water ride featuring swashbuckling pirates, immersive scenes, and catchy tunes.
The Magic Carpets of Aladdin: Soar above Adventureland on a magic carpet with fun, gentle spins and fantastic views.
Frontierland
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure: Experience the magic of New Orleans and the bayou with this enchanting adventure inspired by The Princess and the Frog.
Liberty Square
Haunted Mansion: Explore this eerie but family-friendly haunted house filled with "999 happy haunts" and spooky surprises.
Fantasyland
Under the Sea – Journey of The Little Mermaid: Sing along to classic songs on this dark ride retelling Ariel’s underwater tale.
Seven Dwarfs Mine Train: A family-friendly roller coaster through the diamond mine with smooth twists and animatronic dwarfs.
Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: A beautifully crafted carousel featuring horses and chariots in a fairy-tale setting.
“it’s a small world”: A gentle boat ride with dolls and music celebrating children and cultures worldwide.
Peter Pan’s Flight: Fly over London and Neverland in this beloved dark ride adventure.
The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Join Pooh and friends in a whimsical journey through the Hundred Acre Wood.
Mad Tea Party: Spin around in oversized teacups in this whimsical, dizzying attraction.
Storybook Circus
Dumbo the Flying Elephant: Take flight with Dumbo in a classic spinning ride that delights guests of all ages.
The Barnstormer: A mild roller coaster perfect for younger guests featuring Goofy as a stunt pilot.
Tomorrowland
Astro Orbiter: Blast off in a rocket spinner ride high above Tomorrowland.
Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor: Enjoy a comedic, interactive show starring Mike and Sulley.
Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: Relax on a slow-moving elevated tram providing a scenic tour of Tomorrowland.
TRON Lightcycle / Run presented by Enterprise: Experience a high-speed motorcycle coaster racing inside the digital world of TRON with thrilling launches and sharp turns.
More to Unwrap: Sweet Treats and Festive Merch
The magical offerings don’t stop there. Once again, a variety of cookies, hot cocoa, and more will be handed out to guests at select locations throughout Magic Kingdom. These sweets are included in the cost of a ticket and are the perfect holiday treat as guests take in the seasonal sights. Locations for these sweet treats will be listed on the holiday party maps found at the front entrance of Magic Kingdom.
Guests can also:
Twirl to classic holiday tunes under a winter “snowfall” on Main Street, U.S.A.
Make their treats list and check it twice, because we’ll be sharing a Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Foodie Guide from Disney Eats soon.
Find exclusive party merch at the Emporium to make their holiday season even brighter.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
Search articles
Recent Articles
Orlando Travel Guides
▸ History of Disney World Offers
See what I’m up to in the theme parks.
Plan a smooth visit to Universal Orlando with this helpful accessibility guide for guests using wheelchairs and mobility devices. Learn how ride transfer requirements work, what to expect in queues, and how to navigate the parks confidently in 2025.