Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Vacation Package and Disney World Tickets
Easy vacation packages for Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort at Walt Disney World
Disney’s Caribbean Beach is a moderate-category hotel that offers gondola service to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is one of the most popular hotels at Disney World because many of the rooms can sleep up to 5 and it’s close to 2 theme parks. Caribbean Beach is often the first hotel to sell out when a room discount or offer becomes available. This resort is made up of 5 individual, 2-story buildings. Each of the buildings surrounds a lake known as Barefoot Bay.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Club Resort Vacation Package
What’s included
Accommodations at Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney World theme park tickets
Early park admission
Lightning Lane advance purchase
Disney Water Theme Park admission on check-in day
Expert planning tips from me so you have more fun
Price-monitoring (you’ll always get the best offer)
Disney Resort transportation
Standard parking at Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Disney Springs
Overnight self-parking at hotel
Taxes
What makes Disney’s Caribbean Beach great
Closest Moderate Category hotel to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
Home to the Skyliner hub
Some rooms can sleep 5 guests with a child-size fold-down bed
The resort recently underwent major refurbishment
Multiple dining options on site
An overhead gondola system called Disney Skyliner provides transportation to both theme parks. Skyliner is not only is it efficient, but it’s also fun!
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Rooms at Caribbean Beach are accessed via exterior corridors.
Rooms at the end of most corridors have an additional side window that allows for more natural light, these are known as, “corner rooms.
There are no elevators at Caribbean Beach Resort, so if stairs are an issue, you should make a request for a ground-floor room above all else.
Heat and air conditioning come from a built-in unit under the window.
Rooms can accommodate up to 4-5 people. Those that can sleep 5 are known as 5th sleeper rooms. They come with a child-size fold-down bed that is ideal for a child up to age 9.
Room Categories at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Standard View - views of parking areas or landscaping. 2 queen beds.
Standard View 5th Sleeper - views of parking areas or landscaping. 2 queen beds + 1 child-size pull-down bed.
Water or Pool View - views of the lake or a pool. 2 queen beds
Water or Pool View 5th Sleeper- views of the lake or pool. 2 queen beds + 1 child-size pull-down bed.
Preferred Rooms - close to Old Port Royale. Views of lake, pool, landscaping, or parking area. 2 queen beds or 2 queen beds + 1 child-size pull-down bed.
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ATM
Bell services
Self-service laundry
Gift shop
24 hour security
Free internet
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CASUAL TABLE-SERVICE DINING
Sebastian’s Bistro – salads, sandwiches, burgers steak, and seafood entrées.
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
Spyglass Grill – featuring American fare with a Caribbean twist for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Centertown Market – Fast-casual restaurant with an indoor street market vibe and flavorful Latin- and Caribbean-inspired breakfast and dinner menus.
Centertown Market Grab & Go – A convenient market for fast meals on the go—from salads, sandwiches, and snacks to bakery items, specialty coffee, smoothies, and a variety of bottled beverages.
OTHER DINING OPTIONS
Banana Cabana – Walk-up bar that offers tropical sips and quick bites. Island Markets – Snack stations in select villages throughout the resort.
Pizza delivery service
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Caribbean Beach has multiple bus stops around the resort to minimize walking, but stopping at each takes time.
Disney Skyliner will take you to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
If you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend Caribbean Beach.
Approximate travel times to Disney World theme parks once underway:
Magic Kingdom 10 minutes
Epcot: 20 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 5 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 9 minutes
Disney Springs: 8 minutes
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Fuentes del Morro Pool – Spanish fortress-themed pool with two waterslides and whirlpools
5 Leisure Pools
Caribbean Beach Campfire Activities
Disney Movies Under the Stars
Volleyball Jogging Trail Playground
Each village has a smaller pool nearby for convenience. They each have their own bus depot as well so it’s not necessary to walk to Old Port Royale.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort address:
1114 Cayman Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
If you have any questions about this resort or about Disney Skyliner, use the comments section below, or contact me here.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
Riding the Brightline Train from Orlando: A Complete Guide for Florida Travelers
Discover what it’s like to ride Brightline from Orlando to Aventura. From Premium Lounges to high-speed comfort, this is Florida travel reimagined. Watch my full journey on YouTube!
A New Way to Travel in Florida
If you’re planning a Florida vacation, you’ve probably already thought about flights, rental cars, and even driving yourself around the state. But what if I told you there’s a high-speed train that makes travel between Orlando and South Florida not only easier—but way more enjoyable?
A northbound Brightline train arrives at Aventura for an afternoon run to Orlando.
That’s exactly what Brightline offers. This sleek, modern train service connects Orlando with cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Aventura, reaching speeds up to 125 mph. For family vacationers, Orlando travelers, and anyone who loves theme parks and cruises, Brightline is quickly becoming one of the best ways to get around Florida.
I recently took the Brightline from Orlando to Aventura, and I filmed the entire experience so you can see exactly what it’s like. Spoiler alert: it feels less like a train ride and more like flying business class on the ground. You can watch my full journey here 👇
👉 Watch the full Brightline Orlando to Aventura experience on YouTube
🏟️ Starting at the Brightline Orlando Station
My trip began at the brand-new Brightline Orlando Station, located at Orlando International Airport. If you’re flying into Orlando for a Disney World or Universal Orlando vacation, this is incredibly convenient—you can land, grab your luggage, and head straight for the train without ever stepping outside.
The station itself feels more like an airport terminal than a train station. It’s spacious, modern, and built with travelers in mind. There’s plenty of seating, a check-in process that’s smooth and easy, and if you’ve booked Premium Class, you’ll have access to the Premium Lounge, which is a game-changer.
🍷 Inside the Brightline Premium Lounge
Brightline has two ticket options: Smart Class (their standard option) and Premium Class, which offers a more elevated travel experience. Since I wanted to see what all the hype was about, I opted for Premium.
Breakfast offerings at the Premium Lounge at the Brightline Orlando Train Station
The Premium Lounge in Orlando was impressive. Comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks (yes, even wine and beer), and a quiet place to relax before boarding. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also a lifesaver because it gives everyone space to decompress before hopping on the train.
This lounge alone already had me feeling like I was about to fly, not take a train.
đźš„ All Aboard: The Brightline Train Experience
When it was time to board, the process was simple. Premium passengers board first, and the staff made everything easy. Walking into the Premium car, the first thing I noticed was how spacious and comfortable the seating was compared to what you might expect from a traditional train.
Seats: Wide, cushioned, and designed for comfort
Legroom: Plenty of space, even if you’re tall
Service: Complimentary drinks and snacks brought right to your seat
Wi-Fi and Outlets: Perfect for staying connected or charging devices
Brightline markets itself as a “different kind of train experience,” and they’re not kidding. Traveling at 125 mph while sipping a complimentary drink and stretching out in a comfy seat felt worlds away from the cramped flights and long car rides I’ve taken in Florida before.
đź“Ť Arriving at Aventura Station
After a smooth ride, I arrived at Aventura Station, which is another beautifully designed stop along Brightline’s route. The station sits conveniently near Aventura Mall, one of the largest malls in Florida, and it’s a great jumping-off point if you’re planning to continue into Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
Aventura Station | Brightline
For my trip, I explored some of the local attractions around Aventura, including food spots and shopping. This is one of the perks of Brightline—it doesn’t just drop you off in a random spot; stations are strategically placed near major hubs.
👨‍👩‍👧 Why Brightline is Perfect for Orlando Family Vacations
If you’re visiting Orlando for Disney World, Universal Orlando, or even a cruise out of Port Canaveral, Brightline adds a new option for extending your trip. Here’s why I think it’s perfect for families and vacationers:
No Rental Cars Needed – Skip the hassle of driving on I-95.
Stress-Free Travel – No long TSA lines like the airport.
Comfort for Kids – Spacious seating, Wi-Fi, and the ability to move around.
Easy Connections – Arrive in Orlando, hop on Brightline, and head straight to South Florida.
It’s also worth mentioning that for grandparents or extended family joining you in Florida, this is a safe and easy way for them to travel, too.
🎥 See the Full Journey on YouTube
I can tell you all about Brightline, but the truth is—you really need to see it to believe it. From the station in Orlando to the Premium Lounge, to the 125-mph ride itself, I captured it all in my video.
👉 Watch the full Brightline Orlando to Aventura experience on YouTube
If you’re planning a Florida trip, whether for theme parks, a cruise, or just to explore, Brightline might be the most enjoyable way to get around. I know I’ll be taking it again.
đź“ť Final Thoughts
Brightline is more than just a train. It’s a new way to experience Florida travel that’s faster, more comfortable, and, honestly, a lot more fun than I expected. For Orlando travelers, family vacationers, or anyone curious about theme park getaways, Brightline is a fantastic addition to your trip.
And if you want the full behind-the-scenes look, don’t miss my video—it’s packed with footage from every step of the journey.
👉 Click here to watch on YouTube
#BrightlineTrain #OrlandoTravel #FloridaVacation #FamilyTravel #TrainLife #LuxuryTravel #VisitFlorida #BrightlinePremium
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Search for more information on my blog.
Recent Articles
Ready to keep exploring? Dive into more adventures from Orlando theme parks and cruises:
â–¸ Disney World
â–¸ Royal Caribbean
The Dark Side of Disney World: Exploring Abandoned Places
Disney World is filled with magic, but hidden in plain sight are abandoned attractions, forgotten rides, and shuttered experiences. From Epcot’s old airport to the Star Wars hotel, these lost corners tell a haunting story. Join me as I explore the abandoned side of Disney World in my latest video.
The Forgotten Side of Disney World: Exploring Abandoned Places
When most people think of Walt Disney World, they picture dazzling fireworks, world-class rides, and magical family memories. But Disney World also has a hidden side—one that tells a quieter, more somber story. Scattered across the parks and resorts are abandoned attractions, shuttered buildings, and forgotten experiences that once entertained millions of guests but now sit in silence.
For those interested in abandoned exploration or Disney’s complex history, these places are haunting reminders of how quickly things can change in the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
In my latest video, I take you deep into the abandoned corners of Disney World, uncovering long-forgotten experiences that many fans never even knew existed. You can watch it here: â–¶ Watch the full video.
But let’s also explore some of Disney World’s most fascinating abandoned places—why they mattered, why they disappeared, and what still remains.
Magic Kingdom’s Forgotten Corners
Tomorrowland Skyway Station
Before the Disney Skyliner soared above Epcot and the resorts, Magic Kingdom had its very own gondola ride. The Skyway connected Tomorrowland to Fantasyland, offering guests a breezy bird’s-eye view of the park.
The Fantasyland station was demolished in 2011 to make way for the Tangled restrooms, but the Tomorrowland station still lingers—transformed into an unassuming bathroom. Look closely, though, and you can still see remnants of its past. For longtime fans, it’s eerie to think of gondolas once gliding where guests now rush in and out of restrooms.
Stitch’s Great Escape
One of Magic Kingdom’s most controversial attractions, Stitch’s Great Escape opened in 2004 as a family-friendly replacement for the terrifying Alien Encounter. Instead of a menacing alien, guests were strapped into seats while Stitch escaped, wreaking havoc in the theater—including his infamous “chili dog burp.”
But the attraction never really clicked. It shifted into seasonal operation, then quietly closed in 2018, with Disney confirming its fate two years later. Today, the building sits shuttered, occasionally used for special events. It’s a rare sight in Magic Kingdom: a large, circular shell of a building, abandoned in plain view.
Epcot’s Abandoned Experiences
Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure
Long before guests wielded interactive wands in the Wizarding World at Universal, Epcot had its own scavenger hunt: Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure. Armed with a phone-like device, guests followed Phineas and Ferb’s pet platypus Perry on secret missions around the World Showcase.
For a while, it was a fun way to engage kids in Epcot’s otherwise adult-leaning atmosphere. But by 2020, it quietly closed, with plans to replace it with a DuckTales-themed version that has yet to really take off. Today, the once-busy kiosks are silent, another interactive experiment that faded into memory.
Disney’s STOLport Airport
Believe it or not, Disney World once had its very own airport. Located just off World Drive, the STOLport (short for Short Take-Off and Landing) opened in the early 1970s to fly guests directly onto Disney property.
The service never caught on—few wanted to ride in small commuter planes—and by the late ’70s, it was abandoned. The runway still exists today, fenced off and overgrown. If you ride the Epcot monorail, you can still glimpse it. It’s eerie to see such an ambitious project reduced to nothing more than cracked pavement in the Florida sun.
Disney’s BoardWalk and Lost Nightlife
Jellyrolls Piano Bar
For nearly 30 years, Jellyrolls was the heart of Disney’s nightlife. A dueling piano bar at Disney’s BoardWalk, it attracted conventioneers, Epcot fans, and night owls who weren’t ready to call it quits after the parks closed.
But in 2025, Disney shut the doors for good, with vague talk of “reimagining” the BoardWalk. As of now, no plans have been revealed. The building remains dark, a quiet monument to a time when Disney after-hours felt alive.
Hollywood Studios: Lost in the Backlot
The Backlot Tour
Once the signature attraction of Disney-MGM Studios, the Backlot Tour was a sprawling tram ride through sets, wardrobe departments, and the legendary Catastrophe Canyon. Guests experienced Hollywood “behind the scenes”—with explosions, floods, and fireballs.
But over time, the tour shrank, pieces closed, and the attraction was reduced to little more than a shadow of its former self. In 2014, it closed permanently, making room for Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge.
Yet the past lingers. If you know where to look, you can still find remnants of the old tram load area tucked behind Star Wars Launch Bay. For Disney fans, it’s like walking through a ghost town hidden in plain sight.
Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple
From 2006 to 2020, Jedi Training gave kids the chance to duel Darth Vader on stage. Lightsabers clashed, robes flowed, and for many children it was the highlight of their Disney trip.
But when the parks closed in 2020, Jedi Training never returned. The stage signage was quietly removed, and today the old performance space is used for stroller parking. It’s a reminder that even beloved experiences can vanish overnight.
Resorts and Recreation That Disappeared
Polynesian Village Boat Rentals
Once, guests at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort could rent sailboats, pontoons, and sleek little speedboats that zipped across the Seven Seas Lagoon. It was pure 1970s vacation magic.
But one by one, the rentals disappeared. Disney never made an official announcement; they simply faded away. After a tragic alligator incident near the Grand Floridian in 2016, boating activities diminished further, leaving the marina little more than a docking space for service boats and fireworks cruises.
Today, the dock is picturesque but empty, the laughter of families on the water replaced by silence.
Disney’s Biggest Blunder: Galactic Starcruiser
The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was perhaps Disney’s most ambitious project—a two-night fully immersive Star Wars hotel experience. Guests boarded the Halcyon starcruiser, trained with lightsabers, and lived out their own Star Wars stories.
But with costs soaring to $2,500 per person, the experience was too expensive for most families. Despite strong reviews, demand dried up. After just 18 months, the Halcyon closed in 2023.
Today, the $350 million building sits empty, hidden behind trees, with no clear future. It’s Disney’s most recent reminder that not every experiment lasts forever.
Why Abandoned Disney World Matters
To most visitors, Disney World feels timeless. But these abandoned spaces prove otherwise. Attractions disappear. Restaurants close. Even massive projects like the Starcruiser can fade into history.
For fans of abandoned exploration, these hidden corners are haunting. They’re not just empty buildings—they’re echoes of dreams, risks, and stories that once filled the parks with life.
If you want to see more of these places up close, don’t miss my latest video: ▶ Watch on YouTube.
Like abandoned Disney World content? Check my other videos:
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Search for more information on my blog.
Recent Articles
Ready to keep exploring? Dive into more adventures from Orlando theme parks and cruises:
â–¸ Disney World
â–¸ Royal Caribbean
Top 10 Magical Places to Take Family Photos at Disney World
My Top 10 Secret spots to take great photos at Walt Disney World!
Everyone wants to capture that perfect Disney World moment or an Instagram-worthy scene, but it’s not easy coming up with something unique. Lighting, crowds, and background clutter—they all make a difference.
I share all 10 of my secret photo spots at Walt Disney World in my YouTube Video but here’s a quick list you can use if you’re visiting the parks. I’ll sort this list by park to make it easy. You can bookmark this page on your phone and take it with you:
Animal Kingdom
Expedition Everest from Flame Tree Barbecue
Expedition Everest is one of Animal Kingdom’s most iconic backdrops, and while the bridge and queue offer good shots, my favorite photo spot is the outdoor seating area behind Flame Tree Barbecue. Here, the mountain reflects perfectly in the lagoon below, offering one of the most picturesque and symmetrical views in the park.
It’s surprisingly peaceful here, especially in the morning when the restaurant hasn’t filled up yet. The mountain, sky, and water combine for a beautifully layered composition.
But the best time to visit is in late afternoon, when the sun is making everything look golden. Avoid peak dining hours, as the area gets more crowded, which can make it harder to maneuver around to get the best angle. If you're using a phone, switch to wide-angle mode or step back and zoom out to get the entire mountain in the frame. Make sure to include the reflection—it adds symmetry and interest to your shot.
Watch my YouTube video where I show you all the best photo locations in detail:
Tree of Life on Discovery Island Trail and Upcountry Landing
One of the most overlooked yet incredible photo locations in all of Animal Kingdom is along the Discovery Island Trail near the base of the Tree of Life. Most guests snap their Tree of Life photos from the bridge leading into the park or the central hub—but if you take the path that winds around the tree’s roots, you’ll find yourself face-to-face with its intricate carvings and textured bark. The walkway is shaded and quiet, with far fewer people than the main walkways, giving you the freedom to compose a family shot without distractions in the background. Even on the busiest days, there’s usually no one down here.
This is the best place to appreciate the full detail of the Tree of Life. The trail winds close to the tree itself, and depending on your angle, you can position your family in front of carvings of animals. It’s a completely different view than what most people see and makes for a more personal, intimate photo.
Another excellent location is Upcountry Landing, on the trail between Africa and Asia - just across from the Feathered Friends in Flight show. From this dock, you get a wider view of the Tree of Life with the river in the foreground. It’s especially striking in the morning or just before sunset, when the warm light hits the tree’s carved details and the water reflects the image beautifully.
Both of these spots provide not just quieter environments for photography, but angles that bring out the artistry of Animal Kingdom’s centerpiece. These areas might require a little exploring—but the payoff is a one-of-a-kind family photo you won’t get anywhere else.
EPCOT
Morocco Pavilion and the Fez House
The Morocco Pavilion is one of EPCOT’s most detailed and immersive environments, and it offers some of the most unique photo opportunities in all of World Showcase. What makes this pavilion stand out is the level of theming—it's filled with intricate architecture, authentic tile work, and winding pathways that transport you to another place entirely. Whether you're visiting during the day or at night, this pavilion delivers stunning backdrops for family photos.
One hidden gem within the pavilion is the Fez House, located just to the left as you enter deeper into the pavilion. It’s easy to miss, but step through the archway and you'll find yourself in a peaceful, tiled room with a gorgeous central fountain. The vibrant mosaics and arched entryways provide a richly textured setting that feels worlds away from the rest of the park.
This area is shaded and often very quiet, which makes it perfect for portraits and group photos without a lot of foot traffic. The natural lighting from the open-air ceiling softly illuminates the space, highlighting the detailed tile work and providing a warm glow.
Outside the Fez House, the pavilion's narrow alleys and courtyards are full of visual interest—from lanterns and carved wooden doors to decorative pottery and colorful textiles. These winding paths are fun to explore and ideal for capturing candid moments. At night, the area takes on a romantic, softly lit atmosphere with glowing lanterns and warm tones that make evening photos just as magical.
Whether you’re posing in front of the ornate archways or simply strolling the side streets with your family, Morocco is a pavilion that turns every corner into a beautiful photo backdrop. Don’t rush through it—take the time to explore and you’ll find countless opportunities for memorable shots.
Japan Pavilion Second Floor by Teppan Edo
For an elevated perspective at EPCOT, I always head to the second floor of the Japan Pavilion. Up the stairs near Mitsukoshi, right outside Teppan Edo and Tokyo Dining, there’s a terrace that offers a stunning view over the World Showcase Lagoon.
From here, you can line up Spaceship Earth directly in the background. That is a great shot and not too many people make the trek upstairs to get it. The combination of traditional Japanese architectural elements like the bright red Tori Gate, in the foreground and EPCOT’s futuristic sphere in the distance gives your photo a unique contrast.
But I want to draw your attention to something even better. Instead of facing the lagoon from up here, turn the other way toward the white Japanese castle instead. It’s modeled after the White Egret Castle in Japan.
You can take photos anytime here but Sunset is the ideal time to visit this location. Just as the sun sets, and the lights come on, but before the sky is completely dark. And you can catch Spaceship Earth lit up during this time, reflecting the light beautifully in the distance.
While in Japan pavilion, try experimenting with elements like lanterns or water features in your photo. This terrace provides a unique view with minimal foot traffic.
Spaceship Earth from Inside Journey of Water
Journey of Water has quickly become one of my favorite new additions to EPCOT—and not just for the attraction itself. As you move through the exhibit, several openings reveal fantastic framed views of Spaceship Earth through the mist and greenery.
These natural frames—waterfalls, archways, and foliage—add depth to the photo and help isolate Spaceship Earth in a way that feels both modern and organic. It’s an ideal location for a unique EPCOT family shot that doesn’t look like the typical entrance photo. But there is one problem here - it’s going to be difficult to get this shot without other people in them.
So I recommend coming back at night when both Journey of Water and Spaceship earth are lit up. And this attraction is usually less crowded at night, so it’s a great time to explore it anyway.
And if you want a great shot of Spaceship Earth without others int he background, there’s a secret spot I found. You’ll find it on the walkway that passes between Spaceship Earth and Journey of Water. It’s a little service area that everyone walks by. But you’ll get a very unique photo of the geodesic sphere framed with a beautiful mix of EPCOT’s natural and futuristic theming – a moment worth capturing for sure.
China Pavilion Gardens
The China Pavilion in EPCOT’s World Showcase offers one of the most tranquil and visually stunning backdrops for family photos—especially when you head into the side gardens rather than staying in the main thoroughfare. Tucked away from the crowds, the gardens feature winding paths, ornate bridges, koi ponds, and traditional Chinese architecture that combine to create a peaceful and photogenic setting.
One of the best angles is near the moon gate or across the small pond, where the reflections of the red pagoda and rock formations add visual interest. The side gardens are especially beautiful during the golden hour, when the sun casts warm light across the lanterns and tiled rooftops. This soft lighting flatters skin tones and adds natural vibrance to your shots.
What I like most about this spot is the serenity. It’s often overlooked, which means fewer people walking through your frame and more time to set up your shot. It’s a peaceful oasis that captures both the beauty of the World Showcase and the personal joy of your trip—and one of recommended spots for a photo that feels authentically Disney without being overly obvious.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Sunset Boulevard Near Tower of Terror (Hollywood Studios)
Tower of Terror might be the most dramatic icon in any Disney park, and you’ll find one of the best photo locations just outside the Beverly Sunset Boutique, facing down Sunset Boulevard. From this spot, you can capture the towering hotel framed by palm trees and vintage streetlamps, giving your photo both scale and atmosphere. And while this is a great photo, it’s been done.
But I have a few great photo spots that few people know about. The first, head to the courtyard by Rock n Roller Coaster - specifically over by the exit to the ride. There, you’ll catch Tower of Terror rising out of the tree line and you may even catch the elevator doors open if you time it right. Now it might be harder to take a family photo here, this is more about just taking a great picture of the tower itself. Dusk or Nightime would be best for this shot while the tower is lit up. I would use Sunset Boulevard for the family photo and this location for a great photo of the tower.
Another unique spot is the in the courtyard just as you exit Tower of Terror. Turn around and look up, you’ll see a new side of Tower, that most people never notice. I mean who would think to stop and look up here? But for those who do, you get a unique photo.
YOu can also get some great photos of Tower of Terror right from the outside queue area. You’ll capture just how tall it is from here, and you’ll get a great mix of natural elements like plants and trees with the tower rising up out of them.
In the late afternoon or even at dusk, the lighting turns golden, casting a beautiful glow across the façade and down the boulevard. It’s a cinematic look that matches the attraction’s Hollywood theme perfectly. If you're lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the elevator doors opening at the top, adding a dynamic touch to your shot.
Avoid midday when the area is brightest unless you’re shooting during a cloudy day. The moody skies just add to the Hollywood horror vibe.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and the Millennium Falcon at Night (Hollywood Studios)
For one of the most awe-inspiring and cinematic backdrops in all of Walt Disney World, head to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge after sunset. The Millennium Falcon, parked in front of Ohnaka Transport Solutions, becomes even more impressive at night. With its glowing lights, steam effects, and ambient sounds, it feels like stepping into a movie—and your photos will show it.
What makes this photo spot special is how immersive the setting becomes once the sun goes down. The lighting highlights every detail on the Falcon, from its weathered panels to the blinking lights on its engines. Position your family in the center of the courtyard just in front of the ship, keeping some distance so you can capture the entire starship in frame. You’ll want to take a wide-angle shot here if possible.
Even though Galaxy’s Edge gets crowded, nighttime tends to thin out the traffic a bit. Wait a few minutes between groups to grab a shot with fewer people. Night mode on phones works well here, or you can stabilize your camera on a trash can or bench to keep things sharp.
This is also one of the few spots where candid photos work just as well as posed ones. Let your family interact naturally—pretend to inspect the ship, talk to a cast member, or look up at the spires around Black Spire Outpost. You’ll come away with images that feel less like theme park photos and more like a real Star Wars adventure.
Magic Kingdom
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure from the Adventureland Side (Magic Kingdom)
Tiana’s Bayou Adventure is the latest attraction at Magic Kingdom, and it brings a refreshing change to the park’s landscape. Most guests crowd around the front entrance, but one of my favorite angles is from the Adventureland side. As you walk from the Jungle Cruise or Magic Carpets of Aladdin toward Frontierland, you’ll find a spot where Tiana’s Foods water tower peeks above the trees.
This view is cleaner, less crowded, and includes beautiful foliage that naturally frames the scene. Depending on the time of day, you might even catch a log flume coming down the drop. What I love about this angle is that it feels like a true discovery, not something everyone else is capturing.
If you visit in the morning, you’ll benefit from warm, golden lighting that filters through the trees. This not only adds a natural glow to your photo but also softens shadows on faces, making it perfect for portraits. Experiment with portrait mode on your phone to create a slight blur effect in the background—this draws the eye toward your family. For the best composition, try shooting from a lower angle so you can include more of the sky and the upper portion of the attraction, giving your photo more visual depth.
Main Street USA with Cinderella Castle (Magic Kingdom)
It doesn’t get more iconic than a family photo on Main Street USA with Cinderella Castle in the background. But instead of stopping right in the middle of the street like everyone else, I recommend finding one of the quieter alcoves—like the sides of the Castle. There are quite a few unique ways to shoot the castle, without having a ton of people in them.
The first is on the Tomorrowland Bridge, just off the hub. If you’re here in the morning, the sun will be rising behind you if you’re facing the castle. This also a great spot after the sun goes down.
Second, try the other side over by the entrance to Liberty Sqaure, right next to Sleepy Hollow.
You can try both locations during the day and at night. You’ll need to work around the rising or setting sun here.
If you really want to try something different, go to the front of the castle and look for the castle archways. Take a lower position, maybe crouch down and angle your camera up. You’ll get the arch in the foreground with the castle behind it, creating a very dramatic and unique shot and hopefully not to many people in it.
These spots give you fewer crowds and an off-center view of the castle that feels more unique. Early morning rope drop or the last hour before park close are your best bets for clean shots.
And if you want that Main Street Shot, You can even ask a PhotoPass photographer to use your own camera for free. Ask them to shoot from a low angle to get the full castle and sky behind you—just be clear about the framing you want. Although they are pretty about coming up with ideas of their own as well. You may also want to have them take a few with their camera. This is the quintessential Disney photo, so it might be worth it to purchase a one or two here.
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.
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