Walt Disney World is so big it’s almost impossible to take it all in with a single visit. That’s why we’re kicking off a new series of articles which will showcase some of the lesser-known elements of the resort, beyond the major attractions, which are worth taking the time to explore.
We’ll start with five highlights that we think deserve a place on your itinerary. Why not check them out on your next Walt Disney World vacation?
1. Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Pineapple Lanai is the newest addition at the Polynesian. This small stand is located out back near where the pool renovations are currently taking place.
If you’re a fan of the iconic Dole Whip treat, this is one stop you don’t want to miss. The menu features a Dole Whip soft serve, Dole Whip soft serve swirl (with pineapple and vanilla), and a pineapple float. The soft serve is available in a souvenir tiki bowl and the float is available in a souvenir tiki sipper if you want something special to take home when the treat is gone.
2. Disney Centerpiece at Downtown Disney
This Downtown Disney store is located in the new Marketplace Co-Op building. If you enjoy Disney décor with a classic flair, this store is a must-see stop. It features iconic attractions on trendy home décor pieces such as dinnerware, blankets, and throw pillows.
Whether you want to add the eerie air of the Haunted Mansion to your home, or go for the tropical thrill of tiki décor, you’ll find all the pieces you need right here.
3. Radiator Springs at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Image: Disney
If you have young Cars fans in your family, you should include a stop by the Art of Animation in your visit even if you’re not staying here (and if they’re really big fans, you may just want to consider a Cars suite for your stay).
The Cars section of the hotel features a full replica of Radiator Springs with all the classic Cars characters in life-size glory. This is the perfect place for unforgettable photo ops, and the food court offers some enticing treats to make your visit even more worthwhile (can you say chocolate covered strawberry cheesecake on a Mickey straw?)
4. The Cretaceous Trail at Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Nestled back in Dinoland USA is a shady trail that’s easily overlooked if you’re not paying attention. The Cretaceous Trail features living plants that are survivors from the age of the dinosaurs or close relatives of plants from that era. The trail also features a few dinosaurs tucked away in the greenery to make your explorations even more exciting.
This is a great place for some cute photo ops and offers a shady escape from the busier areas of the park.
5. La Cava Del Tequila at Epcot
The margaritas in Epcot’s Mexico are (for me) an essential indulgence on any trip through World Showcase. What many visitors may not realize, however, is that the outdoor margarita stand is not the only place you can indulge in this drink. La Cava Del Tequila is easily overlooked because you have to head inside the pavilion to find it. There, it’s tucked away behind the ramp to the right when you walk into the building.
This bar features more than 200 tequilas. The menu includes margaritas that go above and beyond the simple frozen options available outside. Try jalapeno, cucumber, wild passion fruit, avocado, pineapple, blood orange, and a host of other flavors. If you enjoy this classic Mexican drink, this little lounge will become a much-loved stop on your tour of World Showcase.
If you’re looking for something new and interesting to check out on your next vacation to Walt Disney World, add these highlights to your itinerary!
