Walt Disney World Florida, USA Travel Guide
From the moment you arrive, you enter a place designed for moments of wonder. This destination features theme parks, water parks, dining experiences, and resorts, all dedicated to delivering memorable family vacations and personal adventures. Guests explore new ideas, encounter beloved characters, and experience thrilling attractions across this vast property. Whether your dream involves soaring through Pandora's skies, meeting a favorite princess, or sampling global flavors, Walt Disney World makes these experiences possible. This guide supports planning a seamless journey to Florida's famous resort.
Walt Disney World Resort covers nearly 40 square miles, comparable to the size of San Francisco. It sits in Central Florida, mainly within the cities of Orlando and Kissimmee in Orange and Osceola counties.
This location places it within easy reach of major transportation hubs. The resort features diverse environments, from meticulously themed park settings to natural areas, lakes, and conservation zones. While Florida generally has flat terrain, Disney Imagineers crafted varied landscapes within the parks, including towering mountains, lush jungles, and futuristic cityscapes. The region enjoys a subtropical climate, with warm temperatures and distinct wet and dry seasons. This central position offers a base for exploring more of Florida, from coastal adventures to cultural excursions.
The story of Walt Disney World began with Walt Disney's vision for an experimental prototype community of tomorrow, EPCOT. After Disneyland's success in California, Walt saw the need for more land to control the guest experience fully. He secretly acquired vast tracts of swampland in Florida during the 1960s, envisioning a place where innovation and progress shaped daily life.
Although Walt Disney passed away before its completion, his brother Roy O. Disney opened the Magic Kingdom on October 1, 1971, as a tribute to Walt's dream. Over the decades, Walt Disney World expanded significantly. Epcot, Hollywood Studios (originally MGM Studios), and Animal Kingdom joined the Magic Kingdom, each with distinct themes. The resort also added water parks, numerous hotels, and a sprawling entertainment district now known as Disney Springs. This continuous growth transformed the area into a global tourism hub. Walt Disney World's development influenced theme park design and operation worldwide, setting standards for guest service, immersive storytelling, and technological integration. It is a living legacy of innovation and imagination.
Walt Disney acquires Florida land for EPCOT vision.
Magic Kingdom Park opens.
Epcot opens.
Hollywood Studios opens (as MGM Studios).
Animal Kingdom Park opens.
Walt Disney World Resort features four main theme parks, two water parks, and a collection of resorts. It provides a comprehensive vacation experience.
Magic Kingdom Park features classic Disney tales, thrilling rides, and iconic parades, centered around Cinderella Castle. Epcot showcases global cultures in its World Showcase and innovative technologies in its Future World. Hollywood Studios transports guests to the world of movies, with Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge and Toy Story Land delivering immersive adventures. Animal Kingdom combines wildlife conservation with thrilling attractions set in diverse natural environments.
Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach offer water-based fun. Guests choose from over 25 Disney-owned resorts, ranging from value to luxury, each with themed accommodations and convenient transportation. A vast array of dining options caters to every taste and budget, from quick snacks to fine dining. The resort's transportation system connects all major areas, providing easy access without a personal vehicle. Walt Disney World welcomes visitors of all ages, offering experiences from high-speed thrills to quiet moments of wonder.
Walt Disney World: A world of innovation, entertainment, and timeless appeal for all ages.
Walt Disney World is more than just theme parks; it is a complete resort destination designed for immersive experiences.
The property hosts a diverse selection of hotels, from budget-friendly options to luxurious villas, each with unique theming and amenities. Guests staying on-site benefit from convenient access to parks via complimentary transportation, including buses, monorails, and the Disney Skyliner. Dining opportunities range from casual counter service to signature fine dining, catering to every palate. The resort also includes recreation, shopping at Disney Springs, and special events year-round. This integration of lodging, entertainment, and services creates a seamless vacation environment.
Explore meticulously themed lands and natural conservation areas.
Complimentary resort-wide transportation for easy park access.
Vast array of dining and retail options across the resort.
Walt Disney World offers various resort categories to suit different budgets and preferences. Value Resorts provide basic accommodations with themes and access to all Disney transportation. Moderate Resorts offer more amenities, larger rooms, and enhanced theming. Deluxe Resorts deliver premium services, spacious rooms, and prime locations with convenient park access, often within walking distance or via monorail/Skyliner.
