Finding Nemo-The Musical: Attraction Review

Name: Finding Nemo-The Musical
Type: Live Show
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Dinoland, U.S.A. area
The Gist: A live onstage 30-minute musical based on the Disney-Pixar film "Finding Nemo", using fancy puppets and special effects.
A Must-Do For: "Finding Nemo" fans; people who would like to get out of the heat for a half-an-hour.
Avoid If: You find the idea of having to watch a performance along with an audience of a hundred sometimes badly behaving children completely unbearable.
Lines & Other Tips: This show plays at several set times throughout the day, so pick up a times guide when you get to the park and check. Be sure to get there early if you want to get a good seat, it is a big theater, but it does fill up.

This is a pretty cute show to see with children, especially. I mean, it is not exactly Broadway, but the effects are pretty cool.

Oh, and speaking of Broadway, did you know that the songs for this show were co-written by composer/lyricist Robert Lopez; who helped write Avenue Q and The Book of Mormon? If you are familiar with either of those two musicals, you will understand why my mind was blown when I found this out. Bit of an unexpected choice by Disney. I suppose Alan Menken must have been busy.

xoxo, Lily

Tamu Tamu Refreshments: Restaurant Review

Name: Tamu Tamu Refreshments
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Africa area
Cuisine: Vaguely ethnic-inspired
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those: Who want to have a comparatively unique quick-service experience
Price Range: In the $ range, which means less than $14 per person. Everything here is $8 or $9, really.
Times: Lunch and dinner, hours vary
Reservations: None, since this is counter service
My Recommendation: The beef pita sandwich, served with the homemade chips. My new favorite at Animal Kingdom.
Healthier Option: You could go with the chicken salad if you didn't want the carbs.

This is not the place to go if you want variety; all they have is the said beef wrap, the chicken salad, and a turkey sandwich, milkshakes, and a few other desserts, and drinks. There is no indoor seating, so that could sway your decision, depending on whether the weather is really shitty or just regular shitty (Florida really only has two settings...).

But, seriously, the beef pita sandwich is the best. Very yummy. That alone makes this my new favorite Animal Kingdom quickservice.

xoxo, Lily

*Note: Food prices and menu options are subject to change at any time, so I can't guarantee my information will always be accurate.

**Also, the "healthier options" I give are simply based on my knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition. I am not a doctor! For specific information regarding calories and such, I suggest contacting the individual restaurants via the Disney World website.

Restaurantosaurus: Restaurant Review

Name: Restaurantosaurus
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Dinoland, U.S.A. area
Cuisine: American, standard hamburgers, chicken nuggets, etc.
Type: Quick-service, counter
Good For Those: Who are looking for quick, relatively cheap standards like burgers and fries
Price Range: In the $ range, which means $14.99 and under. Items here are $8 or $9, typically.
Times: Lunch and Dinner
Reservations: None, since this is quick-service
My Recommendation: Don't really have one. The one time I went here, I got the Angus Bacon Cheeseburger (without the bacon and cheese... they are assembled to order) which was good, but not exactly life-changing.
Healthier Option: Try the vegetable sub (-osaurus). It comes with sweet potato fries, too.

Not a bad place to have a quick lunch, especially if you have picky eaters. A lot of traditional favorites here.

xoxo, Lily

*Note: Food prices and menu options are subject to change at any time, so I can't guarantee my information will always be accurate.

**Also, the "healthier options" I give are simply based on my knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition. I am not a doctor! For specific information regarding calories and such, I suggest contacting the individual restaurants via the Disney World website.

Kusafiri Coffee Shop: Snack Review

Name: Kusafiri Coffee Shop
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Africa area
Cusine: Pastries, coffee, snacks, etc.
Type: Quick-Service counter
Good For Those: Looking for coffee or a sweet treat in the park
Price Range: In the $ range, which is $14.99 or less. Items here are usually $5 or less, though.
Times: Usually open during all park hours
Reservations: This is counter service, so no.
My Recommendation: The "African" donuts.
Healthier Option: Here, probably none. All they carry is sweets. There is a stand across the way that sells fresh fruit if you'd rather.

I had never ordered anything from here before, until last time I was at the park, two or three weeks ago. Before, all the really had was standard stuff like cinnamon rolls and probably-stale danishes, and I was never too interested. They didn't have anything unique or special, which is what I prefer to get.

But last time, they had a sign up : "New Item- African Donuts". And we were like, well obviously  we have to try. I mean, I don't know how authentic donuts are in Africa, but they were something a little different. Basically like balls of not very sweet (which for me, is a good thing) dough fried and smothered with powdered sugar. Not too bad. A good choice if you can't bring yourself to order a boring old cinnamon roll.

xoxo, Lily

*Note: Food prices and menu options are subject to change at any time, so I can't guarantee my information will always be accurate.

**Also, the "healthier options" I give are simply based on my knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition. I am not a doctor! For specific information regarding calories and such, I suggest contacting the individual restaurants via the Disney World website.

Yak & Yeti: Restaurant Review

Name: Yak & Yeti
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Asia section
Cuisine: Asian
Type: Table Service
Good For Those Who: Like Asian food, in particular, delicious lo mein noodles.
Price Range: Listed in the $$ range, which is $15 to $35.99 per person. Entrees here average at about lower-middle end of that range, let's say about $15 to $25-y.
Times: Opens at 11:00am, closing time varies, usually dependent on how late the park is open that night.
Reservations: Recommended, but if you go at a late/lunch early dinner time, you might be able to get a table without one- don't plan on it though. Reservations can be made online at the official Walt Disney World  website.
My Recommendation: I had the chicken lo mein and loved it. That is all I will say. Next time I go, it will be a difficult choice for me, whether or not I get that again or try one of the many other delicious sounding things on their menu.
Healthier Option: There are many things here which seem (relatively, of course) healthy- a lot of fish and vegetarian options, and like everything is served with a bunch of veggies, so it is hard to go too wrong here.

My boyfriend took me here, finally, after listening to me whining about wanting to go here for months, and let me say, it was worth the wait. I loved it. I wake up in the morning craving that dang lo mein (they import their noodles from actual Asia- I mean, really??!). I've had lo mein at like every restaurant I've been to since that carries it, but it is never the same. I need to go back. Needless to say, this gets a BIG recommendation from me.

xoxo, Lily

*Note: Food prices and menu options are subject to change at any time, so I can't guarantee my information will always be accurate.

**Also, the "healthier options" I give are simply based on my knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition. I am not a doctor! For specific information regarding calories and such, I suggest contacting the individual restaurants via the Disney World website.

Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater: Restaurant Review

Name: Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot Area
Cuisine: American, sandwiches, burgers & such
Type: Table Service
Good For Those: Who like old, terrible science fiction movies from the 50's and 60's; miss drive-in movie theaters
Price Range: Listed in the $$ Range, which means $15 to $35.99 per person. Most things here are on the lower end of that range, some are even less than $15. Lunch and dinner prices are about the same.
Times: Lunch is 11:00am to 3:55pm, dinner is from 4:00pm to 9:00pm.
Reservations: I strongly recommend them. Seating is pretty limited in this place, especially if you have a larger party. Make one in advance if you can; reservations can be made at the WDW official website.
My Recommendation: I've only been here once, and I had the veggie burger with sweet potato fries, which was good, if you are into that sort of thing. If I go again, I will probably try something different, though. The milkshakes, however, are definitely worth trying.
Healthier Option: Said veggie burger is pretty good, I'd say. They also have a salad and some tofu dish if that is more your thing.

This is a very fun place to eat- the atmosphere is one of the most unique at Hollywood Studios. If you are a fan of old, cheesy horror flicks, you must go here.

Basically, what they do is seat you in  booths that look like old-school convertible cars (most only seat 4, which is why I think it is more difficult for larger parties to get a spot), all facing a big movie screen, on which they play trailers and clips of these old movies (they have them on a continuing loop lasting about an hour- around the time it would take for a party to finish a meal without sitting through a bunch of repeats).

An example:

They just don't make'm like they used to.

xoxo, Lily

*Note: Food prices and menu options are subject to change at any time, so I can't guarantee my information will always be accurate.

**Also, the "healthier options" I give are simply based on my knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition. I am not a doctor! For specific information regarding calories and such, I suggest contacting the individual restaurants via the Disney World website.

Prince Charming Regal Carrousel: Ride Review

Name: Prince Charming Regal Carrousel
Type: Ride, Carrousel, Merry-Go-Round
Location: The Magic Kingdom, in Fantasyland
The Gist: A Cinderella-themed carousel.
A Must-Do For: Kids, I guess. Can't see adults getting to much out of it; it's just a merry-go-round. Unless you are an adult who likes reliving their childhood, of course;)

Le Chefs de France: Restaurant Review

Name: Le Chefs de France
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase France Pavilion
Cuisine: French
Type: Table Service
Good For Those Who:  Like things made with gruyere cheese and lots of cream.
Price Range: Listed in the $$ range, which is about $15-$35 per person. Lunch entrees are $20-$25 ish, and dinner entrees are closer to $30.
Times: Lunch from 12:00pm to 3:00pm, dinner from 4:30pm to 9:00pm.
Reservations: Strongly recommended. You can make one on the Walt Disney World website.

An outside view of the restaurant.

Walt Disney World Railroad: Ride Review

Name: Walt Disney World Railroad
Type: Ride, Train (like an actual legit steamtrain)
Location: The Magic Kingdom. Circles the entire park. You can board at one of three stations, in Main Street, in Frontierland, and in Fantasyland (the new circus area, near the Barnstormer).
The Gist: An actual train takes you on a scenic tour around the park. A great way to get from one end of the park to another, or for just a nice view of the sights.
A Must-Do For: Train enthusiasts, people who want a ride you can stay on as long as you want (since there are 3 stops, they don't make you get off).
Avoid If: No reason to, really.
Fear Factor: 1/10.
Lines and Other Tips: Trains arrive at stations every 4-10 minutes. You typically won't have to wait longer than that, unless it is crowded, then you may have to wait for the next one.

My grandfather worked as a conductor on the trains here for many, many years, so I'm partial to it for sentimental reasons. But it is also a good way to get around, and take in the sights of the Magic Kingdom. Also, its a pretty good way to get a sneak peek of the New Fantasyland areas they are building!

xoxo, Lily

Impressions de France: Attraction Review

Name: Impressions de France
Type: Short Film
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase France Pavilion
The Gist: An 18-minute widescreen tour of France, set to the music of French composers such as Saint Saens and Dubussy (thanks, Google!). Features some of the most scenic and famous locations in France.
A Must-Do For: Francophiles, classical music fans, people who need an air-conditioned space to sit for 18 minutes.
Avoid If: You have small children who are likely to randomly start crying. Be nice, don't ruin the show for others. Kids don't care about this one, anyway. Its for adult tastes.
Lines and Other Tips: Not a line, really, but you have to wait until the next show is over, which would at most be 18 minutes, I guess. Btw, this is the one World Showcase film (out of France, Canada and China) that lets you sit down. In actual seats. If you've been walking all day, it makes a difference.

I love Impressions de France, I honestly do. Almost my favorite thing in the World Showcase (almost). The music is wonderful, the the scenes are beautiful, and it always makes me wish I could afford to go to France. I guess I will just have to settle for watching this over and over, getting pastries from the bakery next door, and staring at the fake Eiffel Tower. *Sight*.

xoxo, Lily

The Barnstormer: Ride Review

Name: The Barnstormers
Type: Ride, Kiddie Coaster
Location: The Magic Kingdom, in the recently opened Storybook Circus section of Fantasy Land
The Gist: Take a quick (I'm talking like 30 seconds quick) flight with Goofy- a known terrible pilot-in this newly redesigned coaster that used to be part of the now-gone Toontown area of the park.
A Must-Do For: Kids who want to experience their first "fast" ride. If you think they might like roller coasters but aren't yet ready for Big Thunder Mountain and the like, take them on this. If they hate it... well, it is over in less than a minute, so they'll live.
Avoid If: You have a thing with heights. The top of this ride, while not really that high, is a bit exposed in a way that Big Thunder isn't. My mom, a serious acrophobe, can do it, as long as she doesn't look down.

Boulangerie Patissirie: Food Review

Name: Boulangerie Patisserie
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase France Pavilion
Cuisine: French
Type: Counter-Service
Serving: French pastries (this is essentially a bakery), along with coffees, quiches, and sandwhiches for a light snack.
Good For Those Who: Like flaky pastry and things with lots of cream.
Price Range: Listed in Disney's $ range, which is technically $15 or less. Most things her run about $5-$8, seeing that they serve snack-type things.
Times: All day (well, from 11 a.m. on, since that is when the showcase opens). Good place for a light lunch, snack or dessert.
Reservations: None taken.
My Recommendation: I always get the chocolate mousse (not even a pastry, I'm aware, but I like it!). But, the napoleons come highly recommended by my mother and sister.
Healtheir Option: Um... it's a bakery, I mean...

Don't ask me how to pronounce it, I don't know either. But anyway you slice it, this is always my go-to place for dessert at Epcot. It smells heavenly, and they have a ton of options. You really can't go wrong.

xoxo, Lily

*Note: Food prices and menu options are subject to change at any time, so I can't guarantee my information will always be accurate.

**Also, the "healthier options" I give are simply based on my knowledge of healthy eating and nutrition. I am not a doctor! For specific information regarding calories and such, I suggest contacting the individual restaurants via the Disney World website.

Casey's Corner: Restaurant Review

Name: Casey's Corner
Location: The Magic Kingdom, on Main Street, U.S.A.
Cuisine: Ballpark food, namely, hot dogs. A few other token things like nachos and fries as well.
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Like fancy hotdogs
Price Range: In the $ price range, which means everything is less than $15.
Times: Lunch, dinner, snacks
Reservations: None taken, since it's quick service
My Recommendation: Well... here's the thing with this place. Their specialties are the hotdogs, which, are, admittedly, several steps above what most places boil and slap on a stale bun. What I'm saying is, if you like hotdogs, this is a good place to go. However, I hate hotdogs, even "good" ones like they have here, so I can't exactly personally recommend them. The nachos, though, I have to once again give props to Disney and say, are pretty decent. When you are expecting those hard round chips drenched in disconcertingly-yellow shiny cheese, they are actually a nice surprise. Good chips, beef, actual cheese- and you can put the toppings on yourself. It's the little things, guys.
Healthier Option: If you want healthy, your only option really, is to go someplace else. This isn't that kinda place.

It is a lucky soul who happens to be passing down Main Street and gets hit with a whiff of fresh waffle cone from the ice cream parlor on the right, and a whiff of saurkraut from Casey's on the left. At the same time. I am only half being sarcastic.

xoxo, Lily

Living With the Land: Ride Review

Name: Living With the Land
Type: Ride, Slow Boat Ride
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Land Pavilion
The Gist: Learn about human interaction with nature and ride through actual greenhouses to see some newfangled eco-friendly techniques for growing food (the food they grow here is actually served in the restaurants at Epcot).
A Must-Do For: People interested in plants, agriculture, and/or being environmentally friendly.
Avoid If: You are adverse to being educated while at Disney World.
Fear Factor: 1/10. A calm, slow, educational experience- nothing scary.
Lines and Other Tips: Usually, the wait times for this are easy, probably the longest I have ever waited is 15 or so minutes. Keep in mind that this ride does not usually run long after dark, so if it is a must-do for you, don't put it off.

Ok... so, I know this one sounds totally boring, and yeah, it probably will be for kids, but I personally love it. Just a nice, easy, and interesting experience at Epcot. It actually is sorta fascinating to see some of the crazy ways they grow food.

xoxo, Lily

The Jungle Cruise: Ride Review

Name: The Jungle Cruise
Type: Ride, Slow Boat Ride
Location: The Magic Kingdom, in Adventureland
The Gist: Take a narrated trip through some of the world's most famous rivers and see some "animals" and other sights along the way.
A Must-Do For: People who like puns (the narration is full of 'em); people who want to experience some of the classic-albeit corny, Disney World attractions.
Avoid If: Nothing too scary about this ride, but there is one part where you go through the ruins of an old temple and it is a little dark.
Fear Factor: 1/10. Even kids shouldn't be scared, I mean, the animals don't look that realistic!
Lines/Other Tips: This one tends to have solidly long lines-during the day. If I were you, I'd wait until after dark. As soon as the sun goes down, like everyone forgets about this ride, and you can almost always get on with no wait. And, it is waaayyy cooler at night. And it beats waiting 30-60 minutes in the heat, like you would going during daytime.

Silly narration and silly animal animatronics aside, I love the Jungle Cruise. I started loving it even more when we discovered how much better it is at night. Pure nostalgic Disney.

xoxo, Lily

Teppan Edo: Restaurant Review

Name: Teppan Edo
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Japan Pavilion
Cuisine: Japanese
Type: Sit-Down
Good For Those Who: Like the type of restaurants where the chefs cook your food on the table in front of you.
Price Range: Disney lists this location in their $$ range, which means everything is between $15-$35.99 per person. The entrees here run around $28 or so at both lunch and dinner.
Times: Lunch is 12-3:45pm, and dinner is 4-9pm.
Reservations: Try to have them. You'd be really lucky to get in without one. Reservations can be made at the WDW website.
What You Get: Basically, you choose the meat you want from the menu, and the chefs come to your table (which you usually will share with another party) and prepare it in front of you, along with rice, noodles, and veggies, which are included with all the entrees.

If you've ever been to Kobe, or anyplace like that, you know the drill here.

I feel like a Disney traitor just saying this... but, in my honest opinion, if you are looking for this type of food, just go to Kobe. They give you more food, it tastes better, and the prices are slightly cheaper. And there are like a million locations around Orlando, including some near Disney. Sorry, Epcot, you loose on this one. If you are looking to eat in the park, you have more unique options, in my honest opinion:)

xoxo, Lily

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover: Ride Review

Name: Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover
Type: Ride, briskly-moving tour
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Tomorrowland
The Gist: Board a highway in the sky for a relaxing tour of Tomorrowland
A Must-Do For: People who want to go on a ride that never has a wait
Avoid If: You don't like being in complete darkness, you have a serious fear of heights
Fear Factor: 2/10. Although this ride is relatively slow and runs on a completely flat track ( meaning no drops or anything), there is a moment when you are thrown into complete darkness, and it is a bit high (you have to go on an escalator to get on).
Lines and Other Tips: There is never a wait for this ride. It is the one sure bet in the Magic Kingdom. Even if there is a small line, it moves very fast. A bonus for this ride: they will often just let you keep riding, without getting off after one time around. This is the only thing you can do that with!

Ellen's Energy Adventure: Ride Review

Name: Ellen's Energy Adventure
Type:Half Movie, half very slow-moving ride
Location: Epcot, in Futureworld, in the Universe of Energy Pavilion
The Gist: Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science Guy team up to teach riders about the varies sources of energy.
A Must-Do For: Fans of Ellen DeGeneres and Bill Nye the Science Guy (they actually work quite well together on-screen).
Avoid If: You don't belive in evolution or would be bothered by some midly outdated facts about energy production (global warming is basically just glossed over. This ride is pretty old...).
Fear Factor: 2/10. There are some loud noises, and parts of it get a little dark. There are some dinosaur animatronics, but don't worry, they are much less realistic and friendlier than those on that Animal Kingdom ride.

Main Street Confectionery: Snack/Shopping Review

Name: Main Street Confectionery
Location: The Magic Kingdom, on Main Street, U.S.A
Serving/Selling: Candy, cookies and other treats made fresh in-store
Good For Those: Who want a sweet snack or edible souvenirs to bring home
Price Range: Varies depending on what you get. At the counter, it can range from a few dollars for a cookie to almost $10 for a fancy candy apple.
Times: All day, snacks and desserts
My Recommendation: Everytime I go to the Magic Kingdom, I have to make a stop here for one of the cookies they sell at the counter. Not one of those big, flat cardboardy ones, but the fat, chunky ones. The chocoate chip. Mmmmm. I've never had better.

The view from outside.

Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room: Restaurant Review

Name: Rose & Crown Pub & Dining Room
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase United Kingdom Pavilion
Cuisine: British
Type: Table Service
Good For Those Who: Like meat pies, fish & chips or sausages; you like adorable British guys (this place is crawling with them!).
Price Range: Disney lists this location in their $$ range, which means $15-$35.99 per person. At both lunch and dinner, entrees run about $15-$20, on average, although the selections vary.
Times: Lunch: 12-3:20pm, dinner: 4-8pm.
Reservations: Good to have them, but if you go and put your name in right at 12, you should be able to get a table without one.

The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh: Ride Review

Name: The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh
Type: Ride, for children, slow-moving
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Fantasyland
The Gist: Board a honey pot-shaped car and ride through the middle of "Winnie the Pooh and the Blustery Day".
Must-Do For: People with very young children; anyone who really wants to feel like a kid a again
Avoid If: No reason too, really
Fear Factor: 1/10. Or, 0/10. This ride is completely baby-safe.
Lines & Other Tips: This is one that will typically have a steady 45-60 minute wait. At least. Let's just say, it gets pretty busy. Go later in the evening (I'm talking like right before closing) or get a Fastpass if you do not care to wait that long.

Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros: Ride Review

Name: Gran Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros
Type: Ride, slow boat ride
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Mexico Pavilion
The Gist: Panchito and Jose Carioca (from the 1944 Disney film The Three Caballeros) go searching for Donald Duck through scenic Mexico, drift along with them in this leisurely boat ride.
A Must-Do For: Guests with children who are otherwise board with the World Showcase
Avoid If: You find Donald Duck a bit grating (Not to say I'd blame you... haha).
Fear Factor: 1/10. Nothing scary about this ride in the least, completely kid-friendly
Lines and Other Tips: This ride never has a wait. I mean, they don't even post wait times for this, because they are nonexistant. Don't let a line deter you, either, even if it seems there are a lot of people waiting, never fear. It always goes fast.

Plaza Ice Cream Parlor: Snack Review

Name: Plaza Ice Cream Parlor
Location: Magic Kingdom, on Main Street, U.S.A.
Serving: Ice Cream, Ice Cream, and... more Ice Cream. The hand-scooped variety, as opposed to soft-serve.
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Like ice cream (well, duh), like sundaes and the like.
Price Range: Listed in the $ price range, which is less than $14.99. But everything here is pretty much just a few dollars, with the fancier sundaes peaking at, I don't know, maybe $5?
Times: All day, for snacks and dessert
My Recommendation: I'd go for a sundae. The reason being, those are served in their homemade waffle-cone bowls. Like, they legit stand there and make these bowls right in front of you with a straight-up waffle iron.

Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show: Attraction Review

Name: Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show
Type: Live Show
Location: Hollywood Studios, Backlot Area
The Gist: See how filmakers and stunt drivers accomplish amazing vehicle stunts with cars and motorcycles, and see some of these performed live.
A Must-Do For: Car buffs; people who love car chase scenes in movies-you'll get to see some here, live!
Avoid If: You don't like loud noises. This show gets noisy, especially if you sit near the front.
Show Times: This show runs at several set times daily. When you get to the park, pick up one of the times guides ( they're next to the maps) for the schedule.
Other Info: This show takes place in a huge outdoor stadium. It is good to get there early, but don't worry about whether or not you will find seats, they have plenty. And this is one of those times where I think being in the back is beneficial, you can kind of see what they are doing more clearly and the noise isn't as intense.

I really don't care about cars, like, at all, but this show is actually pretty interesting. I'm always just so shocked that people actually do this for a living. Hell, I can't even drive around the neighborhood without panicking, I could never jump of a ramp like these guys do! So I suppose it impresses me.

xoxo, Lily

Via Napoli: Restaurant Review

Name: Via Napoli
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Italy Pavilion
Cuisine: Italian
Type: Table-Service
Good For Those Who: Want the most authentic Italian pizza you can get without actually going to Italy
Price Range: This restaurant falls into the $$ range, which is between $15 and $35.99 per person. The entrees here ran around $18 for individual pizzas and $20 or so for other dishes.
Times: Lunch served 11:30am to 3:15pm; dinner from 4:30pm to 9:00pm
Reservations: I would make them if you want to guarantee yourself a table. Probably going to be difficult otherwise. You can make reservations online on the WDW website.

Peter Pan's Flight: Ride Review

Name: Peter Pan's Flight
Type: Ride, Slow-Moving
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Fantasyland
The Gist: Board a flying pirate ship and sail through the story of Peter Pan.
A Must-Do For: It is most definitely a great choice for young children
Avoid If: You have a hard-core fear of heights. There are moments in this ride where you do get, maybe, I don't know, 15 or so feet in the air.
Fear Factor: 1/10. This is made for kids, except for those that would be bothered by the height issue, there is nothing scary.
Lines and Other Tips: As long as I can remember, this ride has had some of the most consistently long wait times in the entire park, usually at least  an hour (don't ask, I don't know why either). If you refuse to wait that long, your only hope is to get inside when the park opens and make this your first stop, or get a Fastpass. Once the line gets long, it almost never goes down, even late in the day.

Ok, so, yes, I will admit it. This ride is old, cheesy, and most likely due for a serious upgrade, judging by the loud GGGGGGSSSSSHHHHHHK noises it makes the entire time, among other things. But, I love it anyway. It has been one of my favorite rides anywhere since I was tiny. So maybe it is the nostalgia? Either way, this ride is a classic, which is probably why it is so popular. Just don't go in expecting cutting-edge technology and uncanny-valley animatronics.

This is not the ride you go to to be impressed or thrilled. You go to release your inner child that would have loved it, warts and all.

xoxo, Lily

Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular: Attraction Review

Name: Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular
Type: Live Show
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot area
The Gist: Stunt performers and actors demonstrate how action-movie stunts are accomplished in an Indiana Jones-themed 30-minute live show. You can even volunteer to be a part of the action yourself.
A Must-Do For: Indiana Jones fans (and really, any action-film fans, since this applies to more than just the IJ franchise), people interested in behind-the-scenes film secrets
Showtimes/Other Info: This show is offered several times daily. Pick up a times guide once you get to the park to see the schedule. Note that this show takes place outdoors, in a covered seating area. There are plenty of seats, but the closer to showtime you arrive, the less options you'll have.

I'm not into action movies, like, at all, but I do enjoy this show. There's just something about seeing the stunts live that makes it more exciting. They can't fake this shit with CGI, you know? Definitely a good choice for those of you looking to really learn something about movies at the park. Also good for those who just want to take a break and sit down for 30 minutes. Hey, I don't judge.

xoxo, Lily

Maelstrom: Ride Review

Name: Maelstrom
Type: Ride, Boat Ride
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Norway Pavilion
The Gist: Take an adventure through Norway and ride past vikings, polar bears, and even trolls.
A Must-Do For: People who want to educate themselves about culture while still going on a ride; people who like Vikings (who doesn't?); kids who want to do something more thrilling than the Grand Fiesta Tour but less thrilling than Test Track.
Avoid If: Hmm. Although this ride is not very scary, I remember being nervous when I was younger. There are some dark spaces, an angry polar bear animatronic, some angry troll animatronics, a short period of sailing backwards, and a small drop at the end. Adults will be fine, but small children could be frightened.
Fear Factor: 3/10 for the reasons listed above. To put it in persepctive, they don't even bother to give you seatbelts or lapbars. That should show you how tame this ride is by modern standards. Either way, note that this ride is probably less than 2 minutes long, so it will be over very soon if your kids freak out.

Aloha Isle: Snack Review

Name: Aloha Isle
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Adventureland
Good For Those Who: Really, Really like pineapple.
Serves: Soft-serve ice cream, floats, and the infamous Dole Whip. Basically, pineapple flavored soft-serve.
Type: Counter-Service
Price Range: In the $ which means less than $14.99, but realistically, everything here is pretty much just a few dollars.
Times: All day, snacks & desserts
My recommendation: Well, you can't go wrong with the Dole Whip. You can get plain old soft-serve anywhere!
Healthier Option: They do serve just straight pineapple chunks, if you are interested.

Maharaja Jungle Trek: Exhibit Review

Name: Maharaja Jungle Trek
Type: Walking path through animal exhibits
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Asia area
The Gist: Walk through the Asian animal exhibits and see tigers, bats, kimodo dragons, birds, and deer.
A Must-Do For: People who want to see the real animals at Animal Kingdom

Aww.

Muppet Vision 3-D: Attraction Review

Name: Muppet Vision 3-D
Type: 3-D film
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot area
The Gist: Allow the Muppets themselves to give you a demonstration of their new "MuppetVision" technology in this 17-minute 3-D film.
A Must-Do For: Muppet fans
Avoid If: You don't like watching things in 3-D. I wouldn't blame you; I don't like this either. But I make an exception for the Muppets, of course:)
Lines and Other Tips: The longest you might have to wait is 17 minutes, that is, until the next film starts. But the preshow is pretty funny, so I never even mind.

Restaurant Marrakesh: Restaurant Review

Name: Restaurant Marrakesh
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Moroccan Pavilion
Cuisine: Moroccan, obvs.
Type: Table Service
Good For Those Who: Like Bellydancers, want ethnic food a that's a little less obvious than like, Chinese
Price Range: Disney lists this in their $$ range, which is between $15 and $35.99. Entrees here run around $18 each at lunch and $25 for dinner.
Times: Lunch from 11:30am to 3:15am; dinner from 3:30pm to 9:00pm
Reservations: Recommended if you want to guarantee a table without a long wait. However, the one time I was here, we went for an early lunch, and there was barely anyone else in the whole place, so if you want to walk in, you may be able to do that if you go closer to 11:30.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Ride Review

Name: Pirates of the Caribbean
Type: Ride,Boat Ride
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Adventureland
The Gist: Sail past scenes of animatronic pirates (including some recently added Jack Sparrows) in this classic Disney ride, that inspired the hit films.
A Must-Do For: Those who dream or have dreamed about being a pirate; people who are sexually attracted to Johnny Depp.
Avoid If: You'd have major problems with dark spaces or fake cannonballs exploding around you.
Fear Factor: 3/10. Although this ride is calm for the most part, there are some things that could creep out small children, like a brief moment of total darkness, some loud noises, and a small drop (veeerrry small, although it did scare me when I was a kid).

Pangani Forest Exploration Trail: Attraction Review

Name: Pangani Forest Exporation Trail
Type: Walking trail through animal exhibits
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Africa area
The Gist: A walking path through some of the African animal exhibits. Animals include gorillas, meerkats, okapi, many kinds of birds, and an underwater hippo viewing area.
A Must-Do For: People who actually want to see animals at Animal Kingdom

Gorillas are exceptionally hard to photograph.

Studio Backlot Tour: Attraction Review

Name: Studio Backlot Tour
Type: Half show, half tram tour
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot area
The Gist: See how some movie special effects are created with a fun demonstration, then take a tram tour of the functional areas of the park's backlot. Finish in a giant canyon set, and experience a fake earthquake, another demonstration of movie magic.
A Must-Do For: Film buffs and people who are interested in behind the scenes workings of movie studios.
Avoid If: You are likely to be scared by that simulated earthquake. Basically, you just shake, some water sprays out, and there are some flames (don't worry, they don't reach you!), but I've seen small kids have freak outs at this part. Also, if you are totally opposed to maybe getting splashed, you might want to stay away.

Oh, and this happens... but don't worry, it's supposed to!

The Seas with Nemo and Friends: Ride Review

Name: The Seas with Nemo and Friends
Type: Ride, Slow-moving
Location: Epcot, in Future World, in the Living Seas Pavilion
The Gist: Board a "clamobile" and travel through scenes from "Finding Nemo", ending up infront of an actual aquarium, where, in a clever bit of technology, characters from the film are projected amongst real dolphins, turtles, fish and sharks.
A Must-Do For: "Finding Nemo" fans, little kids who are bored with the other stuff at Epcot, people who like aquariums.

A view from outside.

Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe: Restaurant Review

Name: Cosmic Ray's Starlight Cafe
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Tomorrowland
Cuisine: American
Type: Counter Service; divided into 3 separate "Bays", each with different menu options, food-court style.
Good For Those Who: Want the most options of any quickservice joint in the Magic Kingdom; would like to watch a silly animatronic alien singing jazzy music while they eat.
Price Range: Disney lists this location in their $ range, which means everything is $14.99 or less. Entrees here vary in price, but typically cost around $9.

The resident performer, the biggest little star in the galaxy himself, Sonny Eclipse.

Expedition Everest: Ride Review

Name: Expedition Everest
Type: Ride, Roller Coaster
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Asia area
The Gist: Take a wild train ride through the Himalyas and search for its most infamous inhabitant- the Yeti.
A Must-Do For: People who watch shows like "Finding Bigfoot"; roller coaster lovers
Avoid If: You don't like heights; very fast, sometimes dark rides; moving backwards at 30 miles an hour.


The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror: Ride Review

Name: The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror
Type: Ride; basically a big elevator that drops you repeatedly
Location: Hollywood Studios, Sunset Boulevard area
The Gist: In this Twilight-Zone themed ride, you board an "elevator" in a haunted hotel. After seeing some ghosts, you plunge thirteen stories. Repeatedly, in a random combination.
Must Do For: Twilight Zone fans (they capture the mood of the show incredibly well- Rod Sterling and all!); people looking for a different type of thrill ride.
Avoid If: Hearing the screams from this ride from across the park unsettles you too much; you don't enjoy that feeling of flying out of your seat; don't like heights (at the top, they open the doors and you can see out across the park).
Fear Factor: 7/10. The drops are scary, but the way they create suspense with this is almost the worst part. The mood and just the build up is enough to freak people out before it anything even happens. And the fact that they do the drops randomly means you never know exactly what is going to happen when.
Lines and Other Tips: This line is sometimes crowded, sometimes not. Most times I've ridden it, I've gotten on with a very short wait. And even if you have to stand in line a little longer, there is plenty to see in the way of the creepy lobby of the "hotel", so its not too dull of a wait.I'd save your Fastpasses for things like Rock'n'rollercoaster and the Toy Story ride, unless this is absolutely your must-do.

I have mixed feelings about this ride. It scares the shit out of me, and I always have to be forced on, but once I go, I'm always glad I did. I think the unpredictable-ness is what gets to me. If I've been on a ride enough times to know exactly what is gonna happen, I start to get immune to the nerves. But not with this! Haha, I suppose that means it is doing it's job!

xoxo, Lily

Tangierine Cafe: Restaurant Review

Name: Tangierine Cafe
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase Moroccan Pavilion
Cuisine: Moroccan
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Want more exotic food choices, such as couscous, falafel, and lamb.
Price Range: Disney lists this location in their $ range, which means everything is less than $14.99 per person. Entrees here run around $12 each.
Times: Lunch, dinner, and snacks (they have a small bakery area as well).
Reservations: None needed, since this is quickservice. Like I always say, to avoid the busiest times of day, eat before noon or after 2pm.
My recommendation: I like the falafel sandwhich. Like, do you even know how hard it is to find falafel in Orlando?? This is one of the few places I can get it, and it is good. The tangeierine couscous is also yummy.

The Haunted Mansion: Ride Review

Name: The Haunted Mansion
Type: Ride, Slow-moving
Location: The Magic Kingdom, in Liberty Square
The Gist: A slow-moving silly, yet creepy tour of a haunted house
Must-Do For: People who like haunted houses, people who want to experience one of the most classic attractions at the Magic Kingdom.
Avoid If: You would be scared by dark spaces and fake ghosts. This mostly applies to little kids (and trust me, even though this ride is mostly silly, I've seen plenty have freak-outs on it). Not all will be bothered, though. Neither me nor my sister had an issue with it when we were young. So just know them.

A view of the Mansion from the top floor of the Liberty Belle Paddlewheel Boat.

Primeval Whirl: Ride Review

Name: Primeval Whirl
Type: Ride, Kiddie Coaster
Location: Animal Kingdom, Dinoland U.S.A. area
The Gist: Supposed to be like a silly carnival ride, this small rollercoaster is distinct because of its "whirling", which is really just a part at the end where they spin your car around a few times.

Don't you just love the design? Pure kitsch.

Sunset Ranch Market: Restaurant Review

Name: Sunset Ranch Market. This is actually a group of 5 stands that each serve something a little different.
Location: Hollywood Studios, Sunset Boulevard area
Cuisine: American
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Want the largest selection at any HS quickservice joint; are looking for traditional park fare like turkey legs and fries; want to watch the people screaming on Tower of Terror while they eat.
Price Range: Disney lists this in the $ range, meaning everything is less than $14.99.
Times: Lunch and Dinner

Soarin': Ride Review

Name: Soarin'
Type: Ride, Simulator
Location: Epcot, in the Land Pavilion
The Gist: Take a peaceful, simulated hangliding flight over California. Basically, how it works, it you sit in rows of benches and then you are hoisted up over a giant screen, feet dangling and all.
A Must-Do For: People who like California, people who want to experience an attraction that is admittedly different from anything else you've ever done.
Avoid If: You are afraid of heights. Much of the ride features simulated height, and you actually are about 20 feet in the air. So not really for the acrophobic.
Fear Factor: If heights don't bother you, then this is 1/10. It is very peaceful and unscary.

Pecos Bill's Tall Tale Inn & Cafe: Restaurant Review

Name: Pecos Bill's Tall Tale Inn & Cafe, or just Pecos Bill's for short
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Frontierland
Cuisine: American, with a slight Mexican influence
Type: Counter-Service
Good For Those Who: Like to put their own toppings on hamburgers and salads.
Price Range:  Disney lists it in the $ range, which means everything is less than $14.99 per person. Entrees here average at $8 each.
Times: Lunch and Dinner
Reservations: None, since this is quickservice. To avoid the biggest crowds, as usual, go before 12pm or after 2pm.

Flame Tree Barbeque: Restaurant Review

Name: Flame Tree Barbeque
Location: Animal Kingdom, on Discovery Island
Cuisine: American, Barbeque
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Like barbeque, are enticed by the smell of smoked meats wafting through Discovery Island
Price Range: Disney lists this location in their $ range, which means less than $14.99 per person. Entrees here run around $9 per person.
Times: Lunch and Dinner
Reservations: No, since this is quickservice. To avoid the most crowded times, eat before 12 am or after 2 pm.

Star Tours: Ride Review

Name: Star Tours
Type: Ride, Simulator-Style
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot area
The Gist: This classic Star Wars-themed simulator ride was recently redesigned to include new location, characters and 3-D technology. There are over 50 different ways to ride, meaning the scenes you go through are chosen in random combination each time. I've done this ride so many times, and its never been the same twice.
A Must-Do For: Star Wars nerds- I mean, fans; people who want something more thrilling than the Great Movie Ride, but less thrilling than The Rock'n'Rollercoaster or the Tower of Terror.
Avoid if: You are prone to motion sickness. Simulator-type rides are notorious for this. Most people might be ok going once, provided they haven't eaten recently, but even I felt off after doing it twice in a row one time.

Biergarten: Restaurant Review

Name: Biergarten Restaurant
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase German Pavilion
Cuisine: German
Type: Buffet (ALL YOU CAN EAT!!!).
Good For Those Who: Like buffets; want to gain 10 pounds; like beer
Avoid If: You are on a diet that you wouldn't want to blow, you don't like sausages or potatoes, you want a relaxing dining experience. Also note that they seat you at communal tables with other guests, so if this would bother you... then go someplace else.
Price Range: Since this is a buffet, there is a set price per person. This is, of course, subject to change, but the sample menu lists $21.99 per person for lunch, and $32.99 per person for dinner. Drinks are separate costs, obvs.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad: Ride Review

Name: Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Type: Ride, Roller Coaster
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Frontierland
The Gist: Board a runaway mine train and travel up hills, through caves and around tight curves in a desert setting.
A Must-Do For:  People who like rollercoasters, as this is one of only 2 options at the Magic Kingdom; kids looking to try out their first somewhat-thrilling ride.
Avoid If: You really hate roller coasters, even small ones, or are very afraid of heights.
Fear Factor: I'd give it a 5.5/10. The movement of the ride is very similar to that of Space Mountain, but since Big Thunder is not in the dark, it seems less scary. This is a very mild rollercoaster, as far they go. Not quite a kiddie coaster, but probably only a few steps above that.

DINOSAUR: Ride Review

Name: DINOSAUR
Type: Ride, Bumpy "Jeep" ride through animatronic dinosaurs
Location: Animal Kingdom, in Dinoland, U.S.A. area
The Gist: Travel back in time millions of years to watch dinosaurs in their natural habitat, then almost get hit by an asteroid.
A Must-Do For: Dinosaur buffs, people who want an exciting ride that isn't a roller coaster.
Avoid if: You or your children are frightened by loud (very loud!) noises, dark spaces, or pretty darn realistic meat-eating dinosaur animatronics.
Fear Factor: 5/10. The actual movement part of the ride is not that scary. Just a little bumpy and jerky. What makes this scary, mostly for kids, is the atmosphere and the dinosaurs. It is very loud and dark. If you are like me, and know that loud and dark doesn't bother you, then you will be fine. Probably not a good choice for small children, though.

ABC Commissary: Restaurant Review

Name: ABC Commissary
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot area
Cuisine: American, with some ethnic flavors thrown in
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Are looking for quickservice options beyond the standard chicken nuggets and plain hamburgers.
Price Range: Listed by Disney's system in the $ range, which is less than $14.99 per person. Entrees here run around $8-$9 each.
Times: Lunch and Dinner

Test Track: Ride Review

Name: Test Track
Type: Ride, fast-moving, racecar type thing
Location: Epcot, in Futureworld
The Gist: See how manufacteres test the cars we drive, and finish with a 64-mile-an-hour jaunt around the track. This is billed as being the longest ( meaning amount of disntance covered) and fastest (meaning speed-wise) attraction in Disney history.
A Must-Do For: Car buffs, people who want to do a thrill ride that is not too thrilling.
Avoid if: You think you would be bothered by high speeds.
Fear Factor: 4.5/10. Honestly, this ride is not that scary. It is not a roller coaster, there aren't really any drops, the speed is really just the thing. Originally, I was too scared to go on this one, but then my boyfriend made me, and I ended up loving it. I kind of thought that the speed would bother me more than it did. It actually doesn't bother me at all. This, to me, seems so different than when you go fast on a roller coaster. It basically happens on one plane, you aren't twisting and turning and droping and looping like on other rides. Kids love it, too. So does my mom, who freaks out on the Barnstormers. So that should tell you something.

Tony's Town Square Restaurant: Restaurant Review

Name: Tony's Town Square Restaurant
Location: Magic Kingdom, on Main Street, U.S.A.
Cuisine: Italian
Type: Table Service
Good For Those Who: Are fans of "Lady and the Tramp" and wish to recreate the spaghetti kiss; people jonesing for Italian food at MK.
Price Range:  Disney lists this restaurant in their $$ range, which means it should fall in the spectrum of $15-$35.99 per person. Entrees at lunch cost around $16 each, and dinner entrees cost around $19 each.
Times: Lunch from 11:30am to 2:45pm; dinner from 5:00pm to 9:00pm.

The view from outside.

The Rainforest Cafe: Restaurant Review

There are two Rainforest Cafes on the Disney property, one at Downtown Disney, and the other at the entrance of Animal Kingdom. I've been to both, and since they are both very similar and have the same menu, I decided to condense them into one post.

Name: The Rainforest Cafe
Location: Animal Kingdom, near the gate (there are two entrances to the restaurant, one inside the park and one out, so technically, you can eat here even without theme park admission) and Downtown Disney, in the Marketplace section.
Cuisine: American
Type: Table Service
Good for those who: Want to watch animatronic gorillas and fake rainstorms while they eat. Also, this place is good for people who want a lot of menu options (it has more than any other eatery at Animal Kingdom).
Price Range:  Disney lists this in the $$ range, which technically means $15-$35.99 per person. Entrees prices here vary greatly depending on what you order, but average is around $20.
Times: Downtown Disney location serves lunch 11:00am to 4:00pm, and dinner from 5:00pm to 10:30 pm. The Animal Kingdom location serves lunch 10:15am to 4:45pm, and dinner from 5:00pm to 7:50pm. This location also serves breakfast, from 8:30am to 10:00am.

The Great Movie Ride: Ride Review

Name: The Great Movie Ride
Type: Slow-Moving Tour
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Hollywood Boulevard Area
The Gist:  A "magical journey into the movies", this slow-moving narrated ride takes you through recreated scenes from some famous films.
A Must-Do For: I would say anyone, really. It is a very cool ride, and I feel like it is one of the signiture attractions at this park. No other ride is so devoted to the movie-making theme as this one.
Avoid If: I don't think there is really a reason to avoid it. Everybody has to like at least one  of the movies they feature here.
Fear Factor: 2/10This is a very tame ride, however, there are a few moments with loud noises (a shootout scene) and in the part of the ride dedicated to "Alien", one of those creepy creatures pops out from above your head. Bottom line, although most of the ride isn't scary at all, there are a few moments that small children will not like. I remember my sister used to cry at the alien part, but she was a mega crybaby anyway!

San Angel Inn: Restaurant Review

Name: San Angel Inn
Location: Epcot, in the World Showcase, Mexico Pavilion
Cuisine:  Mexican
Type: Table Service
Good for Those Who: Like Mexican food; wish they could just live in the Mexican Pavilion because it is just awesome and beautiful and smells good. That is, people like me. Which is prolly no one...
Price Range: According to Disney's pricing system, this is a $$, which means everything is in the $15 to $35.99 range. Entrees at lunch run about $18 per person, while dinner runs about $25.
Times: Serves lunch and dinner
Reservations: I recommend you have one (they can be made on the WDW website), particularly for dinner. If you want to do an early lunch (like 11 a.m.) you may be able to get a table without one. This might be possible at other times too, but expect a wait.

Splash Mountain: Ride Review

Name: Splash Mountain
Type: Log-Flume ride
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Frontierland
The Gist:  This water ride is pretty chill and slow moving as you wind up the mountain, going through scenes from the film "Song of the South", until that 52 1/2 foot drop at the end.
A Must-Do For: Anyone who is for some reason a fan of "Song of the South" (that is, the most infamous Disney movie nobody has ever seen), anyone who hasn't heard "Zip-a-dee-doo-dah" enough times that day, and naturally, thrill seekers, as this is one of your few options in this park.
Avoid if: You don't think you'd like a 52-and-a-half foot drop; you are opposed to possibly getting wet.

Kilimanjaro Safari: Ride Review

Name: Kilimanjaro Safaris Expedition
Type: Ride; but I can't really classify this, because their isn't much else like it. The vehicle is basically a big safari jeep.
Location: Animal Kingdom, Africa area
The Gist: Board a jeep, steered by an actual driver and live narrator, and take a wild safari through the African animal (read: REAL animals- this ain't the Jungle Cruise, folks) exhibits. No two rides
are ever alike, and you never know what you might see.

For Instance, you might see this. D'aww.

Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano: Restaurant Review

Name: Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Backlot Area
Cuisine: Uh... Italian...
Type: Table Service
Good For Those Who: Are at Hollywood Studios and want Italian food. This is really your only option for that.
Price Range: According to Disney's pricing system, this restaurant is in the $$ range, which is $15 to $35.99 per person. The entree prices here vary somewhat greatly, but the average is around $20 each.
Times: Serves lunch and dinner

Spaceship Earth: Ride Review

Name: Spaceship Earth
Type: Slow-moving, Educational
Location: Epcot, in Futureworld. Inside the big ball. Kinda hard to miss.
The Gist:  Relax as Judi Dench's voice narrates a trip back through time. You slowly move through different scenes in history and see how advances in communication brought about our modern technology-centered lifestyle. At the end, see what your future might look like (and what your face looks like on an animated body) with a silly interactive thing they do on a computer screen in front of you.


Cue the dramatic space-traveling music they always blast at the entrance to Epcot.

Columbia Harbour House: Restaurant Review

Name:  Columbia Harbour House
Location: Magic Kingdom, in Liberty Square
Cuisine: American
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Are in the mood for fish; love fried foods
Price Range: According to Disney's pricing system, this is a $ (one-dollar sign), which means everything is less than $14.99. Entrees here run about $8 or $9 per person.
Times: Lunch and Dinner

Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe: Restaurant Review

Name: Yak & Yeti Local Foods Cafe
Location: Animal Kingdom, in the Asia section
Cuisine: Asian
Type: Counter Service
Good For Those Who: Are curious about the Yak & Yeti sit-down restaurant but don't want to spend that much money; fans of standard "Asian" style fast food.
Price Range: According to Disney's pricing system, this is a $, which means everything is $14 and under. Main dishes here run around $10 per person.
Times: Serves lunch & Dinner

Toy Story Mania!: Ride Review

Name: Toy Story Mania!
Type: Interactive, game-type thing
Location: Hollywood Studios, in the Pixar Place area
The Gist: Supposed to look like an old-timey midway with characters from all 3 "Toy Story" films, this ride zips you through different "games" you play by using the controller in your car to shoot at 3-D screens. If you are familiar with the Buzz Lightyear Space-Ranger Spin at Magic Kingdom, it is along those lines, except a HUNDRED times better and more fun.
A Must-Do For: Anyone who loves Toy Story (which, I'm pretty sure is everyone), people who like interactive rides
Avoid if: I really can't think of anyone who should avoid this, unless you just hate the franchise (do these people even exist??).

The Garden Grill: Restaurant Review

I have eaten at most restaurants at Disney World, and I thought it'd be helpful to provide some info and my thoughts on every place I've been- food at the parks does not come cheap, so it helps to know what you're getting before you go! I'll start with one of my all-time favorite restaurants, The Garden Grill.

Name: The Garden Grill Restaurant
Location: Epcot, Future World area in the Land Pavilion
Cuisine: American
Type: Table service, food served all you can eat, family style
Good for those who: Want a character dining experience, have an obsession with rotating restaurants, appreciate the value of sustainably-grown food.
Price Range: Disney lists this restaurant as a $$ on their pricing scale, which technically means $15-$35.99 per person. I can safely tell you that the prices here are much, much closer to the 35 end of that range than to the 15. The food is served family-style at a fixed price, which they do not list on the website, which I suspect is because it fluctuates occassionally. But, you can definitely count on it being at least $30 per person.

Space Mountain- Ride Review

Well, hello, and welcome to my blog:) I don't want to waste time, so I'm just gonna dig in with my first post: a bit of info on that Magic Kingdom classic: Space Mountain!

Name: Space Mountain
Type: Ride, Roller Coaster
Location: Tomorrow Land in The Magic Kingdom
The Gist: The famous "in the dark" coaster, supposed to feel like you are shooting through space
A Must-Do For: Any MK visitors looking for something more thrilling than the Jungle Cruise
Avoid if: You have a serious fear of rollercoasters or dark spaces, or are prone to hard-core motion sickness (and, if you are prone to light motion sickness, I'd suggest NOT doing it right after downing a chili-cheese dog...just in case.)