20 Attractions to Explore Near Walt Disney World Resort

Epcot is an iconic part of the Disney resorts. It can easily be identified by its massive ball at the center of the park shaped to look like a giant golf ball. Representing both past and future technology, Epcot features two distinct themed areas: Future World and World Showcase. Future World is filled with educational experiences, attractions and shows focused on new and emerging technologies like robotics, space exploration and environmental sustainability.

Mission: SPACE is an exciting and unique attraction located at the Orange County Convention Center. The gravity-defying rides takes guests on a 4 minute thrilling tour through outer space that exceeds expectations while offering shocking cinematic visuals and special effects. Riding this coaster, guests feel as if they are flying above the planet Earth, 20,000 miles away from home. Along the way riders experience with your crewmates as you soar through space on Mission: SPACE!

The France Pavilion is a must-visit spot for anyone interested in the culture of France. The pavilion was created to educate visitors on the history, architecture, and art of France. It features interactive exhibits that teach about French history throughout the centuries, replicas of notable buildings, traditional clothing worn by French citizens, and much more. Visitors can also enjoy live performances from talented musicians, dancers, and actors representing different regions of France.

This is a fun-filled boat ride through the facsimile of a Mexican town at Disney's Epcot theme park. The three main characters are Donald Duck, Jose Carioca and Panchito Pistoles who entertain riders with vibrant colors and music. Riders experience traditional Mexican architecture, dancing animals and more as they pass beneath fountains that create a cooling mist effect. The tour has an exciting finale when the characters come together in a celebration of song and dance.

Frozen Ever After is an interactive, must-see attraction of Walt Disney World. Guests visiting this cold kingdom can experience the Frozen characters coming to life, captivating them with playful humor, stirring music, and incredible animatronics. Adventure through Arendelle as you attend the winter Snow Fest celebration that hosts storytelling, singing and a bubble blizzard! Froze Ever After also boasts beautiful views of the Bay Lake area through a series of icy rock caves.

The American Adventure Pavilion is a unique experience for those looking to immerse themselves in the history and culture of the United States. From historic photo displays and detailed information about America's founding fathers to interactive exhibits on slavery, this pavilion offers a comprehensive look at America's past. Visitors can also take guided tours through short films and personal stories of US history, or explore the live performances featuring professional actors.

The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, is one of the most thrilling and classic Disney rides. Riders embark on a floorless elevator that takes them 199 feet straight up into the sky where they get a panoramic view of the area. The drop abides to the iconic narration overheard in “The Twilight Zone” TV show. After being dropped with a significant speed, riders go through the ride's inflection point several times before dropping again and arriving back to ground level.

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith at Disney's Hollywood Studios is an exciting and memorable must-see ride. It features acceleration from 0 to 57 miles per hour in less than 3 seconds, sending coaster riders through multiple fast inversions. Music from the band Aerosmith plays during the thrilling journey, allowing visitors to rock ‘n’ roll with the show. The ride includes two launch systems that provide extraordinary launches, special effects and plenty of excitement.

Disney's Hollywood Studios provides a plethora of entertainment for guests of all ages. From thrilling rides like the iconic Tower of Terror and the Rock 'n' Roller Coaster to fun-filled shows like The Beauty and the Beast live! or Lights! Motor! Action! Extreme Stunt Show, this park is sure to leave you with an unforgettable experience. With so much to offer, it's no surprise that Disney's Hollywood Studios has a wide variety of dining options and shops to explore.

This family-style dining spot takes you through a step back into the 1950s - complete with classic comfort food and nostalgic television clips playing throughout the restaurant. Guests are welcomed by a host and served by cheerful waitstaff dressed in 50s attire. The atmosphere is lively, but relaxed and many of the dishes have a nostalgic twist to them such as Pot Roast & Whirled Peas, Mom's Old-Fashioned Pot Roast, and Grilled PB & J&A (PB &J with applesauce).

This is the first ride ever to feature Mickey and Minnie Mouse as its stars. The ride brings guests into the colourful world of the Mickey Mouse Cartoon shorts, where the stars do their best to make sure everything goes off without a hitch. Passengers follow different paths through compellingly detailed environments, experiencing dizzying drops and thrilling turns along the way. Guests are also treated to catchy songs, special effects and even secret surprises throughout the course of the ride.

Toy Story Mania! is a great destination for the whole family. Located at Disney's Hollywood Studios, this interactive 4D carnival game features 5 unique "midway-style" games where riders can participate on rides that spin, twist and turn as they get zapped by 3D targets scattered throughout. The visual effect is brought to life with characters like Buzz Lightyear and Mr. Potato Head that appear above or below your vehicle while you safely enjoy some lighthearted fun.

Slinky Dog Dash is an exciting coaster ride for thrill seekers of all ages. As you climb up the winding track, you can see your surroundings while remaining seated in your own Slinky Dog car. When you reach the top, you begin a speedy journey filled with twists and turns until finally reaching the bottom and riding back to the start. If that's not enough, riders can also enjoy the many surprises and special effects along the way!

The Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant is the perfect spot for an unforgettable experience. Patrons can enjoy classic American fare inside a fun atmosphere with a 1950's science fiction flair. With tables shaped like classic cars, transforming the restaurant into a retro drive-in, diners can sit back and watch classic sci-fi clips while they enjoy their meal. The menu includes ice cream novelties, sandwiches, burgers and shakes while offering unique entrées filled with bold flavors.

Alien Swirling Saucers is a fun, intergalactic ride that the entire family can enjoy! Guests are welcomed to join Space Ranger Cadet Cruz Ramirez and her Chewie droid pal on an intergalactic journey where they must battle evil aliens and help their troops of galactic defenders rise up together. The ride features two intertwining tracks with swiveling saucers that lift up and spin in time with special effects and space-age music.

Star Tours – The Adventures Continue offers visitors to the an experience that is out of this world. Guests aboard Star Tours take a simulated journey through space, with 3D effects, motion, and audio to make the trip even more realistic. one can catch glimpses of beloved characters from the Star Wars universe along the way. Each journey through space is different, as scenery and mission objectives are generated randomly to keep riders surprised and entertained.

Disney's Contemporary Resort, is a luxurious destination for Disney fans of all ages. It boasts a stunning modern architectural design, with a tall monorail soaring gracefully through the lobby four stories above. Inside, guests can unwind in over 800 comfortable and spacious rooms that are themed and furnished with all the modern amenities one needs to enjoy their stay. Whether looking for family-friendly fun or experiencing fine dining or spa treatments, this resort has something for everyone.

Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run is an entertaining and exhilarating virtual-reality ride, where Passengers take the pilot's seat in one of the Millennium Falcon cockpits and embark on a thrilling mission to help the galactic smuggler, Hondo. Depending on their actions guiding the spaceship, passengers may receive either cheers or boos upon completion of their mission. Along the way, they experience twists and turns throughout this dynamic adventure filled with Star Wars excitement.

Those looking for a magical getaway, complete with world-class amenities, are sure to find it here. The hotel offers grand, Victorian-style rooms and suites with comfortable furnishings and modern features such as Wi-Fi access and flat screen televisions. Guests can take their pick of activities within the resort, ranging from the sprawling water park to an upscale spa, while the multiple fine dining options ensure that everyone's culinary needs are catered to during their stay.

Kali River Rapids, is an intense whitewater adventure not to be missed! This fast-paced ride takes visitors on a thrilling journey through a lush rain forest as they twist and turn down a 12-foot waterfall. Riders are guaranteed to get soaked during the three-minute experience, so it's best to come prepared with waterproof clothing or change into one of the park's ponchos. A great time for families and friends alike, the Kali River Rapids is sure to provide some lasting memories.