Rides vs. Shows

When I was a kid, I disliked the idea of a show at Disney. Why the hell would I want to go see the boring Tiki Birds or the Hall of Dumb Presidents when there were rides to ride. The thrill of Space Mountain seemed to have everything The Carousel of Progress didn't. In other words: fun.

Now, as an adult, I feel a bit differently. Not only is Micky's Philharmagic and Muppets in 3D good, solid fun, it's also an opportunity to STOP for a few minutes and sit in the air conditioning. Like a break and a show combined.

And yet ... I STILL find it hard to make myself go to the Carousel of Progress.

What do you think? Shows or rides?

DOWNTOWN DISNEY

The first time I went to Downtown Disney, I didn't like it. I'd just driven 1 billion miles to get to Disney, and our rooms weren't ready and it was 5000 degrees Fahrenheit. (As you can see, I'm a bit loose with numbers.) So I was sweaty and crabby and just not in the mood. Downtown Disney was just some hot place that wasn't my air-conditioned room at the Polynesian.

Subsequent visits to Downtown Disney have changed my mind. It can provide a nice break from the parks while still "doing Disney." The family and I have seen movies in the comfortable, wine-serving theater and eaten good meals at Ragland Road and elsewhere. I've spent about 40 million dollars at the Lego store for my son. And for Dad, there is even a cigar bar.

So ... what are your good experiences at Downtown Disney? What are your suggestions for places to go (or avoid)?

Enough Little surprises can add up to Big Fun

Having been to Disney a number of times, I generally know what to expect when I go on a particular ride or walk into a specific restaurant. But one of the things I appreciate about a trip to WDW is the potential for unexpected little bonuses of fun. For example, as my family and I walked passed the Canadian pavilion in Epcot, we paused to listen to a rock band which featured a guy in a kilt jamming hard on a set of bagpipes. It wasn't something we'd planned to see, but it was cool to take a moment and listen to a couple of songs. Nowhere in our guidebook did it suggest we grab a few Canadian beers and listen to some kilt rock. It just happened.

What are some cool, little surprise moments you've had at WDW?

Beer at WDW

What's the best? The worst? The in-betweenest?

Those big-ass mugs at the Biergarten rule!

Discuss.

Mickey Slept Here

Okay, today we're talking about hotels at WDW. As stated in the previous post, the Polynesian is my favorite, but I also have a soft spot for the Contemporary. As a kid, I marveled at the fact that the monorail traveled directly through the center of the hotel, and even as an adult I still think it's pretty bitchin. So today's questions is which WDW hotels do you like and why? What's important to you. Price? Location? Decor? I prefer to stay in a hotel with monorail access since I am a lazy, lazy man and don't want to drive my car once it's parked. Also, I have only limited experience with the "moderate resorts" so feedback on that would be useful. And I've never been to Disneyland in California, so info on the hotels there would be appreciated too. If you've never been to WDW, which hotel attracts your attention and makes you think you might choose it if you scheduled a visit?

(Wilderness Lodge pictured.)

My son agrees with DAD. The Polynesian is the best resort at Disney. You can watch the fireworks from the beach while sipping a lava drink. The monorail comes right through the main lodge and the Epcot monorail is a five minute walk.

It's just like being there ... except Disney-fied!

Okay folks, I'm off to Italy in a few hours, so we'll make today's Disney Question an easy one. What's your favorite "country" in Epcot? I'm going to say Italy just for ... well ... obvious reasons given the circumstances. Remember to show your work.

Some Further Explanation ...

A few questions have been coming in. Such as ...

1. If it's "Disney for Dad", does that mean mom can't participate?

No. All are welcome. Some questions are geared toward dad, but anyone who wants to jump in should feel free.

2. Research? What you talkin' 'bout, Willis?

Yes, I know I've been vague about my "project" but that's because I'm not 100% sure what shape this project will take just yet. That's one of the reasons, I'm asking these questions on this blog -- to help get my bearings.

3. So do you like Disney or not? I can't tell what the hell's going on here.

I am very pro-Disney, but I recognize there are plenty of people who can't stand the thought of stepping foot into Mouse Land, and since I want feedback from those people too, some of my questions will be geared toward them. Also, while I am pro-Disney, I also plan to be HONEST. I mean, hell people, that Small World ride gets on my nerves.

So feel free to zap any other questions you have my way, and I'll do my best to answer.

MMMMMM. Put that in my mouth please.

There are lots of places to eat at Walt Disney World and at Disneyland. LOTS. So narrowing down a favorite depends on mood and context. I'm tempted to say the Biergarten is my favorite place, but not for the food. The food is decent, but what I really dig is the live oompa band and the huge mugs of beer. I like a little show with my meal if I'm in a vacation environment. But if I was going to base my choice on the quality of food I'd pick .... hmmmm ... not sure.

What about YOU, Mr. and Mrs. Blog Reader? What is your favorite place to eat at WDW?