Wander Where? Walt Disney World Spotlight

Step into a world of enchantment at Walt Disney World Resort in Florida—home to four world-class theme parks, thrilling attractions, beloved characters, and magical memories waiting to be made.

From a young age, I have vacationed at Walt Disney World in Florida. My first trip was taken with my parents and grandparents at 18-months-old in summer of 1991. I have since visited over 25 different times, averaging two to three times per year since 2018. My son's first Disney vacation was in May of 2015 when he was only 5-years old. My girls visited as early as 5-months old. It is a no brainer for us and our extended family as my parents are now Disney Vacation Club members and my sister-in-law has joined me as a travel agent as well.

I don't just love Walt Disney World for their theme parks either - when I do Disney World, I go all in! Staying on property is half the fun of a Walt Disney World vacation. My bucket list includes staying at every resort on property and marking off some of the most desired rooms as well.

🏨 Resort Highlight 🏨

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Art of Animation Resort at Walt Disney World in Florida

My first adult Walt Disney World vacation included my son and my husband along with our extended family. My son chose Disney's Art of Animation resort for his first stay as it was among the newest resorts and features the Cars Family Suite. Lightning McQueen was life with light up racing shoes and coordinating character tees. Our suite accommodated our little family of three plus my adult best friend and my adult brother. Plus, the two bathrooms made getting ready so much easier!

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, features larger-than-life characters and vibrant theming bringing classic Disney and Pixar films to life! From Finding Nemo to The Lion King, Cars, and The Little Mermaid, every section of the resort immerses you in unforgettable worlds. It is a fan favorite among families, including mine, for sure!

This Value Resort is one of two that offers spacious Family Suites that sleep up to six, complete with a separate bedroom, two bathrooms, and a kitchenette—making it one of the most popular options for guests needing extra space without sacrificing that Disney magic.

🖌️ Christina’s Tip: The Big Blue Pool is the largest at any Disney Resort—and it even plays music underwater! Don’t forget to snap photos in the Cars section—it feels like you're walking right into Radiator Springs.

✨ Ideal for: Larger families, Pixar lovers, and budget-conscious guests who still want that over-the-top Disney theming.

Disney's Winter Summerland Miniature Golf

Another favorite outside of the parks? The complimentary mini-golf! In May 2024 we set sail out of Port Canaveral, so we did our pre and post cruise stay at Walt Disney World. Matt, the girls, and I stayed post-cruise at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort (my favorite!) Since we stayed on property we received their Magical Extras at no additional cost. One of those extras is a complimentary round of golf at one of their mini-golf courses before 4PM.

Disney's has two miniature golf courses - Winter Summerland and Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf.

🎨 Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf Located near the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts, this whimsical course is themed after Disney’s Fantasia. You’ll putt your way through dancing hippos, musical fountains, and mischievous broomsticks as classical music sets the tone. It’s the perfect mix of challenge and charm for kids and adults alike. If you want something a little more challenge, my son has come to really enjoy the Fairways side of the course which features 3-par and 5-par holes featuring water hazards, sand traps, and bunkers.

🌨️ Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Found near the entrance to Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, this holiday-themed course offers two 18-hole adventures: the Summer Course, featuring sandy beaches and sun-loving snowmen, and the Winter Course, filled with snow-capped surprises and North Pole fun. Both are packed with Santa-approved silliness and perfect photo ops.

Both courses are perfect for a mid-day break, working in on a rest day, or waiting for that afternoon flight on departure day.