Walt Disney World, FL

Walt Disney World is Disney’s vast resort about 20 miles southwest of Orlando, opened on October 1, 1971. It is the reason many families come to Florida, with four theme parks, two water parks, dozens of resort hotels and Disney Springs.

Things to do at Walt Disney World

The four theme parks are Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach are the water parks, and Disney Springs offers shopping, dining and entertainment without a park ticket. Most visitors spend at least one full day per park, and many plan a rest day or a pool afternoon in the middle of a long trip.

Getting around Walt Disney World

The resort covers parts of southwestern Orange County and Osceola County, mostly within the cities of Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista. It is reached from I-4, including the World Drive exit, and from SR 429 on the west side. Inside, free transportation includes the monorail linking Magic Kingdom, EPCOT and several hotels, the Skyliner gondola connecting EPCOT and Hollywood Studios with four resorts, Disney buses and boats. Orlando International Airport is about 30 minutes away by car. Crowds peak at spring break, summer and the winter holidays. For the wider area, see the Orlando guide.