Hi, Marlene, and welcome back to planDisney. I'm so happy to see you again!
Walt Disney once said that he didn't make films for children, but for the child in all of us. I can only imagine he also brought that mindset to Disneyland and Walt Disney World - and I think that's what makes the parks so magical for kids and adults alike!
As a Disney-loving mom, I've had the pleasure of experiencing the magic through my daughter's eyes. But I was a young girl at Disney World once, too, and I remember how it felt to lose myself in the magic. Marlene, I'm so excited to help you plan an amazing trip for your daughter, so let's get to your question!
Since I know you already booked your spot at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, I'm going to go out on a limb and assume your daughter is a Disney Princess fan. If that's the case, my first suggestion is character dining with the Princesses. For an iconic fairytale feast, you can't beat
Cinderella's Royal Table. Located inside Cinderella Castle, this is a unique dining experience I think everyone should do at least once! As an alternative, try
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall at EPCOT or
Story Book Dining at Artist Point with Snow White at Disney's Wilderness Lodge.
To continue the royal vibes, I also recommend
Enchanted Tales with Belle at Magic Kingdom Park. In my opinion, this attraction is far too often overlooked! My kids love the magical effects, the prolonged interaction with Belle, and they LOVE being part of the show! This is a great way to immerse your princess in one of her favorite stories and put her right in the middle of the magic.
Another idea to make your daughter feel like actual, real-life royalty? The
Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties: Seats & Sweets option! This
Enchanting Extra gives you prime seating for
Happily Ever After, along with a selection of delicious desserts. If this one feels a little too spendy, check out Pre- and Post-Party options, since these are a little easier on the wallet.
Finally, I want to mention two experiences that my daughter absolutely LOVES. The first is the LEGO® Minifigure Factory at The LEGO® Store in Disney Springs. This inexpensive activity allows kiddos to create and print a LEGO® minifigure from scratch! It's a great way to spice up a non-park day, but remember to
book your spot online in advance.
Now, you asked about hidden gems, but what about a hidden
pearl? My daughter and I both love the Pick-a-Pearl experience in the Japan pavilion at EPCOT! You'll find this at Ayoka Pearls inside the
Mitsukoshi Department Store. In this unique experience, you'll choose an oyster from a tank of water. Then, a Disney Cast Member will clean, measure, and reveal your pearl! You can even have your pearl set into a piece of jewelry for a magical, one-of-a-kind souvenir.
I hope this helps, Marlene. If you have any other planning questions, you've always got a friend in planDisney!
See ya real soon,
Allison