Ariel in the parade at Magic Kingdom
  • On Jan 2, 2026
    Emily from SC Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    What fun stuff other than rides is there to do in the parks? Planning a trip with my family at the end of this month.

    Happy New Year, Emily!

    I'm so happy to welcome you back to planDisney! How exciting that your trip to the Most Magical Place on Earth is just around the corner. All that dreaming and planning is about to turn into real, magical moments. What an incredible way to kick off the New Year and start making memories you and your family will cherish for a lifetime!

    There's so much more to do at the Walt Disney World theme parks beyond the rides, and I'd love to help you discover all the experiences waiting for you. So let me wave my magic wand, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo, and let's set off on this adventure together!

    All four theme parks are packed with incredible entertainment, so there's something for everyone! At Magic Kingdom, you can enjoy parades like Festival of Fantasy and the nighttime parade, Starlight, topped off with the breathtaking Happily Ever After fireworks. Honestly, even a stroll down Main Street, U.S.A. feels like an attraction all on its own.

    Over at EPCOT, you can wander through the entire World Showcase! And during your visit, the Festival of the Arts will be in full swing, adding even more creativity, food, and fun to explore.

    Hollywood Studios is a dream for show-lovers. The Beauty and the Beast stage show is a beautifully produced retelling of the classic tale, while Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After puts a fun, interactive twist on things by letting you decide which villain has been treated the most unfairly. And of course, Hollywood Studios is home to Fantasmic!, one of my absolute favorite nighttime spectaculars across all the parks. 

    Then there's Animal Kingdom, where adventure awaits around every corner. From exploring the Maharajah Jungle Trek, to sketching a Disney character at The Animation Experience at Conservation Station, to being blown away by performances in Festival of the Lion King, you're guaranteed to have a truly WILD time!

    If you're hoping to elevate your theme park experience even more, there are some memorable add-on options to consider. The Enchanting Extras Collection is filled with unique experiences that cater to a wide range of interests.

    One of my absolute top picks is the Keys to the Kingdom Tour, which offers a fascinating behind-the-scenes look at Magic Kingdom, including a walk through the famous underground Utilidor tunnels. Just keep in mind that Guests must be 16 years of age or older to participate in this tour.

    There are plenty of other special experiences, too. At Animal Kingdom, Caring for Giants gives you an up-close look at the African elephants, while teaching you about the incredible care they receive. Over at EPCOT, the Behind the Seeds tour takes you backstage at the Land Pavilion for a walking tour where you'll learn all about innovative and sustainable agriculture. These experiences are a fantastic way to add a little extra pixie dust to your visit.

    Emily, I hope this has helped spark your imagination and given you a great starting point as you put the finishing touches on your trip plans. If any other questions pop up along the way, don't hesitate to swing back over to planDisney. We're always happy to help make the magic happen!

    See ya real soon,

    Kami
thumbnail image for Kami

Meet the Panelist: Kami, Rhode Island

I'm Kami, a wife, mom of two boys, content creator, and wheelchair user. Visiting Walt Disney World Resort isn't just a trip for my family, it's a journey into a world where magic truly comes to life. Whether it's experiencing new attractions, exploring the resorts, or discovering hidden gems around the parks, I love sharing my tips and tricks with others. For me, Disney is a way of creating unforgettable memories with my family. I'm thrilled to help every guest experience their own unforgettable adventure. Learn More About Kami

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