21 Best Disney World Bucket List Items to Do at Least Once

The Ultimate Walt Disney World Bucket List

I’m so excited to leave the past few years behind. Although I’d accomplished my dream of publishing my first book, I’d also lost my mom the following months. It has definitely been was quite a few tough years for me.

I am looking forward to all of the years to come and the 21 Disney World bucket list items I’ve been putting off for some time.

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Leaping Leprechaun Cocktail at Disney Best Drinks in Epcot Disney World Bucket List

I have visited Walt Disney World on so many occasions. Even though I’ve been numerous times, there are still some things I have yet to do.

…so here are my 21 must do Disney items for this year. Keep in mind, a lot of things deal with food and drinks!

I am very proud to say that I have completed my TOP Walt Disney World bucket list item, eating at Victoria and Albert’s. Read my experience here or watch the video.

 

The Ultimate Disney World Bucket List

Magic Kingdom Secrets at Walt Disney World in front of Cinderella Castle
Cinderella Castle

1 – Do Keys to the Kingdom Tour

This has been on my Disney bucket list since 2013 and I need to just do it!

The Keys to the Kingdom Tour is the particular tour that I’ve heard great things about.

Thunder Mountain Railroad Magic Kingdom Disney Hidden Secrets with golden mountain in the background.
Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

I’ve done so many different activities at Walt Disney World that taking a behind the scenes look will hopefully bring about a new and exciting adventure to my park hopping experience.

2 – Stay in the Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Disney Fort Wilderness Cabins in the Woods
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground

I am not a fan of the wild animals and creepy bugs that are associated with the great outdoors, but doing it Disney style may be the right catalyst for my transition into this great American pastime.

Staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground is one of my resolutions that I am pretty curious to try.

ORDER NOW to secure your Orlando theme park ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY TICKETS.

3 – Have a character dining meal at Garden Grill or Akershsus Royal Banquet Hall in Epcot.

I have watched a few videos online that have made me super excited to indulge in this form of dining entertainment at Disney.

Both experiences are buffet style with the Garden Grill being located in a rotating restaurant inside The Land Pavilion.

4 – Complete the Phineas and Ferb challenge in each Epcot country.

Flower and Garden Festival with Phineas and Ferb topiary
Flower and Garden Festival with Phineas and Ferb topiary

This activity involves guests trekking around the countries of World Showcase to defeat Doofenshmirtz’s evil plot.

I did this once in the Norway Pavilion, but I would like to complete each conquest in all countries.

***This attraction may be changing soon, but hopefully I’ll be able to do it before it closes.

5 – Conquer Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party

I’ve been to many of the popular Halloween events here in central Florida except Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party Tips

I have only heard great things about it. From years of reading and watching people’s experiences, I do know it’s an event for both the young and “old.”

Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party Nikky
Mickeys Not So Scary Halloween Party

COMPLETED. Read my best tips for Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party here!

6 – Enjoy Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party

The festive décor, the holidays lights, the Disney “snow,” and let’s not forget the Christmas cookies. I’ve heard that this party is the ultimate yuletide gathering to celebrate the holidays!

Cinderella Castle Decorated for Christmas at Disney Magic Kingdom

Read how to do Christmas at Disney for FREE here!

7 – Dine at Morimoto Asia Restaurant in Disney Springs

Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs with Saki Sangria and Sushi. Disney World Bucket List.
Morimoto Asia in Disney Springs with Saki Sangria and Sushi

I’m such a fan of the famous Iron Chef. I can’t wait to have sushi and some delicious sake at Morimoto’s new restaurant.

COMPLETED. You can read my full Morimoto Asia review here!

8 – Dine at Epcot’s Le Cellier

Epcot Le Cellier in Canada. Red Apple whiskey cocktail, colorful green wedge salad, fries topped with creamy brown gravy and cheese.
Epcot Le Cellier in Canada

For years this restaurant has had rave reviews, but reservations are not always the easiest to get.

I’m a also fan of fine dining and doing it Disney way is always a plus!

COMPLETED!

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9 – Dine at the Magic Kingdom’s Crystal Palace

I have never been here, nor do I know much about this place. What I do know is the architecture and look of the outside facade draws me in.

Cinderella Castle Magic Kingdom Cost to Park at Disney World

The buffet is also not a bad reason to eat in this magical place.

10 – Experience the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney Free Lei at Polynesian Resort with NikkyJ
Disney Free Lei at Polynesian Resort

I want to join in on the luau, dance to my heart’s content, and eat all-I-care-to-enjoy in this family-style Polynesian feast.

11 – Eat with a Disney Imagineer

Yes! You can actually do this. I really hope that I’m able to dine with a great thinker on the Disney Imagineering staff.

How to do Disney Hollywood Studios Solo
Hollywood Studios

This cool experience is offered at Hollywood Studio’s Brown Derby and Citricos at The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

12 – Have a drink at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto in Disney’s Polynesian Resort

Trader Sam's Disney Tiki Room with volcano cocktail.
Trader Sam’s Disney Tiki Room

I’m ready to indulge in the umbrella-in-my-drink lifestyle.

COMPLETED! Read my experience at Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto here!

13 – Complete the Monorail Pub Crawl

This is one of the best ways for adults to do Disney. I can’t wait to dine and drink at some of the best restaurants in the Polynesian Resort, the Grand Floridian, and the Contemporary Resort.

Disney Epcot Hidden Secrets Theme Park Solo. Spaceship earth with the monorail. #DisneyTips #Epcot #DisneySolo #DisneyPlanning
Epcot Monorail

Disney has an official crawl called Highway in the Sky Dine Around, but you can definitely create your own itinerary.

Read: The Ultimate Guide to the Three Disney World Monorail Resorts

14 – Dine at the Sci-Fi restaurant in Disney’s Hollywood Studios

A classic drive-in theater with food inside Walt Disney World sounds pretty awesome to me!

Buzz Lightyear at Disney World

15 – Finally score 999,999 on Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.

I keep trying and honestly, I suck at these types of attractions. Hopefully this year I will be able to get it done!

Ready to start planning your next Disney World vacation? Listen to the latest podcast episode on Apple or on your non-Apple device now!

16 – Explore Pandora at Night

The world of Pandora immerses you and takes you automatically into a magical journey with the Na’vi people the Disney way.

Pandora World of Avatar at Night Disney Animal Kingdom Waterfall. Disney World Bucket List.

It is so beautiful in the day, I know it has to be spectacular at night based on some of the videos I’ve seen online.

COMPLETED! Read the full Pandora World of Avatar guide here.

17 – Delight in Afternoon Tea at the Garden View Tea Room in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Garden View Tea Room Disney Grand Floridian. Sweet scones, warm tea, and bite-size cream sandwiches. Disney World Bucket List.
Garden View Tea Room Disney Grand Floridian

After listening to an episode of WDW Radio, I was convinced to try this unorthodox Disney experience. Once you’ve heard the charismatic host, you’ll want to do it too!

COMPLETED! Read or listen to my experience with Afternoon Tea at Disney World here!

18 – Do all four Walt Disney World theme parks in one day.

Epcot theme park with globe

I haven’t done this in years! Now I’m more of a go to Epcot for dinner and drink kind of person then leave.

This would be a great way to rekindle my love of the parks.

19 – Do the Wonders of the Lodge Tour at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge Resort

Old Faithful Geyser Disney Fort Wilderness Lodge. Disney World Bucket List.
Old Faithful Geyser Disney Fort Wilderness Lodge

This is a free tour that explains the art, architecture, and history of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Lodge Resort.

Plus, it’s my favorite hotel on Disney property!

20 – Buy a Holiday Décor Item from Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe

Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe Magic Kingdom at Disney. Disney World Bucket List.
Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe Magic Kingdom at Disney

I have a new thing that I’m into and that’s collecting Christmas décor from all of the theme parks I visit.

This year I will start my collection by buying something from Ye Old Christmas Shoppe in the Magic Kingdom theme park.

21 – Have a Meetup Day with Fellow ThemeParkHipsters

I would love to meet each and every one you guys who have been following the blog for a while.

Meeting ThemeParkHipster Solo Theme Park Traveler. Disney World Bucket List

It will be so awesome to enjoy thrilling attractions and delicious food with you all!

COMPLETED!

What to Know Before You Go

Before when end this Disney World bucket list, let’s go over some of the most common questions I’m asked.

Magic Kingdom New Fantasyland Storybook Circus Band

How much does Disney World cost?

A one-day REGULAR season Disney World ticket starts at $118* (prices do fluctuate based on the season).

What day of the week is best to go to Walt Disney World?

Tuesday is the best day of the week to have your solo Disney day. If Tuesday doesn’t work, Wednesday and Thursday are good as well.

Dolphin Hotel Resort with Lagoon

What are the best Disney resorts for Solo Travelers?

Watch: How to Choose the BEST Disney Resort for Your Trip here on YouTube!

What rides at Disney World have single rider line?

The Magic Kingdom currently does not have any single rider attractions. While planning out your day, you’ll want to have your FastPasses booked as mentioned earlier in this guide and arrive early to the park.

Disney World Single Rider Attractions

  • Test Track – Epcot
  • Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – Hollywood Studios
  • Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – Hollywood Studios
  • Expedition Everest – Animal Kingdom

Watch the Full Disney World Bucket List Video Here on YouTube!

Final Thoughts

Whew! I know this is quite this list to have completed by the following year. I hope I can conquer each item this year.

Wish me luck!

I will continue to update this post with pics of my experience after each adventure is completed

Disney World Bucket List with Winnie the Pooh Float
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I want to know what’s on your Disney bucket list? Let me know in the comments section below.

If you enjoyed this article, then you’ll love these:

Planning a trip soon? If so, read the Disney Vacation Planning Guide for your next dream trip!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

NikkyJ

(Original Date January 1, 2018/Updated July 25, 2020)

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14 thoughts on “21 Best Disney World Bucket List Items to Do at Least Once”

  1. Happy New Year! Off your list, the main ones I’ve done were the character breakfasts (which we’ve talked about), Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe (bought a couple of really pretty tree ornaments) and Sci Fi Dine In. It was cute…but I’ve heard the food is now hit-or-miss compared to what it used to be. I definitely wouldn’t go out of my way to go back. Then again, I’ve heard that about several of the restaurants on your list, so who knows? *shrug*

    I love so much of your list, I have a feeling a lot of your stuff will make my bucket list too. If you ever get the chance to do it, I *highly* recommend the Deluxe Dining Plan. Yes, it’s *crazy* pricey — but so are a bunch of the restaurants on your list. This way, you can cross a bunch of items off your bucket list in one big foodie trip and only have one nasty incident of sticker shock. 😉

    As for my bucket list…*crack knuckles* okay, here goes:

    1. 4 parks in one day. This is at the top of my list because I’d have to get in shape to pull it off, and I *really* need to get in shape. So, motivation.
    2. Have a do-over with Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. Yes, technically, I have been at the park during the party hours. But my experience was an atomic-level bomb of a train wreck. I want another shot at it.
    3. Complete the Phineas and Ferb challenge at EPCOT. On top of everything else, my nephew is a huge fan of the characters.
    4. Dine at Victoria and Albert’s Chef’s Table.
    5. Watch a spring training game at Wide World of Sports — ideally, I’d love to watch my beloved Detroit Tigers beat the Braves :-).
    6. Be able to go to Disney much more often, either by becoming a DVC member or buying a ‘snowbird’ condo near the park.
    7. Dine at the Hollywood Brown Derby.
    8. Visit Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge and stay at the hotel.
    9. Go to Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party dressed as a princess (probably Rapunzel or Belle).
    10. Stay in one of those 2 bedroom villas on the Seven Seas Lagoon at the Polynesian. My new fantasy suite…*sigh*
    11. Go to the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival and see a taping of The Chew.
    12. Catch up on Disney movies. I’d like to at least have seen the all of the major animated ones.
    13. See the Kiss Goodnight.
    14. Go back to California Grill — but get a reservation to dine during the fireworks this time.
    15. Experience the parks with either my nephew or my husband’s family. I’ve only ever been to Disney with my husband and I’d love to see the parks from another perspective.
    16. See the Hoop de Doo Musical Revue at Fort Wilderness. One of two things I didn’t get to do on my last trip that I truly regret not doing.
    17. Dine at Monsieur Paul at EPCOT (my other regret from my last trip)
    18. Ride Rock’n Roller Coaster and Expedition Everest. I love coasters…but I’ve never ridden these. Must fix this.
    19. Go to one of the international parks, like Paris or Tokyo.
    20. Do a Disney Cruise.
    21. Meet up with one of my favorite Disney bloggers/vloggers at the parks. (Interested?)

    And an honorable mention, mostly because the universe would have to work overtime to even give me a shot at the opportunity to do this:

    22. Sing as a member of the Candlelight Processional Choir.

    Reply
    • Wow!!! What a list.

      Now I want to update my list, lol.

      Disney is going to take all of our money. Like seriously, I want to do everything on your list. I finally got to do Victoria and Albert’s a few months ago and I want to go again [even with the cost 😉 ]! I need a second job to Disney right, lol!

      Reply
      • Personally, I would love to just become a super successful Disney blogger so that my Disney-supporting job could be talking about Disney all day long. 😛

        You’ve been to V&A? Sooooooo jealous! Did you blog about it? I live vicariously through those kinds of details….

        Reply
        • You definitely have the talent and passion to become a Disney blogger. If you send me a private message to themeparkhipster@gmail.com, I can send you some resources that I use to continue to grow ThemeParkHipster 🙂

          I haven’t posted my V&A article yet. I want to make sure I do it right. It was sooooo amazing!!!!

          Reply
    • I’ve done Le Cellier, Trader Sam’s, Afternoon Tea, and I have met up with ThemeParkHipsters at the parks 🙂 Hopefully, I can knock out a few before the end of the year.

      Reply

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