When I knew we would go to Sean’s wedding in Vero Beach, I pulled out the Florida map and saw how close we’d be to Disney World. We had read the great reviews of the Fort Wilderness Campground at Disney.
I was surprised that space was available since it was the week before Easter. But, we were lucky, and the reviews were correct – this is one of the nicest RV Parks we’ve been to so far. With lots of trees between the sites and a backdrop of woods and a stream, it was peaceful and quiet. You can see how relaxing it was!
Star Wars and More
We walked 20,000 steps on our first day and spent most of the day at Star Wars in Disney’s Hollywood Studios. I wasn’t a true Star Wars fan before, but I understand the appeal now that I have experienced it virtually. I kept my eyes open during Galaxy’s Edge, but I only made it halfway through the Rise of the Resistance. It’s amazing how real the dives, drops and dangers feel in this virtual world.
Animal Kingdom
On Day 2, we walked another 15,000 steps at the Animal Kingdom. Bill and Kathleen convinced me to go on another thrill ride. This time, at the Avatar Flight of Passage, we virtually climbed atop a winged mountain banshee for a breathtaking 3D flight over Pandora’s otherworldly landscape. I survived, but I closed my eyes again for some of the journeys. That was enough for me, but Bill was up for more thrills. While he went on The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror™, I relaxed in the shade.
Fine Dining at Disney World
We did splurge this trip. Normally, we cook some meals in our Airstream. But this trip, we dined out for lunch and dinner, and it was well worth it. My dear friend Kathleen, a Disney Vacation Club owner for over 30 years, played Tour Guide.
Our first dinner was at the California Grill at the Contemporary Resort. Kathleen and I celebrated my 67th birthday there nine years ago! Bill said it was one of the best dining experiences he’d had in many years. In celebration of its 50th Anniversary, we chose the special Prix Fixe Menu. The Apple Salad and the Flounder main course that I ordered were delicious.
Some of the other restaurants we recommend, for lunch or dinner, include –
- The Hollywood Brown Derby
- The Boathouse – fantastic food and location on the water
- The Grand Floridian Cafe
- Tiffins
- La Creperie
Fireworks
Disney does Fireworks with the best of them. I rank them up there with July 4th on the Mall in Washington, DC, or New York over the East River. Between courses at the California Grill, we watched the fireworks at the Magic Kingdom. On Day Two, we had dinner reservations at La Creperie to be close to Epcot for their 50th Anniversary Fireworks Show. It was awesome.
By Day 3, our legs were cramping and complaining. After lunch at The Boathouse, another great dining experience, we took it easy and relaxed at our campsite. We had such a good time we’ve already booked a return visit in mid-December. Kathleen tells me the Christmas decorations alone are worth the trip.