One thing I really focus on when I am guiding families around Walt Disney World is the opportunities to get out of the line. Even with the Fast Pass, the reality of Disney World is that you will spend a lot of time in line. That’s why in tips you’ll see what I call “rest” or “nap” rides. These rides like Ellen’s Energy Adventure in Epcot or Hall of President in Magic Kingdom offer a long, air conditioned respite from standing in line. 

Another way to get out of line is to take advantage of the interactive games that Disney has launched in Magic Kingdom, Epcot and Animal Kingdom. 


Magic Kingdom 
Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom – This is a card based game similar to Pokeman or The Gathering. You collect the cards by registering at the Fire Station to the left of the circle when you enter the Magic Kingdom.  You get a key card to activate the game at the locations throughout the Park.  You also get spell cards. These cards give you certain powers and spells to help you fight the villains. You’ll get a map to steer you to the game locations. The game works by watching a vignette on hidden screens located throughout the Park. Then you hold up your cards to defeat the villain. 

Most iterations of the game use 4-5 stations so it takes about 20 – 30 minutes depending on how many other people are playing the same game.  When you finish one iteration, it will send you off to another land to take on another villain. Magic portals are available in Main Street USA, Adventureland, Frontierland/Liberty Square, and Fantasyland. Because this is actually a game, the experiences will vary based on the cards you use and which level of the game you are on. You may not be able to defeat the villain with the cards you have in some instances.   I like the game because the cards make fun souvenirs and the special effects at the portals are very cook. It’s really fun to see a regular store window turn into a magic portal. 


A Pirate’s Adventure: Treasures of the Seven Seas – You initiate this game in Adventureland near the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. It offers five set adventures and works more as a guided story than a game.  Check out this video to find out more:  





Epcot 

 Agent P's Adventure - This game combines the very popular characters Phinneas and Ferb with a quest to defeat evil. You sign up at numerous kiosks throughout the World Showcase. You'll be given a cell phone and sent to one of the nations. The phone will give you clues for actions you must complete. Each adventure takes about 30 minutes and is limited to one nation. The phone triggers fun, interactive changes to displays. I don't want to tell you more because it will ruin the fun. It really is fun for all ages.
Animal Kingdom 

Wilderness Explorers - Patterned after the Wilderness Explorers from the movie Up, this interactive adventure focuses on learning more about the animals and cultures featured in the Animal Kingdom. When you sign up, you receive a booklet highlighting 32 different badges. They discourage you from trying to get all the badges in one day. Throughout the Park, stations are marked with a symbol noting which badge you can receive at that station. The Wilderness Explorer guide will teach you a little bit about the animal or culture the badge is highlighting and then give you a small challenge or question to complete. It's a great way to highlight all the animals and add an educational component to a fun day at the Animal Kingdom. 

Right now, Disney has some terrific free dining offers for this fall. Contact me at tripswithangie@gmail.com for more information.