Internet Info 1994 March/Internet Info CD-ROM (Walnut Creek) (March 1994).iso/answers/rec/disney-faq/disneyworld

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From: [e-mail] (Tom Tanida)
Newsgroups: rec.arts.disney,rec.parks.theme,rec.answers,news.answers
Subject: Walt Disney World FAQ
Followup-To: rec.arts.disney
Date: 21 Mar 1994 19:25:44 GMT
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Summary: FAQ for WDW, a little on DL
Keywords: FAQ, disney
Archive-name: disney-faq/disneyworld
Last-modified: 20 Mar 1994
Originator: [e-mail]
Xref: bloom-beacon.mit.edu rec.arts.disney:26197 rec.parks.theme:707 rec.answers:4557 news.answers:16706

The Walt Disney World Frequently Asked Questions List
Version 2.9, last revised March 20, 1994

     This document is Copyright (c) 1994, by Tom Tanida, all rights
reserved.  It is intended for public use, and may be redistributed freely
printed or electronically in its complete and unaltered form provided
distribution is done at no charge to the receiver.  Partial and other
distribution means require the permission of the author.

     This is FAQ file for Walt Disney World.  It contains some information
relevant to both WDW as well as Disneyland, though I would recommend
getting the Disneyland FAQ for more specific Disneyland information.  Your
input to this list is highly appreciated.
     The purpose of this list is to reduce the number of redundant
questions posted to rec.arts.disney and to provide a source of information
to Disney fans worldwide.  Personally, however, I would invite discussion
of questions included in this list if this list is not complete enough.
For example, I couldn't possibly write the "complete guide to taking kids
to the Disney Theme Parks" because there is no truly complete guide (not to
mention the fact that there are many good guide books out there, as well as
a couple of Internet guides- see question 18).  So although I have offered
some information and advice in part two of this list (the information which
is most commonly suggested), I would still welcome discussion of the topic
since everybody has their own opinions about what rides to go on, what to
see, when to go, what restaurants to eat at in the area, etc.
     Again, I hope that this list will reduce the amount of redundant
information posted to the net.  Even more strongly, I hope this list, in
combination with the rec.arts.disney FAQ, will provide a unified source of
information about Disney related material and provide a valuable reference
for all.

     There are two sections:
        I.  A list of the questions in this part
       II.  Answers to Theme Park Questions

     Send comments, corrections, suggestions, and inside information to:
[e-mail].  I am sure that no matter how long I work on this that
it will never be perfect, but it doesn't hurt to try.  :-)  If you prefer
CompuServe access, I'm at 76655,344.  On Prodigy I'm xgsn74a.  On America
Online, I'm TomTanida. If you would like to reach me by phone, my day
number is (619)-546-6118.  The most reliable way to reach me is via
Internet, then CompuServe (especially if the date on this document is many
months old).

     If you would like a PostScript version of this document, which has
much better formatting, feel free to send me a request; I can easily mail
it to you.  The standard text version of this FAQ, like all FAQs
cross-posted to news.answers, is archived at rtfm.mit.edu. For information
regarding how to FTP the FAQ from rtfm.mit.edu, send me e-mail; I've
written a quick tutorial. This document is maintained in MS Word For
Windows 6.0.
     Note: the Disneyland FAQ is available from me or its maintainer, Walt
Hoffman ([e-mail]), and via FTP from rtfm.mit.edu in
the directory pub/usenet/news.answers/disney-faq.

Section I- Questions

Theme park questions:
1) What are the park hours?
2) What rides are currently shut down for refurbishing?  What current
     construction is going on?
3) What are the current prices at {WDW, Disneyland}?
4) How do I beat the crowds?
5) If I've been to the Magic Kingdom in WDW, what parts of Disneyland can I
     skip?
6) Where should I stay when visiting {WDW, Disneyland}?
7) What's the best time to go to {WDW, Disneyland}?
8) My child is 3 years old.  Is that old enough to enjoy Disneyland/WDW?
9) What are good attractions to take younger children to?
10) Other considerations for children (strollers, etc.)
11) Some interesting things to look for at the theme parks
12) Differences between the Magic Kingdom at WDW and Disneyland
13) Who created the music from the Main Street Electrical Parade?
14) What is SpectroMagic at Walt Disney World?
15) What is Fantasmic! at Disneyland?  How do I beat the crowds?
16) What is a "Character Breakfast"?
17) What is the Disney Vacation Club?
18) What are some good guide books on travel to {WDW/Disneyland?
19) What are "Hidden Mickeys"?  Where can I find some?

Other lists, available upon request:
1) Technical errors in Disney animated feature films (contact Robert Cook
     at [e-mail])
2) List of Jungle Cruise jokes (from Geoff Allen)
3) Misc trivia quizzes
4) Text of Club 33 brochures
5) Old rec.arts.disney articles on the Disney Vacation Club
6) Information on Celebration, Disney's Florida community
7) Disney Film Availability List- lists all the animated feature films and
their availability status on video

Section II- Answers to Theme Park Questions

Theme park questions:

1) What are the park hours?

     Here are the WDW hours, through the end of April.  Note that the Main
Street section of the Magic Kingdom at WDW will often open 30 minutes to an
hour ahead of the official opening time.  I will post hours past the end of
February when they become available.

-----------------------------------------------------------------
Theme Park Operating Hours for March - April 1994
-----------------------------------------------------------------

***  HOURS AND ENTERTAINMENT SUBJECT TO CHANGE WITHOUT NOTICE  ****

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
MAGIC KINGDOM
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
March 20 - 25 .................................. 9 am - 9 pm
March 26 ....................................... 9 am - 11 pm
March 27 - April 9 ............................. 8 am - 12 pm
April 10 ....................................... 9 am - 9 pm
April 11 - 14 .................................. 9 am - 8 pm
April 15 - 16 .................................. 9 am - 11 pm
April 17 - 21 .................................. 9 am - 9 pm
April 22 - 23 .................................. 9 am - 11 pm
April 24 ....................................... 9 am - 9 pm
April 25 - 30 .................................. 9 am - 7 pm

SpectroMagic:
     Fridays and Saturdays in Feb and March at 9 pm
     March 27 - April 9 at 9 pm and 11 pm
     April 15, 16, 22, 23 at 9 pm

Fireworks:
     Fridays and Saturdays in Feb and March at 10 pm
     March 27 - April 9 at 10 pm
     April 15, 16, 22, 23 at 9 pm

Happy Easter Parade:
     March 26 at 12 pm
     March 27 at 3 pm
     April 2 - 3 at 3 pm

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
EPCOT CENTER
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
February 27 - March 26 ......................... 9 am - 9 pm
March 27 - April 7 ............................. 9 am - 10 pm
April 8 - 30 ................................... 9 am - 9 pm

Illuminations:
     February 1 - April 30 at closing

-----------------------------------------------------------------------
DISNEY-MGM STUDIOS THEME PARK
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
March 13 - March 26 ............................ 9 am - 7 pm
March 27 - April 7 ............................. 9 am - 10 pm
April 8 - 9 .................................... 9 am - 9 pm
April 10 - 16 .................................. 9 am - 6 pm
April 17 - 23 .................................. 9 am - 7 pm
April 24 - 30 .................................. 9 am - 6 pm

Aladdin's Royal Caravan:
     March 1 - 26 at 1 pm
     March 27 - April 9 at 11 am and 3:30 pm
     April 10 - 20 at 1 pm

Sorcery in the Sky:
     March 27 - April 7 at 9:50 pm
     April 8 - 9 at 8:50 pm

     For Disneyland hours, consult the Disneyland FAQ.
     There is a WESTCOT preview center open at the Disneyland Hotel
complex.  Its hours are Mondays and Wednesdays, 2 pm - 8 pm.

2) What rides are currently shut down for refurbishing?  What current
     construction is going on?

     If there's someone out there who regularly goes to WDW and is willing
to keep the group updated, here's a big chance to help out.

     Here's some information for Florida, thanks to the FLORIDA forum on
Compuserve (Jan 13, 1994):
Refurbishment:
     - Mission to Mars: now closed until Feb 6, 1995.  This is being
          converted to the Alien Encounter attraction.
     - Magic Journeys (Fantasyland Theater): closed to be refurbed for a
          "Lion King" presentation, to open in July 15, 1994.
     - Circlevision 360: movie being replaced in June (not yet determined)
     - WEDWay PeopleMover: closed until June 10, 1994 for changeover to
          Tomorrowland Transit Authority.
     - Star Jets: closed until June 1994 for changeover to AstroOrbiter as
          part of the new Tomorrowland
     - American Journeys: closed until February 1995
     - Kitchen Kaberet- closed until March 26, 1994 for changeover to Food
          Rocks
     - GE Horizons: closed for redesign
     - Expo Robotics (Communicore): closed permanently
     - Backstage Magic (Communicore): closed permanently
     - All of Communicore will be undergoing redevelopment late this year.
     - Snow White's Scary Adventure (MK): being revamped

Under Construction:
     - Sunset Boulevard (Disney-MGM Studios)- estimated opening May 1994
     - Tower of Terror (Disney-MGM Studios)- July 1994
     - A new Theater of the Stars and a Sunset Marketplace Cafe are being
          added to Sunset Blvd. at Disney-MGM
     - All Star Resort, Disney's economy hotel ($65/night for 2 adults),
          opening May 1994
     - Discoveryland (MK)
     - "Innoventions" (EPCOT): June 1994.  70000 square feet of display
          devoted to high tech products of the future, under a sponsorship
          agreement with AT&T.
     - Journey Into Imagination: New 3-D film ("Honey, I Shrunk the
          Audience") with in-theater special effects  (Fall 1994)
     - Spaceship Earth: Spectacular new finale (late 1994)
     - Wilderness Lodge: May 94
     - Celebration, in Osceola County, Florida; Phase 1 will open in 1995
     - Hotels: Florida Beaches- Summer 1995; Mexican Hotel- October 1994;
          Mediterranean Hotel- June 1996; West Gate Hotel- Summer 1998;
          Wilderness Junction- November 1995

New attractions (no date):
     - Mickey's Splashtacular Revue: a hi-tech fountain show including
          audio-animatronics

Long Term Future Plans:
     - A Nestle supported show, at the Universe of Energy detailing the
          formation of the Earth will open in 1996
     - Blizzard Beach, a northern cousin to Typhoon Lagoon and River
          Country and Disney's largest themed water park: early 1995
     - Fantasmic! Hollywood was originally scheduled to open this summer
          (and was mentioned in the 1993 Annual Report), but has been
          placed on hold

Disneyland:
     - The Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom attraction is now well
under construction.
     - A Lion King parade is under development for the summer.

     Otherwise, you can contact the respective theme parks directly.  The
number for Disneyland is (714)-999-4565.  WDW: (407)-824-4321

3) What are the current prices at {WDW, Disneyland}?

     The following table lists prices for Passports to WDW.  If staying at
a Disney resort, you may benefit if you can find a package deal that
includes lodging and a passport.

     Passport type          General   General   MKC       MKC
                            Public,   Public,   Member,   Member,
                            adult     child     adult     child
     Six Day Super Duper    $192.36   $152.50   $182.69   $144.86
        Pass (resort
        guests only)
     Five Day Super Duper   $170      $135
        Pass (resort
        guests only)
     Five Day World Hopper  $179      $143      $170.51   $136.26
        Pass (off-resort
        guests)
     Four Day Super Pass    $125      $98
        (resort guests
        only)
     Four Day Park Hopper   $134      $107      $129      $102
        Pass (off-resort
        guests)
     Four Day Value Pass    $124      $97       $120      $93
     Annual Passport, new   $199      $174      $184      $164
     Annual Passport,       $179      $154      $164      $144
        renew
     Annual Passport,       $31       $31       $28.50    $28.50
        River Country &
        Discovery Island
        add-on
     Annual Passport        $63       $63       $56.75    $56.75
        Typhoon Lagoon add-
        on
     Annual Passport        $26       $26       $20       $20
        Pleasure Island
        add-on
     "Be Our Guest"         $77       $61       $73.15    $57.95
        passport (1n/2d)
     "Be Our Guest"         $112      $89       $106.40   $84.55
        passport (2n/3d)
     "Be Our Guest"         $146      $115      $138.70   $109.25
        passport (3n/4d)
     "Be Our Guest"         $170      $135      $161.50   $128.25
        passport (4n/5d)
     "Be Our Guest"         $193      $153      $183.33   $145.36
        passport (5n/6d)
     One-day, one park      $36       $29       $32.97    $25.97
        ticket
     Pleasure Island, one   $13.95    N/A       $11.85    N/A
        day
     Pleasure Island,       $36.95    N/A       $33.45    N/A
        annual pass
     Pleasure Island,       $31.95    N/A       $28.45    N/A
        annual pass renew
     Typhoon Lagoon, one    $20.50    $16.50    $18.50    $14.75
        day
     Typhoon Lagoon,        $78.75    $78.75    $70.50    $70.50
        annual pass
     River Country, one     $13.25    $10.50    $12.00    $9.25
        day
     River Country, annual  $52.50    $52.50    $47.25    $47.25
        pass
     Discovery Island, one  $8.50     $4.75     $7.75     $4.25
        day
     River                  $16.75    $12.25    $15.25    $11
        Country/Discovery
        Island combo


Notes: The above prices are subject to the Florida state sales tax of 6%.
A child is of the ages 3-9.  The above list is current as of March 4, 1994.

     Disney has (again) changed their unlimited pass policy.  The 4 and 5
day, multi-park passes (i.e. passes that let a holder go between the parks
on the same day) are again available to all WDW guests, whether you stay on
resort or off.  Off-resort guests pay a $9 premium for the "Park Hopper"
and "World Hopper" passes, listed above, whereas resort guests can purchase
the "Super" passes.
     The Six Day Super Duper Pass is only available only to guests staying
at the WDW Swan, WDW Dolphin and WDW Village Hotel Plaza resorts, and
includes admission to Typhoon Lagoon, River Country, Pleasure Island and
Discovery Island.
     For the "Be Our Guest" passports above, the numbers represent the
nights and days  (e.g. (4n/5d) = 4 nights and 5 days).   These passports
are for Disney Resort Hotel guests only, and include unlimited access to
the three theme parks, Pleasure Island, Typhoon Lagoon, River Country,
Discovery Island.  There are longer durations available, but after a
certain price point it might be more economical to purchase an annual pass
with separate admissions to the individual minor parks.
     Magic Years Member prices are the same as the MKC prices.

     The Five Day Super Duper Pass and the Five Day World Hopper Pass
include unlimited admission to the Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, Magic
Kingdom Park and EPCOT Center any five days with no expiration date.  Plus
unlimited admission for seven days to Typhoon Lagoon, River Country,
Discovery Island and Pleasure Island (valid for seven days after first
visit to Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT Center or the Disney-MGM Studios Theme
Park).  It also includes unlimited use of the transportation system linking
the parks.
     The Four Day passes are the same as the Five Day but do not include
admission to the minor parks.
     An Annual Passport includes twelve months of unlimited admission to the
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, the Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT Center
during regular operating hours.  It also includes special advance
reservation privileges for Walt Disney World restaurants, free parking and
unlimited use of the transportation system linking the Parks.  Annual
Passport holders can purchase separate admissions to the minor parks to
supplement their passport.  These expire at the same time the passport does.
     A One-Day One Park Ticket includes one day's admission to either the
Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park, Magic Kingdom Park or EPCOT Center and bus
transportation between the Transportation and Ticket Center, and Magic
Kingdom Park, EPCOT Center or the Disney-MGM Studios Theme Park.
     There are also six, seven and eight day Super Duper Passes, which can
only be purchased at the resorts themselves.
     Parking is $5 per car.

For Disneyland, here is a current price guide (as of June 1, 1993):

     Passport type         General PublicMKC Club Members
     Adult, 1 day/2        $30/55/75     $28/51/69
        day/3 day
     Child (3-11), 1       $24/44/60     $22/40/54
        day/2 day/3 day
     Seasonal Passport,    $105          $95
        adult
     Seasonal Passport,    $85           $75
        child (3-11)
     Annual Passport,      $195          $180
        adult
     Annual Passport,      $155          $140
        child (3-11)

Disneyland has restructured their annual pass.  There are two types now
available:
     1. Annual: year round, with Saturdays during March-June excluded, as
          well as peak holiday periods. Parking is not included.  This is
          $99.
     2. Premium: no restrictions, and includes free "Preferred Parking"
          (the privilege of parking closer). This pass also includes a 10%
          discount on merchandise at Disneyland and the Disneyland Hotel, a
          10% discount on food at the park, a 10% discount on rooms and
          restaurants at the hotel, and a free subscription to the Disney
          News. This is $199.

MKC members receive a $10 discount on either of these passes.  These prices
are good until March 31, 1994.

     Until June 30, 1994, Southern California residents can buy a special
Disneyland passport for $22 per person ($21 with MKC card).  The purchaser
must show proof of California residence within ZIP codes 90000 through
93599.  Passports are good for day of purchase only with a daily limit of 8
Passports per individual with valid ID.

     Parking in the Disneyland parking lot is an additional $5 per car.
The Seasonal Passport can be used from September 1 through May 31,
excluding Saturdays and December 25-31.  Unlimited parking is an additional
$17.50.  Annual Passports include unlimited parking, and are good for one
year from the date of issue.

4) How do I beat the crowds?

     One of the best strategies is to arrive early, before the park opens.
An hour after opening is too late, by then, the lines have built up to a
full frenzy.  Another strategy, generally for those without kids, is to
take on the more popular rides late in the evening (after 9 pm, through
midnight, if you're there at the time of year when the park is open late).
Also, the lines do shorten a little during major shows (the Main Street
Electrical Parade, SpectroMagic at WDW, or Fantasmic! at Disneyland) and
during dinner time.

For Disneyland (from the Disneyland FAQ):
     Start by selecting a good day to go (see question #7, below).
     Fantasmic! has made nighttime on the west side of the park very
unpredictable.  Tremendous numbers of people show up. During the shows,
lines for attractions are quite short (especially when the Electrical
Parade is also running).  When the show is over, many people avoid the
herding affect by jumping into one of the nearest lines:  Splash Mountain,
Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Jungle Cruise, and Big Thunder
Mountain Railroad.
     Space Mountain is long most of the day and into the night, so first
thing early morning is usually your best bet.  Ditto Rocket Jets.  Star
Tours will shorten significantly in the late evening (when the line is
completely inside, you're in good shape).  Splash Mountain is good when
it's raining or right before the park closes (avoid it when it backs up
beyond the Briar Patch shop).  An early-morning dash might also be a good
idea (since it's at the back of the park).  After dinner, the "kiddie"
rides in Fantasyland shorten a bit, but not much.  Dumbo, Alice in
Wonderland, Peter Pan, and Mr. Toad will remain popular, but there will be
almost no line for Snow White's Scary Adventures or Pinocchio's Daring
Journey.  Skyway line is almost always shorter from Fantasyland to
Tomorrowland than the other way around.  Small World should usually be a
walk-on; if it's not, come back later.  Country Bear Jamboree almost never
takes long.
     Crossing the parade route is possible but time consuming.  Plan which
side of the park you want to be on during the parade and get there early.
If you must cross, consider using the Disneyland RR or the Skyway.  Parade
crossing zones north of the Matterhorn are usually less congested than the
one at the Hub.  Main Street is tough (though not impossible) to negotiate
during popular parades.

5) If I've been to the Magic Kingdom in WDW, what parts of Disneyland can I
     skip?

     The answer here is taken from the Disneyland FAQ:
     There are subtle differences in almost every corner of the park.  If
you're a Disney aficionado, you'll want to check out everything.  If you're
pressed for time, you can skip the following:
     - Haunted Mansion (I hate to admit it, but WDW's is better)
     - People Mover (more primitive)
     - Monorail (unless you want to go to the Disneyland Hotel)
     - Submarine Voyage (nearly identical to WDW's except for order of
          presentation and absence of little Jules Verne nuances)
     - Skyway (useful for getting around, especially during parades)
     - Captain EO
     - Circle Vision 360 (same as at WDW)
     - Autopias
     - Small World (biggest difference is the exterior facade)
     - Country Bear Jamboree (virtually identical but DL has 2 theaters)
     - Golden Horseshoe Revue (same show, different finale)
Tough calls:  (similar, yet different and worth experiencing)
     - Space Mountain
     - Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
     - Great Moments with Mr. Lincoln (a trimmed down version of the Hall
          of Presidents)
     - Splash Mountain
Whatever you do, don't miss out on:
     - Fantasmic!
     - Star Tours (unless you've been on the one in Disney-MGM Studios)
     - Matterhorn Bobsleds
     - Jungle Cruise (my DL experiences have far surpassed the one at WDW)
     - Pirates of the Caribbean (parts are identical, but DL is better)
     - Disney Art Gallery (above Pirates)
     - Disneyland RR between Tomorrowland & Main Street for Grand Canyon
          and Primeval World dioramas (not quite as impressive as EPCOT's
          World of Energy dinosaurs)

The parade route is different.  North of Main Street, Disneyland parades
proceed north along the east side of the Castle up to It's a Small World.
WDW MK parades turn at the Hub, heading through Liberty Square and
Frontierland.

6) Where should I stay when visiting {WDW, Disneyland}?

     For first time guests, especially those with kids, I recommend an
on-site resort in order to make the transition easier.  At Disneyland, the
Disneyland hotel features the monorail; it is *very* convenient to flash
your passport and hop on to go to the park, then hop back on in
Tomorrowland to return to the hotel when you need a break.  Likewise, the
Contemporary Resort, among others, also feature easy Monorail-to-park
access.
     For those without kids, or experienced travelers, off-site hotels can
be cheaper.  Although they won't feature the amenities of the more
expensive hotels, this may be better if you're looking to save money and
aren't interested in spending much time in your room (aside from sleeping).
Be sure to check out vacation packages, however, before giving up on the
Disney hotels.
     Birnbaum's Official Guide books give decent listings of the resort
hotels, including phone numbers and addresses.
     For information regarding lodging in the Anaheim area, you may contact
the Anaheim Area Visitor and Convention Bureau at 800 W. Katella Ave.,
Anaheim, CA 92802.  Phone: [phone].

7) What's the best time to go to {WDW, Disneyland}?

     For WDW, here's a quick and dirty table, from best to worst:
     1) October, through a week before Christmas, except Thanksgiving
     2) Post New Years through a couple weeks before Easter
     3) Post Easter through Memorial Day
     4) President's Day weekend
     5) Spring Break week (the week up to and including Easter)
     6) Memorial Day through the end of Summer
     7) Thanksgiving weekend
     8) Christmas through the New Year

8) My child is 3 years old.  Is that old enough to enjoy Disneyland/WDW?

     As always, it depends on the kids and the patience of the parent.  Two
or three is about a minimum age (otherwise, the child is pretty much just
along for the ride), but even children this young can get quite a bit of
enjoyment from the visit.  Children of this age might enjoy meeting the
characters (in the park, or at a Character Breakfast (see #16 below)), and
some of the milder rides.  Detracting from the enjoyment would be the
patience of the kids waiting in line for the rides; you probably know how
to judge/handle your own child's patience levels better than I do.  :-)
     To fully appreciate Disneyland/WDW, seven or so is probably a better
age.

Some info from the Disneyland FAQ:
     Kids age 2 and under are free.  Strollers may be rented, but many
people prefer to bring their own.  Some rides have height and age
requirements.

   Big Thunder Mountain Railroad      40+ inches/42+ inches at WDW
   Space Mountain                     40+ inches/44+ inches at WDW
   Autopia (alone)                    52+ inches
   Autopia (w/ adult)                 1+ years
   Splash Mountain                    3+ years and 40+ inches/44+
                                      inches at WDW
   Star Tours (alone)                 7+ years
   Star Tours (w/ adult)              3+ years
   Matterhorn Bobsleds (alone)        7+ years
   Matterhorn Bobsleds (w/ adult)     3+ years

Children under 7 are supposed to be accompanied on other attractions as
well (Snow White's Scary Adventures, The Haunted Mansion, etc.)

9) What are good attractions to take younger children to?

     (I'll take "younger" to mean below 5 years of age here.)
     Almost always OK:
     Jungle Cruise
     Swiss Family Treehouse (though some find this too dull and crowded)
     Dumbo
     It's A Small World
     Peter Pan's Flight
     PeopleMover
     Walt Disney World/Disneyland Railroad
     Mickey's Starland Show (WDW)
     Country Bear Jamboree
     Tom Sawyer's Island (WDW)
     Cinderella's Carousel
     Journey Into Imagination (EPCOT)
     Kitchen Cabaret (EPCOT)
     Universe of Energy (EPCOT)
     Disney Animation Tour (Disney-MGM)
     Anything in the EPCOT World Showcase, with the possible exception of
          the Norway Maelstrom ride.

     Possible fright factor:
     Haunted Mansion
     Tea Cups (motion sickness)
     Mr. Toad's Wild Ride (not as wild as the name suggests, but still
          rough)
     Space Mountain
     Star Tours
     Enchanted Tiki Room
     Captain EO (I'd be wary of the volume)
     Pirates of the Caribbean (can be threatening to the unaware, includes
          a couple of plunges)
     Body Wars (EPCOT; can be generally nauseating to people of any age)
     The Great Movie Ride (Disney-MGM- potential surprises)
     Snow White Ride (featuring the rather scary queen popping out of the
          dark)

     As always with kids, your mileage may vary; a good strategy would be
to start with the milder rides and work your kid up to more "aggressive"
rides if you think they're up to it.  Certain aspects of a ride may
frighten children, such as immersion in darkness (e.g. Pirates of the
Caribbean).
     Also note that meeting Disney characters themselves is not a given, as
some kids can be terrified of a gigantic Mickey or Goofy.  Start from a
distance and work forward.
     There is a "fright factor" chart in the 1992 edition of the Unofficial
Guide to Walt Disney World, by Bob Sehlinger (see question #18 for a list
of guide books).

10) Other considerations for children (strollers, etc.)

     (This question may be broken up and expanded to include phone numbers
and specific locations in the future.)
     Physical health:  In the summer months especially at WDW, it is easy
for kids (and adults) to get sunburned and dehydrated.  Bring along plenty
of bottled water (much better than sugary sodas) and sunscreen; with the
crowds you'll otherwise have to stand in line at the refreshment stands or
drinking fountains, and if it's a hot day, you might have to stop often.
Also guard against blisters (use broken-in shoes and consider two pairs of
thin socks over one pair of thick socks).  Make note of the First Aid
centers (there is one in each of the three theme parks).
     Temperament:  It's up to you, the parent to keep your temper.  It
might not be easy, given the crowds and the long waits for certain rides,
the heat, etc.  The best thing to do is to make sure you enjoy yourself.
Maximizing your vacation is not a matter of cramming yourself on as many
rides as possible: it's a good idea, especially with kids, to take time out
for a breather periodically (not just standing in line).  Find a place to
sit down with some ice cream, or even return to the hotel room after lunch
for a short nap.
     Strollers:  Strollers are available for rent at each of the theme
parks.  The stroller centers are near the entrances, and the process of
getting a stroller is fairly quick and easy.  Rule number one is to keep
your receipt.  Rule number two is to keep your receipt (and don't keep it
in the stroller itself).  It's easy for your stroller to get swiped- not
because there are roving packs of stroller thieves, but because people
might mistake your stroller for theirs.  If this should happen, you can go
to the stroller center, show your receipt, and get a new one (they won't
charge you to replace it).  A good idea is to attach something to the
stroller that will uniquely identify it as yours (nothing of great value,
of course), such as a piece of paper with your name on it or a bright
scarf.  The stroller staff at WDW currently do take your name and put it on
a card which is attached to the stroller itself.
     Baby-sitting services:  There aren't any services inside the parks
themselves, but there are child care services at the resorts.  In general,
you must have a reservation.  They can be expensive (e.g. $6 per hour, with
an $18 minimum), but include free video games, Disney movies, games and
activities, and visits by a Disney character each night.  They accept kids
from 3-12 years of age.  There is also a "Fairy Godmother" service
available (also not cheap), who will come to your room at any hour of the
day, 24 hours a day, and can even take care of your pet.
     Infants/Toddlers:  All of the theme parks have Baby Care services,
which have everything you need for changing diapers, making formula, etc.
Supplies for purchase can be found at these places as well.
     Lost children:  You may or may not be surprised at how easy it is to
get your child lost.  When you exit rides and shows, you should take your
child by the hand to make sure they don't get lost in the bustle of people
exiting.  Also keep in mind there may be more than one exit to a bathroom;
should your child wander out of the one you don't expect, he or she may
find themselves to be lost.  Also keep track of your kids during parades-
they might otherwise wander off while trying to get a better viewpoint.

11) Some interesting things to look for at the theme parks

     WDW:
     Hidden Mickeys:  list available separately- see question #19, below.

     Disneyland:
     - The Park Entrance, designed to look like a red carpet
     - Apartment above the Disneyland Fire Station; apartment in the fourth
          floor of the Castle; offices above Main Street
     - The names on the windows on the second story of the buildings on
          Main Street.  These are named for notable people who were
          involved in the creation of Disneyland.
     - The Disney Gallery, above Pirates of the Caribbean in New Orleans
          Square, of interest to those into animation
     - Telegraph operator at Frontierland/New Orleans Square station, which
          types out a Morse code version of Walt's opening day speech
     - The Club 33 entrance, at New Orleans Square, near the Blue Bayou
          restaurant
     - The Haunted Mansion knight
     - Snow White's Grotto, to the right of the Castle before you enter
          Fantasyland.  Note the song in the Wishing Well.  Also note the
          dwarves are the same size as Snow White.
     - Platform where Tinkerbell lands as the Fantasy in the Sky fireworks
          begin; a fort tower located behind the Frontierland buildings
          hidden by trees, where she slams into some mattresses at the end
     - Infrared sensor bathrooms, located near Videopolis, which turn the
          water on when you put your hands under the faucet, and flush the
          toilets when you step away
     - Paul Reubens (Pee-Wee Herman) as the voice of the pilot of Star
          Tours
     - Leslie Neilson (of Police Squad/Naked Gun fame) as one of the
          singing heads in the Haunted Mansion

12) Differences between the Magic Kingdom at WDW and Disneyland

The following are found only at the Magic Kingdom at WDW:
     The Hall of Presidents (Liberty Square)
     Dreamflight (Tomorrowland)
     Carousel of Progress (Tomorrowland)
     Mickey's Starland
     SpectroMagic (Main Street)
The following are found only at Disneyland:
     Great Moments With Mr. Lincoln (Main Street)
     Sailing Ship Columbia (Frontierland)
     Big Thunder Ranch (Frontierland)
     The Story of Sleeping Beauty (Fantasyland)
     Pinocchio's Daring Journey (Fantasyland)
     Casey Jr. Circus Train (Fantasyland)
     Storybook Land Canal Boats (Fantasyland)
     Alice In Wonderland (Fantasyland)
     Matterhorn Bobsleds (Fantasyland)
     Motor Boat Cruise (Fantasyland)
     Star Tours (Tomorrowland; these are at the Disney-MGM studios in
Florida)
     Main Street Electrical Parade (Main Street)

     At WDW, Space Mountain, the Castles in Fantasyland (which are bigger)
are considered better than their counterparts at Disneyland.  The
Disneyland Railroad features the Grand Canyon Diorama and Primeval World,
not found at the Magic Kingdom in WDW, and Pirates of the Caribbean is much
longer at Disneyland.  The Magic Kingdom at WDW also has the advantage of
having much larger pathways, having been built with large crowds in mind.
Disneyland has more of the details (see also Question #11) and personality
that Walt added.  See also the Disneyland FAQ.

13) Who created the music from the Main Street Electrical Parade?

     The music, which is titled "Baroque Hoedown," was written by Jean-
Jacques Perry and Gershon Kingsley.  The electronically synthesized version
which you hear during the parade was arranged and performed by Don Dorsey,
noted synthesizer performer.
     The introduction, as the music starts:
          "Ladies and Gentlemen, Boys and Girls
          Disneyland proudly presents
          Our spectacular festival pageant of nighttime magic and
          imagination
          In thousands of sparkling lights and electro-syntho-magnetic
          musical sounds
          The Main Street Electrical Parade!"
     Incidentally, you can request a summary of the parade with a
description of each of the floats from Disneyland Guest Relations via mail.
(Unfortunately, I lost my summary, but it was probably out of date anyway,
as the parade changes slightly on an annual basis.)
     The soundtrack to the Main Street Electrical Parade is available on at
least three different albums: the Fantasmic! soundtrack (Disneyland Records
and Tapes, DIDX 013173); the "Music of Disneyland, Walt Disney World, and
EPCOT Center" soundtrack (Disneyland Records and Tapes, CD-007); and "The
Music of Disney: A Legacy in Song," which is the 3 CD boxed set.  The
Fantasmic! soundtrack's version is the most complete by far, but it is not
currently on the market for the time being for legal reasons (no specific
time frame for re-issue).

14) What is SpectroMagic at Walt Disney World?

     SpectroMagic at WDW is the successor to the Main Street Electrical
Parade.  It use fiber optics and live costumed actors and, like the Main
Street Electrical Parade, features floats of varying themes.  Opinions on
SpectroMagic being better than the Electrical Parade vary.

15) What is Fantasmic! at Disneyland?  How do I beat the crowds?

     Fantasmic! is somewhat like a stage show, but with dazzling
pyrotechnics.  It is performed nightly at the south end of Tom Sawyer's
Island (you can't miss it- just look for the thousands of people standing
around at show time).  There are individual sequences with various themes
from Disney's history, with particular emphasis on the animated films.
These sequences are tied together by the main plot of Mickey's imagination
being overrun by the evil forces of Queen Maleficent (from Sleeping
Beauty), Ursula (The Little Mermaid), the Queen from Snow White, among
others.  To date, it has been extremely popular.
     Incidentally, there is a Fantasmic! soundtrack available, which also
includes the full soundtrack to the Main Street Electrical Parade (it's
more up to date than the version included on the "Music of Disneyland, Walt
Disney World, and EPCOT Center" album released in 1990).  The manufacture
of this soundtrack was halted due to legal and copyright implications, but
once resolved may go on sale again.  You can contact Disneyland Merchandise
Services, at (800)-362-4533, for more information.

16) What is a "Character Breakfast"?

     A "Character Breakfast" is a breakfast held at specific locations
early in the day where you (and your kids, of course) have the opportunity
to eat breakfast while meeting popular Disney characters.  They are held at
different locations (listed below).  Some locations need a reservation in
advance. They do cost a little extra (around $10 for adults), but kids
under 3 eat free, and kids 3-11 eat at reduced children's rates (around
$6-7).  All of the characters come and visit every table, so there is no
pushing and shoving to meet them.  There are also Character Brunches and
Dinners, also included below.  Young kids generally love these.

     Location             Time          Notes
     Contemporary         8-11 am       No reservations
        Resort:
        Contemporary
        Cafe (WDW)
     Disney Beach Club:   7:30-11 am    No reservations
        Cape May
        Restaurant (WDW)
     Dolphin Hotel:       Th, Su 8:30a- Reservations: (407)-934-4085
        Ristorante        12:30p
        Carnevale (WDW)
     Grand Floridian:     7:30-noon     Reservations: (407)-824-2383
        1900 Park Fare
        (Breakfast)
     Grand Floridian:     5-9 pm        Reservations: (407)-824-2383.
        1900 Park Fare                    $18 adults, $9 children.
        (Dinner)
     Pleasure Island:     8:30 am       Reservations: (407)-934-7639
        Empress Lilly     seating,
        Riverboat (WDW)   10:30 am
                          seating
     Polynesian Resort:   7:30-10:30    Reservations: (407)-824-1391
        Tangaroa Terrace  am
        (WDW)
     Stargate Restaurant  until 11 am   Counter-eatery; no
        (EPCOT)                           reservations; not
                                          necessary to purchase
                                          anything
     Swan Hotel: Garden   W, Sa 8-11    No reservations.  Info:
        Grove (WDW)       am              (407)-934-1281
     Tomorrowland         7:30-10 am    Exclusive to those who get
        Terrace, in WDW                   this as part of a package;
                                          early admission to park
                                          with voucher
     WDW Village: Chef    5:30-10 pm    Better than average food, but
        Mickey's Village                  you only get to meet
        Restaurant                        Mickey.
     Disneyland Hotel,    7:30-10 am    Contact the hotel for exact
        Disneyland                        information
     Plaza Inn,           7:30-10 am    No reservations
        Disneyland

     This information is probably incomplete, as I suspect WDW/Disneyland
change their schedules and add and delete locations.  It might be a good
idea to check with your hotel (if it's a Disney resort) or the Guest
Relations of the park you will be visiting (see question #99 in part 1 of
the FAQ for phone numbers).

17) What is the Disney Vacation Club?

     The Disney Vacation Club is a like a time-sharing resort.
Essentially, you purchase a certain amount of points, then use those points
to stay at Disney Vacation Homes on the Walt Disney World property.  The
minimum buy-in is currently 230 points at $59 per point as of November,
1993 (and has historically increased $1.50 per point every six months),
with annual dues of $2.70 per point.  Where you stay and what time of year
you go determines how many points you use- you can choose a studio (sleeps
4), a one (sleeps 4) or two (sleeps 8) bedroom houses, or a Grand
Villas.(sleeps 12).  It is up to you to choose where and when to go
(reservations are required, of course).  You may also stay at selected Walt
Disney World hotels as well.
     If you'd like a copy of some articles discussing the DVC (which were
previously used to answer this question in the FAQ) send me e-mail at
[e-mail].

You can get more information by calling (800)-800-9100, or (407)-WDW-3100
(the latter if you in Florida) between 7 am and 5 pm ET, seven days a week.
You can also write to:
     Disney Vacation Club at
     The Walt Disney World Resort
     6751 Forum Drive Suite 220
     Orlando, FL 32821-9900
If you call or write, you can request to receive brochures, which include
floor plans, complete tables with the point allocations.

18) What are some good guide books on travel to Walt Disney
     World/Disneyland?

     There are a couple of useful guides written by some members of the
Internet (and r.a.d, of course) community.  They include "The Very
Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World" by Todd McCartney, at
[e-mail], and some suggestions for planning a trip to WDW
by Bill Ellett, at [e-mail].
     Guide books can be found in the Travel section of your favorite
bookstore.  They are generally grouped under the California (for
Disneyland) or Florida (for WDW) sections, which is under "domestic
travel."
     The best all around guide for planning your trip and finding good
advice is probably one of the The Unofficial Guide books by Bob Sehlinger.
(In fact, a lot of the information in this part of the FAQ was derived from
these books.)  The Fodor's travel guide is not very useful, except perhaps
for restaurants in the area.  The "Official" guide books are OK as
references to the various services at the parks and have some trivia about
the rides that might be interesting reading while standing in line.

Birnbaum, Steven, Guide to Disneyland
     Avon Books, updated yearly
Birnbaum, Stephen. Birnbaum's Walt Disney World
     Hyperion and Hearst Business Publishing, updated annually
     ISBN: 1-56282-946-7 (1993 ed.)
Labeled as the "official" Disney sanctioned guide.

Ritz, Stacy, Disney World and Beyond
     Ulysses Press
     ISBN 0-915233-37-1

Sehlinger, Bob, The Unofficial Guide to Disneyland
     Prentice Hall Travel, updated yearly
Sehlinger, Bob, The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World and EPCOT
     Prentice Hall Travel, updated yearly
     ISBN 0-13-953944-1
Thorough, including sections on preparations for kids, evaluations of every
ride, and clever strategies for waiting in line.  A must get.

Wiley, Kim Wright, Walt Disney World With Kids
     Prima Publishing
     ISBN 1-55958-140-9
Another good one for those going to WDW with children.  Written by an
experienced mom.

And, from the Disney Lists of Lists, maintained by Tim Pickett
([e-mail]), I would also recommend the online
(Internet) guides:

Planning a Trip to Walt Disney World, created and maintained by: Bill
     Ellett <[e-mail]>
     FTP availability: yoyo.cc.monash.edu.au [130.194.9.1] :
     pub/rec.arts.disney/wdwtrip.Z
     e-mail availability: available from maintainer

     Tips on planning a trip to WDW. Includes sections on timing of trip,
     Disney's budget hotels, touring the parks, miscellaneous tips. Also
     includes critiques of selected attractions, and a comparison of
     Disney-MGM with Universal Studios.

The Very Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World, created and maintained by:
     Todd McCartney <[e-mail]>
     FTP availability: rvcc.raritanval.edu [192.231.207.110]
     e-mail availability: available from maintainer.  Todd is starting a
     mailing list.  Mail him to get onto it.

     A large guide to Walt Disney World in Florida.  Included are a map of
     WDW, and a comprehensive guide that explains just about everything you
     need to know to plan a trip to WDW.

19) What are "Hidden Mickeys"?  Where can I find some?

     Hidden Mickeys, found at the theme parks, are simply Mickey Mouse
images, either the "mouse ear" pattern or a full figure, that exist in
places you normally wouldn't notice them unless you were looking.  They
were brought to wide-scale attention in the Winter 1991 Disney News, which
featured "the Secrets of Walt Disney World."  Some examples given in this
article include: Mickey ears on the manhole covers; a Mickey constellation
in the geosphere of Starship Earth; a Mickey in the mural of Body Wars;
Mouse ears on one of the Vikings in Norway's Maelstrom attraction in the
World Showcase; and a Mickey Mouse cookie cutter in one of the baskets in
front of one of the worker droids in Star Tours.
     Stan Sroka, at [e-mail], has been keeping lists of Hidden
Mickeys for both theme parks.  Send him e-mail for the latest list, and be
sure to send him your contributions/discoveries as well.

     This document is Copyright (c) 1994, by Tom Tanida, all rights
reserved.  It is intended for public use, and may be redistributed freely
printed or electronically in its complete and unaltered form provided
distribution is done at no charge to the receiver.  Partial and other
distribution means require the permission of the author.