The history of Disney's "Florida project" creation carries its own intrigue and fascination. In 1964, Walt Disney began secretly buying millions of dollars worth of Central Florida farmland. As vast areas of land were purchased in lots of 5,000 acres here, 20,000 there - at remarkably high prices - rumors flew as to whom needed so much land and had the money to acquire it. Some thought it was Howard Hughes; others, the space program. Speculation was rife almost to the very day, when on November 15, 1965; Walt Disney arrived in town and announced his plans to build the world's most spectacular theme park that he described as "bigger and better than Disneyland".
Walt Disney World Resort, Walt Disney World, simply Disney, or WDW for short, consists of 27 themed resort hotels, 9 non–Disney hotels, four theme parks, two water parks, four golf courses, one nine-hole walking golf course for young golfers, two themed miniature golf courses, one camping resort, one downtown-like shopping area, and other entertainment venues. The Magic Kingdom was the first and original theme park to open in the complex followed by Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, and Disney's Animal Kingdom.
The Walt Disney Company is the second largest media conglomerate on the planet. The Walt Disney Company produces movies through Walt Disney Studios, Touchstone, and Hollywood Pictures. Miramax owns television interests including ABC, the Disney Channel, and ESPN. ESPN runs dozens of local television and radio stations and even lays claim to two major sports franchises, hockey's Mighty Ducks and baseball's Angels, both of which play in Anaheim, California.
So a trip to Walt Disney World is limited only by your imagination. Disney has every scenario covered. In terms of hotels, Disney has all price points covered. From the highest quality to economy class, you can choose to stay "on property" or with 450 hotels in Orlando. You can stay in many world class resorts with either branded or independent names, or just about anywhere near the park and save a few bucks.
The Magic kingdom is the iconic park and remains the most popular park and the one that most small children associate with a trip to Disney. "It is a small world after all." Epcot is designed for the older child and with a few more mature attractions. The Studios are really popular with the movie and television buffs of all ages. Animal Kingdom is one of the greatest habitats for exotic animals cleverly disguised as a theme park.
Disney world is involved in golf big time, and plays host to major PGA events as well as offers challenging golf to, shall we say, the semi pros and golfer want-a-bees. During the summer if you want to soak it up in the two water parks, we recommend you come early; they are often filled to capacity early in the day.
Since its opening, Disney has made significant strides in the food and beverage arena with amazing food events, dining choices, and overall presentations. The restaurant choices are incredible as many of these employees are world famous chefs.
The night time entertainment opportunities are significant as venues are spread out across the parks and overall property. The event calendar remains full with ever changing new additions.
One trip to Disney World is not enough. You cannot see or experience all Disney has to offer in one day, so you must do as others do... come back again and again!
