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Top Ten Things to do at Night at Walt Disney World

Photo: Disney
The sun has set and the crowds have lightened up a bit, but you and your family aren't reading to call it quits. To help you plan your nightly activities we have created this list of the best things to do at night at Walt Disney World.

#1: Ride Big Thunder Mountain

What's better than riding a runaway ghost mine train at night. This attraction is completely different between day and night. The mountain looks incredible at night with special lighting. There is also an added thrill not being able to see the track ahead at night. The line is usually shorter later at night. These reasons alone make this attraction a must-do at night.

#2: Watch Happily Ever After from the Contemporary Resort Terrace

Happily Ever After, the Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks spectacular is an impressive show to see. While nothing beats seeing it in front of the castle, there are many different angles to view it from. Some of the more popular viewing areas is from the Polynesian Village Resort beach and the California Grill at the Contemporary. These areas are, however, not the best places to view them. The Poly beach view is partially obstructed by the Bora Bora Bungalows, and the only way to enjoy the view of the California Grill is to pay the high prices to eat at the restaurant. However, on the Grand Canyon Concourse of the Contemporary you'll find an outdoor terrace with great views of the Magic Kingdom. It's a wonderful place to view the fireworks.

#3: An Evening Spin on the Peoplemover

Riding the Peoplemover is enjoyable at any time of the day, but at night is especially enjoyable. Tomorrowland comes alive at night and riding around there on the transportation of the future with a beautiful views of Tomorrowland. You may also get a view of Cinderella Castle from there as well.

#4: Enjoy the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue

A toe-tappin' good time awaits you inside Pioneer Hall at Fort Wilderness Resort with this dinner theater show. Hilarious performance, good music, and fantastic food makes for a great evening for the entire family. The price is steep at upwards of $60.00 per adult depending on where you're seated, but it is worth it if you're looking for a unique and exciting change of pace from your vacation. The dinner that is included is one of the meals you'll get a Walt Disney World. Popular American dishes like fried chicken, baked beans, BBQ pork ribs, and so much more. If you're going to Hoop Dee Doo be sure to get there early so you can explore the surrounding Fort Wilderness area, including the beach along Bay Lake. This tranquil. setting will relax you after a day in the parks.

#5: Take a Stroll Around World Showcase

World Showcase is a beautiful place to walk around any time of the day, but at night this part of Epcot takes on a new kind of beauty. The landmarks from each pavilion are illuminated beautifully and the crowds have mostly left for the day. The best time of night to walk around World Showcase is after Illuminations: Reflections of Earth has ended. Be sure to hand back for a bit while everyone else makes their way out of the park, and then you'll have an enjoyable stroll through World Showcase as a conclusion to your Epcot day.

#6: Enjoying a Meal at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a must for those wanting a good meal. Whether it's a signature dining or quick service, there's a great meal waiting for you at Disney Springs. A personal favorite of ours is the quick service Blaze Pizza, which offers customizable pizzas of varying sizes for a reasonable price. The Earl of Sandwich is another great reasonably priced meal for the family. Great table service restaurants at Disney Springs include Paddlefish and Boathouse, both serving great seafood.

#7: Movie Night at the Resorts

Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel has many amenities and one of the most underrated amenities are the nightly movies that are played at the resorts. Guests are encouraged to bring blankets and lay them out in front of the large screen and enjoy an evening under the stars. This is a great way to conclude a day at the resort or enjoying Disney Springs. The best part is that there is no extra charge to enjoy as long as you're staying at the resort.

#8: A Drink at Trader Sam's 

Trader Sam's is a favorite for us at DisTripping.com. Located at the Polynesian Village Resort, Trader Sam's is a great way to hang out with family or friends after a day in the parks or relaxing at the resort. Speciality drinks and in-bar effects take Trader Sam's from your typical tiki bar to something worth checkout on your trip. Those under 18 are allowed into the bar before 8:00 pm.

#9: Explore Pandora: The World of Avatar

Pandora: The World of Avatar is one of the themed areas in Walt Disney World to explore in. Located at Animal Kingdom, Pandora at night is a fantastic place to visit. The land is aglow with bioluminescence and you can hear the sounds of exotic Pandorian animals lurking right off the main path. There is also a better chance of getting onto the land's very popular attractions Avatar: Flight of Passage.

#10: Exploring the Crescent Lake Resorts

Located between Epcot and Hollywood Studios is the Crescent Lake area, complete with several hotels that include, Yacht and Beach Club, the Swan and Dolphin, and the Boardwalk Inn. The different resorts you will find here are beautifully designed and will transport you to the beautiful waterfront hotels found on the East Coast. The most interesting to explore after dark is the Boardwalk, because of its unique restaurants and bars. The ESPN Club is a great place to sit and watch a game. Flying Fish is widely regarded as one of the best restaurants at Walt Disney World. The Boardwalk is also where you'll find Ample Hills Creamery, a popular ice cream parlor that features unique flavors. All of these places are found along the boardwalk that fronts Crescent Lake. It is a great place to enjoy the evening whether you are with your family or with that special someone.

That's our list. Let us know what you think are your favorite things to do at Walt Disney World after the sun goes down.

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