Showing posts with label epcot. Show all posts
Showing posts with label epcot. Show all posts

Monday, January 5, 2015

Miranda's Top 5 Most Underrated WDW Attractions You've Probably Never Experienced

  1. O' Canada, Epcot - Epcot has three 360° films on World Showcase. They are all great films, but my personal favorite is O' Cananda, tucked away in the Canada pavilion. When it first debuted, the 360° Circle Vision was AMAZING, and still is pretty neat. Giant screens surround you on all sides, making the breathtaking vistas of the Canadian landscape even more so.
  2. Temple of Heaven, Epcot - The China pavilion's Temple of Heaven is home to the film Reflections of China (another 360° Circle Vision movie). While the film is great, the real attraction to me is the temple itself. Just walk in and look up. You'll see what I mean.
  3. Walt Disney World Railroad, Magic Kingdom - Not just an attraction, but a great means of transportation inside the park. With stops at Main Street, Frontierland, and Fantasyland, taking the train is a relaxing (and scenic) way to get from one side of the park to the other. Because the train circles the entire perimeter of the park, you get a different perspective and view of some of the attractions, including an inside view of Splash Mountain.
  4. Country Bear Jamboree, Magic Kingdom - So it's a little corny...OK, maybe it's a lot corny, but this is a classic everyone should see (especially if you have little ones). The personalities of the animatronic bears are what make the show for me. They are a great example of Disney storytelling at its finest. The music and humor is, like I said, corny, but it still makes you laugh and tap your foot to the beat.
  5. Walt Disney: One Man's Dream, Disney's Hollywood Studios - This one is easily my favorite on the list. If you have any interest at all in Disney history, you'll love this walk-through exhibit. You'll learn about Walt's humble beginnings, his struggles in the business, and how his amazing dreams became reality. There are also great artifacts like the multi-plane camera, early Mickey Mouse merchandise, and models of theme park attractions. At the end, you can view a short film about Walt that is wonderful (yeah, it makes me cry). Definitely don't miss it!

Tuesday, July 24, 2012

Capturing the Magic: Tips for Photographing Fireworks

The firework displays at Disney are unlike anywhere else. They are AMAZING!! Once you've seen these wonderful shows like Wishes at Magic Kingdom or Illuminations at Epcot, other firework celebrations just can't hold a candle. These awesome pyrotechnics are also one of the most photographed attractions in the parks. But capturing that perfect burst of magic into a great photograph is not always as easy as it sounds.
Fireworks are some of the hardest things to photograph for a number of reasons. The bursts are bright and the sky is black, giving a harsh contrast that can make capturing the color of the burst a big challenge. Because the bursts happen so quickly, it's also virtually impossible to "freeze" the action, as most people would like. At Disney, there are aslo other obstacles, like crowds. Ever had the perfect vantage point, and then at the last minute some tall person comes and gets right in front of you? (That's why I always recommend getting your spot at least 30 minutes to an hour before the show starts to make sure you have a great view.) So with all these things working against you, how do you get images like this?:

Photography is a lot like baking a cake. It all starts with the right ingredients (or in this case camera gear :). For firework photography the basic gear includes:
  • a DLSR camera and lens (not that you can't get great shots with a point-and-shoot, but these tips work best with SLR camera types)
  • a tripod (It doesn't have to be a big one. I use a Gorillapod. It's light and fits in a small bag [or big cargo pocket] and bends to wrap around poles or other objects.) If you don't want to carry a tripod, you can also rest your camera on a garbage can to keep it still.
If you want to try a little more advanced technique, you can also use:
  • a neutral density filter (this makes a BIG difference, but is not absolutely necessary. I forgot mine one night, and still got some nice shots.)
  • a remote shutter release (also great, but not completely necessary. I didn't use one at all on my last trip.)
Once you find a great spot (I prefer being next to a light pole or garbage can. They are great places for a small tripod or none at all), and get your camera in place, it's time to adust your settings.
**Location Tip: At Magic Kingdom I always get a spot at the hub (near the Walt and Mickey statue) or somewhere along Main St. The upper level of the train station is also great. At Epcot, there are great views from the Japan pavillion on World Showcase, or my favorite spot (which makes for an easier exit after the show) is right in the middle of the Future World side of the lagoon, next to the gift shop.**
There are two different ways you can try shooting. One lets the camera do half of the thinking for you, and the other gives you complete control over the camera settings. If you're new to photography, or if you just want to take better vacation photos, the semi-automatic way is great. I used this technique for this photo of Illuminations:


For the Semi-Automatic technique:
  •  Turn your camera's dial to the Tv mode. This mode allows you to control the shutter speed (how long the image is exposed) while the camera worries about the aperture (the size of the opening that lets in the light).
  • Set your ISO to 100 or 200. This keeps the images from being grainy or noisey in the darker areas.
  • Keep your shutter speed 1/60 and lower. Using a slower shutter speed allows you to capture more of the trails of light from the bursts, and also allows you to capture more bursts in one shot. Speeds like 1/40 and 1/30 will give you more of a streaking look than a speed of 1/60 or 1/80 would. Try various speeds and find what you like best.
For a more advanced technique (like the one I used for the first image of Wishes) you'll need to:
  • Turn your camera's dial to Manual (M) or Bulb (B) mode. This will allow you full control over all settings, both shutter speed and aperture. If your camera doesn't have a Bulb mode on the dial, go to Manual and then change the shutter speed until it reads "Bulb." Bulb means the shutter will stay open for however long you hold the button down when you take a shot.
  • Set your ISO as low as it will go (100 on most cameras).
  • Keep your aperture between f8.0 and f11.0 for most of the show. For the finale, you may want to try a smaller aperture (maybe f18 or f22).
  • Hold the shutter open for 6 to 8 seconds. As the finale begins, or anytime several bursts explode one right after another, try longer shutter speeds like 15 or 20 seconds. If you use a neutral density filter, you can hold the shutter open for longer periods of time, allowing you to capture more bursts if you want. It also helps capture more of the colors.
No matter which technique you use, it's vitally important to keep your camera still and steady. With the semi-automatic technique, it is possible to hand-hold the camera if you have a very steady hand (that's what I did in the earlier photo). But anytime you can prop the camera (or yourself if you're shooting hand-held) will help your photos be less blurry and capture more definition in the bursts.
I hope these tips help capture more of the Disney magic in photographs. If you have any questions, please comment and I'll be happy to answer. To see more of my Disney World photography, check out the Road Trip gallery on my website at www.imaginationphotog.com. And look for more photography tips coming soon!

Miranda


P.S. I didn't just make this up. I learned a lot from the amazing photographers on the Disney Photography Blog. Check out their site in my Links section!

Friday, July 13, 2012

Attractions: Spaceship Earth

If you ask someone to name their favorite ride at Epcot, most will say "Test Track," "Mission Space," "Soarin'," or one of the other newer, popular attractions. But others, like me, remember when none of those things were there, or when they were something totally different, less thrill and more chill. Classic attractions like "Horizons," "Body Wars," and the original "Journey into Imagination" have all gone and been replaced by the technological wonders you can experience today. But there is one that still remains a wonderful tribute to the Epcot of yesteryear, and it is my absolute favorite there: "Spaceship Earth." (What? Did you think that big golf ball was hollow? :)

Attraction Quick Facts
• The SSE is a slow-moving, dark ride that lasts about 16 minutes.
• There is no height requirement.
• FASTPASS is not available. (Not that you'd need it anyway.)
• The ride is an omni-mover. It is in continuous motion, even as you board, so the line is always moving.
• You're picture will be taken at the beginning of the ride. This photo is later used in the new interactive element Disney added a few years ago. Smile pretty, because everyone will see it later!

Spaceship Earth takes you on a time travel adventure through the history of communication. Narrator Dame Judi Dench guides you through each scene of the story, from the caveman's first spoken words to the creation of the very first home computer.
The ride takes you all across the globe, from ancient Egypt to Rome to California. The sets and animatronics are amazing here! You really feel like you've gone straight into the history books. One of my favorite scenes is during the Renaissance sequence. You pass by master painters and sculptors, until finally finding yourself with Michelangelo painting the ceiling of the Sistine Chapel.
This is one of those attractions where you walk away both entertained and educated. I know for me, whenever we learned about a certain event or era in school, like ancient Egypt for example, I could always picture myself sitting right there in the pharaoh's throne room with all the hieroglyphics and paintings because, well... because I'd already been there :). That's one great thing about Disney theme parks: you play, you laugh and you learn.
I'll leave you with some of the photos I've taken inside Spaceship Earth. I've got a LOT of favorite scenes. What are yours?







Sunday, August 7, 2011

Attractions: Test Track


Attraction Quick Facts
  • Riders must be at least 40 inches tall.
  • FASTPASS is available. I recommend grabbing a pass, then heading next door to Ellen's Universe of Energy until your ride time comes up.
  • The ride is both indoor and outdoor... warm and cold.... bumpy and smooth... It's a little bit of everything :).
  • The que winds through a GM testing facility where you can learn how vehicles are made and tested to be as safe as possible. There are some pretty neat things to check out while you wait.
  • There are six passengers per car. Since the most frequent party size is four people, if you split your party into pairs, or ride as singles, you're more likely to move to the front of the line, as they're always asking for parties of two to fill the empty seats. (Trust me, it works!)
This is one of my favorite rides at Disney. You step into the shoes of a crash test dummy and take a wild ride through automotive safety and durability. I won't give you too much of an on-ride tour for this one, because there are a few things that are better left as a surprise, but I will tell you that you will NOT be bored on this little road trip.
You'll test everything from brakes to steering to shocks to speed. At first, the tests are simple, not-to-thrilling experiments with different road surfaces and environments, followed by a winding road course of brake and steering tests. After that, it really gets fun ;).

What I really love about this attraction is that before and after the ride is just as interesting as the ride itself, especially if you love cars. I mentioned earlier that throughout the que there are exhibits to look at that show about vehicle design, testing and safety. There are more similar exhibits after you exit the ride, as well as an entire showroom of new GM vehicles. Here you can also see a glimpse of the future of automotives with the hydrogen car.
Another plus: If it's a hot day, the little ones will also love the car wash themed mist station just outside the building.

I know this is a really really short attraction overview, but like I said, some things are just best experienced :). Bottom line, this is one of Disney's best attractions. It's fun, family friendly, and oddly educational. You'll love it!

Monday, July 11, 2011

Attractions by the Ages: Epcot


For Younger Kids
·      Journey into Imagination with Figment – Join everyone's favorite purple dragon for a look into the power of the human imagination.
·      The Seas with Nemo and Friends – Jump in a clam-mobile and journey through the sea in search of Nemo. Little ones and Nemo fans will love it!
       Turtle Talk with Crush — An interactive show where kids can learn all about sea turtles from Crush himself. They can ask questions and Crush will really answer!

For Pre-Teens and Teens
·      Test Track –Ever wonder what the life of a crash test dummy is like? Strap in and find out on this mild thrill ride that takes you on a new kind of road test!
·      Mission Space – Travel to Mars on this G-force intense simulator. It's awesome! But stay clear if you're prone to motion sickness.
·      Kim Possible's World Showcase Adventure – Kids can become secret agents and join Team Possible in saving the world from bad guys. Using their Kimmunicator, they can travel around World Showcase gathering clues and stopping villians, and maybe even happen across a hidden reward.
·   
For the Whole Family
·      Spaceship Earth – This relaxing, slow moving ride takes you from the time of cavemen into the present day, with a glimpse into the future.
·      Ellen's Universe of Energy –Jump into Ellen's dream and journey back to the time of the dinosaurs with her and Bill Nye the Science Guy to learn all about energy.
·      Mission Space Advance Training Labs – After, or instead of, your ride on Mission Space, step into this realm of space-themed interactive games and activities.
·      Living with the Land This boat ride takes you through different environments of Earth, and also gives you a tour of how Disney is actively learning from the land, and the many plants and produce they grow at the parks. You'll even find out how they grow those pumpkins in the shape of Mickey ears :).
·      Soarin' – This is my mom's favorite ride in all of Disney World. By combining a unique dome-shaped I-MAX screen and new ride technology, you'll feel like you're soaring over California in a hang glider. See the sights, feel the wind, and even smell the orange groves. Amazing!
·      Circle of Life: An Environmental Fable – Simba, Timon and Pumbaa teach you a little about the circle of life in this educational, but cute, film.
·      Captain EO – Returning to Epcot for the first time since 1994, this 3-D film stars Michael Jackson, and features special effects by George Lucas and musical numbers by Michael.
·      Image Works After your Journey into Imagination with Figment, you'll come into Image Works where you can enjoy interactive games and technologies. There are super cool things here. We almost never got my dad out of here the first time!
·      O Canada – A 360 degree wrap-around screen shows you the beautiful sights of Canada in this short film.
·      Impressions de France – A wrap-around film featuring France.
·      Reflections of China – Another wrap-around film featuring China.
·      Malestrom – Journey into Norway's past on a Viking boat ride.
·      Grand Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Cabelleros – Donald and pals take you on a boat tour through brilliant Mexico.
·      American Adventure – This 30-minute show features great moments and people from American history. You'll see animatronic versions of Thomas Jefferson, Ben Franklin, Mark Twain, JFK, Susan B. Anthony and more.
        Illuminations: Reflections of Earth – At 9 p.m. every night, the sky above Epcot lights up with this amazing firework and water show on World Showcase Lagoon. The show can be seen from anywhere around World Showcase. My personal favorite spot is on the Future World side of the lagoon, straight out from Spaceship Earth. It gives you a great view of the whole World Showcase, and it makes for a quicker exit after the show.

Tuesday, July 5, 2011

Epcot: An Overview

Happy 4th of July everyone! Ok, I know I’m a little late, but I hope you had a fun weekend just the same. As for me, I spent some great time with family and friends, and even did a little WDW vacation planning. Bran and I are hoping to take a trip next year with two of our best friends (who have never been). I’m beyond excited!!
Anyway, to curb my craving for now, I think it’s time for another park tour! Today we’ll take a trip through my dad’s favorite park: Epcot.

Epcot was the second theme park built at WDW and opened in October of 1982. Originally, Walt’s vision was not a theme park, but an actual city. EPCOT stands for Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. Walt’s idea called for a futuristic way of life, where there would be no vehicles above ground and the city would showcase technological and cultural developments. There would be no such thing as a “bad part of town” because Walt wouldn’t allow it. Sounds too good to be true, right? Apparently so. When Walt died, his vision for EPCOT died with him. Shrinking funds caused the company to decide they weren’t in the business of running a city, and so EPCOT, the city became Epcot, the theme park.
As saddened as I am that his successors left Walt’s greatest dream behind, I am glad they found some small way to honor his hope to blend technology and culture. Epcot is made up of two areas: Future World and World Showcase. Future World celebrates all the technologies of tomorrow. You can play with new gadgets and gizmos that aren’t available to the public yet, and learn about things that are still in the works. Across the lagoon, World Showcase celebrates all the diverse cultures of the world. You can feel like you’ve traveled around the world in a matter of minutes, visiting famous landmarks and trying amazing foreign cuisine. It almost feels like two theme parks in one, and I tend to experience it that way as I make my way around the park.

Future World
When you enter the park, the first thing you see is Spaceship Earth (or as I call it, the giant golf ball :). This is the icon of the park, even though it isn’t the center. Epcot is the only theme park that doesn’t have Walt’s signature “wheel hub” layout. Instead, it is hourglass shaped, with Future World filling the bottom half.

*Imagination Photog Photo Tip! Right as you exit the turnstiles, you’ll most likely find a park photographer waiting. This is the most popular spot for a photo with the big ball as a backdrop. Because it’s so close to the entrance, it can be a little cramped and crowded, so if you want, you can’t wait until you get to the other side of Spaceship Earth, where I have another photo spot to show you ;).

Since you basically have to walk right into Spaceship Earth to get anywhere else in the park, this can be your first attraction stop. It’s a relaxing, slow ride that takes you through time from the first cave men to the 21st century. (I usually don’t visit this until later in the day though, because it’s a great way to cool down and there is almost never a line).
Both paths around Spaceship Earth take you into what I call a “courtyard” area. This area is surrounded by curved buildings that house shops, dining areas and Innoventions, where you can try out all those gadgets I told you about.

*Imagination Photog Photo Tip! In the center of the courtyard is a fountain. Walk around to the other side of it for a great (and less crowded) shot of Spaceship Earth.

You’ll notice two paths between the buildings, one on the left beside Mouse Gears and one on the right beside Innoventions. Like I’ve told you before, I always tend to go left.
Over here you’ll find three attractions: Ellen’s Universe of Energy, Mission Space, and Test Track. Mission Space and Test Track are the most popular, so I recommend getting a FASTPASS for one of those two and then going to ride Ellen’s Universe of Energy. By the time you get off, it should be time to use your FASTPASS.
Now we’ll head back between the buildings, through the courtyard, and over to the other side of Future World. On this side there are three more pavilions: the Seas, the Land and the Imagination Pavilion.
The Seas Pavilion – This is where you’ll find the two Nemo attractions in the park. In “The Seas with Nemo and Friends” you’ll hop aboard a clam-mobile and search for Nemo in a live fish aquarium. The technology on this ride still baffles me. It’s so cool, both kids and parents will love it. There’s also “Turtle Talk with Crush” where your kids can ask Crush a question and he will actually answer! It’s a great interactive and educational technological wonder. The Coral Reef restaurant is also in this pavilion.
The Land Pavilion – This houses three attractions and two restaurants. If you’re hungry, look for the Garden Grill and (one of my favorites) the Four Seasons Grill. You’ll also find the “Circle of Life” film attraction featuring everyone’s favorite talking merkat and warthog along with the lion king himself. Downstairs holds the other two attractions: Living with the Land and Soarin’. I recommend getting a FASTPASS for Soarin’ (because the line is always forever long) and riding Living with the Land while you wait for your time. They are both favorites of mine.
Imagination Pavilion – In this pavilion you’ll “Journey into Imagination with Figment” and play with cool interactive technologies in the Kodak “What If” Labs. The park has also brought back Captain EO, a 3-D attraction starring Michael Jackson.
That’s it for Future World. Now we’ll head back toward the courtyard, and (standing with Spaceship Earth at your back) straight toward the World Showcase Lagoon.

World Showcase
There are 11 international pavilions that surround the lagoon. They are (from left to right):
·         Mexico
·         Norway
·         China
·         Germany
·         Italy
·         United States of America
·         Japan
·         Morocco
·         France
·         United Kingdom
·         Canada
World Showcase is the only instance where I go against my “left” tendencies. For some reason, I always go right here, starting my world tour with Canada and walking around to Mexico. You can go whichever direction you wish. I promise there are no shortcuts. LOL
Some of the countries have attractions, and all of them have outstanding restaurants. You can taste authentic foods and chat with cast members who are natives of that country. There are also Kid-cot Fun Stops in several of the countries where kids can make crafts and learn something about the culture. You can also meet and greet your favorite characters in their own countries. Take a little time and explore each pavilion. Each one is full of little surprises. I discover something new each time I visit. To get you started, here’s a quick look at some of my favorite stops on World Showcase:
·         O Canada – This film will surround you with the sights in sounds of Canada as the viewing screen wraps around the entire room. So cool!
·         Off Kilter – Also in Canada, this band gives a great performance. They’ve been playing at Epcot for as long as I can remember and I still love to hear them.
·         Impressions de France – Similar to the O Canada film, this is another great way to cool down and see a beautiful country.
·         Voices of Liberty – This a cappella group is amazing to hear. Step inside Independence Hall at the USA pavilion and hear them for yourself.
·         Reflections of China – Another great and educational film.
·         Malestrom – Hop aboard a Viking boat for a ride through Norweign history. But look out for the waterfall!
·         The Grand Fiesta Tour Starring the Three Caballeros – This fun boat ride will take you through beautiful Mexico, where you might just see a familiar temperamental duck and his two Latino friends.

There's one more thing you can't miss. After you’ve gone through time and been around the world and back, what better way to end the day than with Illuminations: Reflections of Earth, Epcot’s famous firework and water show! You can catch the show every night at 9 p.m. from anywhere around World Showcase Lagoon. My personal favorite spot is on the side closest to Spaceship Earth. It gives you a beautiful view of the entire World Showcase, and makes it much easier and faster to leave the park afterward. The best spots get taken fast, so try to get there at least 30 minutes early.
Illuminations: Reflections of Earth
That's it for now. Talk to ya real soon!

Miranda

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Top 10 Spots to Stop on an Empty Stomach

This morning I was looking through a friend’s Facebook photos from their recent trip to WDW, when my stomach started to growl. I had just eaten breakfast, but my tummy still screamed out for attention. Taking a second look at my computer screen, I realized why. There, in brilliant Technicolor, was the adorable image of my friend’s two kids sharing a cup of pineapple ice cream, freshly scooped from Adventureland in Magic Kingdom. Man, what I wouldn’t give for just one lick of that spoon….
Anyway, thinking about that ice cream got me to thinking about all the other great food you can get at the Walt Disney World Resort. I honestly haven’t eaten anything there that I didn’t like (and that includes the muscles I tried in Epcot). Just like the attractions, there’s something for everyone. Here are my top 10 favorite places to eat on Disney property:
Brandon and I eating at Cinderella's Royal Table on our honeymoon. That cake was AMAZING!!

10. Electric Umbrella, Epcot — This place is a burgers-and-fries (or chicken fingers!) kind of joint. The menu is simple and the food tastes great. I’ve been eating here since my earliest visits as a kid and love it. Most everyone else does too, so it tends to be really crowded during lunchtime.
Price range and type: Quick-service meal (think something like gourmet fast food), about $6 per person.
9. Earl of Sandwich, Downtown Disney — We discovered this little gem on our last trip in December. It has great Panini sandwiches and gourmet coffees and teas. It reminds me of my favorite little café that went out of business a few years ago. If you love that quaint coffee shop atmosphere, you’ll love this place.
Price range and type: Quick-service meal, about $6-$10 per person.
8. Tony’s Town Square, Magic Kingdom — You know that adorable scene in Lady and the Tramp with the spaghetti? Yeah, this is that Tony and that spaghetti tastes pretty darn awesome. I love the elegant, yet casual décor that pays tribute to a classic piece of Disney animation. Everything I’ve tasted of the Italian cuisine was outstanding. And yes, I ordered the spaghetti :).
Price range and type: Sit-down meal, about $15-$30 per person.
7. Sunshine Season Food Fair, Epcot — This place is like five restaurants in one. It will remind of a college cafeteria the way it is set up. Choose from several different types of cuisine, then grab a drink and pay the cashier on your way to the dining area. This is another spot we always seem to stop by if we’re in Epcot around lunchtime. Like the Electric Umbrella, it’s very popular, but very tasty.
Price range and type: Quick-service meal, about $6 per person.

6. Boulangerie Patisserie, Epcot — Whenever we get hungry for an afternoon snack at Epcot, we always seem to be in the France area of World Showcase. Coincidence? Probably not. This pastry shop has plenty of fabulous ways to satisfy your sweet tooth, or even your not-so-sweet tooth. I recommend the ham and cheese croissant or anything with “chocolate” in the name.

Price range and type: Quick-service meal, about $3-$6 per person.

5. ABC Commissary, Disney’s Hollywood Studios — Looking for a great place for breakfast? This is it! They’ve got everyone’s favorite morning starters. Dad gets his sausage and eggs; Mom gets her bacon and biscuits; I get my pancakes, and Brandon gets a big sampler of everything. It’s also a great place to relax and enjoy your meal. I haven’t found any big crowds here in the morning so far.
Price range and type: Quick-service meal, about $6 per person.
4. Aloha Isle, Magic Kingdom — Remember that pineapple ice cream I told you about earlier? That stuff is Heaven in a cup, and this is where you’ll find it. They also have other fruit flavors like orange (also yummy!). But beware, the line is almost always ridiculously long, even in cold December.
Price range and type: Quick-service, about $3-$6 per person.
3. Cinderella’s Royal Table, Magic Kingdom — Eating dinner at Cinderella’s castle is something every little girl in Disney World longs to do, and I have to say, it definitely doesn’t disappoint! You are treated like royalty the moment you walk in the door. After a chat with Cinderella herself for a bit, you ascend a red carpet spiral staircase into the gorgeous dining room overlooking Fantasyland. The attention to detail here is exquisite! The Fairy Godmother and Cinderella’s mice make appearances and talk with you as you enjoy a three-course gourmet menu. The food is excellent, but the price is much more than I would normally ever pay for a meal. That’s why I’ve only eaten here once, on my honeymoon, because it was a very special occasion. The price for dinner is a little over $100 for two people, which includes drink, an appetizer, main course and dessert. Breakfast and lunch are a little less expensive.
Price range and type: Sit-down meal, about $40-$50 per person.
2. Le Cellier Steakhouse, Epcot — On our 2007 trip, I chose this restaurant for my dad (he loves anything with “steakhouse” in the title), but we all ended up falling in love with it. It’s French-Canadian cuisine in a wine cellar/castle setting. It’s absolutely beautiful! The main courses and desserts here are to die for (I recommend the whiskey cake!)
Price range and type: Sit-down meal, $15-$30 per person.
1. Flame Tree BBQ, Animal Kingdom — This is without a doubt the BEST barbeque I have ever tasted! The classic pork sandwich is my favorite on the menu. It comes with baked beans and a drink and literally melts in your mouth. My dad loves the ribs, my mom loves the turkey, and Brandon just loves anything from this place. A definite “must taste” for your next trip!
Price range and type: Quick-service meal, about $6 per person.

You can check out Disney's entire list of eateries under the Where to Eat menu tab on the Walt Disney World Resort website.
Now, if anybody's going to WDW soon and would like to bring me back a bbq sandwich and a pineapple ice cream, it would be much appreciated :).

Bon appetit!
Miranda