Disney World is a land of dreams for children and many adults. There are so many characters, rides, attractions, and food locations around Disney World that it can be overwhelming. If you do not have much knowledge about Disney, there are many movies to watch before Disney World visit.
To get a good idea of the rides and characters in Disney World, start with the popular Disney classics, like Cinderella, Snow White, and Peter Pan. Do not forget to watch Avatar, Toy Story, and Star Wars to get hyped about the rides influenced by them in the theme parks.
In this article, I will talk about 10 Disney movies and animations that you must watch before visiting Disney World with your friends and family. But before that, let us understand why it is so important to watch the movies to get the ultimate experience on your trip to Disney World.
Why You Should Watch Disney Movies Before Visiting Disney World?
Typically, two kinds of people visit Disney World–the fans of Disney movies and the parents of Disney-loving kids. If you are in the first category, you already know enough to enjoy the theme parks. But if you are a parent who does not know much about Disney movies, you must watch some movies to enjoy your time at Disney World.
All the attractions, rides, characters, and foods in the parks and restaurants are designed after Disney and Pixar movies. The theme parks have represented the movies with such details that you cannot appreciate them without prior knowledge of the Disney movies.
You will see so many people walking around like they are at a fancy party. You can also spend quality time with your children. Thus, by watching the movies, you can understand what to expect from the rides and attractions.
10 Movies To Watch Before Disney World Visit
You may have plans to visit the happiest place on earth soon. You do not want to get into the adventure without knowing what all the fuss is about. Since you do not have much time to watch all the Disney movies and animations, you can watch these fan favorites of all time:
1. Peter Pan
Once you watch Peter Pan, you will understand the longing for Neverland. It is the story of a boy who does not want to grow up in fear of losing the magic. For its visitors, Disney World can be a neverland. In the Magic Kingdom, guests can ride on Peter Pan’s flight. It is one of the most amazing rides in the park. In the fantasy parade, an elaborate float is dedicated to Peter Pan.
You will also get the opportunity to meet Peter and Wendy. Moreover, during the nighttime show, Pixie can be seen flying across the sky.
2. Cinderella
You must be familiar with the rags to riches story. Children love the story of Cinderella meeting Prince Charming at the ball. You will admire the architectural beauty of Cinderella’s Castle at the Magic Kingdom. Also, Cinderella and Prince Charming will be there to interact with the guests.
Meet them at Princess Fairytale Hall, where you can also see the famous glass slipper. At Cinderella’s royal table, she will serve lunch and dinner.
3. Beauty And The Beast
The animation movie is about falling in love with inner beauty and sacrifice. After watching the movie, you may like to see the beast/Adam’s castle yourself, which you will find in the Magic Kingdom.
You can visit the “Be Our Guest Restaurant” where you can sit down and enjoy your meals as you see the rose petals drop. Tasty desserts and snacks are available at Gaston’s Tavern.
4. Toy Story
People who have never seen the Toy Story movies might think these are just for children. But no matter how old you are, you will love the strong friendship and bonding among the characters. You will want to meet Andy, Woody, Buzz, and Jessie.
In Disney’s Hollywood Studios, guests will find Toy Story Land. Guests can become toys and enter Andy’s backyard to meet and greet the characters. There are amazing rides such as Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, Ranger Spin, and Toy Story Mania. At the quick service dining, you can have Woody’s lunch box.
5. The Lion King
Set in the pride lands of Africa, The Lion King is a heroic story of our beloved Lion King, Simba. You will love watching the amazing animals in the movie and definitely see them animated in the real world. The Festival of the Lion King takes place at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
You and your family will enjoy the show. There is a Lion King theme throughout Animal Kingdom. Also, in the kite tales, you will see Simba soaring high in the sky. If you want to stay the night, book a Lion King Suite at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
6. Frozen
You have probably heard the popular song “Let it Go” by now. The movie is about accepting your true self and the power of true love (with a twist!).
You can take the ride Frozen Ever After and join the character meet and greets of Anna and Elsa, the two sisters from the movie, at the Norwegian Pavilion in Epcot. You can also find them in the Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.
7. Avatar
Avatar is about a marine torn between following his orders and protecting his newfound home, ‘Pandora’. In the Animal Kingdom, guests will find Pandora, which is one of the most ambitious projects in Disney World. There you can ride the flight of passage. You will understand better if you have seen the movie. You will also get to see the behind-the-scenes of making ‘Avatar’.
8. Star Wars
It would be hard to find someone who hasn’t watched all the Star Wars movies. The epic story takes place in a galaxy far, far away. Star Wars is one of the best-themed areas in all the parks. You can visit the Galaxy’s edge in Hollywood Studios.
Take your children to ride the millennium falcon, build a lightsaber, and build a droid. You can also join the resistance to fight against the empire! Guests can also take part in the Jedi Academy and meet Kylo Ren, Chewie, and other characters.
9. Pirates Of The Caribbean
Interestingly, the movie Pirates of the Caribbean was inspired by the pirate rides of Disney World. The movies are great, and with the success of the movies, Disney World has made many adjustments to its pirate sections. Disney has an extensive area in Adventure Land dedicated to pirates.
Captain Jack Sparrow will be one of the most fun characters to meet in the Magic Kingdom. If you want to fully enjoy the classic Dark Ride, make sure to watch The Curse of the Black Pearl. Fans can also have a pirate makeover for the day.
10. Alice In Wonderland
The animated movie has an interesting plotline and unforgettable characters. The world-building is also amazing. If you want to have the eccentric feel of a fairytale, ride the Mad Teacups in Fantasyland. Do not forget to meet your favorite characters. They can be seen near the teacups in the Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
Conclusion
These are the top movies to watch before Disney World visit. There are many movies to watch, but you may not have enough time to watch them. However, you will find many popular rides and characters in Disney World based on the movies and animations mentioned in this article. So, start watching them so that you can fully appreciate the attractions of Disney World.
