When you think of Walt Disney World, the iconic attractions, popular snacks, and lavish resorts are the first things that come to mind. However, even if you’re a Disney World veteran, I can guarantee there are some things you frequently skip or don’t even know exist! Disney Imagineers, culinary teams, and cast members spend their careers creating hidden illusions, underrated locations, under-the-radar dining, and even creating easter eggs. For example, have you ever noticed that the Pizza Planet truck from Toy Story is hidden in every Pixar movie?

This may not be the movies, but Disney World is no different. In this guide, we’re sharing over 20 Disney World hidden gems. Whether it’s your first or hundredth visit, you won’t want to miss these!

What is a Disney World Hidden Gem?

A Disney World hidden gem can mean a lot of things. For this article, we’re covering:

• Overlooked attractions
• Underrated dining locations
• Free activities
• Hidden trails
• Lesser-known experiences
• Hidden spots
• Easter eggs

Magic Kingdom Hidden Gems

Tomorrowland Transit Authority PeopleMover

Location: Tomorrowland

This underrated ride rarely has a wait time longer than 10-minutes and is a tram in the sky that takes guests on a leisurely tour of Tomorrowland. Along the way, you’ll you’ll peek inside Space Mountain, Buzz Lightyear Space Ranger Spin, and Star Traders. You’ll also see architectural models of the original EPCOT concept.

However, the best part of this ride is the views! You’ll get great views of Cinderella’s Castle, the hub grass, and Tomorrowland from up in the sky. Plus, it’s a welcome 10 minutes off your feet during a long park day.

Pro Tip: Try to time your journey during the fireworks show for some of the best views of Happily Ever After!

Pinocchio Village Haus Restrooms

Location: Fantasyland

We all love a secret spot, and an empty restroom hits the top of my list — especially with toddlers! Tucked off the beaten path between Enchanted Tales with Belle and Pinocchio Village Haus are hidden restrooms that are barely ever busy. There’s even a companion restroom, which is a private, accessible restroom for families or guests who need extra space. This quiet corner is also a great spot to regroup before heading to your next ride.

Harmony Barber Shop

Location: Main Street U.S.A.

Did you know you can actually get a haircut inside Magic Kingdom? It’s true! Harmony Barber Shop is a working barbershop on Main Street, U.S.A. While they don’t offer full salon services such as coloring or perms, these licensed cosmetologists provide standard haircuts, beard trims, and simple styling. Reservations are available 60 days in advance.

Pro Tip: For those with little ones, Harmony Barber Shop offers a “My First Haircut” experience, where kids get commemorative Mickey ears and a certificate!

Columbia Harbour House Balcony

Location: Liberty Square

Columbia Harbour House is quickly becoming known as one of the best quick service dining spots at Magic Kingdom. The menu features seafood and a variety of healthier options versus just your standard theme park fare of burgers and chicken tenders.

However, while the restaurant itself might be getting more popular, many people don’t know that there is an upstairs balcony. Grab your food and head upstairs for a quiet and calming meal and try to snag a seat by the window to people-watch!

Pro Tip: Mobile Order your meal through the My Disney Experience app to make the process even smoother.

Everything at Gaston’s Tavern

Location: Fantasyland

Don’t sleep on this hidden gem of a snack stop! You won’t find your usual grab-and-go snacks like popcorn or hot dogs at Gaston’s Tavern. Instead, the tavern offers jumbo cinnamon rolls (which are totally shareable – but we won’t judge if you don’t), delicious croissants, and ham and cheese sandwiches. The food here is surprisingly good, and it’s a great indoor spot to relax. It’s also a fun alternative to Be Our Guest Restaurant for Beauty and the Beast fans.!

Pro Tip: Don’t skip the photo op on Gaston’s throne!

Mickey’s PhilharMagic

Location: Fantasyland

Disney music or Donald Duck lovers will not want to miss this, though this show is enjoyable for everyone! PhilharMagic is a 12-minute 3D musical show led by Donald Duck featuring classic songs from Disney’s Beauty and the Beast, The Little Mermaid, The Lion King, and more.

Everyone seems to be sleeping on this show, as the wait times are never long and you rarely see a line outside. It’s a great spot for kids, for an A/C break, or just to get the good vibes going! This is one of our must-dos every time we visit Magic Kingdom.

EPCOT Hidden Gems

Mitsukoshi Department Store’s Pick a Pearl Experience

Location: Japan Pavilion

One could say that the Mitsukoshi Department Store in itself is a hidden gem at EPCOT, as it is the only one in North America! Inside, you’ll find traditional Japanese snacks, games, gifts, and apparel. However, the most unique thing in the store might just be the hidden Pick-A-Pearl experience!

Guests can head to the counter and pick an oyster of their choice. Then, the cast member starts a Japanese countdown to the pearl reveal, which can vary in size and color. They are authentic pearls, and guests can purchase additional settings for the pearl, including wearable jewelry and cages. This is a great way to bring home a Disney souvenir you’ll actually use!

Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana Hidden Characters

Location: World Nature

Hidden easter eggs are a huge part of Disney’s attraction designs, and Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is no different! This interactive, Moana-themed walkthrough is educational and beautiful, but it also includes a hidden scavenger hunt!

Look carefully as you explore. You’ll find characters and icons from the movie hidden and in plain sight. Keep an eye out for Pua, Hei-Hei, Tamatoa, and more.

Pro Tip: There is a small water play area for kids at the end of the attraction. Bring a change of clothes so your kids can have some fun and still walk around the rest of the park in dry clothes!

Club Cool

Location: World Celebration

Walking past Club Cool, you might think it’s just a shop dedicated to all things Coca-Cola. However, once you step inside, you’ll find a walk-up soda bar where you can sample sodas from around the world! Not only is it free, but you can try as much as you want!

You won’t find regular Coca-Cola or Sprite here, though. Instead, you can try sodas from around the world, including Italy, Madagascar, the Dominican Republic, Russia, Korea, and more.

Les Halles Boulangerie-Pâtisserie

Location: France Pavilion

This hidden bakery is tucked in the back of the France Pavilion. It offers snacks, drinks, sandwiches, desserts, soups, and more. Seating is limited, but it’s worth finding a table or taking your food outside. I’ve never had a bad meal here, and it’s one of the most affordable quick service options at EPCOT!

One of the best things about this spot is that it’s open for breakfast. Breakfast options are a rarity throughout the Disney parks these days, so head here for breakfast before the hustle of the park day starts, and enjoy a quiet World Showcase as a bonus.

GEO-82 Lounge

Location: World Celebration

GEO-82 Lounge is the only “adults-only” spot inside any Walt Disney World theme park. Guests must be 21 years of age or older to enter, and you’ll walk right by it if you don’t know it’s there.

Tucked up against the famous Spaceship Earth geosphere (the big golf ball-shaped icon of EPCOT), this bar and lounge offers creative cocktails and small plates. Reservations are available through the My Disney Experience app.

Hollywood Studios Hidden Gems

All Show Productions

Location: Throughout the Park

With all the changes that have happened at Disney’s Hollywood Studios within the last decade or so, the park has quickly shifted to a thrill-seeker’s destination. However, the roots of Hollywood Studios in live entertainment still exist, and I’d argue the shows are actually better than ever.

Don’t miss the Broadway-style mini production of Beauty and the Beast, A Frozen Sing-a-Long Celebration that combines comedy and music, the Indiana Jones stunt show, and the brand-new Disney Villains stage show!

BaseLine Tap House

Location: Grand Avenue

Over on the corner of Grand Avenue, you’ll find BaseLine Tap House. This full-service pub serves California-brewed beers and wines, charcuterie, Bavarian pretzels, and house-made chips. The outdoor terrace is a great spot for a drink and some people-watching.

Pro Tip: If you have kids in a stroller, this is a great spot to tuck away for a stroller nap and some adult time!

ABC Commissary

Location: Commissary Lane

Hollywood Studios has some of the best themed dining in all of Disney World, including Woody’s Lunch Box, Sci-Fi Drive-In Theater Restaurant, 50’s Prime Time Cafe, and Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo. With all those options, the smaller, less-themed spots tend to get overlooked. And, one of the places that many guests walk right past without a second thought is ABC Commissary. But that’s a mistake!

ABC Commissary offers unique entrees, including gumbo, shrimp tacos, elevated grilled cheese, salads, and more. It’s actually one of the better quick service spots in the park, especially if you’re looking for something that’s less “theme park food.”

Pro Tip: Kids’ meals at quick service locations are a good portion size and include a drink. If you don’t have a big appetite or are traveling on a budget, consider ordering a kids’ meal regardless of your age!

Tune-In Lounge

Location: Echo Lake

What looks like just the entrance to 50’s Prime Time Cafe is actually a walk-up bar that’s open to everyone! Tune-In Lounge doesn’t offer much seating (as it doubles as the restaurant’s waiting area), but the bar is open to everyone and offers cocktails, beers, and wines with little to no line.

Pro Tip: The Tune-In PB&J Cocktail is one of their signature drinks that’s worth trying at least once.

Star Tours

Location: Echo Lake

When Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge opened, the original Star Wars attraction lost some love. And, that’s a shame! This 3D simulator ride launches you into hyperspace as you try to escape the First Order.

The great thing about this ride is it’s different every time! There are over 100 different combinations of characters, missions, and planets that you can get each time you ride. Plus, wait times have been under 20 minutes for years, even during peak season. If you’re looking to fill some time, this is a great pick.

Animal Kingdom Hidden Gems

Maharajah Jungle Trek

Location: Asia

This animal viewing walkthrough is easy to miss. It’s tucked back past Yaki and Yeti Local Food Cafe and Kali River Rapids. So, if you aren’t heading toward that area, you’ll miss it!

On these trails, you’ll find tigers, deer, komodo dragons, water buffalo, and over 50 different species of birds. Cast members are located throughout the Jungle Trek to discuss and answer questions about the animals.

Hidden Park Entrance

Location: Main Entrance

Located near the entrance of Animal Kingdom sits Rainforest Cafe. And, if you’re not dining here, there’s really no reason to head inside…or, is there?

There’s a park entrance on the back side of the restaurant, and you don’t have to be dining there to use it! To avoid long lines at the main entrance, walk through the cafe to the “secret entrance” at the back for a straight path into the park.

Wilderness Explorer Program

Location: Throughout Animal Kingdom Park

For kids or the kids at heart, this one’s for you! On the bridge toward Discovery Island, you’ll find the Wilderness Explorer headquarters. Pick up a guidebook and follow your own journey through the park to learn all about animals and collect over 25 badges, similar to Russell in Pixar’s Up.

Cast members and stations are set up throughout the park, allowing guests to learn about conservation and engage in animal encounters along the way.

Disney-Exclusive Beers

Location: Pandora – World of Avatar

It doesn’t have to be Saint Patrick’s Day for green beer at Animal Kingdom!

Located at the Pongu Pongu drink and snack stand inside Pandora – The World of Avatar, there are two beers offered that you can’t get anywhere else in the world! The Hawkes Grog Ale is a green, hoppy beer with notes of apricot and peach, while the Mo’ara High Country Ale is a more classic Amber Ale with a hint of spice.

Disney Resorts & Disney Springs Hidden Gems

Value Resorts

Location: Various Locations throughout Walt Disney World

On the surface, value resorts (a.k.a. Disney’s cheapest hotels) don’t seem to get much love. And, if you plan to spend a good amount of time at your resort during your vacation, I wouldn’t necessarily recommend them. But if your trip is park-focused and you just need a place to sleep, value resorts are a top recommendation.

They may not offer table service restaurants, suites, or multiple modes of transportation to the parks, but they do include the biggest perks of staying at a Disney World resort. You’ll still get early theme park entry, early access to Lightning Lane selections, and complimentary transportation. Plus, value resort theming is over-the-top “Disney,” so you really feel inside the bubble.

Trattoria al Forno

Location: Disney’s BoardWalk

If you aren’t staying in the EPCOT Resort Area, you won’t cross pass with this restaurant and that’s a shame! Trattoria al Forno is one of my top recommendations for an affordable table service dining experience for both breakfast and dinner. Best of all, it’s fairly easy to get a reservation through the My Disney Experience app.

Check out our full breakfast review here, but don’t skip out on dinner offerings either!

Quick Service Dining at Disney Springs

Location: Various throughout Disney Springs

Disney Springs is Walt Disney World’s shopping and dining district, and it’s free to visit with no park ticket needed. And, the dining options here are next level, with restaurants from famous chefs like José Andrés, Art Smith, and Iron Chef Morimoto. But with how popular the area is, reservations can be tough to snag.

Don’t worry, though! Many popular table service restaurants also offer quick service options with similar menus. So, for example, you can grab a sandwich from Pepe by José Andrés, ramen from Morimoto Street Food, or fish and chips from Cookes of Dublin. You can also dine at The Polite Pig, one of the best quick service spots at all of Walt Disney World!

Bottom line: you don’t need a reservation for great food at Disney Springs.

Splitsville

Location: West Side – Disney Springs

If you are looking for a sit-down meal but couldn’t snag a reservation, don’t overlook Splitsville. Reservations are usually easy to get, and there are two large full-service bars. The restaurant spans two floors with plenty of seating.

The menu covers the usual sports bar fare, including nachos, sliders, burgers, and pizza. But don’t sleep on the sushi. It’s some of the best we’ve had at Disney.

Pro Tip: The restaurant doubles as a bowling alley! Reservations are available through their website, and limited walk-up availability is possible.

Resort Firework Viewing

Location: Various Disney World Resorts

No park ticket? No problem. There are a few different ways to view the fireworks shows at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT from outside the parks.

Head to Disney’s BoardWalk to view the EPCOT fireworks, Luminous: The Symphony of Us. For Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After, there are a few more options. Any Magic Kingdom area resort on the Seven Seas Lagoon has spots where you can see the fireworks. The beaches of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the marina at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, or the viewing deck at Disney’s Contemporary Resort are all great options.

These spots even pipe the music in for the full experience! Grab a dining reservation at one of these resorts, do some shopping, and end the night with fireworks.

Dole Whip Outside of Magic Kingdom

Location: Disney Springs and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Here’s another “no park ticket, no problem” tip! Dole whip is one of the most popular Disney World snacks, and most people think you can only get it at Magic Kingdom, but that’s not true!

Head to Swirls on the Water at Disney Springs for various Dole Whip flavors, or even a flight! Additionally, The Basket at Wine Bar George offers a special Dole Whip cocktail. Not at Disney And, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort has its own Dole Whip walk-up window called Pineapple Lanai.

Final Thoughts

The point of Walt Disney World (besides having fun, of course), is to be able to leave all your worries at home and immerse yourself in everything Disney has to offer. These hidden gems prove just how much there is to discover. Whether it’s secret trails, hidden characters, or underrated rides and dining, there’s always something new at Disney World, no matter how many times you’ve been.

For more help planning your trip, check out our Disney World tips and tricks and our complete guide to Disney World dining!

Comments

What are your top Disney World hidden gems? Let us know in the comments if yours made our list!