Page 30 - AAA Every Day – AAA Hudson Valley – July/August 2020

LETTER FROM THE EDITOR
When you’ve been to Walt Disney World Resort
as many times as I have, you start to realize
that there is much more than just what lies within the gates of the theme parks. Yes, of course, the Magic Kingdom and its three counterparts are amazing, but some of the best experiences take place elsewhere on the grounds, especially at the resort hotels.
First of all, I think it’s important to highlight just how well each of the resort hotels is themed. Every one of them has exquisite attention to detail down to the doorknobs and the garbage cans. Beyond being seriously cool, this gives the feeling of total immersion. Plus, every resort hotel has its own unique dining experience. For example, it doesn’t matter if you’re a guest of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or not, you can make reservations at 1900 Park Fare, Citricos or Victoria & Albert’s for a literal “taste” of luxury and what they have to offer.
One of my absolute favorite things to do is hang out
at the Polynesian Resort. It is my dream to stay there someday, but for now, hanging out for a few hours with every visit satisfies me. I love sitting at the Kona Cafe and indulging in a delicious Rainbow Roll (a specialty sushi roll with tuna, salmon, mackerel, hamachi, lump crab, cucumber and avocado). If you’ve ever heard
of the famous Dole Whip, you’ll be thrilled to know
that it’s not just available inside the Magic Kingdom in Adventureland. The Polynesian has the Pineapple Lanai, where you can get both traditional cone swirls and
floats. They even get some of the limited edition flavors. Also, at the Polynesian are the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show and ’Ohana. I’ve done both, and they are equally delicious and fun.
If you’re over 21, Disney’s Boardwalk is a gem. It’s not that it’s hidden per se, it’s just that many guests don’t realize what lies beyond the hotel. There are a dozen
fun spots to choose from when it comes to an evening “on the town.” In my 20s, one of my favorite pastimes was staying out until 2 a.m. at Jellyrolls watching dueling pianos and singing my head off. If you’re into magic or all things vintage, another unique spot is AbracadaBar, where you can enjoy some handcrafted cocktails and a low-key majestic vibe. This place is great for a glam yet relaxed drink with your friends.
Of course, I can’t forget my absolute favorite thing, the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Review. This dinner show takes place at Pioneer Hall at The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. At Hoop Dee Doo, you get to see
a Vaudeville-esque frontier themed variety show while wolfing down some all-you-can-eat fried chicken, ribs, cornbread, strawberry shortcake and, oh yeah, unlimited beer, wine and sangria. I love it so much I have been three times. Hoop Dee Doo is a hoot and will leave you with memories for years to come.
If you’re going to Walt Disney World, make sure to ask your AAA Travel Agent for some more of these magical, and less obvious, suggestions!
More Than the Parks
Emily Gnacik is the Editor of AAA Every Day Magazine.
30 I JULY/AUGUST 2020