Living the Disney Dream: The Hilarious and Lovely Life of an Orlando Local

Living in Orlando, I have the incredible opportunity to visit Disney World on a regular basis. With its enchanting atmosphere and endless entertainment options, it's no wonder that I find myself immersed in the magic of the parks week after week. From indulging in thrilling workouts to catching captivating concerts, there's never a dull moment in this wonderland. Allow me to share my favorite activities and experiences within Disney World, unveiling the captivating secrets that lie beyond the castle gates.

Living in Orlando, I visit Disney World weekly for various activities like working out and seeing concerts in the parks.

Introduction

josie and friends posing in front of the train station at magic kingdom in disney worldAs an Orlando local, I go to Disney World on a weekly basis. – Josephine Maida

Living near Disney World for over five years has been an unexpected rollercoaster of magic and laughter. As a former employee and frequent park guest, I’ve discovered the hidden gems and secret adventures that most people miss. Let me take you on a whimsical journey through the amusing and lovely life of an Orlando local living the Disney dream.

Date Night Delights

josie and her partner posing for a photo in front of the epcot ball in disney worldEpcot festivals are nice for a special date. – Josephine Maida

Living close to Disney World means there’s always a new and exciting place to explore for date night. Forget the cliché dinner and a movie; we’re talking internationally-inspired cuisine, enchanting atmospheres, and unforgettable experiences. It’s like going on a romantic journey around the world without ever leaving the park gates.

On some nights, we dress to the nines and indulge in a formal dinner at the esteemed Hollywood Brown Derby or Le Cellier Steakhouse. Other times, we dive into the world of nostalgia with a trip to 50’s Prime Time Café or Jungle Navigation Co. LTD Skipper Canteen where the waitstaff treats you like part of the family. But let’s not forget those spontaneous nights where we wander into the parks with no plan in mind, hopping on our favorite rides and navigating the never-ending wonderland together. Living near Disney World means we can experience these magical date nights without the hassle of meticulous planning.

Foodie Adventures

hand holding a gooey cinnamon roll with frosting and caramel from disney worldI especially like trying the new and limited-edition treats at the parks. – Josephine Maida

Entering Disney parks is like entering a food lover’s paradise, where each visit promises a delectable adventure. Disney constantly surprises us with new additions to their already mouthwatering menus. Whether it’s a limited-time dish to celebrate the release of a new movie or a special seasonal snack, Disney World never fails to tantalize our taste buds.

But the real treat lies in the seasonal festivals at Epcot. As we stroll through the World Showcase, our senses are overwhelmed by the aroma of international cuisines and the sight of creative food stands. It’s a true foodie’s dream come true. With an ever-expanding list of new foods and drinks to try, we embark on a never-ending culinary journey that would make any food enthusiast envious.

The Happiest Workout on Earth

view of cinderella castle at disney worldI get so many steps in when I visit Disney World. – Josephine Maida

Who needs a boring gym when you can turn your Disney trip into the happiest workout on Earth? Forget the traditional eight-counts and burpees; at Disney, every step is a dance move, and every touch of the mouse-shaped doorknob counts as a rep. With the vast expanse of all four parks as our playground, we can enjoy an early morning jog, a midday stroll, or a late-night walk under the stars.

After a long day of sitting behind a desk, there’s nothing more refreshing than stepping onto Main Street and immersing ourselves in the invigorating atmosphere. And the best part? We don’t need a Magic Mirror to see a beautiful castle; we can get a royal view while getting our steps in.

Unveiling the Entertainment Extravaganza

mariachi band playing in mexico pavilion at epcot in disney worldI love catching the little live performances at Epcot. – Josephine Maida

While most guests focus on the exhilarating rides, they miss out on the extraordinary world of enchanting live shows and captivating music. Each park offers a plethora of entertainment options, from breathtaking theatrical performances to intimate musical acts. It’s a kaleidoscope of talent, waiting to be discovered.

One of my personal favorites is Mariachi Cobre in the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot. They’ve been enchanting audiences for over 40 years and are still going strong. And as a bonus, my boyfriend happens to play trumpet in the group, making their performances even more special. But the entertainment doesn’t stop there. It’s the perfect way to take a break, relax, and cool off on a hot day. So, put on your Mickey ears, grab a churro, and let the magic unfold before your eyes.

Friends, Family, and Disney Magic

josie hugging someone while taking a photo in magic kingdom at disney worldWhenever someone is in from out of town, I try to take them to Disney World. – Josephine Maida

Living near Disney World means that the magic never ends, especially when you’re surrounded by loved ones. Whether it’s the thrill of showing out-of-town guests around or the joy of spending quality time with friends and family, Disney World becomes the perfect backdrop for unforgettable moments.

Seeing the joy in their eyes as they experience the enchantment of the parks is priceless. And with many locals holding annual passes, it’s a great excuse for us to gather together and create even more magical memories. After all, Disneyland said it best: “Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever.”

Conclusion

Living near Disney World has given me a unique perspective on the magic within those enchanted gates. From romantic date nights to culinary adventures, from workouts drenched in pixie dust to captivating live performances, and from cherished moments with loved ones to the sheer joy of being surrounded by Disney magic on a regular basis, my life is a Disney dream come true. So, grab your Mickey ears and join me on this whimsical journey through the hilarious and lovely life of an Orlando local living the Disney dream.