Disney secrets that may surprise you

Disney Parks are known for their magic, wonder, and impeccable attention to detail. But did you know there are fascinating Disney Secrets woven into every corner of the Disney experience?

Disney has perfected the art of enchantment, from strategically placing trash cans to the iconic Hidden Mickeys scattered throughout the parks and even a network of underground tunnels that keep the magic seamless.

As a Disney travel agent passionate about creating magical vacations, I’m thrilled to share these 15 fun and surprising Disney secrets with you. Whether planning your first trip or your fiftieth, these insider tidbits will make you see the parks in a new light. And if you’re ready to start planning your dream Disney adventure, contact me today to get started!

Now, let’s get to the 15 Disney Secrets (that may surprise you!)

1. “Family of the day.”

Disney chooses a special family to open the Magic Kingdom. I mentioned how we did this at Universal, and Disney does it too! Disney selects a family to open the park at “rope drop” at the Magic Kingdom. How to get selected? Arrive early (front of the line!), wear matching gear, and be excited. The last part is the easiest!

2. Underground Tunnels

This might not be a big secret, but some guests still don’t know about it. The utilidors underneath the Magic Kingdom are filled with storage areas, dressing rooms, staff cafeteria, and backstage areas that guests never see.

The utilidors keep the magic alive because you’ll never see anyone out of place. Speaking of Magic Kingdom, it is cleverly designed so that you never see one land while in another.

3. Cinderella Castle

Cinderella Castle and other tall Disney icons aren’t as tall as you think. Disney uses forced perspective (or magic) to make them look taller than they are.

4. Cast members are not allowed to point with one finger

There are different stories to the two-finger pointing rule. The first is that it’s more polite and the second is that Walt pointed with two fingers due to holding a cigarette. Either way, that’s just one of the many rules cast members must follow.

5. Disney has an abandoned airport just outside of Magic Kingdom

It hasn’t been open in years, but you can spot what remains of Disney’s only on-property airport just before entering the Magic Kingdom on the monorail. Supposedly, you could hear “when you wish upon a star” while driving over the runway at 45 miles per hour.

6. There is no gum in Disney

To help keep the park clean, no gum is sold in the parks or anywhere on Disney property. You are allowed to bring your own, just make sure to throw in in the trash.

7. Epcot was initially conceived as a community

The “C” in Epcot stands for community, which is what Walt originally planned for Epcot. Although it’s now one of the four theme parks, it was initially meant to be a futuristic neighborhood.

8. You’re never far from a trash can

The story says that Walt used to watch how long guests would search for a trash can. The magic number seemed to be 30 feet. Thanks to this, you’re never more than 30 feet from a trash can at Disney.

I thought this photo of us was cute, but look, we’re right by the trash cans!

9. The trash gets one of the fastest rides

Speaking of trash, small pipes shoot the trash through the utilidors 60 miles an hour at the Magic Kingdom. That’s fast!

10. The red carpet experience

The walkway to the Magic Kingdom is red. Walt wanted to lay out the red carpet for guests.

11. You can actually (maybe) stay in Cinderella Castle

Typically reserved for special occasions or contests, there is indeed a suite in Cinderella’s Castle. You probably won’t be able to stay there, but you can get a peek on Disney’s website.

12. There are hidden Mickey’s throughout the parks

This one isn’t really a secret, but it’s a lot of fun to find the hidden Mickey’s!

13. Adults can’t wear costumes, but…

The Disney rules explicitly state that those over 14 can’t wear costumes. However, some clever park guests have devised a fun workaround known as “Disneybounding.” Disneybounding is putting together an outfit based on a character, and it’s a lot of fun.

14. There is a barbershop in the Magic Kingdom

Harmony Barbershop on Main Street is a working barbershop. You can even get a cute “first haircut” souvenir for the little ones.

15. Names on Main Street windows

The names painted on the windows on Main Street honor those who have contributed to the parks in some way. It’s hard to get on the list, so being there is a real honor.

Disney secrets

I hope these 15 Disney secrets helped you learn something new for your next Disney vacation. Which Disney secret were you most surprised to learn? Let us know in the comments.

Do you want more Disney vacation ideas?

• 25 Free Things at Disney World
• 7 things to know about the Disney Skyliner
• Where to find Dole Whip at Disney World
• Star Wars Land vs. The Wizarding World of Harry Potter
• Disney Vocabulary and Disney Lingo Explained!

Booking your Disney Vacation

If you want to work with a Disney Travel Agent, contact me today, and I’d love to help you!

I highly recommend buying your tickets through Undercover Tourist if you choose not to use a Travel Agent. There are a lot of really scammy sites out there, so make sure you’re booking through an approved partner (like Undercover Tourist) or an approved Travel Agent!

About Florida Travel With Kids

Florida Travel with Kids was started by a family who loves to travel the state of Florida with kids! This site will help you explore the fun state of Florida and all of the kid-friendly activities you’ll find here.

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