Hot New Attractions for Your 2012 Disney World Vacation

Disney’s Big Thunder Mountain Railroad in the Magic Kingdom at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando

As the summer vacation season kicks off Disney World fans have plenty to be excited about for 2012. Beyond the magical array of fireworks, parades and amazing rides, there are some special new attractions making their debut this summer.

Art of Animation Resort
Art of Animation Resort Website
If you are planning to stay onsite at Disney World then you’ll want to book a room at the brand new Art of Animation Resort. This stunning new property will transport you deep into the magic of Disney and Pixar’s most famous animated movies and characters. Every inch of the resort is designed with a focus on animation. Your kids will be immersed in a world of cartoon friends like Ariel, Simba, and Lighting McQueen.

The Art of Animation Resort is opening in phases beginning on May 31st with the Finding Nemo Suites. Cars Family Suites are available after June 18th and Lion King Suites open on August 10th. Reservations are open now, so if you are visiting after one of the launch dates you can pre-book any of those rooms today.

Fantasyland
Fantasyland Expansion Website
The opening of the new Fantasyland area in the Magic Kingdom is the largest addition to the park in history. This makes it a must-see for anyone traveling to Disney World this summer. Similar to the animation resort, Fantasyland will launch in phases. The first ribbon-cutting ceremony took place in Spring for the Storybook Circus attraction.

The main feature of the Storybook Circus area is the Barnstormer. Ride with Goofy on his stunt plane coaster as he twists and turns through an exciting adventure that kids will love.  Note that there is a 35-inch height requirement for child riders, but even if your child is not tall enough there are plenty of other fun things to do in Fantasyland.

Other attractions and rides in Phase One of the opening include the new Dumbo the Elephant Flying Ride, a circus tent atmosphere inspired by the original Dumbo movie, and the new Fantasyland Station for the famous Disney World Railroad. All in all, this new area is great for both first timers and returning guests.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
Magic Kingdom Big Thunder Mountain Railroad Website
Finally back online after a lengthy renovation is the Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. This ride has always been a favorite of Disney-goers and now it has returned with a more modern feel.  Disney World advertises the ride as “mild but wild” making it suitable for children over 40 inches tall. There are so many subtle details to catch as you speed through the mountain that you’ll likely want to ride it a few times to take it all in.

Summer vacations to Disney World are always a great time, and the new additions mentioned here are sure to enhance the experience for your family.  So get your bags packed and head down to Orlando to join in the fun!

Citations:

• Optional link to Barnstormer ride.
• Optional link to Art of Animation Resort

Since 2008, Thrifty Disney Dad has been sharing his strategies for saving money on your Disney World vacation. Get all of his latest tips by visiting DisneyVacationSpecials.com

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