Tourists who have frequented popular attractions in Orlando may fancy themselves as being experts when it comes to everything these places have to offer. However, it may surprise you to know there are hidden gems at Disney World, Universal Orlando or Sea World that you might have missed.
It turns out that even the most “been there done that” tourist attractions in Orlando have a few special hidden gems that even the most experienced visitors may have overlooked. These places are so vast that there's bound to be something you haven't seen, or a new way to experience these much-loved places. That's part of what makes these parks so exciting for guests, both new and old, because there's always something different that you didn't see before.
Hidden Gems At Disney World in Orlando
Aside from the most well-known attractions, Disney World Orlando also features numerous hidden gems in the form of viewing spots, interactive details and underrated dining and resort experiences.
Magic Kingdom Secrets
Approximately 30 minutes after the park officially closes, the Cinderella Castle performs a final light and music show as a special thank you to the remaining guests, offering them a kiss goodnight.
If you want to avoid the crowds on Main Street during the fireworks show, there's also a great viewing spot just behind the Cinderella Castle near the Prince Charming Regal Carousel with a fantastic view.
When you pick up the old-style wall phones at the Main Street Candy Store and in Tomorrowland, you can eavesdrop on some hilarious local phone calls for an added bit of interactive entertainment. And if you're interested in architectural anomalies, the bricks of the Cinderella Castle actually aren't all the same size. The bricks actually get smaller the higher they go, making the Castle appear much taller than it really is.
Tucked Away At The EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
The international gateway between the France and UK pavilions has a secret entrance that allows you to escape the foot traffic, especially if you're staying at the Boardwalk area resorts or arriving via the Disney Skyliner. Speaking of avoiding crowds, there are also koi ponds and a five-story pagoda at the back of the Japan pavilion, which is probably one of the quietest corners in the park.
Oasis Canteen is a bar at the Hollywood Studios that's so underrated and often overlooked. They serve specialty cocktails themed around Indiana Jones, and the Snake Alley cocktail comes highly recommended. Another underrated bar is the Tune-In Lounge, next to the 50s Prime Time Cafe, which is a retro-styled bar offering nostalgic living-room seating and specialized cocktails.
Hidden Gems at Universal Orlando
The Universal Orlando Resort is also home to a wide variety of hidden gems, and with the recent expansion of the Universal Epic Universe, there are even more amazing easter eggs across the resort.
Interactive Secrets and Exciting Easter Eggs
Did you know that you can call the Ministry of Magic? Inside the red telephone booth just outside King's Cross station, you can dial 68498 (MAGIC) to receive a secret message directly from the Ministry of Magic.
Should you ever find yourself aboard the Hollywood Rip Ride Rocket, you can unlock a secret playlist by holding down the logo on the screen for ten seconds and entering a secret code (e.g., 301 for "Victory or 101 for "Temples of Syrinx").
Next time you're standing in line for MarioKart: Bowser's Challenge at the Epic Universe, look for Bowser's portrait, as it features an actual autograph from Mario's original creator, Shigeru Miyamoto.
Decompression Zones
Whenever you need to get off your feet or just a few minutes away from all the chaos, the Central Park Lagoon inside Universal Studios Florida is a peaceful, shaded area with benches and water views that make it the perfect spot for a midday reset.
Following the path behind the Mythos restaurant in The Lost Continent guides you to a beautiful, secluded waterfront area that's usually empty and can be a great photo op for the VelociCoaster.
The lush greenery and waterways in the Celestial Park Garden Walks at Epic Universe are designed specifically in the style of a cosmic garden, where you can slow down and take a breath between the more intense portals like Super Nintendo World.
Hidden Gems at Sea World in Orlando
Sea World in Orlando is a treasure trove of hidden gems in the form of secret indoor aquariums, behind-the-scenes animal rescue areas and exclusive off-the-menu dining experiences.
The Jewel of the Sea Aquarium is an underappreciated attraction hidden inside the Golden Seahorse gift shop, located near the exit of Journey to Atlantis. It has incredible floor-to-ceiling tanks and a transparent glass floor where you can walk right over the sea life.
Most guests also completely miss the walkthrough aquarium that's in the Manta coaster's queueing area. It has a unique 360-degree pop-up aquarium where kids can stand right in the middle of the underwater activity.
Never a Dull Moment
Whether you've been to these places a hundred times or are visiting them for the first time, there's never a dull moment at Orlando's popular attractions. Between the peaceful gardens at Universal Orlando, the epic interactive experiences at Disney World or the massive aquariums at Sea World, there's always something new to make your time there unforgettable.