Yep, taking photos at Walt Disney World is a must. Honestly, I’ve got thousands of WDW photos stored on my computers, each of which I’m unable to delete because of sentimental reasons. However, there are must-visit locations in the parks that you really have to stop and get a photo of yourself and your family. And whether you’re like I am and want them to occasionally look through, love adding them to your social media accounts, or want to have them framed, these spots beg for photos. Here’s where to find cool Disney World photos and the five top spots in the four theme parks – without having to wait in an attraction queue.
It depends on my touring mood on every vacation: sometimes I want to take a zillion photos, sometimes I want only a handful. It’s the times that I want to see more attractions and ride more rides that I make it a point to hit the top spots at each park.
I’ll use them for my Twitter, Instagram & Facebook accounts while I’m visiting and then happily look through them when I get home. So where exactly are the cool spots to take photos in the Disney World parks? Here’s our picks.
Magic Kingdom
Cinderella Castle – The location in front of Cinderella Castle will always be #1 in our books. The closer you get to the castle, the more detail you’ll see in your photos, so keep it in mind. A straight on shot is ideal, but just about anywhere in The Hub or along Main Street USA is perfect.
2. Town Square – As soon as you walk under the tunnels (after the turnstiles), that’s Town Square. We like to take photos before rope drop so there is a smaller crowd in our photos. When the sun goes down, it’s just as pretty.
3. The Purple Wall – thanks to guests sharing their selfies on social media, The famous Purple Wall is even more recognized. A beautiful shade of light purple, you’ll find it on the shortcut between Tomorrowland and the Tomorrowland Terrace heading to and from The Hub. On Dapper Day, look for photographers in the area.
4. Splash Mountain – look hard enough, and you’ll still find signs with “Kodak Picture Spot” on them in Magic Kingdom. And honestly, they’re there for good reason. Stand in front of them and it’s an easy shot. There’s one in front of Splash Mountain because, when the sun is shining and you can time a photo just as a log boat heads over the hill, the pic is so fun.
5. Walkway Between Tomorrowland and Cinderella Castle – When you’re making your way from Tomorrowland to the front of the park or vice versa, make it a point to stop and look at Cinderella Castle from the side. It’s there you’ll notice just how beautiful it is – and it’s there you need to take a photo. While any time of day is good, sunset is even better.
Epcot
Immediately After the Turnstiles – As soon as you have your Magicband scanned and walk through the Epcot turnstiles, make a beeline for the raised garden area. It features seasonal topiaries and decorations – and there’s a great shot of Spaceship Earth there, too.
2. The Gateway to World Showcase – This area, between Future World and World Showcase will give you two completely different views depending on which way you stand. With your back to Spaceship Earth, there’s a pretty shot with it in the background. Facing the other direction? You’ll have the World Showcase as your backdrop.
3. Japan Pavilion – Almost directly across from the Gateway is Japan Pavilion and its famous Red Arch. Sitting near the World Showcase Lagoon, center up your photo and you’ll not only see the water, Spaceship Earth will be in between the poles.
4. Mexico Pavilion – You may be scratching your head at this one, but I’m adding it for two reasons. First, it’s the only all-indoor Pavilion in World Showcase. Secondly, after dusk, the exterior lights up so beautifully and makes for a really good backdrop. So take two!
5. The Jumping Water in Future World – Even seasoned theme park visitors may not know about this fun location. Located outside of Journey into Imagination with Figment, keep an eye on the sky near the water fountains as the water jumps back and forth between them. Time your photo right and you’ll have an arch of water in it.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
The Tree of Life – Anywhere with a plain view of the tree of life is great, but the view just as you walk into the park and see it is the best spot. Other than other folks wanting a photo there, the view of the Tree is unobstructed.
2. Floating Mountains in Pandora – The World of Avatar – I, personally, love the light first thing in the morning or after the sun goes down.
3. Expedition Everest – As you’re walking around the seating area for Rivers of Light, stop and take a photo of Mount Everest, aka, Expedition Everest.
4. A Mickey Homage in Harambe Market – Africa is where you’ll need to head to grab a photo of this classic Mickey Mouse with your family.
5. Giant Claw – After you’ve taken a photo in front of Expedition Everest, mosey on over near Yak and Yeti Restaurant and take a photo or two with the giant claw & silk streamers as the backdrop. Gorgeous!
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Hollywood Boulevard Facing the Turnstiles – This is the shot to have to say, hey, I made it to Hollywood Studios! A few years ago the park’s icon, a giant Wizard Hat from Fantasmic!, was the backdrop. These days, it’s the building that housed The Great Movie Ride. It’s now being renovated for a new ride, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
2. The Arch Near Voyage of The Little Mermaid – This one’s a fun spot as “Disney’s Hollywood Studios” is right at the top of the arch. There’s usually a Photopass Photographer nearby to help you line up the logo, too.
3. Pixar Place – Check out the fun, larger-than life Toy Story figures and toys in Pixar Place. Then look for the overhead arch that reads Pixar Place. It’s a great spot for a photo!
4. Before the Turnstiles – As you’re walking into the park, head over to the right side. It’s there you’ll see the official DHS logo – perfect for a pic.
5. Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster – As you enter the park and are walking down Hollywood Boulevard, make the first right onto Sunset Boulevard and follow it to the left. It’s there you’ll find Rock ‘n’ Roller coaster featuring Aerosmith and the giant red electric guitar.
Did I leave out your fave photo spot? Please let me know in the comment section below!
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