Written by Cortney Hoese
There are inevitably two questions I am asked whenever I tell someone we’re going to Walt Disney World – same questions, same order, every time. The first is always “How old are your kids?” to which I reply, “Well, Gidget is 14 and Lucy just turned 2. But they won’t be joining us, because they can’t ride the rides… They’re dogs.” The next question is “So, why are you going?”
That one always makes me laugh out loud. The thought that Disney is only a place to take your kids to meet a Mouse or a Fairy is preposterous. So why do we go? Where else can you truly enjoy acting like a child and an adult at the same time, and completely escape reality? Don’t get me wrong. Disney is a wonderful place for families. I love seeing the look on a child’s face when they first see the castle or defeat Zurg, and I hope to spend some magical days there with my niece and nephew sharing in those experiences. My point is that there is just as much magic sans the Mouseketeers, so why wait?
One of the best features of Disney is that no one else knows who you are. You can sport those mouse ears like a champ and no one will be posting it on Facebook (other than your significant other!) You can scream your lungs out on the Tower of Terror and no one will be laughing about it at the office the next day. And you can stay out as late as you want without anyone needing a nap or a timeout.
As an adult, you have the unique opportunity to experience all of the rides, parades, character greets, and shows that captivates our youth and drives their imaginations. In doing so, you can also start to see the hidden humor, attention to detail, and appreciation for the Disney production. And you can appreciate the fine dining, adult beverages, and romantic moments that this magical place creates.
The key to enjoying Disney as an adult is to check your pride at the door and let it go. Stop looking at your cell phone. Don’t worry about what you look like with that button. Give a character a hug. Buy that oversized sugary snack your parents would have never let you have. There is no place on the planet where you will receive less judgment for being as goofy as Goofy. In fact, you’ll be among your own kind and may feel a sense of belonging that you never knew existed.
About Cotney
“Cortney Hoese is an IT Manager by day, and an avid sports fan, photographer, and Disney lover by night. Born and raised in Louisville, Kentucky, Cortney currently lives next door to her childhood home with her Prince Charming, Eric, and their two lovable dogs. Cortney’s favorite Disney World attraction is Be Our Guest, where she can step inside her favorite movie while dining on ‘the grey stuff’ – after all, it is delicious!”
Michele also contributes theme park news for Fox 35 Orlando 11pm news and on the radio on WDBO.
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I agree wholeheartedly with samkirk. In addition when folks who don’t feel the same way I do tell me it is all so fake, unreal and dreamlike I answer them, Your point is?
I have been coming to Disney Parks since 1955 when I had an opportunity to attend on opening day, but through unfortunate circumstances didn’t make.
I couldn’t have said it better myself! Kids won’t be in store for us for a few more years so our families don’t really get the Disney thing. I love the magic and it’s almost freeing being at Disney getting to act like a kid again!