It's hard to believe that Walt Disney World first opened its gates to the public slightly more than 38 years ago. I doubt anyone could have imagined the incredible transformation that followed in the wake of the Magic Kingdom's 1971 debut. Orlando has evolved from a relatively quiet southern farming community into an international vacation destination. An incredible array of recreational activities, shopping and dining experiences, and world-class accommodations await those who visit, and it's all set right in the middle of the natural beauty of Central Florida.
Walt Disney World (WDW) is now home to four major theme parks of its own; two water parks; an incredibly diverse complex full of shopping, dining, and entertainment venues; along with tens of thousands of hotel rooms; scores of restaurants; and, to top it all off, two (soon to be four) cruise ships.
