The Harmony Barber Shop

I had to start off with the Harmony Barber Shop. This is truly a hidden gem! The Harmony Barber Shop is a must-do for our family almost every time we visit the Magic Kingdom! You can read all about it right HERE! Check it out!

The Electrical Water Pageant At Magic Kingdom

This is a magical display of lights that travels from the Seven Seas Lagoon to Bay Lake. Check out the times of showings before you make plans! 

Main Street Phone Conversations

(In the past,) The Main Street Confectionery in the Magic Kingdom has an old phone on the wall inside. Pick it up, listen real carefully! There is an old conversation between, if I remember correctly, a mother and daughter. It takes you back to another time and place! It is truly magical! (We are not sure if this is still available! If you have done this experience let us know in our FB Group, Disney Express Lane. We would love to hear about your experience.)

Epcot’s World Showcase Hidden Gems

I have written a-many-of-articles about Epcot, I love Epcot! I couldn’t just pin down a couple of things, so I just threw in the whole thing!!!! The World Showcase may not be a hidden gem, but it has many hidden gems inside of it. I find something new every time we go. From watching all of the shows, street bands, performers and different foods each country has to offer, it is truly a hidden gem!

Find Divine in the Animal Kingdom

Divine is a street performer only found in Animal Kingdom. She is very easy to miss at times, she sometimes hides in the bushes and trees. But, when you do finally see her, you see her elegance and grace out shines them all. She is a stilt walker covered in vines and face paint that blends into the landscape around her. She usually has a crowd around her, so watch out for the crowd or you can grab a Times Guide at the front of the park for her performance times.

Watch The Fireworks From The Polynesian Or Grand Floridian Resorts

I know everyone likes to gather around the castle for the fireworks but, I know that is not for everyone. Although you do need to experience the fireworks from Main Street U.S.A. at least once, the Polynesian and the Grand Floridian hold a close candle to the actual castle fireworks. Try snagging a dining reservation at one of the fantastic restaurants that the Grand Floridian and the Polynesian have to offer, then head out to watch the fireworks when your belly is full and you are ready to relax.

Yehaa Bob at The River Roost at Port Orleans Riverside

This place is so much fun! Yehaa Bob puts on a great show while you sit and have a drink at the bar of Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. You can hear him all around the lobby and gift shop area near by, which is great if you get there too late and can’t find a seat. Also, don’t worry about his performance not being G-rated since it is a watering hole. No need to worry at all, kids are more than welcome. They would actually enjoy it if they are awake! He is only currently there at certain times. Get more info on Yahaa Bob right here!

Watch a Disney Movie under the Stars

Most all of the resorts on WDW property have Movie Nights Under the Stars. This is always a hidden gem my daughter and I love. One time we were able to watch Secret of the Wings under the stars in January. It wasn’t too cold and definitely wasn’t hot. Perfect! Memory we will never forget! Check your resort for a movie schedule! 

The Sword In The Stone

This is pure magic! I mean, what kid (or grown-up) doesn’t want to be the ONE to pull the sword from the stone! This treat is usually done once a day in Fantasyland and sometimes a “show” will take place. It has been rumored that if you are the lucky one to pull the sword from the stone, a celebration treat is in order! Although this is not listed or advertised, you can find the sword and stone in front of Prince Charming’s Regal Carousel!

Those are just a few hidden gems I love and my list grows and changes almost every time I go to Walt Disney World, so I’m sure it’s not the last post I will write.

What are some hidden gems of yours at Walt Disney World? I would love to hear and try something new next time! Please leave a comment!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog

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Harmony Barber Shop at Magic Kingdom: Everything You Need to Know Before You Go

Harmony Barbershop is a throwback to the turn-of-the-century barber shops. This shop is most famously known for a child’s first haircut, making it a magical experience. Adults can book their own trim or styles as well if they want to freshen up.

This barbershop features nostalgic striped barber poles, vintage chairs, and an old-school theme throughout. The Dapper Dans like to make special appearances from time to time to serenade guests. Their harmonious sounds are awe-inspiring.

Walk-ins are accepted, but I recommend scheduling an appointment to ensure you get a slot. If you expect to walk in, know you may have to wait a long time before a seat becomes available.

Harmony Barber Shop Overview:

Where You Can Find It: Magic Kingdom Park, Main Street, U.S.A., which is located near Town Square. This is just steps away from the Emporium at the front of the park.

What Is It: Harmony Barbershop is a fully functioning, old-fashioned barbershop offering haircuts for kids and adults. You will also get Disney-themed touches, Pixie Dust, the potential to be serenaded by Dapper Dans, and classic Main Street charm.

Type: Personal care service.

Time Required: If you have a reservation, expect to be 20-30 minutes, depending on the service you purchased.

Price Range: prices below (subject to variation)

• Adult Haircut – starts around $21 (includes a basic cut and simple styling)
• Child’s Haircut (age 12 & under) – starts around $20
• My First Haircut Package – starts around $28 (includes the haircut, a keepsake lock of hair, a My First Haircut Mickey ears hat, and a certificate)
• Beard Trim – starts around $8

Reservations Needed: I do recommend making reservations. Walk-ins are welcome, but you may have to wait a while before a seat becomes available.

Weather Dependent: No

When Is It Offered: Daily hours are offered during Magic Kingdom park hours.

Who Will Love It: Kids and adults can both enjoy the barbershop.

My First Haircut Package at Harmony Barber Shop

Harmony Barbershop offers its My First Haircut Package. This is designed for children, especially those getting their first haircut. It makes such a memorable experience for the child and parents.

The package includes a haircut, “My First Haircut,” Mickey ears, a keepsake certificate, and a small lock of their hair, placed in a pouch you get to keep. To make the experience even more unique, they sprinkle Pixie Dust to make it more magical for the child.

I share my experience with the first haircut below in more depth; it is an experience worth doing if you have time in your schedule to make a reservation.

What to Expect at Harmony Barber Shop

When you step inside the Harmony Barbershop, it is going to feel like you’ve gone back in time a bit. You get that vintage vibe with the barbershop theme. The staff is very cheerful and fun, and will make the experience worthwhile.

The Dapper Dans are an a cappella group that sings around Main Street and pops in from time to time to share their talents. It has even been said that Mary Poppins might show up to see your child get their first haircut.

Our Experience at Harmony Barber Shop

I want to share a tradition we love with our children. We go to the Harmony Barber Shop almost every time we visit Walt Disney World. The Harmony Barber Shop is located in the Magic Kingdom on Main Street U.S.A.

The Harmony Barber Shop not only cuts hair but also styles my daughter’s hair with “pixie dust” every time. She absolutely adores this part of the trip and asks to go every time. The best part is that mom and dad’s wallet does not break, which is a pro point for sure.

Harmony Barber Shop Pros and Cons

Pros:

• Located right on Main Street, U.S.A., making it an easy stop at the beginning or end of your Magic Kingdom day.
• Affordable compared to many other Disney experiences.
• Offers a unique Disney experience that goes beyond rides and attractions. It will be a memorable experience.
• Accepts both reservations and walk-ins, offering flexibility for guests.
• Perfect for first haircuts and milestone moments, with thoughtful keepsakes included, that make it feel extra special for the child and parents.
• Friendly, patient Cast Members who are great with children and are qualified to work with hair.
• Often accompanied by the nearby Dapper Dans, adding live entertainment and extra charm. Mary Poppins will stop by from time to time to help put smiles on everyone’s faces.

Cons:

• Limited availability, especially for first haircut packages, so reservations are strongly recommended.
• Services are pretty basic, so this isn’t the place for advanced styling or salon treatments. It is more about an experience, so consider that.
• Not ideal for guests on a tight touring schedule, as wait times can be long if you do not make reservations ahead of time.
• Foot traffic from Main Street can make the space feel busy.

More Disney Experiences to Consider:

• 4 Experiences Boys Will Love At Disney World Parks And Resorts
• Top 5 Romantic Dining Experiences In Disney World
• Is Staying Off Property During Your Disney World Vacation Worth It?
• 5 Unique Experiences You Should Add To Your Disney World Bucket List

View the full range of Disney experiences here.

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I have put together a few helpful tips for first-time Disney visitors. Sometimes we can over-look the small, minor details so I have put together a helpful little list.

Tips and Tricks for First Time Disney Visitors

1. Walt Disney World is huge! Be prepared to walk A LOT! Bring your comfy shoes!

2. Disney has a My Disney Experience App that can be used in the parks and prior to coming on your Disney vacation in conjunction with the mydisneyexperience.com. Get more info HERE.

3. Allow enough time for Disney transportation. Even if you are driving yourself from park to park, allow enough time. The parks are very spread out. Make sure you allow plenty of time to get to your Dining reservations and Fast Pass reservations.

4. Parents with small kids make sure you take advantage of the Rider Switch Service.

5. There is no gum sold anywhere on Disney property, so take your own if you are an avid chewer.

6. You can apply discounts to your trip after your trip is booked. No need to wait until a discount is announced to take advantage of a discount, it can be applied after the actual discount comes out if you have already booked your magical vacation.

7. You can do online check in on My Disney Experience 60 days prior to your Walt Disney World Resort stay.

8. Look for hidden Mickeys all over Disney property! They are everywhere and super magical for the kids to look for and spot.

9. There are two interactive scavenger hunts throughout the Magic Kingdom. Both are loads of fun! A Pirate’s Adventures: Treasures of the Seven Seas and Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom. Epcot has two as well, Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure and Kidcot Fun Stops.

10. Don’t forget your rain gear! If you are going in the rainy months of Orlando, be sure to pack ponchos, rain jackets, umbrellas, stroller covers, etc.

11. Bring your own container for water! You can get it refilled for free anywhere food and drink is sold in Disney World. I like this container, HERE, totally worth it, I promise. It really works and keeps your beverages cold! I have left it on the counter overnight with water and ice in it, when I got up the next morning it was still very cold. I have taken it to Disney World in warm months and it worked fabulous! Highly recommend! I actually use mine everyday, not just in Disney World.

12. If you are still having a few jitters, find out if a travel planner would be beneficial to you!

So there you have it! Happy vacationing!

Join the Disney Express Lane Facebook Group to discuss this and many other Disney related topics.

photo credit: Redbird310 Alice in Wonderland via photopin (license)

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