Disney World offers fantastic rides, but in addition to the great rides, Disney also offers great ways to get around the resort and parks. Whether you are going from your resort to a theme park, or just getting around the theme park itself, getting there is half the fun. Here are our top 10 modes of transportation at Walt Disney World:

#10: Parking Lot Trams - While not exciting at all, and you really don’t get to see much but the parking lot, the trams are fun, and for many people, the first “ride” they get to experience at Disney. Pay close attention to the driver’s announcement, they are often very hilarious.

#9: Horse-drawn Trolley - Located along Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, the horse-drawn trolleys are a slow moving way to get down main street. If you can get by the smell the horses leave behind, it is a fun way to enter the Magic Kingdom.

#8: Horse-drawn Wagons - Located at Disney’s Fort Wilderness, the horse-drawn wagons take you around the areas surrounding the resort, and are a fun activity for adults and kids. Hay included.

#7: Walt Disney World Buses - Definitely low on the excitement scale, but extremely high on the functionality scale. These buses are everywhere, and can get you from just about any spot you are to any spot you want to go to. Make friends with the buses, and they will treat you right.

#6: Fire Engine - Located on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, this replica of an old time fire engine brings back memories for many of thee older guests, and sparks dream in the younger ones. The fire engines makes for a fun, and often noisy, ride down Main Street.

#5: Omnibus - Also located on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, this is my favorite way to start a day in the Magic Kingdom. The two story bus is a ride in itself. Hop on the top level for great views of Main Street.

#4: Walt Disney World Boats - It seems as though there are as many boats at WDW as buses. My favorites are the big ferry that goes back and forth between the Ticket and Transportation Center and the Magic Kingdom. Great views from the top deck of the resorts and the Magic Kingdom. The Port Orleans boat is also very fun, going back and forth between the Port Orleans resorts and Downtown Disney. Boat service at WDW might be slow compared to other options, but you usually get views you can’t get from anywhere else.

#3: People Mover - While technically a ride and not a mode of transportation, it was originally designed as a way to get around Tomorrowland. Quiet, quick and pollution free, it was to be the transportation of tomorrow. Renamed the Tomorrowland Transit Authority (what were they thinking?), it is now a relaxing way to see tomorrowland from a different angle.

#2: Walt Disney World Railroad - While also a ride in the Magic Kingdom, the Walt Disney World Railroad is a fun way to get from one part of the Magic Kingdom to another. These are original early twentieth century trains, complete with steam and whistles. Just sit back and relax as you enjoy a tour of the Magic Kingdom.

#1: Monorail - Disney World has two separate monorails, one service the Magic Kingdom and near by resorts, and a second service Epcot, both connecting at the Ticket and Transportation Center. Great views, a fun ride and a great way to get around. If it isn’t crowded, make sure you ask to sit up from. The area where the pilot sits also has seats for up to 6 people, and you get a great view out of the front of the monorail, and it is really cool to see how you actually drive the monorail.

Disneyland has been around for a long time, having just celebrated it’s 50th birthday. During that time, Disneyland has seen many rides come and go, and many others altered significantly from their original state. Many of the long gone rides make up what I knew as Disneyland as a child. Here are the top 10 closed rides from Disneyland.

#10: Country Bear Jamboree - The Country Bear Jamboree was built in 1972 as a remake of the version in the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. The jokes and songs are now lost on Disneyland, having been replaced by the new Pooh ride near Splash Mountain, but you can still catch their act in the Magic Kingdom. Fun for kids of all ages, the talking bears were always good for a laugh, and their holiday show was a not miss event for our family.

#9: Pirate Ship Restaurant/Skull Rock - Located in Fantasyland, the Pirate Ship Restaurant served good food and the dream of living on a pirate ship, even if for only a few minutes during lunch. Right behind the Pirate Ship was Skull Rock, a menacing sight indeed, with a cool waterfall and seating for those who couldn’t find space aboard the Pirate Ship. Both were removed in 1983 to make way for Dumbo.

#8: House of the Future - Located just off the hub in Disneyland, the House of the Future was unique at Disneyland, it was free, no tickets were required for entrance. This was Monsanto’s view of what houses would be like today. Some of the items in the house have come to fruition, such as the wall mounted color TVs. I am just glad the all plastic furniture thing never took off. The House of the Future was removed in 1967.

#7: Swiss Family Treehouse - While technically not gone, the Swiss Family Treehouse gave you a glimpse of how the Swiss Family Robinson survived after a shipwreck on a remote island. Clever contraptions abound, and it was always enjoying to “climb” the tree and walk back down. Prior to the Tarzan movie in 1999, Disneyland updated the tree with a second tree, and called it “Tarzan’s Treehouse”. Fortunately the Swiss Family Robinsons still have their home in three other Disney parks around the world.

#6: People Mover/Rocket Rods - The PeopleMover took you on an interesting, if slow, ride of Tomorrowland, including views of several rides. While not exciting, it was relaxing. It closed in 1995 to make way for Rocket Rods, which would use the same track, but instead of being slow, Rocket Rods would be a thrilling, fast paced thrill ride. The problem was that Disneyland didn’t spend the required money to bank the track, so the Rocket Rods had to constantly stop and start, making for a so-so ride, and constantly breaking equipment. Rocket Rods closed in 2000, just 2 years after opening, never to open again.

#5: Carousel of Progress/America Sings - The Carousel of Progress was originally built for the New York World Fair of 1964, and transplanted to Disneyland in 1967. It took passengers on a tour of homes throughout the 20th century, including what homes would be like in the future. Very entertaining and unique among theme park rides, the Carousel of Progress lasted only 6 years. It was replaced by America Sings in 1974, which took you through scenes of America, full of songs and jokes. Again, very entertaining and unique. America Sings was closed in 1988, and if you look closely, just about all of the animals from America Sings ended up in Splash Mountain. Fortunately, the Carousel of Progress continues to operate at Walt Disney World.

#4: Rocket to the Moon - A precursor to Mission:Space of Epcot, Rocket to the Moon took guests on a trip from Disneyland to the moon. A large screen on the floor showed where you were coming from, while the screen on the roof showed where you were going. A bit simplistic for what we are used to, it was updated through the years to include moving seats and animatronics. Rocket to the Moon changed to Flight to the Moon and then Mission to Mars without changing much of the ride. It finally closed in 1992.

#3: Captain EO - A 3-D show starring Michael Jackson, produced by George Lucas and directed by Francis For Coppola? A blockbuster for sure. Captain EO was a fantastic adventure in 3-D with plenty of signing and dancing by the gloved one. Eventually starting at Disneyland, it spread to all existing Disney parks around the globe, but as quickly as it spread, Captain EO disappeared. While it lasted over 10 years on Disneyland, the only place it can be seen now is on DVD via eBay.

#2: Adventure thru Inner Space - This is the only ride that I remember scaring me as a child. As you waited in line, you could see the guest, shortly after they board, actually shrink before your eyes as they ascended up the “microscope”. I couldn’t figure out how the ride worked, and what happened if it broke while you were on it, would I be stuck in Disneyland as a mini-me? A classic Monsanto ride that took you through snowflakes, water molecules and even inside the atom. Just watch out for that spooky eye that is watching you!

#1: Skyway to Tomorrowland/Fantasyland - A classic attraction at Disneyland (and WDW for that matter), the Skyway took you from Tomorrowland to Fantasyland, or the other way around. While it wasn’t necessarily an efficient way to get back and forth between the two areas, it gave you a great view of the park, and I loved going through the Matterhorn! This was my first experience with understanding Disneyland, as you were able to see the buildings behind the facades, and begin to realize how things were laid out, and how the rides worked.For a fantastic overview of all of the closed Disneyland rides, including some great vintage photos, check out Yesterland.

Walt Disney World has some fantastic swimming pools, and why not? You have swimming weather available to you most of the year, and thousands of resorts guests looking for a break from the heat and theme park crowds. While the water parks are great, there is an entrance fee involved, and often, they are just as crowded as the parks. So, if you are picking your resort based on the swimming pool, here are the top 10:

#10: Contemporary Resort Pool - The Contemporary features a very nice pool, with a nice, if tame, water slide. The location on the back side of the Contemporary allows the pool to be very quiet and a bit removed from all the activity of the parks. A great beach is adjacent to the pool, and don’t miss the quiet pool just a few steps away, it actually “floats” over Bay Lake.

#9: Port Orleans Riverside Pool - Ol’Man Island at Port Orleans Riverside sits on it’s own island in the Sassagoula River. With easy acces from either the Mansions or Bayou side of the resort, the pool is quite and fits in quite well with the resort. There is a great little water slide and plenty of fun areas to explore. A bit on the small side, but worth the visit.

#8: Old Key West Pool - What used to be one of the worst pools at Disney World, Old Key West just finished a total rehab of their pool, and it now features a nice water slide and play area for little kids. It has nice views overlooking Old Key West, though my one complaint is that it is not private at all.

#7: Polynesain Pool - The Nanea Volcano Pool is a recent addition to the Polynesian. The Volcano water slide is the main feature, and is quite fun. The pool features many quiet areas, including semi-hidden hot tubs. There are also great views from most parts of the pool, including the Magic Kingdom and the nightly water parade.

#6: Saratoga Springs Pool - Great new pool at the new resort, with a super fun water slide, great kids area and plenty of places to sit and relax, both in the sun and shade. Surrounded by buildings though, not private at all.

#5: Grand Floridian Pool - a newer pool, located to the South of the Grand Floridian, Disney World did a great job or making it so that you can’t see the pool from the monorail or really, anywhere else. A great water slide and waterfall make this pool quiet and fun for everyone. Great white sand beach next to the pool is fun as well.

#4: Animal Kingdom Lodge Pool - a decent swimming pool, and very similar to the one at the Polynesian (they were built at the same time), the special thing about the Animal Kingdom Lodge pool is the fact that you can see animals from the pool area. While there won’t be any giraffe drinking out of the kiddie pool, it is special none the less.

Please note Disney World does not allow “pool hopping”, and many of the pools are closely watched and resort ID is required. So, if you want to swim in one of these great pools, you must stay at that resort.

Walt Disney World has a great selection of restaurants, both in the parks and at the resorts. However, whether you are with kids or not, you just can’t do three sit down meals each day. There is too much to do and too little time. Disney World offers a wide choice of quick service restaurants, here are our top 10:

#10: Lotus Blossom Cafe - Located in the China Pavilion in Epcot, the Lotus Blossom Cafe offers decent Chinese food in a fast food setting. Usually uncrowded, even on busy days, as it is hidden from the main traffic of the World Showcase. Don’t miss the Rou Jia Mo (Chinese beef sandwich) for a different take on your everyday Chinese fare.

#9: Kringla Bakeri - Located in Norway Pavilion in Epcot, the Kringla Bakeri offers fantastic open face sandwiches and soups. Better known for their pastries, stop by Kringla for something different. Great seating area with a fun playground nearby.

#8: ABC Commissary - Located in Disney Studios, the ABC Commissary tries to replicate a sound stage restaurants, but in reality, just has good food. The Cuban Sandwich is the reason to stop by for lunch of dinner.

#7: Yakitori House - Located in the Japan Pavilion in Epcot, the Yakitori House has decent food, but a fantastic location. Perched high above the Japanese Pavilion, the Yakitori House has a nice quiet, dare I say zen like, garden area that will fool you into believing you are anywhere but Epcot.

#6: Casey’s Corner - Located in the Magic Kingdom, Casey’s Corner features hot dogs and more hot dogs. While it normally wouldn’t be in my top 10, Casey’s is a staple for many long time Disney guests. It gets very crowded at lunch, as it is very small, so come early or late to avoid long line.

#5: Columbia Harour House - Located in the Magic Kingdom, the Columbia Harbour House is the hidden gem of Disney World counter service restaurants. Across from the Haunted Mansion in Liberty Square, most people don’t even know there is a restaurant there. The Starboard Deck Sandwich is by far the best counter service entree available despite not sounding exactly appetizing (ham on olive bread with munster cheese and broccoli slaw). You will just have to trust me on this one.

#4: Toy Story Pizza Planet - Located in Disney Studios, the Toy Story Pizza Planet offers middle of the road pizza, but the atmosphere, especially for Toy Story fans, should not be missed. Kids of all ages love eating here, so make sure you arrive early.

#3: Yorkshire County Fish Shop - Located in the United Kingdom Pavilion in Epcot, the Yorkshire County Fish Shop has only a few items on their menu (Fish and Chips to be exact), but they quality is top notch. Everything is hand made inside the little shop, right in front of you. Great place to stop for dinner while you are waiting for Illuminations.

#2: Cantina de San Angel - Located in the Mexico Pavilion in Epcot, Cantina de San Angel features decent Mexican food with a great seating area overlooking the World Showcase. Just watch out for the birds, they are overly aggressive, you can’t leave your food along for even a second.

#1: Tangierine Cafe - Located in the Morocco Pavilion in Epcot, the Tangierine Cafe is our top choice for counter service restaurants at Walt Disney World. Featuring high quality food, huge portions and great seating areas, the Tangierine Cafe should not be missed on your trip. The portions are so large, you can easily share an entree. Don’t bother even looking at the menu, head straight for the chicken and lamb Shawarma Platters. I prefer the lamb, very moist, huge amounts of meat and as fresh as can be.

You may have noticed, we excluded a few counter service restaurants that probably should be included (Cosmic Rays, for example), but a hamburger is a hamburger, and there are a half dozen places that serve the same hamburger, and personally, I would rather try something else from time to time.

Disney is a great place to stay for a honeymoon, with fantastic resorts, great restaurants, and plenty of daytime and night time activities to keep you busy. Everything is self contained, so you just get there and have a fantastic time. So, you are sold on Disney, now, where are you going to stay on your honeymoon?

#10: Boardwalk Inn - Located at Walt Disney World, the Boardwalk Inn takes you back in time to a North East Sea Side resorts, with the Boardwalk and all. Great walking areas, fantastic location near Epcot and restaurant choices abound. If you have the money the garden suites are the best honeymoon rooms anywhere.

#9: Contemporary Resort - Located at the Walt Disney World, the Contemporary has a great location near the Magic Kingdom, updated rooms and great views. The resort sometimes feels impersonal, but if you are after the views and location, the Contemporary can’t be beat.

#8: Disneyland Hotel - Located at Disneyland, the Disneyland Hotel is a fantastic place to stay on the West Coast. Great views of the parks, a fun location near Downtown Disney and the monorail to Disneyland, it is far enough away from everything to be quite, but close enough to be convenient. Splurge for a theme park view concierge room, the view of the parks is fantastic.

#7: Wilderness Lodge - Located at Walt Disney World, the Wilderness Lodge is a replica of the old time railroad lodges of the West. Rustic and surrounded by pine forests, the Wilderness Lodge is quiet and feels remote, but is close to the parks. The only WDW resort with a honeymoon suite.

#6: Beach Club/Yacht Club - Located at Walt Disney World, these sister resorts are located near the Boardwalk Inn, but offer a nicer pool and a bit better location, closer to Epcot, and away from the noisy Boardwalk.

#5: Grand Californian - Located at Disneyland, the Grand Californian is a beautiful resort in the craftsman style. Located in the California Adventure theme parks, you have direct access to the park, and a short walk from Disneyland.

#4: Animal Kingdom Lodge - Located at Walt Disney World, the Animal Kingdom Lodge is a fantastic honeymoon resort, great views from the rooms, great restaurants, very quiet and very unique. The only downfall is that it is so remote, you have to hop on a bus to go anywhere. For some, that is a plus, for others, a negative.

#3: Disneyland Hotel Paris - Located at the Disneyland Paris resort, the Disneyland Hotel Paris is actually located in the Disneyland Paris theme park. To enter the park, you have to walk under the resort (the ticket booths are on the ground level). Great views from the theme park view rooms, a short walk to either park, and an hour train ride to central Paris.

#2: Grand Floridian - Located at Walt Disney World, the Grand Floridian is Disney’s flagship resort. Opulent, breath taking and just a bit stuffy. Stunningly beautiful resort in a great location near the Magic Kingdom. If you want the best Disney has to offer, this is the place.

#1: Polynesian - Located at Walt Disney World, the Polynesian is our number one honeymoon resort. With great rooms, wonderful Magic Kingdom views, a beach, a fantastic pool and the monorail, the Polynesian is hard to beat. You really feel like you have gone to Hawaii on your honeymoon, but only a few minutes away from the theme parks.