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The Best Movies to Watch Before Going to Disney World in 2025

The Best Movies To Watch Before Going To Disney World In 2025

Are you planning a trip to Disney World? There’s no better way to gear up for the magical experience than by immersing yourself in the enchanting world of Disney movies. These films not only set the mood for your upcoming adventure but also enhance your understanding and appreciation of the park’s numerous attractions.

From animated classics that inspired iconic rides to modern favourites that brought about the newest attractions, these movies will make your Disney World experience even more memorable.

Key Takeaways

  • Watch Disney Classics: Enjoy films like Beauty and the Beast and Aladdin to see the stories behind Magic Kingdom’s iconic rides and attractions.
  • Explore Modern Disney Magic: Films such as Frozen and Avatar will enhance your experience in Epcot and Animal Kingdom with their themed rides and areas.
  • Dive into Pixar Adventures: Prepare for Hollywood Studios by watching Toy Story and Finding Nemo, bringing the animated worlds to life in the park.

Animated Classics

Let’s start with the movies to watch before Disney World that have inspired some of the most iconic rides and attractions at Walt Disney World. These Disney movies are what make the Disney parks come alive!

Beauty and the Beast: This tale as old as time is a must-watch as there are several places to see depictions of scenes and characters from Beauty and the Beast throughout Disney World. You’ll feel like you’re stepping into the film when you visit the Be Our Guest Restaurant in Magic Kingdom. The restaurant is designed like Beast’s castle and offers a unique dining experience.

Aladdin: Get ready to ride on The Magic Carpets of Aladdin at Magic Kingdom. This ride is a fun-filled adventure that brings the magic of the movie to life. You’ll feel like you’re soaring over Agrabah with Aladdin and Jasmine. Don’t forget to keep an eye out for the Genie!

Peter Pan: Peter Pan’s Flight in Magic Kingdom is a classic ride that can’t be missed. It’s like you’re flying over London and Neverland, just like in the movie. You’ll see familiar scenes and characters, including the Darling children, Captain Hook, and of course, Peter Pan himself.

Cinderella: Cinderella’s Castle is the centrepiece of Magic Kingdom. Watching the movie will give you a greater appreciation for this iconic structure. The castle isn’t just for show – it houses Cinderella’s Royal Table, a restaurant where you can dine with Disney princesses.

Pirates of the Caribbean: Before you join Captain Jack Sparrow on a swashbuckling adventure on the Pirates of the Caribbean ride, be sure to watch the movie. It’s a fun-filled adventure that’s perfect for the whole family. The ride takes you through pirate-infested Caribbean waters, just like in the film.

The Lion King: This movie is a must-watch before your Disney World trip. You’ll find references to it in the Animal Kingdom, especially on the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride. You might even spot some of the animals from the movie on the safari!

Movies to Watch Before Going to Disney World

Modern Favourites

Let’s move on to some of the more recent films that have inspired some of the newest and most popular attractions at Disney World.

Frozen: This film has taken the world by storm and has a significant presence in the parks. From the Frozen Ever After ride in Epcot to the numerous character meet and greets, you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the kingdom of Arendelle. The Frozen Ever After ride takes you on a journey through the kingdom of Arendelle where you’ll encounter Elsa, Anna, Olaf, and other beloved characters.

Avatar: While not a traditional Disney film, Avatar has a major presence in Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Watching this film will help you appreciate the beauty and detail of the Pandora – The World of Avatar area. The area is a visual spectacle, with floating mountains, bioluminescent flora, and breath-taking waterfalls.

Moana: With its themes of adventure and self-discovery, Moana is a great film to watch before your trip. You might even meet Moana herself during one of the character meet and greets! The film’s vibrant animation and catchy songs will have you excited to meet Moana and embark on your own ocean adventure.

Toy Story 3 and 4: These sequels introduce new characters and adventures that are reflected in the Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The land is a faithful recreation of Andy’s backyard, filled with larger-than-life toys and exciting rides.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens and The Last Jedi: These films kicked off the sequel trilogy and inspired the creation of Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge. Watching them will get you ready for your own Star Wars adventure. Galaxy’s Edge is an immersive land that transports you to the planet of Batuu, where you can fly the Millennium Falcon, join the Resistance, and even build your own lightsaber.

Movies to Watch Before Going to Disney World

Pixar Hits

Let’s wrap up our movie marathon with some Pixar hits that have inspired some of the most fun-filled rides and attractions at Disney World.

Toy Story: The Toy Story series has become a massive part of all the Disney parks. Watching these films before your visit will make you feel like you’re stepping right into Andy’s room when you visit Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. From Slinky Dog Dash to Alien Swirling Saucers, you’ll be immersed in the world of Toy Story.

Finding Nemo: This underwater adventure has inspired several attractions across the parks, including The Seas with Nemo & Friends at Epcot and Finding Nemo – The Musical at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. You’ll feel like you’re swimming with Nemo and his friends as you explore these attractions.

Cars: Radiator Springs comes to life in the Cars section of Art of Animation Resort. Watching this film will make your visit to this resort even more enjoyable. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into the movie when you see the life-sized characters and settings.

Monsters, Inc.: Get ready to laugh with Mike Wazowski and James P. Sullivan at the Monsters, Inc. Laugh Floor in Magic Kingdom. This interactive attraction is even more fun if you’ve seen the movie. You’ll feel like you’re part of the monster world as you laugh along with Mike and Sulley.

Movies to Watch Before Going to Disney World

Final Word

Watching these films will not only get you excited for your trip but also help you appreciate the rides and attractions even more. From animated classics to modern favourites and Pixar hits, these movies will make your Disney World experience even more memorable.

So, grab some popcorn and start your movie marathon today! Remember, this is just a starting point. There are many other Disney movies that you can watch to get ready for your trip. Enjoy your magical trip to Disney World!

Holly Smith

I'm Holly a Mum of 4 with a love for everything Disney & Orlando!

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