Episode #201: Our Top Over, Under, and Properly Rated Attractions and Restaurants in Walt Disney World

In our latest podcast episode, we took a deep dive into what we consider the most overrated, underrated, and properly rated attractions and restaurants at Walt Disney World. This topic sparked lively debate not only between us but also with our children who had their own strong opinions about Disney experiences.

When it comes to attractions, Peter Pan's Flight unanimously topped our overrated list. Despite its nostalgic charm and impressive queue, the consistent hour-plus wait times simply don't justify the brief experience. On our recent visit, we noticed it commanding a 65-minute wait while even "it's a small world" only required 45 minutes. While we appreciate the attraction's historical significance and the flying sensation it creates, we believe many first-time visitors may feel let down after such a substantial investment of their precious park time.

On the flip side, our underrated gems revealed some fascinating choices. The Animal Kingdom trails (Gorilla Falls and Maharajah Jungle Trek) earned recognition for their immersive environments and relatively light crowds. These walking paths embody Joe Rohde's original vision for Animal Kingdom—creating spaces where guests can get lost and make discoveries without explicit signage directing their every move. The trails offer intimate animal encounters and breathtaking landscape design that many guests unfortunately bypass in their rush to more prominent attractions.

Living with the Land at EPCOT emerged as another underrated treasure. This slow-moving boat ride represents the purest expression of Walt Disney's original EPCOT vision—merging education and entertainment while showcasing practical innovations that might improve our world. The Behind the Seeds tour elevates this experience even further, providing affordable behind-the-scenes access to Disney's agricultural experiments for around $30-40 per person.

For properly rated attractions, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Remy's Ratatouille Adventure earned our recognition as experiences that fully deliver on their promises. Cosmic Rewind has garnered almost universal praise (with motion sickness being the only common complaint), while Remy captures the spirit of the film with impressive attention to detail. Both represent Disney Imagineering at its finest—creating immersive experiences that continually reward repeat visits.

The restaurant discussion proved equally fascinating. Ohana at the Polynesian Resort topped our overrated list, though we acknowledged needing another visit to form a complete opinion. The hype surrounding this dining experience often leads to disappointment, particularly when rushed service and inconsistent food quality don't match the premium pricing. The Edison at Disney Springs also disappointed, with presentation seemingly prioritized over flavor despite considerable buzz.

Underrated dining gems included Skipper Canteen in Magic Kingdom, which delivers surprisingly excellent cuisine that far exceeds expectations. The theming and storytelling complement rather than overshadow the food quality, with the chicken dish ranking among the best we've ever tasted. Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Wilderness Lodge earned praise for its unique waterfront setting, exceptional bison burger, and perfect location for enjoying Magic Kingdom fireworks from a distance.

For properly rated restaurants, Tusker House in Animal Kingdom and The Boathouse in Disney Springs represent experiences that deliver precisely what they promise. Tusker House balances character interactions with varied cuisine including African-inspired options, while The Boathouse combines excellent service with consistently high-quality seafood and steaks in a beautiful lakeside setting.

This exploration of Disney's attractions and dining options reminds us that personal experiences vary widely. What one family finds magical, another might consider overhyped. The key to a successful Disney vacation often lies in managing expectations and seeking out experiences that align with your family's unique interests rather than following the crowd to the most popular options.