By Carrie McLaren
If you've ever wanted to take a peek at what it takes to make Walt Disney World Resort come to life, try a backstage tour.
Here’s a look at some of resort's most popular, and revealing, tours:
Disney’s The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour
Visit the roundhouse where Magic Kingdom’s steam engines are stored and serviced. Guests see engineers preparing the trains for a day in the park and discover what it takes to keep the trains in working order. Ages 10 and up.
Behind the Seeds
Take a one-hour tour of Epcot’s four greenhouses and fish farm in The Land pavilion. Gardening and science buffs will especially enjoy this tour and leave with tips for their own home garden. No age restrictions.
Disney’s Family Magic Tour
Gather clues and go with your family on a guided scavenger hunt through Magic Kingdom Park. Don’t forget your camera to capture the fun. Ages 4 and up.
Backstage Magic
Go ‘backstage’ at all four parks during this seven-hour tour, revealing the secrets of what it takes to produce Disney magic. From a behind-the-scenes look at attractions, costuming and even horticulture – it’s the top tour for a look behind the curtain. This tour is for ages 16 and up.
Backstage Magic
In this guided tour at Magic Kingdom Park, discover tidbits along Main Street U.S.A., learn hidden secrets of the park’s legendary rides and even tour the underground ‘utilidors’ tunnels underneath the park. Ages 16 and up.
Some tours have age restrictions, so as to not spoil the magic for children. Tour prices vary. Reservations are available by phone and are available for booking 180 days in advance. For more information on these and other tours, call (407) WDW-TOUR.
Insider Tip: If you’re an annual passholder, be sure to ask about the passholder discount when booking a tour.