Grabbing a great family photo while you are in Walt Disney World is an absolute must on most traveler’s itineraries, but snapping that perfect pic can be much more difficult than you’d think. Finding the perfect location, getting everyone there at the same time, and snapping the picture can be a major feat. Trust me. It goes without saying that anywhere that Disney photographers are set up is going to be considerd a great spot for a photo opp, but why stop there? There are lots of places throughout the parks that make the perfect Disney family photo backdrop. Here are my 10 favorite spots to grab a family photo around the Walt Disney World parks, both day and night.
The Entrance to Magic Kingdom
The entrance is done up, with flowers that are crafted into a giant Mickey Mouse face and tons of whimsical Disney touches all around. If you wait for one, the Disney trains pull up along the track right above the raised beds, which rise at a steep angle and make the perfect backdrop.
In Front of Cinderella’s Castle
As you walk into Magic Kingdom, everyone – and I mean absolutely everyone – is going to be taking a picture in front of Cinderella’s Castle, from as far back as the very beginning of Main Street. Instead, I highly recommend that you go all the way towards the castle and then make a right or a left. Each side of the castle has small areas that make perfect photo locations, providing a solid backdrop that doesn’t allow for any photobombing by other guests of your precious family photo.
Partner’s Statue
Also in Magic Kingdom, the Partner’s Statue is one of the most famous and iconic statues in all of the parks, depicting Walt and Mickey Mouse. Snap a family photo here midday, or any off event times because this area is always packed with people going through or waiting for a parade to start.
Spaceship Earth
In Epcot, Spaceship Earth is the icon that greets you and where every family should stop to take a photo. While you can absolutely get a great picture in front of Spaceship Earth as you walk into the park, I highly recommend that you take a picture behind this ride (as you walk towards the countries) as there are normally less people and, thus, a much lower chance of finding a foster family in your picture.
Fountain of Nations
The famous fountains have been a part of the parks since Epcot opened, and are timed to a musical score that restarts every 15 minutes. This might actually be a better spot for the family photo that includes Spaceship Earth in it, because you can get both the fountain and the sphere in a single frame.
Japan Pavilion
The Japan Pavilion is great for its perspective, both during the fireworks show and for photo opportunities. Spaceship Earth is within viewing distance, so you can get some really great photos with the sphere and Japanese elements in them.
Tree of Life
The giant Tree of Life at Animal Kingdom is one of the coolest spots to check out in the park. Every time you look at it, you’re sure to notice something different. The sheer size and detail is breathtaking, making it the perfect Disney picture spot.
Discovery Island Bridge
Expedition Everest is one of the least celebrated and photographed rides at the parks, but it really is incredible to ride and photograph. From the bridge between Discovery Island and Asia you not only get a beautiful bridge framing your family photo, but you have Forbidden Mountain rising up over the landscape.
Tower of Terror
This Hollywood Studios icon is one of those rides that Disney World is known for, and it’s huge and imposing enough that it makes a great photo opportunity. The Towers are huge, so you will have to do some work to frame a photo right, but the entrance to the park, Sunset Boulevard, is the best place to get this done.
AT-AT Star Tours
Star Wars fans will love the idea of grabbing a family photo with AT-AT which happens to be right outside this super popular ride. You need to time this family photo because there are always families and individuals in front of it trying to take their shot, and then there are daily events in here that attract huge crowds.
