FROM: Happiest Tips on Earth Published Fridays

Going to Disney World with Teenagers

Though fraught with peril, not to mention drama, it IS possible to bring teenagers to Disney World and have a good time. But don't let anyone kid you: it's a challenge. Lesley Sawhook isn't here to kid you; her happiest tips may be your lifeline.

- Lesley Sawhook, June 3, 2011

Many people, when they think about a Disney vacation, think about taking it with small children. But Disney has a ton of offerings for every age group. This week, I want to focus on how to keep the teenagers happy in the happiest place on earth.

Happiest Tip: Don't Overlook 'Teen Spots' in the Parks

Disney World isn't just a "Small World'. It has quite a few thrills to tempt teens. Here is my list of 'must do' attractions for teen in each of the four Disney World parks:

Magic Kingdom: Teens love the Three Mountains (Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain). Pirates of the Caribbean and Haunted Mansion are also great attractions that teens are sure to enjoy.

Animal Kingdom: Kali River Rapids, Expedition Everest, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and DINOSAUR will be a hit with the teens.

Epcot: Mission Space, Test Track, and Soarin' are the big ones here that teens will enjoy. There are also some great attractions inside Innoventions, such as Sum of All Thrills, where teens can design and ride their own roller coaster, and a station at which teens can be videotaped doing 'action moves' that are then placed inside of a video game they can play at one of the kiosks.

Every teen will like the free Coke products at Club Cool, and if your teen thinks Michael Jackson is cool, the Captain EO 3-D show ill be a hit. Many teens also enjoy strolling through the World Showcase and experiencing the different cultures; the acrobats in France and the belly dancers in Morocco are especially popular!

Hollywood Studios: This park has a lot of fun teen attractions such as Rock 'n Roller Coaster, Tower of Terror, and Star Tours. The American Idol Live on Stage show and the Lights, Motors, Action! Extreme Stunt Show are also sure bets.

And don't forget the water parks! Teens will have a blast cooling off at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach enjoying Summit Plummit and the wave pool. At Typhoon Lagoon you can book a surfing experience in the wave pool for your teen by calling 1-407-WDW PLAY.

Happiest Tip: Downtown Disney with Your Teen

Downtown Disney will allow your teenager to shop til' they drop in great stores like Basin, Design a T, Goofy's Candy Company, Team Mickey (for sports apparel), and Tren-D, a must-stop for teen girls seeking fashionable clothes and accessories.

Downtown Disney also has some fun restaraunts such as ESPN Zone and Planet Hollywood.

For prolonged fun, purchase tickets for Disney Quest, a multi-level interactive arcade sure to entertain video gaming enthusiasts.

And, last but not least, Downtown Disney is home to an AMC Dine-In Theater, a very cool place to watch a movie while eating a meal.

Happiest Tip: Let them Race and Relax

Sea Raycer water rentals are available at any of the marinas throughout the Disney property. Teens can take one of these 'water mice' out on their own if they have a valid driver's license. They just need a parent to sign a waiver.

At the Grand Floridian, guests 10 and over can access many of the spa treatments from the adult menu. These include pedicures, manicures, facials, and massages. Any teenage girl will feel as if she's died and gone to heaven! To make a reservation for the spa, call 1-407-824-2332.

If you have a teenager in your family not thrilled about an upcoming Disney vacation, have them read this column and become aware of all the fun they're going to have in Disney!

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The Happiest Tips on Earth can only get you partway to the Happiest Place on Earth. For the rest, you need Destination Magic. Drop Lesley a line and see what magic she can make for you when you're planning your next Disney trip!

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