8 Things You Need to See AFTER DARK in Disney World

When it comes to giving Disney World tips, we often talk about the importance of getting to the parks EARLY.

Getting a jump on the lines and crowds can make a huge difference. But sometimes, it’s worth it to stay LATE in the parks and hotels. Why? Because there are just some things you need to see AFTER DARK in Disney World!

Pandora: The World of Avatar

When Pandora: The World of Avatar opened in Animal Kingdom in 2017, we realized just how breathtaking a new, expanded land could be. Pandora welcomes guests to an environment — called the Valley of Mo’ara — inspired by the Avatar film franchise.

Pandora is an incredible sight to behold no matter when you’re there, but at night, the land comes to life in a spectrum of bioluminescent flora everywhere you look, from the pathways to the soaring trees. It’s truly not to be missed. Since Animal Kingdom closes earlier than other parks, it can be difficult to experience this land after dark — so during the winter months is your best bet.

Journey of Water: Inspired by Moana

EPCOT’s brand-new, walk-through attraction Journey of Water: Inspired by Moana is another sight you don’t want to miss after dark. With a shining Spaceship Earth in the background, you can see that there are plenty of lights on the path to guide you.

The water at Te Feti is lit up, and lighting is shown on her as well, making it very visible at night. Te Feti looks even more beautiful at night with the lights illuminating her. This is a great reason to head over here after dark to soak in these views!

World Celebration Gardens

The newest location you absolutely must see at night is World Celebration Gardens in EPCOT! This area opened on December 5th, 2023, and took inspiration from the old, sparkling sidewalks near Spaceship Earth. For the EPCOT Transformation, Imagineers took that idea and created NEW glowing sidewalks!

The lights even synchronize with the Spaceship Earth light show! There’s also plenty of seating in this area for you to just rest and take it all in.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is a 14-acre land in Walt Disney World’s Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The land is comprised of the village of Black Spire Outpost on the planet Batuu which opened in 2019. Galaxy’s Edge is a truly immersive land — but it really comes alive at night.

Walking through Batuu and the Black Spire Outpost after dark really makes you feel like you’re with the Rebel Alliance — or maybe even the Dark Side.

Toy Story Land

Shrinking down to the size of a toy in Hollywood Studios’ Toy Story Land is a whole new ball game when the sun goes down!

After sunset, Andy’s Backyard comes alive with not just toys, but lights — and pretty big ones at that. Plus, there’s nothing like riding Slinky Dog Dash and whizzing through those lights!

Disney’s Boardwalk

We’re heading over to one of our favorite Disney World hotels — the BoardWalk! Not only is this a hotel, but it’s also home to a BoardWalk along Crescent Lake featuring restaurants, shops, clubs, dance halls, and more.

But, just like a boardwalk you’d find in the Northeast U.S., at night, Disney’s comes aglow with lights, music, and excitement. It’s a great place to spend an evening, grab dinner, and even catch the EPCOT fireworks!

Main Street, U.S.A.

Seeing Main Street, U.S.A. at night for the first time in Magic Kingdom has certainly been known to make some eyes tear up — or so we’ve heard.

For real — just look at it. Even this photo is making us want to cry!

Polynesian Beach

And last, but certainly not least — consider taking a stroll on the Polynesian Village Resort Beach the next time you’re nearby. Not only does it offer gorgeous views of Seven Seas Lagoon, but it’s also a great place to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks since they pipe in the music!

Crowds gather for fireworks viewing on the beach at the Polynesian

And, you can catch the Electric Water Pageant here! Whether you’re a night owl or are just looking for something new to do the next time you’re in Disney World — consider joining the dark side!

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