Disney World ever-changing

No matter how often you visit Disney World in Orlando, there’s always something new to see. Covering more than 40 square miles, Disney World is anchored by four theme parks -- Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot Center and Amimal Kingdom.

Magic Kingdom, of course, is usually the first stop for Disney World visitors, especially families with young children. This is the land of stage shows, parades and fantastic fireworks. You’ll see Cinderella’s Castle, Main Street USA and Tomorrowland. But best of all, your little ones will be stunned to meet and greet Disney’s most popular characters, including princes, princesses, Mickey and Minnie, witches, movie characters and dozens of other Disney folk. Check out the new Fantasyland, which is scheduled to open this spring.

The Hollywood Studios theme park is built like a large movie set, and visitors are treated to backstage tours, Hollywood-style action, live shows, Broadway-style musicals, an American Idol Experience and thrilling stunt shows. Just last year, the popular Star Tours 3D opened to great reviews. Star Tours (based on Star Wars) is a simulated ride through space that includes a visit to the planet of Naboo and another to the icy planet Hoth featured in Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom covers 500 acres and is home to more than 1,700 animals. Visitors not only get to enjoy live animal encounters, but they learn about conservation and environmental topics as well, while they experience jungle treks, and forest trails. And don’t miss the Earth Day celebration at Party for the Planet on Friday, April 13 and Sunday, April 22. This year, Party for the Planet will also be celebrating the new Disneynature film Chimpanzee, which opens in theaters on Friday, April 20.

Epcot Center has its own magic with a World Showcase that lets visitors enjoy the culture and cuisine of other countries. Visit shops and restaurants that offer a taste of Mexico, Norway, China, France, Canada, Germany, Japan, Morocco, United Kingdom, the U.S. and Italy,

If you visit in the summer, be sure to check out Disney World’s two water parks, Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach.

For more information on Disney World, go to www.disneyworld.disney.go.com