Welcome to a new editorial series from WDWNT, where we’ll be pointing out our 7 (yeah, 7!) favorite Hidden Mickeys around Walt Disney World Resort, from the parks, to the hotels, and even Disney Springs! I absolutely love Hidden Mickey hunting, this is one of my favorite pastimes when I visit any Disney property. It’s a great way to pass the time while waiting in line for an attraction, or a new way to see your favorite land, restaurant, or resort.
But, before we start hunting, let’s go over what exactly a Hidden Mickey is. Hidden Mickeys can be defined as “partial or complete images of Mickey Mouse.” These images have been hidden by Disney Artists, Imagineers, and clever Cast Members. A traditional Hidden Mickey is a silhouette of Mickey’s face, so a giant circle (the face) with two smaller circles above (to form the ears.) That being said, though, Hidden Mickeys around the various properties aren’t limited to this (or even Mickey himself in some cases, as we’ll see below!)
So, let’s dive into Hidden Mickey hunting. I thought the proper place to begin would be with the flagship resort for Walt Disney World: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
Hidden Mickey #1 – The Weather Vane
Our first Hidden Mickey can be found before you even step foot inside the resort! Take a look at the weather vane on top of the various buildings towards the front of the resort. Finding this Mickey can be a little difficult––it might take some sharp eyes, a long-range camera lens, or some binoculars, but I promise you he’s up there!
Hidden Mickey #2 – Lobby Carts
There’s one more Mickey we can find before we walk inside the resort. See these regular-looking luggage carts? Take a look at the back side, where the luggage goes. You might find yourself a Hidden Mickey! I was lucky enough to photograph a cart that was sitting out in front of the entrance of the resort, but if there happen to be none out when you’re hunting, follow the pathway to the right of the entrance that leads to the guest buildings, there’s a whole bay of carts along the way.
Hidden Mickey #3 – Lobby Entrance Tiling
This is potentially my favorite Hidden Mickey in this whole resort, and it was under my feet the entire time! Right when you first walk into the lobby, take a careful look at the intricate design work. Not only will you find yourself a Hidden Mickey, but a Hidden Minnie, Donald, Goofy, and Pluto as well!
Hidden Mickey #4- Lobby Carpet
Typically, when we’re in the lobby of any resort, we’re resting our feet on a comfy couch, furiously checking for available Fast Passes or people watching. Well, next time be sure to take a second and look down at your feet. Chances are you’re probably sitting very close to a Mickey.
Hidden Mickey #5- Lobby Tiling
Walking over to 1900 Park Fare or The Grand Floridian Cafe? Check the floor tiling, specifically the darker edge tiling. Due to the pattern, it may take you a second to make out a Mickey shape, but once you see it, you see it all over the resort. Little details like this are the reason I love Disney!
Hidden Mickey #6- Elevator
Normally, I just stare at the ornate elevator in the lobby because I think it’s so pretty. If you’re anything like me, next time stop and stare at the spokes that are between the floors. This one is probably even harder to see than the weather vane, so I do suggest using some form of magnifying.
Hidden Mickey #7- M. Mouse Mercantile
Our last Hidden Mickey isn’t so hidden, but if you take a look at the right side of the M. Mouse Mercantile sign, you’ll find a Hidden Mickey topper in the banner for the store.
Bonus Hidden Mickey – Outside 1900 Park Fare
I just recently found this Hidden Mickey and Minnie while eating at 1900 Park Fare over the weekend. Take a look at the floor details, on the left side, at the exit of 1900 Park Fare. (This is where the Disney mural is and where you can meet Tigger!) You’ll find a Hidden Mickey and Minnie.
I hope that you guys had fun hunting with me! The Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is covered in Hidden Mickey’s, and I hope Disney sneaks a few in the upcoming “Enchanted Rose” lounge that’s opening in the resort this fall.
Take Hidden Mickey hunting as a brand new way to explore your favorite parks and resorts! Feel free to drop us a comment below about your adventure or tag us on social media with your Hidden Mickey finds! Happy Hunting!