Is Disney Still Magical? Why I Keep Going Back (Even After All These Years)

by Jenna Caron

You know that moment when someone finds out you’re a Disney person and immediately goes, “But… don’t you get bored?” Every time. Every single time. And every time I just laugh, because honestly? No. Not even a little.

I’ve been going to the Disney parks for years — as a kid, as a chaotic young adult, as a semi-responsible grown-up who can finally afford Dole Whip on her own terms — and the magic hasn’t worn off. But the why behind that has changed a lot over time, and I kind of love that.

When I was younger, Disney was all about the characters and the rides. The big “WOW” moments. The fireworks that made me cry even though I would’ve never admitted it. And while I still love all of that (please never take nighttime spectaculars away from me), those aren’t the reasons I keep going back.

Now, Disney feels like a comfort ritual. A place where I can check out from the real world and check in with myself. You know how some people have meditation apps? I have EPCOT. Some people collect crystals? I collect popcorn buckets. Same vibe, right?

But really, the parks give me this weird sense of nostalgia and possibility at the same time. Like, yes, here’s all the warm fuzzy childhood stuff… but also here’s a version of you that gets to just explore and play. No pressure. No expectations.

I’ve also noticed the magic doesn’t just sit in the attractions — it’s in tiny moments I never expected to matter. Watching a kid meet their first character. Seeing cast members do something small but unbelievably kind. Sharing a snack with a friend and arguing over which festival booth is best at EPCOT (it’s always contentious).

And as much as Disney changes — new systems, new lands, new prices (😅) — it also stays the same. There’s something wonderfully grounding about that. Life shifts constantly, but the parks remain this little pocket of joy where I can reconnect with old memories and make new ones.

So no… I don’t get bored. I get recharged. I get inspired. I get reminded that joy is worth chasing, even when it comes in the form of waiting 45 minutes to save the galaxy.

And honestly? We all deserve places like that.