No, this is not advice for Generation Xers about the fate of today's market. These were the words of Walt Disney, a man who knew the importance of dreams. Twenty-five years ago, he transformed a plot of cow fields and clapped-out alligator zoos into what has become one of the world's most popular tourist meccas. As significant as air conditioning in making Florida what it is today, his "magical little park"Walt Disney Worldnow attracts more than 25 million people a year. It is the definitive leader among theme parks, delivering escapism at its most technologically advanced and psychologically brilliant. While it is possible to pass through Orlando and not visit Walt Disney World, there is no way to escape its influence.

The Walt Disney World 25th Anniversary Parade will be held daily on Main Street, U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom. (photo from Walt Disney World)

Walt Disney World's three main theme parks are separate entities. The Magic Kingdom is the Disney park everyone imagines, where Mickey Mouse mingles with the crowds. Recognizable for its giant golfball-like geosphere, EPCOT Center is Disney's celebration of science and technology. The newest and most easily assimilated of the three, Disney-MGM Studios, is geared more toward adults; its special effects are enjoyable even if you have never seen the movies on which they are based.

Gone are the days when all an amusement park had to offer for cuisine were hot dogs, popcorn, and cotton candy. Here, French and American restaurants are plentiful, but other ethnic restaurants from South Asian to Middle Eastern have also carved out a niche, thanks to the restaurants in the World Showcase at Epcot Center. Feast on couscous at Marrakesh, serving Morroccan food (complete with belly dancer for entertainment). The Italian restaurant Alfredo's serves great fettucine alfredo, and the Norwegians offer a delicious buffet in a stone wine cellar setting at Akershus.

The gang's all here and waiting for you at Walt Disney World. (photo from Walt Disney World)

For a more entertaining dining experience, head on over to Disney/MGM, where you can sit in the mock-ups of 1950s automobiles and watch classic horror movies as you dine at the Sci-Fi Drive-In Diner. And at the '50s Prime Time Cafe, peanut butter and jelly, milkshakes, and other "Wonder Years" comfort foods are served by waitress/moms who make sure you clean your plate before dessert.

Top Three Things to See in Disney/MGM Studios Backstage Tour Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular Star Tours Top Three Things to See in EPCOT Universe of Energy Wonders of Life Space Ship Earth Top Three Things to See in the Magic Kingdom Pirates of the Caribbean Splash Mountain Space Mountain

At Walt Disney World, an exciting night out used to mean watching the elaborate fireworks. The fireworks are still as much fun as ever, but these days there are many more nighttime options at Pleasure Island, a collection of lively themed bars and nightclubs. Pleasure Island is a burgeoning disco and club scene that caters to a young crowd; among the clubs are Mannequins Dance Palace discotheque, a progressive music club called Cage, and the Comedy Warehouse. Although Orlando sometimes get muscled out by Miami and Tampa Bay when it comes to the biggest of big-name entertainers, this entertainment complex also often hosts good regional acts. Walking around Pleasure Island is free, as is the live open-air music, but to go inside any of the nightclubswhich are open from 7 p.m. until 2 a.m.you need a $13.95 ticket from one of the booths at the entry points, which lets you wander in and out of them all (assuming you're over 21 and have the ID to prove it!).

After enjoying the festivities at Pleasure Island, unwind at Planet Hollywood. The bus from the movie "Speed"; and Forrest Gump's wardrobe are just a few of the knicknacks featured at this movie and television-themed restaurant owned by Arnold Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, and scores of other Hollywood notables.

After spending a day at Walt Disney World, it becomes apparent that this was never meant to be a traditional amusement park. This kaleidoscope of unique entertainment forms is much morea fabulous playground, a fairytale kingdom, and a metropolis for the future. The humble beginnings, the evolution of mouse outline on the drawing board, the Horatio Alger rise: it just goes to show what can really happen when you wish upon a star.