Definition of an official Hidden Mickey: a partial or complete image of Mickey Mouse that has been hidden by Disney’s Imagineers and artists in the designs of Disney attractions, hotels, restaurants, and other areas. These images are designed to blend into their surroundings. Sharp-eyed visitors have the fun of finding them. – pg 13 of Hidden Mickeys A Field Guide to Walt Disney World’s Best Kept Secrets by Steven M. Barrett
What can you do to pass the time when standing in long boring lines at the Disney parks? Look for Hidden Mickeys! They are fun to find and you feel like you are part of a secret society once you have located them. How do you find them? The easiest way is to buy a Hidden Mickeys book for the park you are visiting. These bright yellow books are designed so you can find the Hidden Mickey yourself with just a general hint, or you can get the exact location.
Hunting for Hidden Mickeys causes you to see things at the parks that you would probably miss if you were just walking by trying to get to the next ride. It is a great way to get more out of your vacation.
A warning – Hidden Mickeys change. Rides come and go, features disappear. The books are updated often, but the Disney parks are a very fluid place. The point of finding Hidden Mickeys is to have fun. Don’t be upset if the one you are hunting has disappeared. There are tons of others. And you can always ask a cast member. They often know the location of Hidden Mickeys that are brand new or unknown to others. Happy hunting!
Goofy Tip: Before I knew how extensive Hidden Mickeys were I was shown a classic Hidden Mickey that anyone can find. I always look for it when I go to the parks and now you can, too. As you ride in your doom buggy at the Haunted Mansion pay attention in the room with the long table and the dancing ghosts. One of the place settings has a large plate with two smaller plates at the upper corners. Together they make a classic hidden Mickey. Cool!