If you’ve ever wandered through Disney World and felt like there’s a little secret waiting just around the corner, you’re not alone. One of my favorite ways to pass the time while strolling through the parks is looking for Hidden Mickeys—those subtle Mickey Mouse shapes tucked into the design of rides, buildings, and decorations. They’re like tiny Easter eggs Disney artists slip in for the sharp-eyed visitors to discover.

What makes Hidden Mickey hunting so fun is that it’s a bit like a scavenger hunt with no real map. Sometimes you find them in the most obvious places, and other times they’re so cleverly camouflaged you might walk right past without noticing. If you’re like me and enjoy those small moments of surprise during your visit, here’s a bit about what I’ve picked up along the way that might help you spot a few more.

What Exactly Is a Hidden Mickey?

If you’re new to this, a Hidden Mickey is basically three circles arranged to resemble Mickey Mouse’s head and ears—usually one larger circle with two smaller ones on top. But they’re not always obvious. Sometimes it’s a pattern in the pavement, the shape of rocks in a ride’s scenery, or even a trio of buttons on a costume. The fun lies in recognizing that shape in unexpected places.

One thing I like to remind friends is that Hidden Mickeys don’t have to be perfect. Sometimes they’re a little off or abstract, but if it looks like a Mickey head and makes you smile, that’s all that matters. Disney Imagineers have been sneaking them around since the early days, and spotting them can make you feel like you’re in on a little secret.

Take Your Time and Look Up

One of the biggest changes in how I search for Hidden Mickeys since my first few trips is slowing down. The parks can be wildly busy, and it’s easy to keep your eyes just ahead and miss the tiny details around you. But when you pause and scan the walls, ceilings, or even the ground, you start to see things differently.

I’ve found that looking up is especially helpful. For example, in Fantasyland or Adventureland, you might find Hidden Mickeys in the wallpaper patterns or on light fixtures. Sometimes they’re part of the painted murals or the carvings on wooden beams. Don’t forget to glance at unexpected spots—overheads or side corners often hold little surprises.

Places Where Hidden Mickeys Tend to Hide

While Hidden Mickeys are scattered all over Disney World, there are some spots where they pop up more often. Ride queues are a classic place to start. When you’re standing in line at popular attractions, the designers have often added shapes to the scenery or props to keep things interesting. I remember spotting a subtle Hidden Mickey in the stones along the path in the Pirates of the Caribbean queue. It wasn’t a big deal to most people, but it gave me a little thrill.

Another place to explore is the resort hotels and their lobbies. Each Disney hotel has its own style, and the décor sometimes includes Hidden Mickey patterns woven into carpets, wallpaper, or even light fixtures. If you’re checking out resorts for fun, keep your camera ready—you might want to snap a picture before you forget where you saw one.

Even the food packaging and merchandise sometimes sneak in these shapes. I once found a Hidden Mickey on a soda cup lid at a quick-service spot. It’s subtle, but once you see it, you can’t unsee it.

Don’t Stress Over Finding Them All

Part of what makes Hidden Mickey hunting enjoyable is that there’s no pressure. You don’t have to find every single one on your trip. In fact, part of the joy is in the randomness—maybe you spot a few, maybe just one, or maybe you find a new one that’s totally different from what you expected.

I’ve learned not to get too caught up in trying to spot every Hidden Mickey, especially with little ones around. It’s more about the shared moments of wonder—pointing one out and seeing others’ reactions. Sometimes it’s enough just to know they’re around and that you spotted something special that others might have missed.

Use Your Phone but Don’t Rely Too Much on Apps

There are plenty of apps and websites that list Hidden Mickey locations, and it’s tempting to use them on the spot. I’ve used them myself when I’m curious or want to make sure I didn’t miss one at a certain attraction.

That said, I try not to depend on them too much. Part of the fun is the surprise of discovery. If you go in with a list in hand, it can turn from a fun little game into a checklist chore. I like to use apps more as a backup or for learning about new ones after my trip.

Share Your Finds with Fellow Disney Fans

One of the most rewarding parts of Hidden Mickey hunting has been swapping discoveries with friends and other fans. Whether it’s a quiet chat in line or a post on social media, sharing what you found often leads to learning about places you hadn’t thought to look.

Disney fans are a welcoming bunch, and I’ve found that most people are excited to hear about new Hidden Mickeys or clever placements. It adds an extra layer of community to the whole experience.

Taking a moment to notice the small details like Hidden Mickeys has made my trips to Disney World feel a little more relaxed and playful. It’s a simple thing that invites you to slow down and see the parks with fresh eyes, even if you’ve been there before. Next time you’re wandering around, maybe give it a try—you might just spot something that makes your day a bit brighter.