Maybe a hot take, but I actually DO get why even adults like the theming of Disney World/land and like to visit it so much. The theming is just so intricately done that it's honestly very impressive and great to look at and just take in. When you hear about the way some of these art pieces were designed it just makes it that much more amazing imo.
But why are some of these people obsessed with the people in costumes that are clearly meant for toddlers? I don't marvel at some sweaty tween in a weird furry costume. I don't get it.
I used to work at the parks and loved just hanging out. There's a lot of work that went into forced perspective and theming. Disney has always leaned hard into escapism, and it's easy to see why someone would want to be reminded of easier years.
Oh, hey, I worked attractions and merchandise at DAK back in 2008-2014 with a few gaps in there. And same, it was nice to just chill in the parks. Did you get to do any of the cast backstage tours? I got to go on one to the Haunted Mansion, that was really cool to see.
I was attractions at DCA around that time frame as well! Got to do a track walk of Indy, previewed changed attractions, and got to do Tower of Terror no-show rides when I was closing.
I got to do a track walk of Dinosaur too, did you know that Dinosaur is just a re-themed Indy? They pointed out where the boulder would be on the other ride during the walkthrough. Disney did not put much effort into Dinoland at all, lol.
Also, if an adult enjoys cartoons and sleeps with a plushie, I am not going to judge. Life is hard. Whatever it takes to get through the day, you do you.
IMO, telling people their benign coping mechanism is bad is how we get more shootings. Clutch that plushie, my dude!
Getting drunk at epcot before the fireworks show while getting to eat good food is magical for adult me. I love the food and wine festival. And even as an adult the Star Wars area is still dope