<ul> <li> <div>In 2008, combined Walt Disney World Resort© theme park attendance reached over 51 million, with the Magic Kingdom alone drawing over 17 million visitors. (Orlando Convention and Visitor Bureau)</div> <li> <div>Despite signifcant downturns in the economy Disney theme parks have maintained attendance rates and made gains in attendance at some parks. </div> <li> <div>Walt Disney World Resort theme parks are rated best in the world. earning high marks for things outside of the traditional theme park experience.  Epcot's International Food & Wine Festival, which takes place for six weeks every fall and showcases food from twenty-five countries, was rated by Forbes Traveler as one of the Best U.S. Food and Wine Festivals. </div> </ul>