Heading to Disney World? If so, you’re in the right place. Well, the place is huge (seriously, it's like its own city), and it can be kind of overwhelming, especially if you're new to the whole Disney scene or haven't been in a while. But don't worry, I've got your back! We'll walk through this together, so you can navigate the parks like a seasoned pro and make the most of your magical trip.
First things first: Disney World isn't just one big park – it's a whole bunch of awesomeness spread over four major theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom.
The Disney World App is Your New BFF
Let's talk tech because Disney's gone digital in the best way. The My Disney Experience app? It's a lifesaver. It gives you the 411 on wait times, show schedules, and even helps you find your way around with GPS maps. Plus, it's your golden ticket to making dinner reservations, checking out your PhotoPass pics, and tapping into the Genie+ service. Oh, and don't sleep on the Mobile Order option – it lets you order food without waiting in those long lines.
Genie+ to the Rescue
Speaking of Genie+, this new system is the real MVP. It replaced the old FastPass+ and, for a few extra bucks, gives you lightning-fast access to rides. This means less time in line and more time having fun. My advice? Hit up the rides that usually have crazy long waits first. And don't forget to go with the flow – sometimes the best moments are the unplanned ones. If you’d like a detailed list of my Genie+ method, check out my Genie+ guide. This guide walks you through how to use Genie+ the RIGHT WAY so you’re able to see and do as much as possible. And, I have even thrown in some video tutorials to walk you through this as well.
Food and Chill Time
All that adventuring is going to make you hungry! Disney World's got a ton of eats, from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. Plan your mealtimes to give your feet a break, especially when it's super-hot outside. The My Disney Experience app has all the menus, and you can even snag a reservation right from your phone. You can make dining reservations 60 days before your check in date for any of the Disney World table service restaurants.
Keep hydrated (Florida heat is no joke!) and find cool spots to just relax and enjoy the vibes.
Disney with the Kiddos or Special Needs
Bringing little ones or someone with special needs? Disney's got you covered. Their Baby Care Centers are perfect for a quiet time out with the littles. Need some extra help? The Disability Access Service (DAS) is there to make sure everyone has a great time. Keep an eye out for First Aid stations and chill zones for those much-needed breaks.
Tips from a Disney Pro
Here's the inside scoop:
⁃ Hit the parks early to beat the crowds. I highly recommend arriving at the Disney World parks at least one hour before the scheduled park opening time.
⁃ Take a mid-day break/rest. There is no right or wrong way to take breaks and we like to switch it up on our vacations. Some days we have a sit-down lunch reservation to refresh and fuel up for the rest of our park day. Other days, we stake out a spot to watch a parade or show. And, when traveling with our youngest who is a baby, we often head back to our resort to cool off and let him take a mid-day nap.
⁃ Time for a stakeout! No, not that kind of stakeout silly. I simply mean to stakeout your ideal spot for parades, nighttime entertainment, etc. Each day, there are 2 parades at Magic Kingdom. I recommend watching this on Main Street if you want the full experience, but if you plan to do this you need to find a spot to sit down at least 45 minutes to one hour before start time. If you plan to watch Happily Ever After in Magic Kingdom, we tend to grab a snack and stakeout out spot around 45 minutes to one hour before showtime. For Epcot, it is not as crucial to find your spot so early, but I still try to do so around 30 minutes before showtime. And, for Fantasmic! At Hollywood Studios, I recommend hopping in line 45 minutes before showtime if it is a busier park day.
⁃ Be prepared! Disney World vacations are unlike any other type of vacation. If you want to see and do the most popular attractions and activities, it requires extensive planning in advance. You need to know what rides are at which parks, where to see your favorite characters, what restaurants are best for your family and when you make reservations for those restaurants, and much more. It is A LOT!
So, now that I have overwhelmed you with many of the dynamics of planning your Disney World trip, I have some good news. You do not have to do it alone. Let me help you! There’s are 2 ways I can help you when planning a Disney World vacation.
1. Let one of our expert travel agents plan your vacation. This costs you nothing more than if you were to book your vacation on your own. Disney has commission worked into all pricing already, so you pay nothing more to use our planning services.
Why use a travel agent?
⁃ We know all about the Disney parks and resorts. We stay up to date with the latest changes and can steer you in the right direction when making planning decisions.
⁃ We have knowledge and expertise with the rides and attractions at each of the Disney World parks. During the planning process, we get to know you and your family. So then, can help you construct a park plan to fit your family best so that you do not miss out on anything.
⁃ We do a lot of the heavy lifting, so you do not have to. We are the ones who will wake up bright and early to grab your dining reservations and reservations for Enchanting Extras (like Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique or building a droid or lightsaber in Galaxy’s Edge). And, if changes or modifications are needed for your trip, we spend time on hold with Disney customer service, so you don’t have to waste your valuable time.
Click here to begin planning with one our expert travel agents now!
2. Take advantage of my top Disney World planning tips and tricks by purchasing my Disney Planning Toolkit.
My Disney Planning Toolkit Bundle:
I have created a bundle of guides, video tutorials and lists to walk you through the planning process. This is a great option if you have already planned your vacation and you’re overwhelmed. Because, like I told you… I know, it is A LOT! This bundle gives you all the information and tips you need to plan out your family’s magical vacation. All clients who book with one of out Thoughtful Travelers travel agents receive this at no cost. Click here to purchase this bundle to help plan the best trip possible!
My #1 tip if you are planning a Disney World is to SLOW DOWN and TAKE IN THE MAGIC. Disney World is such a magical place, and you are going to be absolutely amazed at all of the magic around you.