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40 Disney World Suggestions and Tips for First Timers (2025)


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Planning a visit to Disney World Florida may be complicated for first timers.

When’s the most effective time to go to? How lengthy do you want for all 4 parks? Is it value staying onsite? How do you keep away from lengthy traces? Do you might want to guide eating places?

On this publish, I reply all these questions and share my finest Walt Disney World suggestions and methods.

Simon and I’ve visited the parks many instances and have learnt that advance planning pays off and permits you to benefit from the magic of Disney a lot extra.

Contents

An Introduction to Walt Disney World in Florida

Cavalcade going down Main Street, Magic Kingdom, Disney WorldCavalcade going down Main Street, Magic Kingdom, Disney World
Magic Kingdom, the traditional fort park at Disney World.

Walt Disney World is positioned in Orlando, Florida, USA.

It’s by far the most important Disney park on this planet, with 4 foremost theme parks:

  • Magic Kingdom – Probably the most Disney of the parks with a fairytale fort, traditional characters, and nostalgic rides.
  • Hollywood Studios – This park has extra thrill rides, reveals, and the immersive Galaxy’s Edge Star Wars land.
  • Epcot – It’s much less about rides (though it has our favorite rollercoaster) and extra about experiences, from snacking across the World Showcase to studying about our planet.
  • Animal Kingdom – The least visited park continues to be a should do for animal safaris, fascinating meals, and the beautiful Pandora land and Avatar experience.

As well as, there are two water parks—Blizzard Seashore and Storm Lagoon—however often just one is open at a time.

You’ll additionally discover procuring, eating places, and leisure within the free Disney Springs space and a few themed mini golf programs (plus actual golf programs).

Greater than 20 Disney resorts are unfold over the huge Disney property, plus a number of associate inns.

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What’s Altering at Disney World in 2025

Some main modifications are coming to the parks. In case you are visiting Disney World in 2025, right here’s what to look out for:

Magic Kingdom

  • Tiana’s Bayou Journey not requires a digital queue.
  • Rivers of America (together with Tom Sawyer Island and the Riverboat) will shut sooner or later. It is going to be crammed in to make means for a brand new Vehicles-themed enlargement.
  • Large Thunder Mountain is closed for refurbishment for all of 2025 into 2026. A brand new Villains land will probably be constructed behind it.
  • Disney Starlight, a brand new nighttime parade, will debut in summer season 2025.
  • Pirates of the Caribbean Lounge – The primary bar within the park is because of open in late 2025.

Hollywood Studios

  • Muppet Imaginative and prescient 3D and the entire Muppets Courtyard will shut on June 8, 2025. Ultimately, it is going to be remodeled right into a Monstropolis land together with a Monsters, Inc. rollercoaster.
  • Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster will change themes from Aerosmith to the Muppets.
  • Two new stage reveals are due in summer season 2025: Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After and The Little Mermaid.

Animal Kingdom

  • Dinoland (together with the Dinosaur experience) will shut. Constructing will begin on a brand new Tropical America-themed land that includes Indiana Jones and Encanto rides.
  • It’s Powerful to be a Bug will shut on March 17, 2025, and will probably be changed by a Zootopia present on the finish of 2025.

Epcot

  • Guardians of the Galaxy not requires a digital queue.
  • Take a look at Observe will reopen in late summer season 2025 after a significant refurbishment.
  • Spaceship Earth Lounge – This new lounge/bar will open in late spring 2025.

Now, shifting on to our prime suggestions for visiting Disney World and learn how to plan your excellent journey.

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When to Go to Disney World

1) Keep away from Holidays

Magic Kingdom Main St at night, Disney Worldm, OrlandoMagic Kingdom Main St at night, Disney Worldm, Orlando
Crowded Fundamental Avenue at Christmas

Disney World is busy year-round today, however some dates are worse than others.

When you can, keep away from visiting throughout Thanksgiving week and at Christmas and New 12 months when parks are heaving. Easter/spring break in March/April is one other very talked-about time.

It’s finest to keep away from vacation weekends—President’s Day weekend (and the entire week) in mid-February is particularly crowded.

Test crowd calendars on WDW Prep Faculty, Your First Go to and Undercover Vacationer to get an thought of the instances to keep away from.

2) November is Our Favorite Month

Planning a trip to Disney World on a budget - choosing the best month to visit.Planning a trip to Disney World on a budget - choosing the best month to visit.
Regardless of ominous clouds at Hollywood Studios, it was nonetheless t-shirt climate in mid-November

When you keep away from the dates above, you’ll be able to go to Disney at any time of 12 months and have a beautiful time. Each month has execs and cons, so go to Disney at any time when works for you.

That stated, early to mid-November is our favorite time to go to—so long as we depart by the Saturday earlier than Thanksgiving.

The climate is often pleasant—sizzling and sunny however not too humid. On our final journey, our daytime temperatures have been 79ºF-82ºF (26ºC-28ºC). Mornings have been cooler, however I solely wore a cardigan as soon as.

There may be some surprisingly chilly days in Orlando in winter, however the first half of November is often early sufficient to keep away from them. That stated, on one journey, I did have to purchase a sweater for one rogue freezing day within the parks.

In November, there are Christmas decorations in all of the parks besides Epcot, and you may benefit from the meals stalls on the Epcot Meals and Wine Competition.

The best things to do at Disney World, Orlando including must do rides for adults at each parkThe best things to do at Disney World, Orlando including must do rides for adults at each park
Particular leisure throughout Christmas at Magic Kingdom

We’ve additionally visited Disney in early September when crowds are at their lowest. We loved the quieter parks, however I’m unsure it was definitely worth the trade-off of very popular, sweaty climate and afternoon storms (which closed some rides, the Skyliner gondola, and lodge swimming pools).

We nonetheless had an incredible time, although, and would go to once more in September if it was the one time out there for us.

When you can solely go to in the summertime, the second half of August is the most cost effective and quietest time, as many US colleges are again in session.

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How Lengthy to Spend at Disney World

3) One Week is Ultimate

I like to recommend a minimum of 4 full days (5 nights) at Disney World, however per week is healthier.

On an extended journey, you’ll be able to go to the parks a number of instances (you gained’t do all of it in a day), take a relaxation day (you’ll want it), and even discover the water parks.

Worldwide guests (particularly from the UK) typically keep for 2 weeks. This is smart if it’s a once-in-a-lifetime journey and also you wish to go to Common Studios, too.

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The place to Keep at Disney World

4) Keep Onsite for Perks

Disney's Yacht Club Resort, Disney World in FloridaDisney's Yacht Club Resort, Disney World in Florida
Disney’s Yacht Membership Resort

The massive query—is staying onsite in a Disney Resort value it? The easy reply is sure!

Listed below are some great benefits of staying in a Disney resort:

  • Free transport to all parks and Disney Springs (often by bus, however some have boat, monorail or Skyliner). That is particularly helpful if in case you have a bunch that will cut up up. I typically depart the parks sooner than Simon and this may be tougher (and costly) staying offsite.
  • 30-minute Early Theme Park Entry to all 4 parks daily.
  • Advance reserving of Lightning Lanes and eating places.
  • Disney theming and the sensation of being within the Disney bubble, away from the true world.
  • Prolonged Night Theme Park Hours for Deluxe resort friends (keep after closing twice per week, often at Epcot and Magic Kingdom).
  • New in 2025: Free water park entry on check-in day.
  • Test-in through the app to go straight to your room. Use a MagicBand as a park ticket, room key, and cost card.

You could possibly additionally contemplate one of many associate inns (comparable to these at Disney Springs), that are positioned on-property and have some (however not all) of the identical perks. You gained’t have Disney theming, although, and the All-Star resorts may be across the identical value.

On our first journeys to Disney as adults, we have been on a good price range and stayed off-site at an affordable motel. Lately, the price of motels and automotive leases has elevated a lot that it’s not that rather more costly to remain at a Worth Disney resort.

See my information to planning a visit to Disney World on a price range for a value comparability of off and onsite lodging.

5) Which Disney Resort? Determine Your Priorities

Dolphin Hotel, Disney World, Orlando, USADolphin Hotel, Disney World, Orlando, USA
The Dolphin Resort, a associate lodge with the perks of a Deluxe Disney Resort

Each Disney resort has its followers, so you might want to resolve what’s a precedence for you. Finances, Disney theming, pool, larger rooms, quick access to a sure park?

In case you are on a price range, keep on the worth All-Star resorts. The motel-like rooms are nothing fancy, however they’ve every thing you want. We have been high-quality at All-Stars Music.

Disney All Star Music resort - the cheapest resort to stay at in Disney WorldDisney All Star Music resort - the cheapest resort to stay at in Disney World
Disney’s All Star Music resort

When you’ve bought a bit extra to spend, the Pop Century and Artwork of Animation resorts have higher theming and are on the Skyliner for a fast, enjoyable journey to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

If you need probably the most snug rooms, resort amenities, and quick access to the parks, contemplate the Deluxe resorts, however they’re very dear.

Now that now we have extra to spend, we prioritise being in strolling distance of Epcot and Hollywood Studios, which implies a Deluxe resort.

We love the Yacht Membership, however final time, we saved 1000’s by staying on the associate Dolphin Resort. We had all the identical perks and nice location, however the rooms and environment weren’t as beautiful.

There are such a lot of extra choices. I like to recommend looking out on the Disney web site for tough dates to get an thought of costs after which researching the choices that suit your price range.

6) Hold an Eye Out for Disney Reductions

To guide a Disney package deal you solely must make a $200 deposit, which is absolutely refundable as much as 30 days earlier than your go to. It is smart to guide as quickly as you realize your dates.

Disney typically has reductions on resorts, or offers like free eating, particularly at quieter instances of the 12 months.

When you see these offers seem after you’ve booked (the publication I like to recommend under is an efficient technique to discover out), you’ll be able to cancel and rebook with the low cost.

Some individuals like to make use of a Disney Journey Agent who will monitor for reductions and rebook for you.

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The Important App

7) Obtain the My Disney Expertise App

Return times at Hollywood Studio for Lightning Lane Multi Pass in Disney World appReturn times at Hollywood Studio for Lightning Lane Multi Pass in Disney World app
You need to use the app to guide Lightning Lanes and rather more.

The My Disney Expertise cell app is totally important for any Disney journey.

You’ll use it to guide Lightning Lanes, make cell meals orders, verify wait instances, discover your means round, verify resort bus instances, and a lot extra.

You’ll additionally must arrange a My Disney Expertise account earlier than you guide your journey. If in case you have a Disney+ account, it’ll be the identical login. You may entry your account on the web site or app.

8) Use the App Earlier than You Go to

It’s a good suggestion to familiarise your self with the My Disney Expertise app earlier than you go to.

Within the week earlier than our journeys, I prefer to control wait instances at varied instances of day to get a way of how busy the parks at the moment are.

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Disney World Transport

9) Fly into MCO

Except you reside in driving distance, you’ll possible fly to Disney World. Orlando Worldwide (MCO) is the closest airport to fly into and is served by many airways.

There isn’t any longer free transport from the airport to Disney. You may guide the Mears Join shuttle bus, however for 2 or extra individuals, an Uber or Lyft isn’t rather more costly. We’ve paid $36-42 plus tip.

The drive is about half-hour from MCO to the Disney resorts.

10) Don’t Hire a Automobile

When you keep onsite, it’s not value renting a automotive. Disney transport is free and drops you nearer than the large automotive parks.

You may at all times complement it with the occasional Uber/Lyft if the bus waits are too lengthy otherwise you desire a day off-site (comparable to at Common Studios).

You can even take Minnie Vans inside Disney. These themed vans seat as much as six individuals and are bookable on the Lyft app, however they are often as much as 3 times costlier than an everyday Lyft.

When you aren’t a resort visitor (with free parking), customary parking on the parks is pricey at $30 a day—one more reason to remain onsite.

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Suggestions for Worldwide Guests

11) Apply for an ESTA Far in Advance

You’ll want a visa to enter the US however guests from many international locations (together with the UK) can apply for an ESTA visa waiver as an alternative. That is legitimate for 2 years.

I like to recommend making use of for an ESTA a minimum of six months earlier than your journey. We left it till a number of weeks earlier than after which freaked out after we thought we wouldn’t be eligible. We’d have needed to apply for a visa, and the look forward to an interview can take as much as 5 months.

We have been apprehensive as a result of Cuba is on the record of nations that when you’ve visited, you’ll be able to’t get an ESTA. Fortunately for us, it’s provided that you visited on or after 12 January 2021, so after we disclosed we’d visited in 2013, all of it labored out and we have been authorised in an hour.

12) Obtain the Cell Passport Management app

If in case you have an ESTA, you should use the Cell Passport Management app to save lots of time at immigration on arrival.

Obtain it earlier than your flight, fill in what you’ll be able to, after which while you arrive at MCO it’s a must to take photographs and add some additional particulars.

We have been then in a position to make use of the diplomat line with no wait. We nonetheless needed to see an immigration officer nevertheless it was fast.

13) E-book Through the Disney UK Web site

When you go to the Disney World web site when within the UK, you’ll routinely be taken to the disneyholidays.co.uk web site.

It’s the official UK reserving web site and might have some nice offers in comparison with the US web site (which you possibly can entry with a VPN).

Often a 14-day park ticket prices the identical or solely just a little greater than a 7-day ticket and contains perks like park hopper, water parks, mini golf, and Reminiscence Maker (free photographs).

Resorts can even work out cheaper on the UK web site (it did for us reserving the Dolphin).

Take a look at the Disney UK web site right here.

14) Use a Price-Free Card

You gained’t want money at Disney, besides if you wish to tip lodge housekeeping or bell companies.

You may cost every thing within the parks to your room if staying in a Disney lodge (not a associate lodge) utilizing a MagicBand (for a price) or Apple Pockets (free).

To pay your invoice, be certain your credit score or debit card doesn’t cost worldwide charges.

As Brits, now we have a Starling debit card, which is fee-free for card spending and money withdrawals.

We even have a Halifax Readability bank card, which is helpful if you wish to lease a automotive (we did earlier than Disney final time for some Florida Keys seaside time at Baker’s Cay Resort).

15) Use Jet Lag to Your Benefit

Erin and Simon with Cindrella Castle in the background, Magic Kingdom, Disney WorldErin and Simon with Cindrella Castle in the background, Magic Kingdom, Disney World
Early entry at Magic Kingdom means crowd-free selfies!

Jet lag is a ache, however coming from the UK or Europe you’ll be able to reap the benefits of the truth that you’ll get up early.

Plan to your earliest rope drop begins within the first few days. We awakened between 4.30am and 6am for days. Late nights are more durable, although, so plan these for later within the week.

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Disney World Tickets

16) Purchase Tickets in Advance

We often purchase park tickets as a part of our lodge package deal because it’s best.

You’ll nonetheless wish to guide tickets on-line upfront when you aren’t staying onsite.

Costs range relying on the time of 12 months and what number of days you’ll go to. It’s cheaper per day the extra days you add, so at all times purchase a multi-day ticket reasonably than particular person tickets. Test the Disney web site to your dates.

Park hopping is a pleasant add-on that we love, nevertheless it isn’t important. You may see how a lot we used it in our 7 day Disney World itinerary.

17) Use a MagicBand or Apple Watch

Shopping for a MagicBand (from $35+) may be value it—it really works as your park ticket, room key, and bank card to make purchases. The brand new Plus variations (now the one ones on sale) work together with the park and lightweight up throughout reveals.

With the ability to faucet in at park gates and rides (when utilizing Lighting Lanes) with out taking out a ticket or telephone makes issues a lot faster.

We already put on an Apple Watch, so we use that as an alternative at no cost. You may add your park ticket to Apple Pockets. Specific mode is turned on routinely so that you simply faucet on the gates (no must open the ticket).

The one factor you’ll be able to’t use the look ahead to is a room key. We use our telephone as an alternative (or you’ll be able to ask at reception for a key card, which additionally works as a park ticket).

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Time Saving Suggestions for Disney World

Now we get to our best possible suggestions for Disney World!

Sure, the parks are nearly at all times busy, however with some planning, you’ll be able to keep away from lengthy traces for rides. We not often wait greater than quarter-hour.

18) Arrive Early

Sunrise on the Boardwalk, Disney World, Orlando, USASunrise on the Boardwalk, Disney World, Orlando, USA
Early mornings imply decrease crowds and lovely sunrises, like this one on the Boardwalk.

Arriving early at Disney World (30-60 minutes earlier than the park opens) is one of the best ways to save lots of time as the primary two hours of the day are quietest.

In case your journey is longer than 4 days, you gained’t want to do that daily (it will get exhausting), nevertheless it’s value rope-dropping each park as soon as.

The coming early technique works for everybody, nevertheless it’s rather more efficient when you keep onsite and have early entry. You may enter every of the 4 parks half-hour earlier than they formally open.

The gates typically open sooner than half-hour, so it’s at all times value arriving a minimum of half-hour earlier than early entry (an hour earlier than official opening).

At Hollywood Studios, they often open gates at 8am when early entry is at 8.30am and park opening is 9am. So we attempt to arrive at 7.45am to be additional forward within the line.

The identical applies for Magic Kingdom. For an 8am official opening, they let individuals in at 7am, however it’s a must to wait on the entrance to both Tomorrowland or Fantasyland (the one areas open for early entry) till 7.30am.

Observe that when you don’t have early entry, you’ll be able to nonetheless enter Magic Kingdom and entry Fundamental Avenue and outdoors the fort (excellent for crowd-free photographs), however you gained’t be capable of transfer past that.

We often spend the primary few hours hustling to rides, after which when traces get longer, we decelerate, have some meals, take photographs, and benefit from the much less widespread rides and reveals.

19) Think about Lightning Lanes

Entrance to Rock n Rollercoaster ride at Hollywood Studios with the Standby entrance on the left and Lightning Lane entrance on the rightEntrance to Rock n Rollercoaster ride at Hollywood Studios with the Standby entrance on the left and Lightning Lane entrance on the right
At Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster, the Standby entrance is on the left and the Lightning Lane entrance on the precise.

Lightning Lanes are separate entrances at rides that let you skip the road (or a minimum of have a far shorter wait).

When you resolve to make use of these, guide as quickly as you might be eligible—three days upfront for friends staying off-site and 7 days earlier than check-in (to your entire keep) for Disney resort friends.

Rides do promote out and onsite friends have a significant benefit.

Multi Cross

Using the My Disney Experience app to book Lightning Lanes for Magic KingdomUsing the My Disney Experience app to book Lightning Lanes for Magic Kingdom
Buying Lightning Lanes on the Disney app

There are two Lightning Lane choices. Multi Cross permits you to initially guide three rides at set instances. When you’ve tapped into one experience, you’ll be able to guide one other. Nevertheless, you might be restricted by availability.

Multi Cross is most helpful for Hollywood Studios and Magic Kingdom. It’s additionally useful when park hopping, as you’ll be able to choose rides in any park when you’ve tapped into your first experience.

In case you are visiting at a really busy time or have restricted days at Disney, Multi Cross is value contemplating, however you may get by with out it. We solely used it for one in every of our seven days on our final go to (park hopping from Hollywood Studios to Magic Kingdom).

It’s a sophisticated system, so see my Lightning Lane Multi Cross information for extra particulars.

Single Cross

One or two of the preferred rides in every park will not be included in Multi Cross, and it’s a must to purchase a Single Cross to skip the road.

These are costlier, however they are often value it if you wish to assure your experience. Final time, we purchased Single Cross for Tron (to make sure an evening experience) and Guardians of the Galaxy (so we may experience it a number of instances).

20) Keep Late

Pandora at night, Animal Kingdom, Disney World, Orlando, USAPandora at night, Animal Kingdom, Disney World, Orlando, USA
Pandora is superbly lit at night time in Animal Kingdom

We sometimes arrive on the parks for early entry, take a break at our lodge within the afternoon, after which return (maybe to a unique park) within the night.

After darkish, the parks have a novel environment, and you may get pleasure from fireworks reveals.

Trip queue instances typically lower within the final hour or two, so when you didn’t handle a experience early, give it one other go now.

The top of the day is particularly good at Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios (though not at all times). Epcot and Magic Kingdom are extra of a blended bag.

In case you are staying in a deluxe resort, reap the benefits of the prolonged night hours. The final hour is particularly productive.

21) Use Single Rider Traces

Expedition Everest, Animal Kingdom, Disney World, OrlandoExpedition Everest, Animal Kingdom, Disney World, Orlando
Simon typically rides Expedition Everest in Animal Kingdom with the one rider line.

One technique to skip traces throughout a busy park day is to make use of the single-rider line. You’ll have to take a seat subsequent to strangers, however you’ll be able to typically find yourself in the identical automotive as your occasion.

Simon makes use of single rider once I don’t wish to experience as many instances as he does!

Rides with single rider traces at the moment are:

  • Rock ‘n’ Rollercoaster at Hollywood Studios
  • Millennium Falcon at Hollywood Studios
  • Rise of the Resistance at Hollywood Studios (typically)
  • Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom
  • Remy’s Ratatouille Journey at Epcot (this can be non permanent)

Take a look at Observe at Epcot had one earlier than it closed and should achieve this when it reopens.

On an identical observe, in case you are travelling with a small baby who can’t go on all rides, the adults within the group can reap the benefits of Rider Swap. With this service, two adults can experience individually with out queuing each instances, whereas the opposite waits with the kid.

22) Go to Magic Kingdom on Social gathering Days

Erin and Simon in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom, Disney World, OrlandoErin and Simon in front of the castle in Magic Kingdom, Disney World, Orlando
Us at Magic Kingdom on a quiet Christmas occasion day in November.

That is one in every of our greatest Disney World hacks when you go to throughout occasion season—Halloween (August to October) and Christmas (November to December).

At these instances, Magic Kingdom hosts a paid occasion on some evenings, so the park closes sooner than common (sometimes at 6pm).

This places individuals off visiting the park that day—they’ll select one other day to go to to allow them to keep late and see the fireworks.

This makes occasion days a incredible time to go to Magic Kingdom. We’ve achieved this throughout Halloween and Christmas seasons, and it has labored splendidly.

The park often opens earlier at 8am and the entire morning is quiet.

My advice is to get a park hopper ticket and, on occasion days, go to Magic Kingdom through the day after which park hop to a different park within the night.

Then do the reverse on non-party days—begin in a unique park, after which go to Magic Kingdom within the night if you wish to see the fireworks. Anticipate excessive crowds on these evenings (a eating reservation is perhaps a good suggestion).

Our Disney World itinerary reveals how we managed this in November.

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Planning Your Itinerary

Planning upfront for Disney is important. You must guide eating places and Lightning Lanes earlier than you arrive, so that you’ll want a tough itinerary.

Our 7 day Disney World itinerary (from our final journey) has recommendations on learn how to create your ultimate itinerary, however listed below are a number of concepts.

23) Test the Disney Calendar

Park hours are launched on the Disney World calendar two months upfront. Test then and once more per week or two earlier than your go to as it will possibly change.

Observe any particular occasions in addition to fireworks and parade instances and if rides are closed for refurbishment.

24) Determine Your Precedence Rides

Tron Lightcycle Run rollercoaster at Magic Kingdom at nightTron Lightcycle Run rollercoaster at Magic Kingdom at night
Using Tron at night time is a Disney World must-do!

Speak to the remainder of your occasion and resolve which rides are must-dos for every of you.

Then analysis how lengthy the queues sometimes are (see Queue Instances for averages or the Disney app for stay wait instances) and the most effective time to experience.

For instance, Tron is finest ridden at night time (the lights look superb), however waits may be lengthy, so when you don’t wish to threat ready till the tip of the night time, you would possibly buy Single Cross.

Whereas Pirates of the Caribbean not often has lengthy waits so you’ll be able to experience it any time.

See our park guides for concepts: Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Epcot, and Animal Kingdom.

25) Permit For Relaxation

When you go to for greater than 4 days, you’ll wish to permit some relaxation time—an entire day or a minimum of a morning.

I like to recommend a day without work (or a minimum of a relaxed day) after three park days (or two in order for you most chill).

You can even get monetary savings on tickets by having a day while you don’t go into the parks. As a substitute, hang around at your lodge pool, store and eat at Disney Springs, have lunch at one other Disney resort, or go to a water park.

Additionally, attempt to have a mixture of early and later begins so that you aren’t rope-dropping each morning—it will possibly get exhausting.

26) Discover Your Hidden Gems

Simon with cocktails in the Nomad Lounge, Animal Kingdom, Disney WorldSimon with cocktails in the Nomad Lounge, Animal Kingdom, Disney World
Simon kicking again at Nomad Lounge, one in every of our favorite retreats from the parks.

Though we do have interaction in rope drop dashing, you don’t wish to spend your entire journey dashing about centered on the massive rides.

Permit time to decelerate, wander the again corners, and expertise the Disney magic. A lot work has gone into each element of the parks, so spend time appreciating them.

Listed below are a number of of our favorite non-ride issues to do:

  • Play the DuckTales World Showcase Journey recreation at Epcot. It takes you to so many hidden gems within the World Showcase and permits you to make objects transfer. So enjoyable!
  • Catch the opening ceremony at Casey’s Nook (Magic Kingdom), after which get pleasure from a sizzling canine at an out of doors desk with pianist leisure and a fort view.
  • Calm down in Nomad Lounge in Animal Kingdom – A quiet retreat with wonderful cocktails and small bites.
  • Admire the Tron cover at night time – You don’t even must experience it, simply stand beneath and watch the lightcyles whizz previous because the lights change color.
  • Stroll Epcot’s World Showcase at night time – Snack, drink, and watch the leisure in every pavilion. It’s even higher through the Meals & Wine Competition when Eat to the Beat concert events are on.
  • Drink a margarita at La Cava del Tequila (Epcot) – You wouldn’t know you’re at Disney.
  • Stroll the Maharajah Jungle Trek at Animal Kingdom to identify animals.
  • Seize a pretzel and IPA (or margarita) in BaseLine Faucet Home in Hollywood Studios.
  • Wander Galaxy’s Edge and Pandora after darkish.

Plus a lot extra! See our particular person park guides for extra concepts.

27) Be Versatile

Sure, advance planning for Disney is important, however contemplate your itinerary a tough information reasonably than a set-in-stone plan.

Issues will change, and you might want to be versatile. The bus is delayed, the experience you deliberate for early entry is down (what’s your backup?), your subsequent choose for Lightning Lane Multi Cross is bought out, one other experience has an unexpectedly lengthy standby line, you might be exhausted, your toes damage, and so forth.

Don’t stress if issues don’t go to plan. Even when you don’t get in your must-do experience, there’s nonetheless a lot to get pleasure from within the parks. Settle for it’s inconceivable to do all of it.

When you let your expectations go, you’ll benefit from the expertise rather more.

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Disney World Eating

28) Set a Reminder for 60 Days Forward

Space 220 restaurant, Epcot, Disney World, OrlandoSpace 220 restaurant, Epcot, Disney World, Orlando
Reserving upfront for House 220 is important.

If there are any desk service eating places you wish to eat in, guide 60 days upfront at 6am EST.

Severely, be prepared as quickly as bookings open, as many promote out quick (comparable to our favorite House 220 in Epcot). You may at all times cancel later in case your plans change (as much as two hours earlier than for many locations).

Resort friends have a significant perk—you’ll be able to guide 60 days earlier than your check-in date to your entire keep. This offers you a pleasant head begin, so for widespread locations, guide for later in your keep.

When you can’t get the restaurant you need, maintain checking (particularly the day earlier than) as individuals will cancel. You can even attempt strolling in and seeing if a restaurant can accommodate you (simply count on a wait).

See my information to the finest vegetarian meals at Disney World for our favorite locations to eat.

You can even discover all of the restaurant menus on the Disney web site and app.

29) Counter Service Eating places Save Cash and Time

Docking Bay 7 restaurant at Disney World's Hollywood StudiosDocking Bay 7 restaurant at Disney World's Hollywood Studios
Docking Bay 7 in Galaxy’s Edge, one in every of our favorite counter service eating places

You don’t should eat at desk service eating places to have an incredible journey. They’re costly (particularly when you’ve added on tax and the usual 20% tip), so we often solely eat at a number of per journey (and on our first journeys, none in any respect).

There are some nice counter service eating places the place you’ll be able to eat with out reserving and save time and money (particularly when you make a cell order). Many have enjoyable theming, too.

Our Disney World on a price range information has extra money-saving meals suggestions.

30) Skip the Eating Plan

Except you get a deal the place a Disney eating plan is free along with your resort keep, I’d skip it.

It’s unlikely to save lots of you cash and also you’ll have to fret about which locations are included and supply the most effective worth. You’ll have extra freedom with out it.

31) Carry Snacks

In case you are on a price range, you’ll be able to convey your individual meals into the parks (so long as it’s not an entire cooler).

We used to convey sandwiches after we have been on a good price range and simply eat one counter service meal a day.

These days, we convey granola bars and purchase some fruit for fast breakfasts earlier than we depart our lodge or standing in line for early entry. It saves money and time and we’re prepared for lunch early (when the eating places are quieter).

Final time (as we had a automotive earlier than Disney), we made a Dealer Joe’s run to top off on snacks and drinks to maintain in our room.

Some individuals use grocery supply companies to the inns.

32) Hydrate

Ingesting loads of water is important within the Florida warmth.

We at all times convey our personal water bottle. You may refill at water fountains and ask for a cup of ice in fast service eating places to chill it down.

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Extra Disney World Suggestions

33) Put on Comfortable Sneakers

Simon and Erin with custom lightsabers, Hollywood Studios, Disney World, OrlandoSimon and Erin with custom lightsabers, Hollywood Studios, Disney World, Orlando
Us sporting our Teva mountaineering sandals…and lightsabers!

We sometimes stroll 6 – 13 miles a day at Disney, so snug sneakers are important.

We want Teva mountaineering sandals, as they maintain our toes cool and supported, and so they dry shortly in the event that they get moist from rain or water rides.

I’ve the Teva Verra and Simon wears the Teva Terra Fi Lite.

Most individuals put on sneakers. Simply be certain they’re properly worn in, and you’ve got moisture-wicking socks (your toes will get sweaty).

A spare pair of sneakers is a good suggestion (particularly in the summertime wet season). When Simon’s sandals began rubbing, he switched to his Allbirds Tree Runners with socks.

We each love extremely cozy and light-weight Allbirds. The Tree fashions are finest for Florida as they’re extra breathable.

Carry plasters (bandaids) or moleskins in case of blisters.

34) Get in Coaching

When you aren’t a lot of a walker, begin rising your strolling earlier than your journey. It is going to make your go to rather more snug.

It is a good alternative to put on in your sneakers, too.

35) Pack a Cellphone Charger

You’ll use the Disney app incessantly, particularly if in case you have Lightning Lane Multi Cross, so it’s a good suggestion to have a telephone charger.

We managed with out one, however solely as a result of our telephones have been pretty new, and we took afternoon breaks after we may prime up our cost.

When you overlook, you should purchase FuelRod chargers within the parks after which swap them out when empty for a completely charged one.

36) Carry a Poncho

It might probably rain at any time of 12 months in Orlando, nevertheless it’s most definitely from June to September.

In early September, we had thunderstorms and sometimes heavy rain each afternoon for half-hour to some hours.

A poncho is one of the best ways to remain dry. You should buy one within the parks, nevertheless it’s cheaper when you purchase it forward of time. We discovered some low cost ones on Amazon.

In November we didn’t want them.

37) Hold As much as Date

Issues are always altering on the parks, so even after doing all of your preliminary analysis, it’s a good suggestion to verify the small print earlier than your go to.

Have Lightning Lane guidelines modified? Have any new rides or reveals opened? Does something require a digital queue?

The Disney Vacationer Weblog has an excellent publication that may maintain you up to date (simply bear in mind that it’s plenty of info).

38) Ask for Your Most well-liked Spot on a Trip

Erin and Simon on the Rock 'n' Rollercoaster, Hollywood Studios, Disney World, OrlandoErin and Simon on the Rock 'n' Rollercoaster, Hollywood Studios, Disney World, Orlando
Sitting within the entrance to get our Rock ‘n’ Curler Coaster experience picture!

If you get close to the entrance of the road on a experience (when the forged member asks what number of in your occasion), you’ll be able to request a most well-liked spot.

For instance, using on the entrance of Tron is unbelievable and we solely needed to wait a couple of minutes additional for it.

One other widespread one is asking for the pilot position in Millennium Falcon, which is rather more interactive than gunner or engineer.

39) Use Your Language Abilities

We splurged on a wine tour around Epcot's World Showcase with tastings in Italy, France and GermanyWe splurged on a wine tour around Epcot's World Showcase with tastings in Italy, France and Germany
We loved a wine tour round Epcot’s World Showcase

When you converse one other language (even simply good day and thanks), it’s enjoyable to check out your abilities within the Epcot World Showcase, the place forged members from the international locations workers every of the 11 pavilions.

We had some beautiful interactions in Japan and Italy.

40) Decide Up a Free Button

Simon wearing a Disney celebration pin for his birthday at the Millennium Falcon in Hollywood StudiosSimon wearing a Disney celebration pin for his birthday at the Millennium Falcon in Hollywood Studios
Simon carrying his birthday button exterior the Millennium Falcon in Hollywood Studios

Go to Visitor Relations on the parks to choose up a complimentary celebration button. These can have fun a birthday, anniversary, first go to, or no matter you select.

For Simon’s birthday, they customised the button along with his title, and forged members wished him a cheerful birthday all through the day. It’s a enjoyable additional sprint of magic!

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Remaining Ideas

I hope these Disney World suggestions make it easier to plan a magical journey!

It may be an awesome quantity of knowledge while you first begin researching, however it’s going to all make sense finally.

Advance planning for Disney does repay and permits you to get pleasure from your time within the parks rather more.

If in case you have any questions, let me know within the feedback under.

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Extra Disney Posts

Plan your Disney World Orlando journey with our different guides:

Disney World Park Guides

Different Disney World Suggestions

When you’re on the lookout for a seaside break earlier than or after Disney, try our Baker’s Cay Key Largo Resort evaluation.

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