A Disney World vacation is at the top of many families' wish-list. But with four major theme parks, two water parks, 22 themed resorts, Downtown Disney, and more, this is a big destination, and worth some planning to have the best possible time.
1. Disney World Vacation - Planning Stage: Theme Park Tix
"Magic Your Way" -- the way to buy theme park passes -- is structured as a base ticket plus options; give some thought to which type best suits your needs. Many guests like the flexibility of the Park Hopper option (so you can visit multiple theme parks on any day); the Dining Plan option is also popular. Price per day drops as your number of days increases.
2. Pick Your Time Of Year With Care
Mission Space, Epcot; photo © Teresa Plowright.
In choosing your time to visit Walt Disney World, you want to balance four factors: crowds; weather; park hours; and special events.
3. Itineraries by Age
Find the best fun for preschoolers, big Kids, teens, etc., above. Or try this detailed itinerary for an 8-day visit.
If you're visiting with little kids, also take the time to check out age and height restrictions in advance: you don't want your child to look forward to a particular ride, and then be disappointed! Likewise, check for Ride Refurbishments: at any given time, some attractions are closed down.
If you're visiting with little kids, also take the time to check out age and height restrictions in advance: you don't want your child to look forward to a particular ride, and then be disappointed! Likewise, check for Ride Refurbishments: at any given time, some attractions are closed down.
4. Find Out About Parades, Fireworks
"Wishes" fireworks , Holidays version. Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World.
Study the park calendars for parades, live entertainment, and fireworks, to get the most from each day. During peak periods, the theme parks are open late and extra parades and fireworks are staged; there might also be an extra Fantasmic! show. Remember, distances between the parks are considerable, so so if you want to end up in a particular park for fireworks, plan accordingly!
5. Stay At a Resort With a Great Location
Disney's Polynesian Resort, near Magic Kingdom. Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World Resort.
Given that Disney World's the size of Boston, location matters! The flagship resorts near Magic Kingdom have monorail and boat access to Magic Kingdom and Epcot theme parks -- great for a quick return after late-night fireworks, or for taking an afternoon break with pool time or nap-time at the resort.
A cluster of resorts near Epcot have prime spots too, on a lakeside boardwalk with restaurants and entertainment: a five-minute walk to Epcot; or take a boat to Epcot or Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Tip: Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is a terrific budget option, with boat ride to Magic Kingdom.
A cluster of resorts near Epcot have prime spots too, on a lakeside boardwalk with restaurants and entertainment: a five-minute walk to Epcot; or take a boat to Epcot or Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Tip: Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is a terrific budget option, with boat ride to Magic Kingdom.
6. Use Disney's Magical Express (If Staying at a Disney World Resort)
Disney's Magical Express is yet another perk for guests staying "in the World". This round-trip bus service to and from the airport is complimentary for an indefinite period of time. Guests also get complimentary luggage delivery; and --with participating airlines-- the opportunity to check-in for return flights right at the resort. (Check Disney World site for updates.)
7. Use the Disney Bus System, Monorail, Boats...
Photo © Teresa Plowright.
They're everywhere: they're free; wherever you're going, they run at least every twenty minutes; and they are blessedly coooollll inside.
8. Pick Your Park according to "Extra Magic Hour"
Tree of Life, Animal Kingdom. Photo © Teresa Plowright.
Most visitors want to sample all four theme parks, and a key question is: which park do we visit today? Even if you're not staying at a Walt Disney World resort, your choice should take into account a practice called "Extra Magic Hour". Every day, one of the four theme parks opens early, for guests staying at a Walt Disney World resort. (There are Extra Magic Hours in evening, too.)
9. In the Theme Parks: Use Fastpass Strategically
Photo © Teresa Plowright.
Fastpass is a way to reduce line-up times at busy attractions in the theme parks: any guest with an admission ticket can get a Fastpass at special ticket dispensers located at popular rides. Simple to use; yet there are some fine points, and knowing them can help you squeeze in more of your favorite rides.
10. Use the "Baby Swap" aka "Rider Swap", on Rides
The so-called "baby swap" is actually an adult-swap: first, parents and child(ren) all line-up together for an attraction; next, Parent A rides first with any older kids, while Parent B stays to one side with baby or under-height kids. Once the ride is over, the parents change places, and Parent B gets to ride while the others wait. Ask a Cast Member at the attraction for assistance.11. More Tips: Advance Reservations at Restaurants, Snacks and Drinks...
Food is expensive in the theme parks, and bringing along some snacks and drinks can save considerable dollars. Then take that money you saved and spend it on a Character Meal: you'll get entertainment by the likes of Winnie the Pooh or Cinderella, plus an abundant buffet. A late lunch can almost serve as an early dinner.Also, check out the Dining Plan: considered by many to be a good deal.
Especially during peak periods, use free Advance Reservations (which aren't really reservations) to go to the front of the line at popular restaurants. Read more about these and other Disney World Vacation tips...
