Disney Travel Guide - How to Plan a Trip to Disney World
If you are planning a trip to Disney World, this article will help guide you. Long gone are the days when you could just show up, purchase a ticket, and expect to have a great time. These days, advanced planning is a requirement. We are going to show you step-by-step how to plan a trip to Disney World so you can have a magical vacation with your family.
With over 47 square miles of property, Disney is a world unto its own. Yes, there are theme parks, but there is much more to see and do, including exciting entertainment, world-class shopping, endless sports, premier spas, championship golfing, and exceptional dining that you can’t experience it all in one trip, which is one reason people visit again and again. But planning a trip to Disney World can be very confusing and overwhelming, especially if you are planning your first trip to Disney World.
Walt Disney World is a one-of-a-kind vacation destination. Whether you are traveling with kids, as adults only, or with a group, there is something for everyone. You just need to know which options are best for you. With so many choices, it’s easy to see why planning the perfect Disney vacation takes a lot of patience and research. That’s why we created this Disney World vacation planner guide for you!
To help plan the perfect vacation, Disney World vacation planners are available to make sense of all the options. Check our list of the Best Disney Travel Planners.
You may be asking yourself, “where do I start?” With this Disney World Vacation Planner, of course!
As the Scarecrow from the Wizard of Oz says, “It’s always best to start at the beginning.” In Disney terms, that means planning as early as possible.
You will need to do some research to devise a general plan, book your trip, and formulate a detailed itinerary for visiting the parks, for dining, and to experience all the other things a Disney World Vacation offers. You should also be aware of important dates for making dining reservations and other activities.
Added: There are some important dates for making dining reservations and other activities to be aware of.The more you know and understand about planning a trip to Disney World, the less stressful it will be, plus you will save valuable vacation time and money. Fortunately, there are a lot of great resources available to those who have the time to do all the research required, including this Disney travel guide.
This is an area where professional travel agents that specialize in Disney can help. If you do not have the time, or if you simply want to be sure you are getting the best value in your vacation, a Disney World vacation planner will be your greatest resource. Destination Magic is ranked one of the top 5 Best Disney Travel Planners. They can not only plan your Disney vacation, but they can help you have the magical trip you have always dreamed of. Whatever you budget, they know the ins and outs of planning the best Walt Disney World and Disneyland vacations and will help you get the biggest bang for your buck.
To learn more about planning a trip to Disney World worthy of a VIP, we’ve put together this “How To” with 10 steps to guide you along the way. Think of them as the ultimate Disney World vacation planner – a condensed Disney travel guide of comprehensive, must-know info for any Walt Disney World visitor.
With this basic information, you will be on your way to saving money, reducing stress, and vacationing like a princess.
About Walt Disney World
An Overview
Before we go over the steps, you need a basic understanding of Disney World. Below are the highlights of what you will find in Walt Disney World in Florida:
- Walt Disney World is comprised of 4 theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom
- Walt Disney World has 2 water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon
- There are over 30 resort hotels owned and operated by Disney. Accommodations range in price, style, and amenities. The categories are Value, Moderate, Deluxe and Deluxe villas
- The Fort Wilderness Resort has an on-site campground where you can park an RV or pitch a tent
- Disney Springs is Disney’s major shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Disney’s Boardwalk is a secondary, dining, and entertainment area
- There are over 400 dining options throughout Disney World, ranging from snack carts, quick service locations, full-service restaurants, and dinner shows
- There are several large lakes on Disney property where you can partake in boating, fishing, and other recreational activities
- Activities are abundant throughout the resort such as bowling, biking, horseback riding, wagon rides, and surfing lessons
- Disney’s ESPN sports complex with multiple indoor courts and outdoor fields. These are popular with many groups and team competitions
- Disney operates 4 championship golf courses
- Disney World offers world-class spa treatment at Mandara Spa and Senses – A Disney Spa and Salon with several locations throughout Walt Disney World
- Disney offers complimentary transportation throughout the resort via bus, boat, monorail, and the Skyliner system
Disney Terminology
You may come across some unfamiliar terms while planning a trip to Disney World. To learn more, read Disney Lingo: A Glossary of Common Terms used in Disney. It will be helpful to understand these terms as you research Disney World and when speaking with a Disney World vacation planner.
Steps to Planning a trip to Disney World: Your Virtual Disney World Vacation Planner
- Step 1: Determine a Comfortable Budget
- Step 2: Decide When to Go to Disney World
- Step 3: Decide How Many Days to Stay
- Step 4: Decide on Transportation
- Step 5: Decide What Disney World Hotel is Best
- Step 6: Decide How Many Days to Visit the Theme Parks
- Step 7: Decide What Type of Dining Options Would Be Best
- Step 8: Book Your Vacation Package
- Step 9: Plan your Itinerary and Make Park Reservations
Step 10: Book Dining and Other Vacation Experiences
Final Step: Pack Your Bags and Go!
Any travel agent can book your vacation, however, only select agents have the adeptness and expertise to provide the pinnacle of concierge service. Destination Magic offers concierge-level itinerary planning and impeccable signature service.
Step 1: Determine a Comfortable Budget
The amount you are comfortable spending on your trip to Disney World will have a big impact on the other decisions you make for your vacation. Disney is not an inexpensive vacation, but if you plan it right, you can make it a good value.
- Don’t overlook this important step. It will shape the rest of the decisions you need to make.
- To get the biggest bang for your buck, consider using a Disney World vacation planner. They are a bottomless pool of information and tips to make the most of your vacation. The best planners do not charge a fee to book your trip. Plus they keep on top of the latest deals so you know you will be getting the best price available. This is one of the reasons we endorse Destination Magic as the best Disney travel planner.
- Other than transportation between home and Florida, your resort and park tickets are going to be the biggest parts of your budget. Disney used to offer a dining plan so that you can prepay for your meals. It was a great way to turn your trip into an all-inclusive vacation and be sure you are staying on budget. It is currently paused and people are eagerly waiting for it to return. Currently, there is no word on that but we are hopeful.
How much does it cost to go to Disney World?
That is the number one question people ask when planning a trip to Disney World. There are many factors that go into that number. The best answer is: get a complimentary custom quote from Destination Magic.
But, to give you a rough idea, let’s assume you are a family of 4 (2 adults and two children age 8 and 10) going for a week in the summer (peak season). Each example below includes a 6-nights, 7-days with hotel accommodations and park tickets. It also has an allowance for meals. These examples do not include any promotional offers and do not include your transportation to get to Orlando.
Ballpark Estimate: 2 Adults + 2 Children, 1 Week, Peak Season
| Value | Moderate | Deluxe |
|---|---|---|
| Value Disney Resort | Moderate Disney Resort | Deluxe Disney Resort |
| 4-day base ticket (1 park per day) | 5-day Park Hopper | 6-day Park Hopper Plus ticket (includes water park and sports option) |
| All Quick-Service Dining | Mix of Quick-Service and Table Service Dining | All Table Service Dining |
| $5,000 – $6,500 | $7,000 – $9,000 | $9,500 – $11,500 |
These are just examples and prices are subject to change. Many factors and options will increase or decrease your actual vacation package cost.
Prices will vary at different times of the year, at different resorts, and the type of room you select at those resorts, and the meals you like to eat. Plus, Disney often runs promotions and special deals. But you can use these numbers as a starting point to decide what is most comfortable for you.
To learn more about the resorts and dining options available for your Disney World vacation, read:
Promotions and Special Offers – Your Guide to the Best Deals
Disney runs special promotions throughout the year. The best deals can be found during their slower seasons, to entice guests to visit. Additionally, they often offer discounts for Florida residents, Annual Pass holders, and Disney Visa cardholders.
Disney also offers military discounts to eligible service members; however, there are guidelines on who is considered “eligible.”
“Eligible Service Members” are active or retired members of the U.S. Military, including the National Guard, Reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA). Spouses of Military Service Members also qualify if they are able to present valid and active U.S. Military IDs in the absence of active or retired Military Personnel or Commissioned Corps Members.
There is no set or regular time that Disney offers discounts, but they typically announce them about two seasons in advance. For example, summer promotions are often announced in the winter, fall in the spring, etc.
If you are booking directly with Disney, be sure to ask for any promotions, as they will not offer them automatically. The Disney Travel Agents at Destination Magic stay up to date on all the current promotions and can add them to your reservation even after booking. Click HERE for a complimentary, no-obligation price quote.
Can a Travel Agent Get You a Better Deal?
You may wonder if there are any differences in the pricing and promotions travel agents can offer. You may decide to contact a few agents to see who can give you the best price, but there is no need to.
The truth is, all Disney travel agents have access to the same prices, deals, and promotions. Disney has a set pricing structure for their vacations, and travel agents cannot offer discounts or special deals beyond what is already available to the general public.
However, if you book with a travel agent, like our friends at Destination Magic, they continually monitor all the sales. If a better deal comes out after you have booked with them, they will work to get you the best available price—all without you having to ask! That is just one of the reasons they top our list of Best Disney Travel Agents.
One common misconception is that booking through a Disney travel agent will cost you more money than booking directly with Disney. However, this is not the case. Disney has already factored in the cost of paying a commission to travel agents, so you are not paying any extra fees by using an agent. In fact, if you were to book directly with Disney, they would simply keep the money that would have gone to the travel agent, increasing Disney’s profits instead of supporting a small business.
The value in using a travel agent comes from their expertise and personalized service. They can help you plan your vacation, make dining reservations, and provide insider tips and recommendations based on their experience and knowledge of Disney World. Plus, having a travel agent can also provide peace of mind knowing that you have someone to contact in case of any issues or changes to your plans.
Disney Free Dining Promotion
The most popular promotion is Disney’s Free Dining offer. There is not a regularly scheduled time when Disney offers this promotion, but it’s typically during the slower months like August through December. However, Disney has been known to surprise guests with this offer unexpectedly.
While getting free dining sounds like a great deal—and it is—there are some factors to consider to be sure it’s the best deal for you.
Walt Disney World offers this free dining promotion to guests who book vacation packages with non-discounted resort hotels and non-discounted park tickets. There are a few other caveats that are important to note:
- Act fast. This promotion sells out quickly.
- There are only a limited number of rooms for any promotion.
- There are often room and/or resort exclusions for this promotion as well as blackout dates.
- Typically, there is a required minimum package to be eligible. For example, your package must include a minimum 3-night stay and a minimum 2-day ticket.
- Typically, tickets must be either a Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus to qualify.
- (This is a historical example. Offers are subject to change.)
So, while the Free Dining plan is a wonderful promotion, it is not always the best deal. Disney does offer other promotions throughout the year, such as a percentage off your room rate. For some people, that could be a better deal. You need to keep an eye out for what is currently available.
If you are booking directly with Disney, be sure to ask for any promotions. They will not offer that up automatically. The Disney Travel Agents at Destination Magic stay up to date on all the current promotions and can add them to your reservation even after booking. Click HERE for a free, no-obligation price quote.
Step 2: Decide When to Travel
There are a lot of factors that can determine the best time to go to Disney World. The short answer is when it is best for you.
When planning a trip to Disney World, everyone wants to go when the crowds are lowest. That usually is when kids are in school. Holidays, spring break, and summertime draw the largest crowds because that is when the kids are off.
Weather is another important factor for many people when deciding when to visit. You can read more about the weather below.
Disney also hosts several festivals and special events throughout the year. Going during these times can make your trip even more special.
Crowds in Disney
There used to be a slow time at Disney. Not anymore. When it comes to crowds, there are now 2 seasons: busy and busier.
You can find crowd calendars online, but they vary depending on which site you are at. However, historically there are certain weeks that are usually the busiest.
LOWER LEVEL CROWDS: Other than long weekends, these are usually the slower times of the year in Disney World:
- Mid-January to mid-February
- Early September to early October
HIGH-LEVEL CROWDS: These weeks are very busy and crowded in Disney World:
- Spring Break: mid-March through the end of April
- Summer: end of May through mid-August
- The week of Thanksgiving
- The week before Christmas
- The first week in January
- Any long holiday weekend such as Presidents Day, Martin Luther King Day, and Columbus Day
EXTREME LEVEL CROWDS: These are the busiest, most crowded weeks in Disney World:
- Easter week
- The week of the 4th of July
- The week between Christmas and New Year
MODERATE LEVEL CROWDS: Other than the dates listed above, you can expect moderate crowds.
The week between Christmas and New Year’s is by far the busiest week of the year. It is a beautiful time of year to visit, but you will want to give serious consideration if this is the right week for your trip, especially if it is your first visit.
To learn more, read Visiting Disney During the Christmas Holidays for more information about what to expect during that time of year and how to manage crowds.
A Guide To Disney Travel During Festivals and Special Events
Disney hosts several annual events throughout the year. When planning a trip to Disney World, visiting during one of these events can make your vacation even more fun. Some are free to attend while others require a special ticket.
Here is a general idea of when these events take place. You will notice that there is some event almost year-round. For exact dates, check Disney’s Special Events Calendar or talk to a Disney Travel Planner:
- Mid-January through February: Epcot Festival of the Arts
- Early March through June: Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
- Mid-July through mid-November: Epcot Food & Wine Festival
- Late August through Halloween: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
- Mid-November to late December: Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party
Weather
Florida is known for its warm and sunny weather. However, there are seasonal differences you may want to take into consideration when planning a trip to Disney World.
- January and February are the coolest months. However, there can be big fluctuations between days that are warm and very cold.
- July and August are the warmest. In Florida, that also means extreme humidity. There are frequent afternoon rain showers during the summer months. They don’t last long and usually pass quickly.
- Many people worry about hurricanes during that time of year. Hurricane season is actually from June 1 to November with the peak being in August and September.
- Spring and fall offer the best weather in Florida and the crowds are not as heavy.
Whichever season you decide to travel, it’s important to be prepared. Check the weather forecast just before you leave to be sure you are packing the right type of clothes. Plus, don’t forget a poncho or umbrella, and extra shoes in case you get soaked. Disney seldom stops for weather, so gear up and keep going.
To learn more about crowds, Florida weather, and special events such as festivals to help you decide when to visit Disney World, read:
The best way to avoid long lines in Disney is to take a VIP Tour. To learn more, read VIP Tours and Special Experiences, or talk to the agents at Destination Magic.
Step 3: Decide How Many Days to Stay
With so much to see and do, there is no one right answer. That answer depends on your vacation style and the type of vacation you want to have. You will want to plan enough days to experience as much as you can.
Do you have endless energy?
Are you the type to arrive before rope drop and be the last people out of the parks? If so, more power to you! But even if you can cram a ton of excitement into a shorter period of time, you still may want to give yourself enough time to see all of Disney World. Use this website as your virtual Disney World vacation planner to learn all there is to see and do.
With four theme parks, you should consider having at least 4 full days to explore each one once. If you would like to visit a water park, you will need at least another day.
Remember to factor in check-in and check-out days. Depending on your flight times or whether you’re driving, consider adding time accordingly. For example, if your flight arrives at 10 AM, it will take at least an hour before you arrive at your resort. You can check-in and, if your room isn’t ready, the hotel will hold your bags so you can go out and have fun. But you may miss a few hours of park time that day. You might want to do something else and make it an early night to get a good rest for a busy day in the park.
In that scenario, with just visiting the 4 main theme parks, you should plan for at least a 5-night stay.
Do you want a mix of excitement and relaxation?
Many people go to Disney World for a full week. A 7-night stay gives them 8 days. If one day is a check-in day, and another is a check-out day, that leaves 6 days for fun. Often, guests will pick a day in the middle as a rest day from the parks and hang out at the pool or enjoy other activities available in Disney World.
Do you want to have an extended vacation?
With more time, you can visit Disney at a more leisurely pace. You can visit parks more than once and not feel the need to pack everything into one day (which is impossible to do). You can go back and re-ride some of your favorites and try restaurants that you couldn’t the first time.
Plus, there is so much more to Disney than just theme parks. Consider activities like golfing, horseback riding, or fishing. Or, after several days of walking around the parks, treat yourself to a spa treatment.
To learn more about things to do in and around Disney World, read:
- Fun things to do in Disney World
- VIP on a budget
- Things to do on Check-In and Check-Out Day
Do you want to do more beyond Disney World? A guide to travel outside the Disney gates
Central Florida is a vacation mecca. You could also add a day or 3 to visit Universal Studios, which is only a short drive from Disney World. You can visit for a day or even switch hotels and stay in Universal for a few days. It’s like taking a vacation within a vacation.
Besides having the most visited theme parks in the world, you are near both the Atlantic Ocean and the Gulf of Mexico. You could extend your trip and add a few beach days. Disney’s Vero Beach Resort is only 2 hours from Disney World and sits on a pristine stretch of the Atlantic. It’s a great way to rest up after an action-packed Disney World trip.
Let’s not overlook that Port Canaveral is only an hour away. There is no better way to relax after a Disney World trip than on a Disney Cruise. They offer short 3 or 4-day sailings that stop at Disney’s private island, Castaway Cay.
Get Free Onboard Credit when booking your cruise with Destination Magic. Click HERE for more information.
Step 4: Determine Transportation—Getting to Disney World
Now that you’ve decided when, how will you get there? The most common ways are by car or by air. Amtrak also offers service to Orlando, but it is not as common and may not be less expensive than flying.
Drive
Lots of people make the drive to Walt Disney World. The good news is that there is no overnight parking fee when you stay at a Disney Resort. You can leave your car parked at the resort and take advantage of Disney’s transportation.
Fly
If flying to Disney World, it is recommended to fly into Orlando International Airport (MCO), not Sanford. Walt Disney World is located about 20 miles from Orlando Airport and about 45 miles from Sanford Airport.
When searching for flight prices, it’s a good idea to compare prices on sites like Kayak, Expedia, or Google. However, when you are ready to purchase, it’s recommended to go directly to the airline’s site. If you need to change or cancel, it’s easier to do it directly with them than through a travel agent or a third-party website.
Tips for getting the best deal on flights:
- For the best deals, book about six weeks in advance.
- Set up fare alerts on sites like Kayak.
- Check prices in the morning. Most airlines offer their best deals early.
- Be ready to act fast. Good deals get scooped up quickly.
- The most inexpensive flights are often the earliest departures in the morning or very late at night.
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays are typically the least expensive days to fly.
- Credit cards with frequent flyer mile points can save you money on future flights.
- Not all airlines are on travel search engine sites like Kayak, especially discount airlines. You will have to check those airlines directly on their sites.
- Check airlines’ sites to see if booking directly is less expensive.
Have you ever considered chartering a private plane for your vacation? Families as small as 4-6 can arrive in the ultimate style. Contact Destination Magic for more information.
Getting to and from the airport
Disney used to provide complimentary motor coach transportation (called Magical Express) to those guests who booked a Disney hotel. However, there are now a few similar options to Magical Express, but you will have to book them on your own.
The most popular motorcoach companies are Mears and The Sunshine Flyer. Be aware that they may stop at more than one hotel, so although the airport is only about 30 minutes away from Disney, it could take you an hour or more before you actually arrive at your resort.
If you like the freedom of having a car or if you are staying off-property, you can easily book a rental car that can be picked up right at the airport. All the major rental car companies are located right inside Orlando International Airport.
If you prefer to go directly to your resort, a private luxury vehicle such as a town car, limo, or luxury SUV can be arranged for your transportation to and from the airport. In addition to the number of passengers, they will want to know how many bags you will have so they can provide a large enough vehicle.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available, and many will also have car seats.
Whatever option you choose, you’ll need to book transfers on your own. Or, if you’re working with a travel planner, they can take care of arranging transportation for you.
Getting around Disney World once you are there
Disney provides complimentary transportation throughout the resort. Once you have arrived at Walt Disney World, you do not need a vehicle
Step 5: Decide Which Disney World Hotel is Best
Other than when to visit, choosing a hotel is one of the biggest decisions when planning a trip to Disney World. Choosing the best one for your family can make a big difference in your overall enjoyment.
There are three options for lodging at Walt Disney World: staying at an official Disney World resort, a non-Disney owned resort within Disney World property, or an off-property resort. Each has its pros and cons. Let’s look at the advantages/disadvantages of each type of resort hotel.
If you need more help, the travel agents at Destination Magic have stayed at every Disney-owned resort, and room category, as well as several off-site resorts, including the top 3 off-property luxury resorts. They can help you decide what is the best option for you. Click HERE to schedule a consultation and get a complimentary quote.
Staying on-property at official Disney resorts
Leave the world behind and stay in the middle of the magic.
Besides the convenience of being close to the theme parks, Disney offers its guests many perks when they stay at their hotels. Some of those benefits include things like Extra Magic Hours, complimentary transportation, and a 60-day dining reservation booking window.
Disney resorts are classified into three main tiers: value, moderate, and deluxe. Many Disney deluxe resorts offer club-level accommodations and suites. There are also deluxe villas that are part of the Disney Vacation Club timeshare. They are the most spacious and offer home-away-from-home amenities such as full kitchens and in-room laundry.
The creativity and imagination of Disney is carried through at these hotels. Each is different, but all have Disney magic. All offer complimentary bus transportation, while others offer boat, monorail, or Skyliner transportation as well.
The one drawback to staying at a Disney resort can be the price, but when you factor in all the benefits and the convenience, most guests feel that it is worth it.
To learn more about the resort options in and around Disney World, read:
Non-Disney hotels on Disney property
There are a few resorts on Disney property that are not owned or operated by Disney. Those resorts have a special arrangement with Disney to offer some of the perks Disney guests get. They are often priced less than similar-level Disney resorts and can be a great compromise between price and convenience.
Off-property resorts (hotels outside Disney World)
These properties are further away from the park and do not have direct access to Disney transportation.
While you won’t enjoy the same perks as on-site guests, these off-site properties are generally very nice. Rooms are often more spacious, and you will find similar amenities. Some even offer free breakfast. However, the proximity to the parks and the lack of being in the middle of the magic can be a deterrent.
Your choice of resort is one of the vacation components that can make a big difference in your overall cost, but also your overall experience.
Step 6: Decide How Many Days To Visit the Theme Parks
Visiting the theme parks is a must when planning a trip to Disney World. The cost of tickets will take a large chunk of your Disney World vacation budget. It’s important to plan how many days you would like to visit the parks. There is one thing to keep in mind…the more days you visit the parks, the less per day the tickets will cost.
There are 4 different types of Disney World theme park tickets
1. Park Per Day (Base Ticket)
A base ticket (also called a standard ticket) allows you to visit one park each day that you hold a ticket for. You can choose any park you like but only one each day.
2. Water Park & Sports Option
The Water Park and Sports Option allows you to visit Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, or the NBA Experience in addition to visiting the theme parks. The number of visits is equal to the number of days of park visits you purchase. You may visit a water park or the NBA Experience on the same day you visit a theme park, but you may only visit one theme park per day.
3. Park Hopper
A Park Hopper ticket allows you to visit more than one park on the same day. This can be a benefit especially if you’re visiting one park in the morning and a different park has extra magic hours in the evening. Or perhaps you want to go to Magic Kingdom for the day but go to Epcot for dinner. It also gives you flexibility should one park be particularly crowded. You can leave and go somewhere else in the afternoon, or you can go back and try a ride you may have missed or simply want to ride again. As you can see, a Park Hopper ticket gives you a lot of freedom.
4. Park Hopper Plus
A Park Hopper Plus ticket is the same as a Park Hopper but also gives you extra days to enjoy other Disney offerings, including both water parks, the NBA Experience, ESPN Wild World of Sports Complex, or play a round of golf, footgolf, or mini-golf at select Disney courses. The number of extra visits is based on the number of park days you purchase.
One thing to note is that the more days you visit, the less expensive per day it becomes. For example, the starting price for a 4-day, one park per day ticket will cost approximately $470* (plus tax). A 5-day, one park per day ticket will cost approximately $500*. That’s a whole extra day for only $30 more! And if you make it a 6-day ticket, the price would be about $515*. That’s only $15 more for a whole extra Disney day!
(*Note: these prices are subject to change without notice.)
Disney also has several special ticketed events such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, and various After-hours parties. These parties require a separate ticket and are only open to a limited number of guests. They are great fun and because they limit the number of guests, it’s a really nice, less crowded experience in the park. If you’re interested in attending one of these events, you’ll need to factor the cost of that ticket into your budget.
You should plan to purchase your tickets as far in advance as possible—at least 60 days if you are staying at a Disney resort. That is when your Dining Window opens. Plus, you will want to be sure to make your park reservations as soon as possible so that you don’t face any blocked-out dates.
To learn more about Disney theme park tickets:
A Park Hopper ticket gives you the flexibility to visit more than one park on the same day.
Head to Hollywood Studios for rope drop so you can get on Rise of the Resistance. Go to Animal Kingdom and take a ride on the Kilimanjaro Safari. Hop over to Magic Kingdom for dinner in Cinderella’s Castle and watch the fireworks. You can even end the night at Epcot for Extra Magic Hours.
That is all possible with a Park Hopper Ticket.
Step 7: Decide on the Best Dining Options
Dining in Disney World
When you think of theme park fare, the first things that come to mind are foods like burgers, fries, popcorn, and ice cream. You will find all those in Disney and so much more.
Disney World dining has become a destination in itself. You will find an eclectic mix of global flavors, ethnic cuisine, unique treats, sweet indulgences, healthy options, and even fine dining experiences both around Disney World and inside the parks.
You will find a variety of restaurant options ranging from quick-service, counter-style meals, all-you-care-to-eat buffets, and casual eateries, to even five-star dining gourmet experiences. With so many types of cuisines, there’s sure to be something to please everyone.
Some restaurants are highly themed and bursting with creativity and imagination. Others offer an abundance of guest interaction, such as a chance to meet your favorite characters or dine with a Disney Imagineer.
You will also find plenty of healthy options throughout Disney World, including many gluten-free and allergy-friendly items regularly on the menu.
Most of the restaurants in Disney World are geared toward the entire family, although there are a few that lean more toward adult diners, while still welcoming well-behaved children.
All table-service restaurants accept reservations up to 60 days in advance. Some extremely popular restaurants will fill up that early, so it’s important to plan ahead to secure Advanced Dining Reservations at those most sought-after venues.
For more information about the food options available in Disney World, read:
Disney Dining Plans
When you’re on vacation, you have to eat, right? Disney makes it easy to budget your meals by purchasing one of their dining plans as part of a vacation package.
Disney offers various plans at different tiers and price points. Each comes with a specific number of meals, snacks, and a refillable mug that you can use throughout your entire stay. The mug is eligible for unlimited beverage refills (including coffee) at resorts but cannot be used in the park.
You do not need to be on the dining plan to make dining reservations.
To learn how to get the best value from the dining plan and whether it’s right for your family, read:
Disney is a foodie’s paradise. You can find many restaurants by celebrity chefs. Some also offer a quick-service option in addition to table-service dining.
Step 8: Book Your Vacation Package
Once you’ve made decisions regarding all the details of your vacation package and have a price you are comfortable spending, it’s time to book it!
Disney only requires a $200 deposit per room to secure your package. The balance is due 30 days prior to arrival. Your deposit is refundable until you make the final payment.
Booking your trip through a Disney World vacation planner costs no more than booking directly with Disney. Plus, if you need help making decisions, need reminders of key dates, or just don’t have the time, a Disney World vacation planner can help. Destination Magic is one of the top 5 agencies of the Best Disney Travel Planners.
My Disney Experience
Once you book your trip, be sure to set up your My Disney Experience Account. You can link your hotel reservation to your account and order your Magic Bands. You will also be able to view theme park hours and make advanced dining reservations.
To learn the benefits of booking with a Disney Travel Planner, read:
Step 9: Plan Your Itinerary
Let the Fun Begin!
- Now that your trip is booked, start planning fun activities at Disney World. Creating a balanced itinerary will help you make the most of your park time. Remember to leave room for spontaneous experiences—like stopping to smell the roses in Epcot’s rose garden.
IMPORTANT: Make Park Reservations
- Park reservations are required depending on your ticket type, especially if you’re not staying at a Disney resort or have a non-date-based ticket. Check availability and secure your spot as soon as possible. You only need a reservation for the first park you visit that day if you have a Park Hopper ticket.
Daily Disney World Plan
- Plan your park days based on park hours and special events. Disney’s website offers park hours, including Extra Magic Hours for resort guests. If you don’t have a Park Hopper ticket, consider closures for special events when choosing which park to visit.
Advance Dining Reservations
- If you want full-service dining, make reservations up to 60 days in advance. Disney Resort guests can book for the entire stay, while others can book day by day. Popular spots with characters often fill up quickly.
Special Activities and Enhancements
- Disney offers many special experiences, such as the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique for princess makeovers and dessert parties with reserved fireworks viewing. Book these in advance.
Do Disney Like a VIP
- Consider booking a VIP Tour for front-of-the-line access to rides. Disney also offers semi-private tours and unique experiences like the Wild Africa Trek and Taste of the Magic Kingdom.
More to Do Around the World
- Explore free and low-cost activities beyond the parks, such as relaxing at your resort pool, taking boat rides, playing mini-golf, or visiting Disney Springs for shopping, dining, and live music.
For more detailed insights and recommendations on rides, dining, and special activities, you can explore the links provided in the content.
Step 10: Book Dining and Other Vacation Experiences
Once you have finalized your itinerary and decided on the activities you’d like to experience at Disney, it’s important to make reservations for those things that require them.
Disney Dining Travel Help
- Advanced dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.
- Guests staying at a Disney resort can make reservations for their entire stay 60 days before arrival. Guests not staying at a Disney resort can only make one reservation at a time, up to 60 days in advance.
- Reservations are highly encouraged for all table-service meals. You can make reservations starting at 6 AM EST via your My Disney Experience account or at 7 AM by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
- If you’re unable to get a reservation at a desired restaurant, keep checking. Many people change their plans and cancel reservations as the date nears.
- If plans change, you can cancel your reservations at least 24 hours in advance for most locations. Some specialty restaurants require 48 hours’ notice. Be sure to cancel or you may face a no-show penalty.
- Having a dining reservation does not guarantee park entry; you MUST have a park reservation unless you’re park hopping.
For more information on the benefits of booking with a travel planner, read about Using a Disney Travel Planner.
VIP TIP: For the best dining availability, make your reservations as soon as your booking window opens. Popular restaurants and attractions book up quickly!
Book Special Experiences
Disney offers an array of activities that can enhance your vacation, from relaxation to behind-the-scenes tours, sports, and recreation. An experienced Disney travel guide can help you find the best experiences for your family.
While not everything requires reservations, some experiences like VIP tours, spa treatments, bass fishing excursions, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique princess makeovers should be booked well in advance (up to 60 days).
To explore all the fun activities at Disney World, check out VIP Tours and Fun Things to Do in Disney.
Advanced planning helps ensure you do everything you want on your Disney vacation, but not all activities require reservations. Planning on the fly can also be fun—just be aware of what’s available.
Final Step: Pack Your Bags and Go!
Magic Bands
- Disney is no longer offering complimentary Magic Bands, but you can purchase them. If ordered in advance through your My Disney Experience account, they can be personalized with your name.
- Magic Bands are optional but convenient and fun. If you order them, they may be mailed to you, or you can pick them up at your hotel upon check-in. Magic Bands are also available for purchase at the parks and resort gift shops.
Packing List – Your Guide to the Best Preparation for Disney Travel
- Check the weather before packing, as it can vary depending on the time of year.
- Here’s a packing list to ensure you don’t forget important items:
- Umbrella or rain poncho
- Comfortable shoes
- A second pair of shoes (in case the first pair gets soaked)
- Sunscreen
- USB photo recharger
- A backpack for the parks
For more packing tips, check out Best Disney Park Backpack Supplies, and don’t forget to download your Packing List.
VIP TIP: Don’t overpack. All Walt Disney World Resort hotels have self-service laundry facilities, as well as dry cleaning and valet laundry services.
Souvenirs
- Consider purchasing souvenirs like Mickey ears, trading pins, an autograph book, or matching T-shirts before your trip. These will save you money and be ready to use when you arrive.
- Remember to leave room in your suitcase for souvenirs purchased at Disney, or Disney can ship them home for you.
Memory Maker
- If you’ve purchased the Memory Maker Photo Pass package, take full advantage of it! Cast members will take photos of you and your family at various locations, including rides and attractions. If you have a Magic Band, these photos will sync to your account automatically.
- You have 30 days to download unlimited photos from your trip.
Get the Memory Maker to capture all your cherished memories. You can save money by purchasing it at least 3 days before your check-in.
For more helpful planning tips, check out these articles:
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