Disney World Travel Guide: An Overview of What You Need to Know

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Are you planning a trip to Disney World? Perhaps you have been to other theme parks like Six Flags, Busch Gardens, or even Disneyland. You may think that Disney World is similar to those, but you would be mistaken. That’s why we have put together this Disney World Travel Guide to help you plan a magical trip.

Planning a Disney vacation can be very time consuming and overwhelming. 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 travel agent that specializes in Disney World vacations will be your greatest resource. Destination Magic is the #1 of the top 5 agencies of the Best Disney Travel Planners. You can visit them at https://destinationmagictravel.com.

They can not only plan your Disney Vacation, but they can help you elevate it by making you aware of all best that Disney has to offer so you can have the magical Disney vacation you have always dreamed of.

Whether you decide to take advance of using a Disney Travel Planner or decide to plan your Disney vacation on your own, this Disney World Travel Guide is the best start to understanding the basics of planning your trip.

To help plan the perfect vacation, Disney Travel Planners are available to make sense of all the options. Many offer complimentary booking. To learn more, read Disney Travel Planners.

Disney World Travel Guide Summary

The Walt Disney World resort area in Florida is huge. It’s actually about 40 square miles, which is twice the size of the island of Manhattan. Although it’s referred to as being located in Orlando, Florida, it’s actually its own city of Lake Buena Vista (likely a nod to back to Walt’s original California businesses).

Disney World is comprised of four immersive theme parks, two amazing water parks, 30+ resorts, a shopping and entertainment center, a sports complex, multiple golf courses (both mini golf and championship courses), and more. With all that, it’s no wonder 52 million people visit Disney World each year, making it the most visited vacation resort in the world.

One of the distinct features of Disney World, compared to other theme parks you may have visited, is that once on Disney property, you really feel like you are in a magical bubble and have left the rest of the world behind. You won’t see office buildings, chain restaurants, or strip malls. With all that acreage, Disney has the ability to spread out its resorts and attractions with lots of green space. In fact, about a third of Disney property is designated as a conservation area.

Overview of Disney World Theme Parks

Magic Kingdom

When most people think of Disney World, this is what comes to mind. Magic Kingdom is the quintessential theme park and most like Magic Kingdom park in Disneyland, but they are not the identical.

Magic Kingdom features 6 different themed areas, called “lands.” They are Fantasyland, Adventureland, Frontierland, Tomorrowland, Liberty Square, and Main Street USA. Magic Kingdom is home to the iconic Cinderella’s Castle, which is located at the end of Main Street USA, where all the lands meet.

Magic Kingdom is where you will find classic rides for the whole family including It’s a Small World, Haunted Mansion and The Jungle Cruise. For a bit more adventure, you can ride all the mountains: Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain.

When you need to take a break from the rides, be sure to catch the afternoon parade. It is filled with favorite Disney characters riding themed floats. Each evening is topped off with a spectacular, not-to-be-missed fireworks display.

If you are visiting with young children, you may spend most of your time here. But it’s not just for children. There is something about being in Magic Kingdom that brings out the kid in all of us. And a Disney World travel guide can help you make the most out of your time in the Magic Kingdom!

Epcot

Epcot is short for “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow,” an original concept of Walt Disney himself to study innovations for living in the future. Although the Epcot park we have today is very different from that original conception, many of the Walt’s visions can be found there today.

Epcot is divided into two large lands, Future World and World Showcase. The attractions in Future World is focused around discovery, technology, and nature. Family-friendly rides include Test Track, where you get to ride in a test vehicle around a course, explore the greenhouses with Living with the Land, or board a clamshell for The Seas with Nemo and Friends.

In World Showcase, you can take a trip around the world without ever leaving Florida. Featuring pavilions from 11 different countries, you can shop, dine, and explore diverse cultures. Some countries also have rides and attractions related to that area. For example, you can ride Frozen Ever After in the Norway pavilion or experience the tale of The American Adventure in the America pavilion.

Epcot is well known for the various festivals they hold at various times of the year. The newest is The Festival of the Arts which is held in winter. The most popular is The Food and Wine Festival which is held in the fall. But the most beautiful is The Flower and Garden Festival which is held in the spring. The landscape is bursting with color and fragrance from millions of flowers and topiaries throughout the park.

Many guests, especially adults and couples, as well as those with park hopper tickets (more on that below) will go to Epcot just for dinner or to spend an evening strolling World Showcase. Many people with children tend to dismiss this park thinking that there is not much for kids to do, but that is a mistake. It may not be as overtly Disney, but there are several rides and other things in Epcot for kids to explore and experience. A Disney World travel guide can assist you in planning the perfect trip to Epcot.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios

Themed after classic and modern movies, Hollywood Studios offers shows and rides inspired by the golden age of Hollywood. There are 7 themed areas, from the vintage streets of Hollywood to the imagined worlds brought to life by the movies such as Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.

Galaxy’s Edge is set within the Star Wars universe, in the village of Black Spire Outpost on the remote frontier planet of Batuu. It is a truly immersive experience and an absolute must-do for any Star Wars Fan. You will see Storm-Troopers on patrol as well as members of the Rebel Alliance. There are life-size droids, fighters, and even the Millennium Falcon—which you can board and ride. The highlight of this land is Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. It is the most advanced ride in Disney to date. To remember your visit to Batuu, you can make your very own droid or lightsaber. Believe me when I say these are nothing like the lightsabers you can buy at Target. Ask your Disney World travel guide about how to get to Batuu, and the best times to visit.

Younger kids and kids at heart will love Toy Story land. When you enter, you will feel like you shrunk down to the size of the green army men.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is also where you will find many of the Disney Junior Characters, as well as the new Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway ride. For a bigger thrill, be sure to try Rockin’ Rollercoaster Starring Aerosmith, and the Tower of Terror.

Animal Kingdom

Many people think Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park is a zoo. It’s not. In fact, when it opened on April 22, 1998, the tagline was “Nahtazu” (pronounced “Not-a-zoo”). When you visit Animal Kingdom Park, you can have an immersive experience exploring the wonders of amazing rainforests, African savannas and Asian jungles— all without leaving Orlando.

This is the largest of the 4 Disney theme parks. The overarching theme of Animal Kingdom is concentrated around the natural world with a focus on conservation. You will be able to see many animal species such as lions and elephants on the Kilimanjaro Safari ride, along with gorillas and hippos on one of the several walking trails. You can even get up close with some animals at Rafiki’s Planet Watch where you will also learn about various conservation efforts.

Besides live animals, there are also several spectacular shows such as the Festival of the Lion King, a high energy acrobatic extravaganza, and Finding Nemo—The Musical. Those are great ways to get off your feet for a while. But if the little ones need to expel some energy, head to Dinoland USA where they can explore The Boneyard—a dinosaur dig-style playground. For the bigger ones who need a thrill, they can go back in time to try to save dinosaurs from extinction, or try to search for the mystical Yeti on Expedition Everest—Legend of the Forbidden Mountain.

Themed after the animal realm, this park displays exotic destinations including Africa, Asia, Discovery Island, Dinoland, The Oasis, and even lands out of this world like Pandora, the World of Avatar. Music, dance, food and decorations embed the culture of these magnificent places in the park.

Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach

Disney has 2 water parks. Each with a different theme and storyline.

The legend of Typhoon Lagoon is that a storm wreaked havoc upon a formerly pristine tropical paradise. Ships, fishing gear, and surfboards have been strewn about by the typhoon, and that’s where they lie today. A shrimp boat landed upon a mountain and now erupts a 50-foot (15 m) geyser of water every half hour.

Typhoon Lagoon is also home to one of the world’s largest outdoor wave pools. It pushes through 6-foot-high waves every 90 seconds. There are a number of slides including a water coaster and a lazy river. On select mornings, you can even learn to surf.

According to legend, a freak snowstorm in Florida led to the creation of a ski resort, which is now melting. Blizzard Beach is “the most slushy, slippery, exhilarating water park anywhere!”

There are many different types of water slides and an obstacle course, but Summit Plummet is main attraction. At 120 feet and with speeds of 60 miles per hour it’s the third tallest and fastest free fall slide in the world. For more of a relaxing day, you can find gentle waves at Melt-Away Bay or simple float along the lazy river.

Both water parks are packed with slides for kids and adults, and areas to relax as well. Going to either is like taking a vacation within your vacation.

Where Should You Stay in Disney World? A Disney World Travel Guide Can Help You Decide.

Orlando has an endless selection of places to stay both within and outside of the Disney property. For the most immersive experience, you will want to stay at a Disney resort.

In addition, all guests at Disney resorts receive a number of perks including:

Complimentary transportation to and from the Orlando International Airport
Complimentary resort-wide transportation
Advance purchase and discount on Magic Bands
Complimentary package delivery to your resort
Extra Magic Hours where the parks open early or stay open late only for Disney resort guests

Disney World Resorts

Disney resorts are divided into 4 categories: value, moderate, deluxe, and deluxe villa resorts, plus a campground.

All resorts will offer complimentary transportation, on-site dining, as well as recreation such as swimming pools. Plus, each offers onsite laundry.

The number of options and proximity to the theme parks will vary generally by the type of resort.

Value Resorts

All-Star Sports
All-Star Music,
All-Star Movies
Pop Century
Art of Animation

These are very large resorts with many guest rooms.

They will each have a food court and in-room pizza delivery. There will be a gift shop, a large game room, and a swimming pool with a nearby bar.

These are compact rooms that typically sleep 4, with some options sleeping 6. The room décor at Art of Animation is full of character while the other resorts are more modern and minimalistic in style.

All offer bus transportation while Pop Century and Art of Animation also have access to the Disney Skyliner.

Moderate Resorts

Caribbean Beach
Coronado Springs
Port Orleans French Quarter
Port Orleans Riverside
Fort Wilderness Cabins

These guest rooms at these resorts are larger than the guest rooms at the value resorts.

They will each have a food court and in-room pizza delivery but also a full-service restaurant and a bar or lounge.

There will be a gift shop, a game room, and a swimming pool with a nearby bar. The pool area will also have a slide and may have other water features such as a splash pad for the kids or kiddie pool.

These rooms typically sleep 4 or 5, depending on the resort. Room décor is themed to the resort. Some have extra special rooms such as a pirate or a princess theme.

All offer bus transportation while Caribbean Beach Resort also has access to the Disney Skyliner. The Port Orleans resorts also offer a boat to Disney Springs shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

Deluxe Resorts

Animal Kingdom Lodge
Boardwalk Inn
Contemporary
Polynesian
Grand Floridian
Wilderness Lodge
Yacht and Beach Club

Deluxe resorts are in closest proximity to at least one theme park.

These guest rooms are the most spacious hotel rooms with the most comfortable furnishings.

Each resort will each have a quick service dining location, several full-service restaurants and lounges as well as some room service available. There will be several on-site shops, a game room, and swimming pools with a nearby bar.

The pool area will also have a slide and may have other water features such as a splash pad for the kids or kiddie pool. There are also typically additional pools available at these resorts.

Rooms that typically sleep 4 or 5, depending on the room and décor is themed to the resort. Suites and club level rooms are available, and most offer a fitness center.

All offer bus transportation while most also provide monorail or boat transportation to select parks.

Deluxe Villa Resorts

Animal Kingdom Kidani Village
Bay Lake Villas
Beach Club Villas
Boardwalk Villas
Copper Creek Villas
Boulder Ridge Villas
Grand Floridian Villas
Polynesian Villas
Old Key West Villas
Riviera Resort
Saratoga Springs Villas

For those looking for the comforts of home, Disney offers Deluxe Villa resorts. These resorts offer rooms with kitchenettes or full kitchen. Some also offer in-room laundry.

Many of these resorts share common areas and amenities with the Deluxe resorts while some are stand-alone properties. Most rooms typically sleep 4 or 5, up to 12 guests in a 3-bedroom villa.

All offer bus transportation while most also provide either boat, Sklyliner, or monorail transportation to select parks. A qualified Disney World travel guide can help you decide the best option for you.

To learn more about the different Disney resorts available for your vacation, read:

Non-Disney On-Property Resorts

There are a few resorts on Disney property that are not owned or operated by Disney. Those resorts have special arrangements with Disney to offer some of the perks Disney guests get. These resorts range from value properties, such as the Holiday Inn to premier properties like The Walldorf Astoria Orlando and The Four Seasons Resort Orlando, the only 5-Diamond resort in Orlando.

While most of these resorts are on the outer edges of Disney World, The Swan and The Dolphin hotels, both Marriott properties, are in the heart of the action.

With over 450 properties in the Orlando area, there is no shortage of choices. Click HERE for a list of The Best Luxury Resort near Disney World.

Off-Property Resorts – Disney World Travel Guides Can Also Help With Off-Disney Accommodations

Just outside the bounds of Disney World, you will find a vast array of accommodations include motels, hotels, private homes, and timeshare resorts. Often, these resorts offer special perks like free breakfast or free resort transportation. They are often priced less that a Disney resort, but you should be sure to weigh the pros and cons.

You may find that you get more space for your money if staying at a resort outside of Disney World, but there are several factors to consider to be sure you are comparing apples to apples when deciding which is best for you. For example, resorts may offer free transportation to the parks, but check how often that is. It may only be a few times a day as opposed to continually at a Disney resort. Plus, they do not provide free transportation to or from the airport.

If you are driving yourself, you will have to pay a parking fee when you arrive at the parks. Many hotels often charge a “resort fee” that is charged once you are checked in. Make sure you are aware of those extra charges in advance. Also, compare the cost of purchasing tickets that are not part of a Disney package. When you factor everything in, it may cost more.

It is also a different type of experience compared to staying onsite at a Disney resort. Not to mention all the perks that are not available to those not staying at a Disney resort. Something to consider. Your Disney World travel guide can help you find and book the best option for you.

Visiting the Parks 101 - Disney World Travel Guide

Tickets

There are 2 types of tickets. A base ticket will allow you to visit one park per day. A park hopper option will let you visit more than one park on the same day, but it comes at an extra cost. For both types of tickets, the longer you visit, the less you pay per day.

Disney World hosts several special ticket events and parties such as Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. These are hard ticketed events, meaning you have to purchase a separate ticket to attend these events. The same applies to after-hours events which are held in all the theme parks at various times throughout the year.

It is always recommended for tickets to purchase your tickets in advance, and your Disney World travel guide will make sure you don’t miss important steps in your trip planning. You will get the best prices when they are part of your resort package. Remember, the parks are very large with tons to see and do. Aim to explore and enjoy at least one day for each park. More than one day per park would be even better to see it all.

To learn more about the Disney World Ticket options, read:

Walt Disney World Ticket Options Explained

Dining

You will find typical park fare in Disney World like hamburgers and fries, but you will also discover so much more. Disney has become known for the variety of food options they offer, both in terms of cuisine and variety to meet different dietary restrictions including vegan, and gluten free fare. There is something for everyone.

There are over 400 different places to purchase a meal or a grab-and-go bite. You can find an unlimited variety of snacks to choose from like popcorn and ice cream to egg rolls and crepes. You can find a quick service meal to meet anyone’s craving from corndogs to lobster rolls.

When it comes to table service restaurants options range from the famous Cobb Salad at the Hollywood Brown Derby, all you can eat buffet with character meet and greets at Chef Mickey’s, to 7-course meals at the renowned Victoria and Alberts, a AAA Five Diamond Award® recipient since 2000.

Disney allows you to make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. Some restaurants are extremely popular and will book up that far in advance. Let your Disney World planning guide help make this process fun and easy!

With so many delicious and decadent edibles, it’s good that there is a lot of walking in Disney.

My Disney Experience

My Disney Experience is a free tool that helps guest organize all their Disney plans. It is available online at www.MyDisneyExpereince.com and as an app (available for Apple OS and Android).

Dining reservations are best made through your My Disney Experience account.

Genie and Genie+

Disney’s Genie and Genie+ a digital services to help add more magic to your vacation.

The free version of Disney Genie is a feature within the My Disney Experience mobile app that provides personalized recommendations and itineraries based on your preferences and current wait times at attractions.

Disney Genie+ is a paid service offered by Disney theme parks that allows guests to skip the regular lines at popular rides and attractions by using your mobile device to make a reservation for a designated return time. For an additional fee, you can also make individual ride reservations for certain high-demand attractions.

Disney Genie+ lets you select arrival windows for Lightning Lanes, which are available at more than 40 attractions and entertainment options across all 4 theme parks. You can book your experiences via the My Disney Experience app beginning at 7:00 AM on the day of your visit.

To learn more about booking Lightning Lanes for your visit, read:

Complete Guide to Disney Genie and Disney Genie+

Special needs and guests with disabilities

Disney does its best to meet the needs of all visitors including those with cognitive or physical impairments such as Autism, hearing, and visual impairment as well as mobility challenges and dietary restrictions.

For guests who have special needs, Disney offers a Disability Access Card. The card is designed to accommodate guests who are not able to wait in the queue line.

Disney is very large and walking the parks, or even to and from the parks, can be a struggle for many people. Disney offers strollers and scooters (also called ECVs), for rent in the parks. You can also rent them for the length of your stay from several Disney-authorized vendors.

For guests with special dietary needs, including allergies, most Disney restaurants offer allergy-friendly options. With advance notice, kosher and Halal meals are also available.

To learn more available services, accommodations, and things to know, read:

How Does Disney Accommodate for Guests with Special Needs

Planning Your Trip - A Guide To Disney World Travel

When to go to Disney World

In general, when kids are off from school, such as summer or holiday breaks, are when the crowds are heaviest. Early September (just after the school semester starts again), and mid-January (when winter break is over) are some of the least crowded times.

Crowds can make a huge impact in your theme park experience. Light and manageable crowds will make your day more enjoyable and magical, due to low ride wait times and manageable lines for food and other services. A super crowded park can distract from the Disney magic. However, for some, that may be the only time they can go.

Following a few guidelines and utilizing Genie and/or Genie+ can help you avoid the stress and irritability of crowds.

Use a Disney World Travel Guide

Planning a Disney vacation can quickly become overwhelming. Most Disney Travel Planners have years of experience visiting Disney World and are there to help you have the most magical vacation ever. They understand the ins-and-out of planning a Disney trip and can help you sort through all the many options and choices you have to make. From when to visit, how many days to visit, what is the best Disney resort, which parks to go to, which Lightning Lanes to get, and what are the best Disney restaurants, they are happy to help you.

Even if you are a seasoned Disney traveler, planning a Disney trip takes a lot of time. Disney travel agents can save you time and money by doing all the heavy lifting for you. And most Disney travel planners do not charge for booking your trip. They can also save you money because they keep on top of all the latest deals and promotions.

Whether you are planning your first Disney trip or your fiftieth, it makes perfect sense to use a Disney Travel Planner. It’s a win-win.

Booking your trip through a Disney Travel Planner costs no more than booking directly with Disney. Plus, if you need help making decisions, need reminders or key dates, or just don’t have the time, they can help. Destination Magic Travel is the top of the top 5 agencies of the Best Disney Travel Planners. You can visit them at https://destinationmagictravel.com.

For more helpful planning tips, check out these articles:

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