Visiting Disney can be a wonderful yet stressful experience that can wear you out if you’re not careful. In order to visit and enjoy Disney with less stress you may want to make sure that you do a little advanced planning. These three Disney world planning tips will help you enjoy your trip even more. Then the comprehensive Disney planning guide will help you conquer the parks like a pro. Here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your Disney vacation.
3 Essential Disney World Planning Tips:
Lodging
Plan your lodging to be on the Disney property. You will find that there are many benefits to this though it may be a little more expensive in the beginning; it may well turn out to be a great savings in the end. Staying on the property will allow you to use the Disney shuttle free of charge to get you to any of the theme parks. Parking isn’t free to those that are not staying on the property so this is an expense you won’t have to pay. You will also be free of the stress of having to find your way around and dealing with the crowds and the cost of fuel for your vehicle.
Attractions
Make a list of the must see places that are important to you and your family. As Disney is large and offers so many great things to see, it can become overwhelming quickly. A list will allow you to sketch a map even if it’s mental of the things that you want to see and their locations. Don’t push yourself to be at a certain attraction at a certain time, as that can cause your stress also if you are enjoying the park but are running behind on where you wanted to be at a certain time.
Extra Perks
Take advantage of the Extra Magic Hours that are available to resort guests that can offer earlier and later visits to the parks as well. The Extra Magic Hours can allow you to work a nap in for the kids and for yourself as well if you should want to stay at the parks late one night or if you choose to visit early one morning. An hour or so nap can be the difference in a great day or a hectic day at the parks. Reduce your time waiting in line by taking advantage of FastPass or MagicBands. Many of the rides and attractions accept FastPass that will ensure that you are able to see and enjoy more of the park instead of standing in long lines that can be tiring and frustrating for both adults and children.
Disney World Planning Checklist
Are you dreaming of a magical Disney World vacation, but feeling overwhelmed by the planning process? You’re not alone. With so much to see and do, it’s no wonder that planning a trip to Disney can feel like a daunting task. But fear not! This comprehensive planning guide will equip you with everything you need to know to conquer the parks like a pro. From choosing the best time to visit, creating a park plan, and making dining reservations, to understanding FastPass+ and navigating the parks like a local, this guide has got you covered. Get ready to transform your dream Disney vacation into reality with these tips and tricks!,
✅ Choose the Best Time to Visit
One of the biggest factors to consider when planning your Disney World vacation is the time of year you choose to visit. While the parks are open year-round, certain seasons and events can greatly impact crowd levels, weather, and even park hours. To ensure the best possible experience, it’s important to do your research and choose the best time to visit based on your preferences and priorities.
If you’re looking to avoid crowds and long wait times, consider visiting during the off-season months of January, February, or September. These months tend to have lower attendance and shorter wait times for rides and attractions. However, keep in mind that some attractions may be undergoing refurbishments during this time.
If you’re looking to experience special events and celebrations, consider visiting during holidays such as Halloween or Christmas. These events offer unique experiences such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Candlelight Processional, but they also draw larger crowds and may require advanced planning and reservations.
Other factors to consider when choosing the best time to visit include weather, school schedules, and personal preferences for crowds and park hours. Whether you’re planning a trip months in advance or looking for a last-minute getaway, taking the time to choose the best time to visit can make all the difference in your Disney World experience.
✅ Create a Park Plan
To make the most of your time at Disney World, it’s important to have a plan in place. Creating a park plan can help you prioritize which attractions and experiences are most important to you, and can also help you manage your time efficiently. One helpful tool is the My Disney Experience app, which allows you to make FastPass+ reservations and view wait times in real time. You can also use the app to create a personalized itinerary for each day of your trip, so you know exactly where you need to be and when.
When creating your park plan, consider factors such as the location of attractions, showtimes, and wait times. It’s also a good idea to schedule breaks throughout the day, so you have time to rest and recharge. And if you’re traveling with young children, be sure to build in time for naps and diaper changes.
Once you have your park plan in place, it’s time to start thinking about dining reservations. By planning ahead and making reservations in advance, you can ensure that you’ll be able to dine at your desired restaurants and avoid long waits. Keep reading for tips on making dining reservations at Disney World.
✅ Make Dining Reservations
When it comes to planning your Disney World vacation, dining reservations are a crucial part of the equation. With so many excellent dining options throughout the parks and resorts, it’s essential to book in advance to ensure that you won’t miss out on dining at your top picks. Luckily, making dining reservations at Disney World is a straightforward process. You can book online or by phone up to 60 days in advance, and it’s highly recommended that you do so as soon as possible, especially for popular restaurants or during peak travel times.
One essential tip is to consider the timing of your reservations so that they align with your park plan. For example, if you’re spending the day in Magic Kingdom, it might be best to schedule lunch at a restaurant within the park to save time and avoid the hassle of leaving and re-entering. It’s also important to note that many dining experiences offer special themes and character appearances, so be sure to research and book the ones that interest you most. And if you have any dietary restrictions, be sure to note them when making your reservation, so the restaurant can accommodate your needs.
Once you’ve made your dining reservations, you can relax and enjoy your park plan, knowing that you’ll have delicious meals waiting for you at your chosen restaurants.
✅ Understand FastPass+
When it comes to a crucial part of planning your Disney World vacation, here’s an aspect that can drastically improve your experience: FastPass+. This system allows you to reserve access to certain attractions, shows, and character meet-and-greets in advance, reducing time spent waiting in lines and maximizing your time in the park. However, it’s important to know the ins and outs of FastPass+, including the different tiers and which attractions are most popular. Understanding this system will take your park plan to the next level and ensure you make the most of your time in the parks.
✅ Know These Helpful Tips and Tricks
With your FastPass+ reservations secured, there are still a few other tips and tricks to keep in mind to make the most of your time in Disney World. One useful strategy is to take advantage of the park’s transportation system. Instead of walking from one area to another, hop on a bus, monorail, or boat to save time and energy. Plus, riding the transportation can be a fun experience in itself!
Another helpful tip is to take breaks throughout the day. Disney World can be overwhelming with all the sights and sounds, and taking a few moments to rest and recharge can make a big difference in your overall experience. Consider taking a mid-day break back at your resort to relax by the pool or take a nap before returning to the parks refreshed and ready to go.
Finally, be sure to keep an eye out for unexpected Disney magic. From surprise character appearances to impromptu parades, there are often special moments that pop up throughout the day. By staying flexible and open to these experiences, you can truly make the most of your time in the parks.
Enjoy sit down attraction in between the walking and standing so that you are able to rest your feet and hydrate.
Have fun and take lots of pictures!
By utilizing these tips and tricks, you’ll be able to fully savor your time in Disney World and create memories that will last a lifetime. So don’t forget to take advantage of all the park has to offer and enjoy every moment of your Disney adventure!
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Disney World can seem daunting, but with this ultimate planning guide, you’ll be able to tackle the parks like a pro. From choosing the best time to visit to navigating the parks with ease, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your trip. You are going to have a truly magical experience. As Walt Disney once said, “If you can dream it, you can do it.” So start dreaming and start planning your unforgettable Disney vacation today!
I hope you found these tips for how to plan a Disney vacation helpful. Have been to Disney yet? What was your favorite part and do you have any Disney Travel planning tips to share? We’d love to hear them!
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Robin (Masshole Mommy) says
The extra magic hours are the BEST. We go to Disney every year, so we kind of consider ourselves to be pros at this point. All my friends and family that need help or tips, ask me. I love helping others when it comes to Disney.