A trip to DisneyWorld is a dream vacation for children and adults alike, but planning your trip can be overwhelming. During my seven visits to DisneyWorld, I have acquired a few insider tips to make your vacation even more magical. Here are my top ten insider tips for visiting DisneyWorld.
1. Purchase PhotoPass
If you’re like me, you end up taking all of the vacations photos and are not in any of them. Purchase a PhotoPass and have proof that you were actually on this vacation. PhotoPass cards are available from any DisneyWorld photographer. Anytime you see a Disney photographer, simply show your card and let them take the pictures. Tip: Take a picture of the back of the card. If your card is lost, you can still access the photos online by entering the card number. For pre-purchase savings, click here.
Resist the urge to run right up to Cinderella’s Castle. As soon as you enter the Magic Kingdom, go to City Hall (on your left as you enter the park). Tell them why you are visiting DisneyWorld. Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, birthday, anniversary – whatever special occasion you are celebrating – and receive special pins to wear. Wear them everywhere during your entire stay for some extra magic!
3. Swim Against the Current – Magic Kingdom
To avoid crowds, head to the back of the park and work your way back toward the entrance. While most people are oohing and aahing over the castle, you can enjoy short lines at Splash Mountain and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. Other attractions that typically have long waits include Pirates of the Caribbean, Space Mountain, and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.
A makeover at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a must for little princesses. Packages range from $50 to $190. There is also a boy’s Cool Dude package available for under $10. Immediately following the makeover, go to Exposition Hall across from City Hall for a free PhotoPass photo shoot. You may even have a visit from a certain fairy! Note: There is another, larger Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique in the World of Disney store in the Downtown Disney Marketplace.
Plan your day around the shows and the main attractions you want to see. Use FastPass to decrease wait times. Expedition Everest cues fill early and last all day. Kali Rapids in Asia and the Jungle Trek in Africa also typically have really long waits. Kali Rapids is especially backed up in really hot weather.
6. View IllumiNations Fireworks, Laser & Water Show – Epcot
IllumiNations is like no other display you have seen! You may be eligible for preferred viewing with a Grand Gathering group or if you dine at Le Cellier in the Canada Pavilion (a great steakhouse). This doesn’t mean you’ll have actual seats to sit in, but you’ll have a good view of the whole show. Also, pay attention to the wind direction – you don’t want to be right in the line of where all the smoke is blowing!
Fantasmic! is my favorite show. It only runs on selected day, so plan accordingly. There are dinner packages that include preferred seating at the show. The show is free, but the dinner package gets you reserved seating. Arrive early and sit left or right of center for the best view. If you sit in the first few rows, you will get wet!
8. Get Lost in the World of Disney Store – Downtown Disney Marketplace
Plan on spending at least an hour in the World of Disney store. Cell phones are great if your party gets separated. Yes, it’s really that big! There is also a larger Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located in the World of Disney store.
9. Get in Touch with your Inner Potato – Downtown Disney Marketplace
At Once Upon a Toy, all the Mr. and Mrs. Potato Head pieces you can fit into a box for about $15. Hint: if the kids already have a potato at home, don’t buy one here, as it takes up too much room in the box. Be creative in placing items in the box – the top has to close.
10. Make a Scene at the Whispering Canyon Café – Wilderness Lodge
The Whispering Canyon Cafe is very loud, but lots of fun. Hints: ask for ketchup, wear a non-Disney t-shirt (i.e. Universal), ask where you can buy some chewing gum.
Finally, while following an itinerary on vacation may not sound like fun, having a plan of action it is a must. Use these top ten insider tips for visiting DisneyWorld to experience some magic that most guests don’t know about. Remember, restaurants and shows fill up quickly, so make reservations for your Must See items well in advance – up to six months ahead. You will be glad you did.
