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. Our Disney World vacation planner will help you step-by-step to plan a magical vacation for 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. Like all the Best Disney Travel Planners we too offer free services when you book with us.
Planning a trip to Disney World is not like planning other trips – this Disney World vacation planner will guide you
Planning a vacation is time-consuming, especially a Disney vacation. If you are a first-time guest, it can be confusing. Questions like “What is the best hotel in Disney for my family,” “How many days should I visit the Magic Kingdom,” or “Do I need to make advance dining reservations?” will all be answered in this Disney travel guide. Even if you have visited before, Disney World is constantly evolving and changing. To make the most of your vacation, you will need to be on top of the latest news, trends, and promotions.
Planning a trip to Disney World is complicated and can be overwhelming at times.
What are Magic Bands, what are Extra Magic Hours, what is My Disney Experience and Genie+, how do I book Lightning Lane passes? These are just a few of the things you need to know before booking a Disney vacation. This guide will help you understand all the details that goes into planning a trip to Disney World. We break it all down for you and show you how to do it in the following 10 steps.
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. Without an understanding of the parks and the general lay of the land, it can seem very confusing and overwhelming.
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. Fantasmic Travels is your best choice when it comes to selecting a Disney Travel Planner. You can visit us at https://fantasmictravels.com. We can not only plan your Disney vacation, but we can help you have the magical Disney vacation you have always dreamed of, regardless of your budget.
Disney vacation planning, step by step
To learn more about planning a trip to Disney World worthy of a VIP, we’ve put together this “How To” of 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 Disney World visitor.
With this basic information, you will be on your way to saving money, reducing stress, and vacationing like a Disney pro.
For more information about all the other things there are to do in Walt Disney World Resort beside the parks check out:
To learn more about planning a deluxe Disney World vacation, read:
- Hallmarks of a Luxury Vacation
Regardless of your budget, you can have a VIP experience. A Disney World Vacation Planner can help guide you, and there is no additional cost to book with them.
To learn more about saving money on your food purchases while in Disney World, read:
Lets Get Started
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 and 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
Before we dive into the steps, a few words about timing. A lot of planning goes into a typical Disney vacation. The earlier in advance you plan, the more likely you will be to get the accommodations and activities you want most. There are some important dates for making reservations for dining, Lightning Lane, and other activities. It’s important to be aware of them, and that’s why our Disney travel guide can help you get started.
How to plan a Disney World vacation – a comprehensive Disney travel guide for your perfect trip
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
Step 10: Book Dining, Lightning Lane 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. Fantasmic Travels 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.
Other than transportation between home and Florida, your resort and park tickets are going to be the biggest parts of your budget. Disney also offers a dining plan so that you can prepay for your meals. It is a great way to turn your trip into an all-inclusive vacation and be sure you are staying on budget. It can save you money too.
How much does it cost to go to Disney World?
That is the number one question people as when planning a trip to Disney World. There are many factors that go into that number. The best answer is: Contact Us and get a free custom quote.
But, to give you a rough idea, let’s assume you are a family of 4 (2 adults and 2 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, park tickets, and a dining plan.
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 Vacation Package | Moderate Vacation Package | Deluxe Vacation Package |
|---|---|---|
| Value Disney resort | Moderate Disney resort | Deluxe Disney resort |
| 4-day base ticket | 5-day Park Hopper ticket | 6-day Park Hopper Plus ticket |
| Quick Service Dining | Disney Mixed Quick/Reservation Dining |
Deluxe Disney Reservation and Character Dining |
| Cost: $4000 – $4700 | Cost: $5000 – $6500 | Cost: $7000 – $9000 |
These are just example 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. 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 resorts and dining options available for your Disney World vacation, read:
Promotions and special offers – Your guide to the best deals
During their slower seasons, Disney World offers several promotions to entice guests to visit. They often offer discounts for Florida residents, Annual Pass holders, and Disney Visa cardholders. Disney also offers military discounts to eligible service members.
“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 they offer discounts, but they typically announced about 2 seasons in advance. For example, summer promotions are often announced in the winter, fall announced in the spring, etc.
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. As Travel Agents Specializing in Disney Getaways, Fantasmic Travels stay up to date on all the current promotions and can add them to your reservation even after booking. Call Us for a free, no-obligation price quote.
Regardless of your budget, you can have a VIP experience. A Disney Travel Planner can help guide you, and there is no additional cost to book with them.
STEP 2:
Decide When to Go to Disney World
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 usually 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
- The first week in December
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 4th of July
- The week between Christmas and New Years
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 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
- Mid-March through May: Epcot Flower & Garden Festival
- Late August through Halloween: Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party
- September through mid-November: Epcot Food & Wine Festival: September – November
- 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 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 just 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:
- When to Visit Disney World
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. There is a lot to see and do in Disney World. 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 and 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 what time your flights are, or if you are driving, what time you get on the road, you will need to add time accordingly.
For example, if your flight arrives at 10 AM, it will take at least an hour before you will arrive at your resort. You can check-in and, if your room is not ready, the hotel will hold your bags so you can go out and have fun. But you will have already missed a few hours of park time. You may want to do some other fun things that day. Then you can make it an early night so you can get an early start and be rested for a busy day in the park
In that scenario, with just doing 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 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 at the pool or do some of the 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 have to feel that you 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. Considering golfing, horseback riding, or fishing. Or, after several days of walking around the parks, treat yourself to a spa treatment.
To learn more about more 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. It’s 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 with 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 on 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.
And 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 own private island, Castaway Cay.
Get Free Onboard Credit when booking your cruise with Fantasmic Travels. 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 is not as common and not necessarily less expensive than flying.
Drive
If driving, be aware that Disney resorts charge an overnight parking fee. The fee ranges between $20-30 per night, depending on which resort you are staying at. If you have paid for parking at the resort, you will not be required to pay a parking fee at the theme parks.
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 flight prices, it’s a good idea to compare prices at sites like Kayak, Expedia, or Google. However, when you are ready to purchase we recommend going directly to that airline’s site. If you need to change or cancel, it’s easier to do it directly with them than having to go through a travel agent or a third-party website.
Tips for getting best deal on flights
Here are some additional tips for booking your flight to Walt Disney World:
- 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 charting a private plane for your vacation? Families as small as 4-6 can arrive in the ultimate style. Contact Fantasmic Travels for more information.
Getting around Disney World once you are there
Disney provides complimentary motor coach transportation to those guests who have booked a Disney hotel. Magical Express will transport guests from the Orlando airport to their Disney hotel, and back at the end of their trip.
Guests utilizing Magical Express will be mailed special luggage tags prior to departure. When you drop your bags at your home airport, the next time you will see them is at your hotel. Disney will transport your bags for you, which frees you up to have a more relaxing start to your vacation
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 in the airport. Many resorts, including all of Disney’s, charge an overnight parking fee.
Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
A private luxury vehicle can be arranged for your transportation to and from the airport. Or, to start your vacation in Disney style, take a ride in a MinnieVan! (That’s MinnieVan, not minivan).
A MinnieVan is a specially decorated vehicle that look like Minnie Mouse and is exclusive to Disney World Resort. Reservations can be made via the Lyft app or through your Disney travel agent.
STEP 5:
Decide What Disney World Hotel is best for you
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. You can choose to stay at an official Disney World resort, a non-Disney owned resort within Disney World property, or an off-property resort. There are pros and cons to all of the options. Let’s look at the advantages/disadvantages of each type of resort hotel.
If you need more help, the travel agents at Fantasmic Travels have stayed at every Disney-owned resort, and room category, as well as several others off-site 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 free 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 free Magic Bands, Extra Magic Hours, complimentary transportation, complimentary package delivery to your room, a 60-day booking window, and you’re eligible to purchase the dining plan.
Disney resorts and classified into 3 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 over there 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 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 comprise 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. Room 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.
Water Park & Sports Option
The Water Park and Sports Option allow 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.
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. 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.
A Park Hopper Plus ticket is the same as a Park Hopper but also gives you extra days to enjoy the other Disney 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 less expensive per day it is per day. For example, the starting price for a 4-day, one park per day ticket will cost approximately $410 (plus tax). A 5-day, one park per day ticket will cost approximately $440. That is a whole extra day for only $30 more! And if you make it a 6-day ticket, the price would be about $450. That is only $10 more for a whole extra Disney day!
Disney also has several special ticketed events such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in various After-hours parties. These parties require a separate ticket and they’re 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 in Disney resort. That is when your dining booking window opens.
To learn more about Disney theme park tickets and Genie+, read:
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 to itself. You will find an eclectic mix of global flavors, ethnic cuisine, unique treats, sweet indulgences, healthy options, and even, fining-dining experiences both around Disney World and inside the parks.
You will find a variety of restaurant options from quick-service, counter-style meals, all-you-care-to-eat buffets, and casual eateries, and even five-star dining gourmet experiences. With so many types of cuisines there 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 towards the entire family. There are a few that slant towards adult diners but do welcome well-behaved children.
All table service restaurants take reservations up to 60 days in advance. Some extremely popular restaurants will fill up that early. It’s important to plan in advance to try and get Advanced dining reservations at those the most popular 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 about how to get the best value from the dining plan and if 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 fully 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 like us can help. Fantasmic Travels is the best choice for agencies. They truly are 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, make advanced dining reservations, and book your fast passes when the time comes.
STEP 9:
Plan Your Itinerary
Let the fun begin!
Now that your trip is booked it’s time to start planning all the fun things you want to do while you’re in Disney World. Having a plan will help you make the most of your time in the parks.
When planning a trip to Disney World, many people over schedule their days. Having a schedule in Disney World works best for efficiency and keep your vacation on track, but it still is vacation after all. Leave a little room to stop and smell the roses. (You can find them at Epcot’s rose garden between Future World and World Showacase.)
There are so many things to do in Disney besides just going to theme parks. Some are even free. Learn what’s available so you can transform your Disney trip into a Disney vacation.
Daily Disney World Plan
Start with which parks you want to go to and which days to visit. Click HERE to go to Disney’s website for park hours. That may help you decide which park to visit on which days.
Certain parts may close early if they’re having a special ticketed event that evening such as an After-Hours party. You will also want to check which Parks is open for Extra Magic Hours. (Reminder that Extra Magic Hours are only available to guests staying at a Disney resort hotel).
If you do not have a Park Hopper ticket you will want to consider both of those facts before deciding what day of your trip is best to visit a particular park.
Another factor that often influences which day you visit which park can be advanced reservation availability. If there is a special restaurant you want to dine at, and you can only get a reservation on a certain day, that may become the driving factor.
For an overview of the 4 main Walt Disney World theme parks, read:
Advance Dining Reservations
Once you know which park you will be visiting and then you can think about the type of dining experiences you would like to have.
There are plenty of grab-and-go and quick service meal options in the parks. There’re also some fabulous full-service restaurants. Taking a break to enjoy a nice meal is a great way to relax and refresh from a full day of touring.
You can choose a restaurant that features character meet and greets. That is a great way to get to see Disney characters without having to wait in another line.
All full-service restaurants in Disney accept advance dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. You do not need to be a Disney resort guest or be on the dining plan to make reservations.
Some of the most popular restaurants in Disney, especially those with characters, fill up very far in advance. The earlier you plan the better chance you have of getting a reservation at your desired date and time.
Advanced dining reservations are made via your My Disney Experience account.
To learn more about full-service restaurants in Disney, including menus, read:
Rides, Attractions and Genie+
If you’re visiting Disney World for four days or less, you’ll likely spend one day exploring each of Disney’s four theme parks.
To make the most of each park day, check out each park’s map. Learn what rides and attractions you will find there and make a must-do list. From those, select the top three that you would like to get Genie+ for.
There are some rides and attractions that are extremely popular. Genie+ for those sell out as quickly as they become available. Even if those rides are not in your list of top 3 must-dos, you may consider getting a Genie+ for those simply to minimize your wait time.
For recommendations for the best rides and attractions for the whole family, read:
- Genie+ Tips and Strategies
- Best Disney Rides and Attractions for Small Children
Special Activities and Enhancements
Don’t overlook some of the special activities and experiences available when planning a trip to Disney World. There are many very popular magical enhancements you may want to include in your Disney World vacation plan. For example the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will transform any little girl into her favorite princess.
Another example of a special activity would be a Dessert Party. There are special dessert buffets in the theme park that also give you a reserved viewing area for the fireworks show. You could also view the fireworks from a boat out on Bay Lake on a Fireworks Cruise. It makes for a very special evening to remember.
All these activities should be booked in advance as many of them will fill up as the date approaches. Dessert Party reservations can be made through your My Disney Experience account under the dining section.
Do Disney like a VIP
Fast passes are a great way to minimize wait times for many rides and attractions. However, Disney offers several upgrades that will truly have you sailing through the park-like a VIP.
The most popular is the Private VIP Tour. You and up to 9 of your friends and family can have a Disney Cast Member as your private guide. The cast member will take you through Disney World Parks for the day. You will get front of the line in access to most of the attractions, some behind-the-scene looks, and learn lots of fun facts about Disney World. This tour carries a hefty price tag but many people feel that the experience was well worth more than they paid.
Disney offers a few semi-private tours such as The Ultimate Day of Thrills and The Ultimate Night of Adventure. In those tours, you are with a larger group of people and go on a predetermined set of rides. Lead by a Disney Cast Member, you still get to go to the front of the lines on those attractions. Those tours are priced per person and can be a cost-effective alternative to a private VIP tour.
Besides tours that take you on popular rides and attractions, Disney offers a large number of other special experiences including the Taste of the Magic Kingdom VIP Tour, Wild Africa Trek, and Behind the Seeds walking tour where you get to explore the greenhouses in The Land pavilion at Epcot. These are just a few of the many activities Disney offers to amp-up your vacation.
To learn more about some of the special insider experiences offered by Disney, read:
- Disney VIP Tours
See Private VIP Tour, and Taste of Magic Kingdome VIP Tour, for a review of those tours and more information about what to expect.
More to do around the world
Not all the extra activities in Disney World are expensive. There are quite a few free and low-cost activities that you can participate in other than just visiting the theme parks. To start with, spend the day, or at least an afternoon, relaxing at your resort’s swimming pool.
Is your resort on a lake? If so, take a boat ride. Even if your resort is not on the lake, you are welcome to visit the other resorts where you can take a ride.
Sporting activities are abundant across Disney World. You can find tennis, basketball, and even archery over at the Fort Wilderness Resort.
Disney has three fabulous mini-golf courses they’re open later into the evening or headed over to Disney Springs for some bowling. While at Disney Springs be sure to catch some of the live bands playing while you shop for some great souvenirs.
To discover all the things you can do in Disney World in addition to visiting the theme parks, read:
- Fun Things to Do In Disney World
- Things to do Check-In and Check-Out Day
- Tours and Experiences
STEP 10:
Book Dining, Genie+ and Other Vacation Experiences
Once you have decided on an itinerary and all the things you’d like to see and do while at Disney, be sure to make reservations for those things that require it.
Disney Dining Travel Help
Advanced dining reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance. Reservations are strongly encouraged for all of your table-service restaurant meals. You can make your dining reservations beginning at 6 AM EST through your My Disney Experience account or at 7 AM by calling 407-WDW-DINE.
If you are not able to get the reservation at the restaurant you would like, keep checking back. Many people change their plans and will cancel reservations as the date gets closer.
If your plans change you can cancel your reservations at least 24 hours in advance for most locations. Some specialty restaurants require 48 hours advance notice. Be sure to cancel. If you don’t you will be charged a no-show penalty.
Genie+
Disney gives you 3 free Genie+ for each day you visit a park.
If you are staying at the Disney resort hotel, you will be able to make all of your fast pass reservations 60 days prior to your check-in date. You will be able to make those selections for your entire vacation.
Reservations are made through your My Disney Experience account starting at 7 AM Eastern time.
Reservations for other activities tours and special experiences typically can be made 180 days in advance. You can make those online at Disney’s website or with the help of a Disney travel planner.
Learn more about the benefits of booking with a travel planner. They can help with your reservations and keeping you on track. Read:
For the best dining and Genie+ selections, be sure to make your reservations as soon as your booking window opens. The most popular restaurants and attractions will book up very quickly.
Book Special Experiences
There is an endless assortment of activities that can greatly enhance your Disney vacation including relaxation, behind the scenes tours, sports, and other recreation. An experienced Disney travel guide can be an excellent resource to help you find and plan the best experiences for you and your family.
Not all things require reservations but some such as VIP tours, spa treatments, bass fishing excursions, and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique princess makeovers must be booked well in advance. You can begin booking those activities 60 days in advance.
To discover all the fun and exciting things you can do in Disney World to enhance your vacations, read VIP Tours and Fun things to do in Disney
Advanced planning will help ensure you get to do all the things you want to during your Disney vacation, but not everything requires reservations.
Planning on the fly can also be fun. You just need to know what is available.
Final Step: Pack Your Bags and Go!
Mears Connect and Magic Bands
After you book your flights, be sure to sign up on the Mears Connect Website . They will ask for your Ride Details. These included selecting whether a round trip or one-way trip was required, as well as: drop-off location, Guests in party, number of bags and airline details, including flight number, arrival date, and time information to make your reservation.
About 3 or 4 weeks prior to your check-in date, Disney will send you luggage tags for your bags. Affix those tags to your luggage before checking those bags at your home airport. When you arrive in Orlando pick up your bags at baggage claim and head over to the Mears Connect welcome desk in the airport.
It’s very convenient. Be sure to take anything important with you in your carry-on bag including your magic bands. You will need them to access your room and for entrance to any theme parks, you plan to visit that day.
As a Disney is no longer offering complimentary Magic Bands, but you are welcome to purchase them. If you order them in advance (through your My Disney Experience account) they can be personalize with your name. Your Magic Bands will be waiting for you at your hotel upon checkin.
They continue to work for years to come. You can even reuse them on a future trip.
Packing List – Your Guide to the best preparation for Disney Travel
Be sure to check the weather prior to packing. Depending on the time of year the weather can fluctuate.
We’ve put a packing list together for you so you can be sure not to forget some needed items. Print this list and check items off as you pack. We have also included a few extra recommended items you may not think of to bring such as:
- Umbrella or rain poncho
- Comfortable shoes
- A second pair of comfortable shoes (in case the first get soaked)
- Sunscreen
- USB photo recharger
- A backpack for the parks
To learn more, read Best Disney Park Backpack Supplies for more information about what to bring with you to the parks.
Be sure to download our Packing list so you don’t forget to bring important items.
Don’t overpack.
All Walt Disney World Resort hotels have self-service laundry facilities in the hotel. They also offer dry cleaning and valet laundry services.
All park restaurants welcome casually dressed guests. However, some signature restaurants require guests to dress in resort casual or resort dress wear. Jackets are required in Victoria and Alberts.
Souvenirs
You may want to consider purchasing some souvenirs before your trip and bring them along with you. Things like Mickey Ears, trading pins, an autograph book, or even matching T-shirts. Besides being less expensive, they will be ready to use as soon as arrive.
Remember to save enough room in your suitcase for any souvenirs you purchased at Disney. You want to be sure there’s room to get them home. Disney will also be happy to ship them home for you. Just inquire at the shop when you purchase them.
Memory Maker
If you have purchased the Memory Maker Photo pass package, take advantage of it. Let the cast members take photos of you and your whole crew as much as you like. You can view your photos on your My Disney Experience account. There may even be some surprises.
When you get back home, be sure to download them. You have 30 days to your unlimited downloads.
Get the Memory Maker. In the grand scheme, it’s a small expense to capture all your cherished vacation memories. You can also save money by purchasing it at least 3 days in advance of your check-in.
Wrap Up
We hope this article helps you make sense of the confusing process of planning a trip to Disney World.
Don’t forget: The best, and often least expensive, way to plan the ultimate Disney Vacation is to put your trip in the hands of a professional Disney World vacation planner. Consider contacting us at Fantasmic Travels. our services to book your trip are free and we’ll help you create the vacation of a lifetime. Visit us at http://fantasmictravels.com!
Thanks for reading and we hope you have a magical Walt Disney World vacation!
Deciding where to eat in Disney World can be one of hardest decision to make when planning your trip. There are over 200 places to get food, and over 90 table service restaurants—over 30 of them are inside the theme parks.
Some of the restaurants not only have good food, some also have a very fun atmosphere, unique décor, or a great location for viewing fireworks. And many of them offer the opportunity to meet your favorite Disney characters.
In this guide we are going to give an overview of many of the questions asked about Dining at a Disney World table-service restaurant. Plus, we will provide links to menus of all the table service restaurants in Disney World so that you can start deciding where you want to dine on your next trip. Since many restaurants book up early, you will want to start planning as far in advance as possible.