Walt Disney World is often referred to as one of the most magical vacation destinations on Earth. With its iconic theme parks, enchanting characters, and immersive experiences, it’s no wonder that millions of people flock to Disney World each year. However, a trip to Disney World can also be challenging, expensive, frustrating, scorchingly hot, and the epicenter of meltdowns. The version of Disney World you experience largely depends on your own planning and preparation. Luckily, there are easy, expert-tested tips that can help you save money, have fun, and ensure that your trip to Disney World is a magical success.
One of the best tips for visiting Disney World is to take advantage of secret menus at various restaurants. Many of Disney World’s favorite dining establishments have off-menu “secret items” that are not listed on their published menus. These secret menus can sometimes save you money compared to the regular menu items. For example, at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you can order Ohana noodles from Tambu Lounge next door instead of paying the hefty prix fixe price of an Ohana dinner. These secret menus offer a way to enjoy unique and delicious dishes without breaking the bank.
Another tip for a successful Disney World trip is to eat at lounges instead of full-service restaurants. While a leisurely meal at a traditional table-service restaurant can be enjoyable, it can also be pricey. Instead, opt for a relaxed lunch or dinner at one of Disney World’s many atmospheric lounges. These lounges offer a menu of lighter bites and creative cocktails at a fraction of the price of a full meal. Examples of Disney World’s best lounges include Nomad Lounge at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, and Sanaa Lounge at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas.
Creating your own souvenirs can also be a fun and cost-effective way to remember your Disney World trip. Disney World resorts offer free daily activities and paid activities that allow you to make your own souvenirs. For example, at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, you can make your own kukui nut lei. Additionally, several Disney World resorts have Community Halls where guests can watch movies, play games, and make crafts either for free or a small fee. These activities provide a unique and personal touch to your Disney World experience.
Snagging hard-to-get dining reservations can be a challenge at Disney World, but there are strategies to increase your chances. Disney World dining reservations are available for booking 60 days in advance, but guests staying on Disney World property can make reservations 60 days plus the length of their stay in advance. This extended booking window gives you a better chance of securing reservations at popular restaurants. Additionally, there are websites that specifically alert you when a hard-to-find reservation becomes available. Disney planning site Touring Plans offers a free alert service that notifies you when a reservation for your chosen date and time range opens up.
Saving money is always a priority when planning a Disney World trip. One way to save money is to take advantage of free ice water available at any quick-service location serving fountain drinks. Instead of purchasing bottled water, simply ask for a free cup of ice water. Additionally, choosing your travel dates carefully can also save you money. Disney World ticket prices vary by date and park, with the Magic Kingdom being the priciest and Disney’s Animal Kingdom being the least expensive. By selecting off-peak dates, you can save money on ticket prices.
There have been recent changes to the park reservation system at Disney World. As of January 9, 2024, theme park reservations are no longer required for guests with date-based tickets. This means that you can wake up and visit whichever park you’d like without having to make a reservation in advance. However, guests with annual passes or certain promotional tickets still need to make a theme park reservation to enter a Disney World park.
Another recent change allows guests with the Park Hopper option or annual passholders to visit multiple parks throughout the day without having to wait until 2 p.m. Previously, guests had to wait until 2 p.m. to visit a park other than the one they had made a reservation for. This change provides more flexibility and value for those who have the Park Hopper option.
Finally, using alternative payment options besides cash can save you money on your Disney World trip. Buying discounted Disney gift cards can shave off a percentage of the cost of your trip. Target offers a 5% discount when using a Target RedCard, and Sam’s Club and BJ’s offer a 3% to 4% discount on Disney gift cards. Additionally, some cash-back credit cards include wholesale warehouses in their quarterly cash-back categories, allowing you to earn bonus points on your Disney gift card purchases.
In conclusion, Walt Disney World is indeed one of the most magical vacation destinations on Earth, but it can also be challenging, expensive, and frustrating. However, by following these expert-tested tips, you can save money, have fun, and ensure that your trip to Disney World is a magical success. From secret menus and lounges to creating your own souvenirs and snagging hard-to-get dining reservations, these tips will help you navigate the challenges of Disney World and make the most of your visit.