Planning a Disney World vacation can feel overwhelming, especially if it’s your first time or you haven’t been in years. With over 20 on-property resorts, different types of tickets, and add-ons such as dining plans and lightning lanes, it’s hard to know where to start. Let’s break down some of those selections to get you started on a seamless planning experience!
Decide When to Visit
Disney World is magical year-round, but picking the right time can significantly enhance your trip. Consider visiting during off-peak seasons like mid-January, early May, September, or early December to avoid large crowds and sometimes enjoy lower prices. Special events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival may influence your decision. That said, the best time to visit will be the time that best fits your family. With the right amount of preparation and planning, a Disney trip can succeed at any time of the year!
Set Your Budget
Before planning specifics, establish a realistic budget—factor in tickets, accommodations, dining, transportation, and souvenirs. Booking early or during promotional offers can help you save significantly. One of the most significant benefits to booking early is locking in the current rate, you will not be subject to any price increases on package components ( lodging and tickets), BUT you are still eligible to add any promotions that come out later, provided your package/resort qualifies.
Choose Your Resort
Staying on Disney property offers convenience, perks like early park entry, and immersive theming. Resorts range from budget-friendly Value Resorts (e.g., Pop Century), moderately priced Moderate Resorts (e.g., Caribbean Beach), to luxurious Deluxe Resorts (e.g., Disney’s Polynesian Village). Choose a resort based on your budget, location preferences, and amenities.
Tickets
Disney World requires tickets to be admitted into each of the theme parks. Decide whether you’ll visit one park per day or add a Park Hopper option to move between parks. Do you want to see one of Disney’s Water Parks during your visit? This will also require a separate ticket, or can be an add-on to theme park tickets. Think you will just visit a water park once during your stay? Well, if you are staying in a Walt Disney World resort hotel in 2025, you are entitled to a FREE visit to a water park on check in day!
Plan Your Park Days
To get the most out of your visit, create a simple itinerary:
- Magic Kingdom is perfect for classic Disney attractions and characters.
- EPCOT offers international cuisine and unique experiences.
- Hollywood Studios features popular thrill rides and Star Wars experiences.
- Animal Kingdom combines nature, wildlife, and immersive attractions
- Plan rest days or shorter days to relax and recharge
Dining at Disney
Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs) open 60 days before your arrival. Popular spots like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Chef Mickey’s, or O’hana fill up fast, so booking early is crucial. For flexibility, Disney offers numerous quick-service locations that don’t require reservations.
Understanding Disney Genie, Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Lightning Lane Single Pass
Disney Genie is a free tool that helps you navigate your day. Lightning Lane Multi & Single Passes are a paid upgrade offering faster access through Lightning Lanes, minimizing wait times for attractions. Research these options to decide if they’re beneficial for your trip.
Tips for Families with Young Kids
Disney is magical but can be tiring for young children. Take breaks, utilize stroller rentals, and Rider Switch if your child doesn’t meet height requirements. To avoid disappointment and park meltdowns, look into height requirements for attractions before you even arrive to the Walt Disney World property. All height requirements are listed on The My Disney Experience app ( another helpful tool to familiarize yourself with before your vacation begins). Baby Care Centers at each park are ideal for quiet breaks, feeding, or diaper changes.
Consider working with a Travel Advisor that specializes in Disney
Disney-specialized travel agents (like me!) can simplify planning, secure dining reservations, offer personalized itineraries, and provide valuable insider tips. In many cases, this help comes at no additional cost to you as Disney pays a commission to advisors directly from your package cost. Not using one is not receiving a valuable service you have paid for!
Final Thoughts
Planning your Disney vacation doesn’t need to be complicated. Follow these steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating magical memories that last a lifetime!
Ready to start planning? Contact me today for a complimentary Disney vacation consultation!
Magic of the Mouse 