The Free Disney World Perks You Didn’t Know You Could Get

Disney is one of the most magical—and expensive—vacation destinations in the world. While prospective guests should be ready to splurge on unforgettable experiences, getting something for free is always nice. Fortunately, Walt Disney World Resort offers a range of freebies that add extra magic to your trip without costing a dime.

From refreshing drinks to souvenir keepsakes, here’s a list of the best freebies you can enjoy around the Central Florida Disney parks. Be sure to take full advantage of these hidden gems during your next trip, and sprinkle your Disney Park vacation with a little extra magic!

1. Free Ice Water at Quick Service Dining Locations

Florida’s heat can be intense, and staying hydrated is essential. While bottled water in the Disney parks can be costly, there’s a simple and refreshing solution.

Free ice water is available at any Quick Service restaurant in Disney parks. All you have to do is ask, and you’ll receive a cup of ice water at no charge.

This is one of our favorite Disney freebies and an absolute must for guests spending a long day in the parks. It’s a great way to save money and stay hydrated!

2. Celebration Buttons – A Free Souvenir

A Disney vacation is often a time of celebration, whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or “first visit.” One of the best ways to share your excitement is with a celebration button.

These buttons are available at Guest Services desks throughout all Disney parks and come in various styles. You can get:

• Birthday buttons

• Anniversary buttons

• First Visit buttons

• Custom celebration buttons (with whatever occasion you’re celebrating)

This fun freebie also serves as a great keepsake to remember your special occasion.

3. Magical Transportation Rides

Most people use Disney’s transportation system just to get from their Disney Resort hotel to a theme park. However, there’s so much more to enjoy!

Disney transportation itself is an attraction worth exploring. You can experience exciting and unique modes of travel, like the Monorail and Disney Skyliner.

• Take a scenic Monorail loop to explore Disney Resort hotels like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

• Enjoy a relaxing ride on the Disney Skyliner, offering stunning aerial views as you travel between EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and several Disney Resort hotels.

• Boat rides around Bay Lake, especially during a fireworks show, add to the Walt Disney World Resort experience.

These transportation options offer more than just a way to get from point A to point B. They provide a fun, unique experience all on their own.

4. Resort-Hopping Adventures

If you’re looking for a relaxing way to explore more of Walt Disney World Resort without spending money, try resort-hopping. Disney’s Resort hotels are themed beautifully and often feature unique dining options and shopping opportunities.

Take a ride on the Monorail loop, stopping off at different resorts like:

• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (with its tropical theme)

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort (with its modern design)

• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (for a taste of Victorian elegance)

Explore the resorts, enjoy a snack, or just take in the atmosphere. Resort-hopping is a great way to add more fun to your trip without spending much.

5. The Wilderness Explorers Program at Disney’s Animal Kingdom

Inspired by Up (2009), the Wilderness Explorers program is a hidden gem at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park! This fun, interactive experience is designed for children but is enjoyable for guests of all ages.

Start by picking up a Wilderness Explorers handbook on Discovery Island, which is yours to keep. As you explore the park, look for Wilderness Explorers stations where you can complete activities and earn special sticker badges.

It’s a great way to engage with the park while learning more about the animals and the environment Disney works so hard to protect.

6. Free Art Classes

Did you know you can take free art classes at Walt Disney World Resort? These classes are a fantastic way to channel your inner artist and bring home a unique souvenir—your own drawing of a Disney character!

Art classes are offered at various locations:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park: Take the Wildlife Express Train to Rafiki’s Planet Watch for The Animation Experience at Conservation Station. Check the printed daily entertainment schedule or the My Disney Experience app for showtimes.

• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort: Complimentary art classes are typically offered once a week at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Check with the front desk for a schedule and arrive early; space is limited.

Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced artist, these classes provide a fun, creative break from the chaotic parks and let you take home something truly special.

7. Free Concerts at EPCOT

EPCOT isn’t just known for its incredible attractions and festivals—it also offers free concerts to guests! Throughout the year, you can enjoy live music performances from talented artists.

Many of these performances occur at the America Gardens Theatre in the World Showcase American Adventure Pavilion. EPCOT’s concerts often coincide with special events like the Festival of the Arts or the EPCOT International Food & Wine Festival, so be sure to check the entertainment schedule to plan your visit around one of these unforgettable performances.

8. Exploring Disney Springs and Disney’s Boardwalk

If you’re looking for a fun-filled day without needing a theme park ticket, be sure to check out Disney Springs and Disney’s Boardwalk. Both offer a variety of free activities that everyone in the family can enjoy:

• Enjoy street performances by talented musicians and dancers.

• Explore unique shops and boutiques.

• Relish in the variety of dining options available—some even offer free samples during special events.

The entertainment and atmosphere at both Disney Springs and Disney’s Boardwalk are perfect for a low-cost day of Disney magic.

9. Enjoy Nightly Entertainment Without a Park Ticket

Did you know you can experience Disney’s incredible nightly entertainment without ever setting foot in the parks? Fireworks shows at Magic Kingdom and EPCOT are visible from various locations outside the parks:

• Watch Magic Kingdom fireworks from the Transportation and Ticket Center or the beaches around Bay Lake. (Beaches may be closed to non-Disney Resort hotel guests on special event nights, like the Fourth of July.)

• Watch EPCOT’s fireworks from the bridge between Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

Additionally, you can catch the Electrical Water Pageant, a light parade that takes place nightly on the Seven Seas Lagoon. This parade can be seen from various locations around the Magic Kingdom resort area.

10. Birthday Rewards and Freebies

Disney loves celebrating birthdays, and if you’re visiting Walt Disney World during your birthday month, be sure to sign up for loyalty programs to claim your birthday rewards! These include free gifts and treats, such as:

• A free cupcake from Sprinkles at Disney Springs

• A free Starbucks drink from the Starbucks location in Disney Springs

• A free sandwich from the Earl of Sandwich in Disney Springs

• A $25 reward from the Landry’s Select Club (usable at Rainforest Café, Yak and Yeti, or T-Rex Café)

Don’t forget to wear your birthday button!

Enjoy the Freebies Around Walt Disney World Resort

Walt Disney World Resort offers plenty of unforgettable experiences that come at a cost, but these 10 freebies are the perfect way to add even more magic to your vacation without spending an extra dime. From staying hydrated with free ice water to catching a fantastic concert at EPCOT, there’s so much to enjoy without touching your wallet.

Next time you visit, make sure to add these freebies to your Walt Disney World Resort itinerary. They’ll bring even more pixie dust to the Most Magical Place on Earth!

Have you ever used any of these Disney World freebies? Which one is your favorite and why? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!