Arriving at Walt Disney World Resort is the start of an unforgettable adventure. But before you dive into the excitement of the parks, it’s important to take a few steps to settle in and ensure a smooth start to your magical stay. Follow these 8 essential steps to make your arrival hassle-free and prepare for a magical experience!
1. Unpack and Settle In
After your journey, take some time to unpack and get organized. This helps make your room feel more like home and ensures you’re ready for your Disney adventure.
Tips for Unpacking:
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Maximize Storage: Use the drawers and closet space to store your belongings.
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Organize by Day: Lay out your outfits for each day of your stay.
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Secure Valuables: Place important documents like passports, tickets, and cash in the in-room safe.
2. Apply Sunscreen and Stay Hydrated
Florida’s sun can be intense, so it’s essential to protect your skin with sunscreen. Reapply frequently, especially if you’re spending the day outside at the parks or resort.
Hydration Tips:
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Carry a Reusable Water Bottle: Refill at water fountains throughout the parks.
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Take Breaks: Rest in shaded areas to avoid overheating.
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Monitor Children: Ensure kids drink plenty of water and take breaks from the sun.
Credit: Disney
3. Link Your MagicBand+ to a Credit Card
Link your MagicBand+ to your credit card for added convenience. This way, you can make purchases at the resort without needing to carry cash or cards.
How to Link:
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Online Check-In: Link your MagicBand+ to a credit card during online check-in.
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At the Front Desk: You can also link it in person at the front desk if you prefer.
4. Familiarize Yourself with Resort Amenities
Each Disney Resort offers unique amenities, so take a few minutes to explore and get familiar with what’s available. Knowing where everything is will help you make the most of your stay.
Resort Amenities to Explore:
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Pools and Recreation: Check out the resort’s pools and any scheduled activities.
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Dining Options: Review the resort’s dining options and make reservations if necessary.
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Transportation: Familiarize yourself with the transportation options to and from the parks.
Credit: Disney
5. Check the Resort’s Schedule for the Day
Each resort has a daily schedule of activities, character meet-and-greets, and entertainment. Make sure to grab a copy or check the My Disney Experience app to plan your day.
Activities to Look For:
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Character Meet-and-Greets: Meet your favorite Disney characters without leaving the resort.
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Evening Entertainment: Many resorts offer nightly activities like movie nights or campfires.
6. Make Lightning Lane Reservations
Maximize your time in the parks by purchasing Lightning Lane access, which lets you skip regular lines at select attractions. This helps you experience more attractions with less wait time.
Lightning Lane Options:
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Single Pass: Purchase access to individual attractions like Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
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Multi Pass: Access multiple attractions with one purchase.
Tips for Lightning Lane:
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Book Early: Popular attractions can sell out quickly, so make your reservations as soon as possible.
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Manage Reservations via the App: Use the My Disney Experience app to manage your Lightning Lane reservations.
7. Take a Walk Around the Resort
Before heading out to the parks, take a leisurely stroll around your resort. This helps you get familiar with the layout and discover all the resort has to offer.
What to Look For:
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Themed Areas: Explore the resort’s unique themed sections and hidden gems.
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Dining Locations: Find quick-service and table-service restaurants for future meals.
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Shops and Souvenirs: Browse for resort-specific merchandise.
8. Make Dinner Reservations for Special Dining Experiences
Popular Disney dining experiences book up quickly, so make sure to secure reservations as soon as possible. Whether you’re interested in character dining or a fine-dining experience, booking ahead ensures you’ll get a spot.
Notable Dining Experiences:
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Wish Makers Enchanted Dining at 1900 Park Fare: Experience a whimsical meal with character interactions in a charming setting.
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Character Dining: Explore other Disney favorites like Chef Mickey’s and The Crystal Palace for memorable meals with beloved Disney characters.
Credit: Disney
Bonus Tip: Download the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is a must-have tool for managing your Disney vacation. From dining reservations to ride wait times, this app will help you stay organized throughout your stay.
App Features:
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Dining Reservations: Book and modify dining reservations on the go.
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Mobile Ordering: Skip the line at select quick-service locations.
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Wait Times and Showtimes: Check real-time wait times for attractions and entertainment.
By following these 8 simple steps upon arrival, you’ll be set for a smooth and enjoyable Disney Resort experience. From unpacking to making Lightning Lane reservations, these small actions will help you make the most of your magical stay.
Plan ahead, stay hydrated, and enjoy everything Disney has to offer. Here’s to a magical vacation!
What’s Your Favorite Disney Dining Spot? We’d love to hear from you! What’s your favorite Disney resort restaurant or dining experience? Share your tips and recommendations with us in the comments below!
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