Top 10 Ways to Surprise Your Kids With a Trip to Walt Disney World

Every Disney fan remembers the first time they heard the magical words: “We’re going to Walt Disney World!” Whether the announcement was simple or elaborate, the moment became a cherished memory for children and parents alike.

If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, why not take it up a notch and make the big reveal as magical as the vacation itself? Here are ten creative ways to surprise your kids and turn your trip announcement into a memorable event that will have them dreaming of Mickey Mouse and castles long before you arrive.

10. At the Airport

Surprising your kids at the airport can turn the start of your Disney adventure into a magical experience. If you’re a family that travels often, this method works especially well. Pack your bags in secret or while your kids are at school, summer camp, or visiting relatives.

Once you arrive at the airport, hand them a Disney-themed backpack filled with travel essentials like snacks, coloring books, and their favorite Disney plush toy. Add a note that reads, “Next stop: Walt Disney World!” Their excitement will soar as high as your plane to Orlando.

9. Hidden Messages in Unexpected Places

Sometimes the most magical surprises are hidden in plain sight. Get creative with where you place your announcement:

• Tape a note inside a cabinet or refrigerator door.
• Place a Disney-themed bookmark with the reveal in their favorite book.
• Hide a small Disney toy in a cereal box.
• Slip a note under their pillow before bedtime.

The joy of discovery will make the news even sweeter. Tailor the hiding spots to your children’s daily routines to ensure they find the surprise naturally.

8. Wrapped Gifts

Turn the announcement into a gift! Wrap Walt Disney World tickets, Lightning Lane passes, or themed MagicBands and present them during a birthday, holiday, or family celebration. Imagine their surprise when they open what they think is just another toy or gadget, only to find out they’re heading to the Most Magical Place on Earth.

For an extra touch, include a Mickey-shaped balloon or a Disney-themed card inside the box.

7. Disney-themed Food Fun

Use mealtime as a fun and interactive way to deliver the surprise. Prepare Mickey-shaped pancakes, cookies, or even pizzas. Place a message under the serving plate that says, “Pack your bags, we’re going to Walt Disney World!”

You can also order custom fortune cookies with the trip announcement tucked inside or create placemats with Disney designs that hint at the vacation.

6. Social Media Surprise

For families that love social media, announcing your trip online can be an exciting way to surprise your kids. Post a Disney-themed photo with a caption like, “The countdown to magic begins!” Or, create a short video montage of Disney moments leading up to a big reveal at the end.

If your kids have their own accounts, tag them in the post for an unforgettable surprise. You can even collaborate with friends or relatives to make the announcement extra special.

5. Matching T-Shirts

Custom family t-shirts are a popular way to celebrate a Walt Disney World trip. Sneak the shirts into your kids’ drawers or hand them out one morning, telling them it’s time to get dressed for a special day. The shirts can include phrases like “Off to See Mickey” or “Disney Bound.”

Be ready to explain the surprise if they don’t immediately catch on, especially if they’re still groggy from sleep. Their excitement will grow as the realization dawns!

4. Game Night Reveal

Turn family game night into a magical moment by incorporating clues about your Disney trip. For example:

• In Pictionary, draw Disney landmarks like Cinderella Castle or Spaceship Earth.
• Customize cards for Monopoly or Clue with Disney-themed surprises.
• Use Scrabble tiles to spell out “We’re Going to Disney!” (Don’t worry—it’s okay to cheat for this one!)

Choose a game your family loves and brainstorm ways to weave your Disney plans into the fun.

3. Puzzle Fun

For puzzle enthusiasts, a Disney-themed jigsaw puzzle is a perfect way to reveal your vacation plans. Choose a puzzle that features iconic Disney imagery or create a custom puzzle that spells out the surprise when completed. Once the puzzle is finished, announce, “This is where we’re going!”

You can find customizable puzzles online or make one yourself with photos or artwork.

2. Personalized Messages

Bring the magic to life with a personalized announcement. While Walt Disney World doesn’t officially offer trip announcements, you can get creative:

• Ask a friend to mimic a Disney character’s voice and record a video.
• Hire a voice actor through platforms like Fiverr to deliver the news.
• Purchase personalized invitations from Disney’s online store and mail them to your kids.

You can also create a custom video using clips from past Disney trips or favorite Disney movies.

1. Scavenger Hunt Adventure

Scavenger hunts are a classic way to make any announcement unforgettable. Create a series of clues that lead your kids around the house or even the neighborhood. Each clue can feature Disney-themed riddles or trivia, building excitement as they solve each puzzle.

For an epic finale, place the final clue in a suitcase or backpack packed with vacation essentials. The joy and excitement when they realize they’re heading to Walt Disney World will be priceless.

Create Magical Memories Before the Magic Begins

Surprising your kids with a Walt Disney World trip is just the beginning of an unforgettable adventure. By putting some creativity into the announcement, you can set the tone for a magical vacation they’ll never forget.

Do you have your own magical way of revealing a Disney trip? Share your ideas in the comments below!