Experiences You Shouldn’t Skimp On at Walt Disney World
Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is exciting, but it often comes with the need to manage your budget carefully. While there are plenty of ways to save money on your Disney vacation, some experiences are worth the extra cost to make your visit truly magical. Here are eight must-have experiences you shouldn’t skimp on during your Walt Disney World adventure.
8. Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel
When visiting from out of town, finding the right place to stay is essential. While there are countless hotels and resorts in the Central Florida area, staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel offers unparalleled convenience and magic. Disney Resort guests enjoy complimentary transportation around Walt Disney World, so you can skip the hassle of driving.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (Credit: Disney)
From Value Resorts to Deluxe Resorts, there’s something for every budget. Deluxe Resorts, like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, provide luxurious accommodations and breathtaking theming, while Value Resorts offer affordability and fun. Staying on the property ensures you’re always immersed in the magic, even after you leave the parks.
7. Add a Park Hopper Option
If you want to experience as much as possible during your visit, the Park Hopper option is a worthwhile upgrade. This ticket enhancement allows you to visit multiple parks in one day. You can start your morning at Magic Kingdom and finish your evening watching Luminous: The Symphony of Us fireworks at EPCOT. Park hopping gives you the flexibility to maximize your time and create a customizable Disney experience.
6. Enjoy Fine Dining Experiences
Disney’s California Grill Restaurant
Walt Disney World is home to some exceptional dining options, making it a haven for foodies. Treat yourself to a meal at signature restaurants like Victoria & Albert’s, Yachtsman Steakhouse, California Grill, or Flying Fish. These fine dining locations offer world-class cuisine in beautifully themed settings. Be sure to make reservations well in advance to secure your spot. Even if you only indulge once during your trip, the experience is sure to be unforgettable.
5. Book Character Dining
Character dining is a quintessential Disney experience that combines great food with the chance to meet your favorite Disney characters. Whether you’re dining at Wish Makers Enchanted Dining or enjoying breakfast with Mickey and friends, these meals are filled with fun photo opportunities and magical interactions. Character dining is perfect for families and guarantees smiles all around.
4. Invest in Special Ticketed Events
Credit: Disney
Walt Disney World offers a variety of special ticketed events throughout the year, such as Disney After Hours and seasonal holiday parties. These events often feature limited-capacity access to popular attractions, unique entertainment, themed treats, and rare character meet-and-greets. While these tickets come at an extra cost, the exclusive experiences and shorter wait times make them worth every penny.
3. Bring Home Magical Souvenirs
Souvenirs are a big part of the Disney experience, and it’s hard to resist the charm of Mickey ears, spirit jerseys, and unique collectibles. Plan to leave room in your budget for some must-have items to commemorate your trip. Disney merchandise also makes great gifts for family and friends. Remember, the memories tied to these treasures will last a lifetime.
2. Purchase Memory Maker
Preserving memories from your Disney trip is easy with Memory Maker. This service allows you to download all the photos taken by Disney’s PhotoPass photographers during your visit, including on-ride photos and Magic Shots. The best part? Only one person in your group needs to purchase Memory Maker to share the benefits. With seamless integration into the My Disney Experience app, you’ll have access to stunning photos that capture your magical moments.
1. Explore Beyond the Parks
Central Florida has much more to offer beyond the Walt Disney World parks. Consider setting aside a day to explore the region’s other attractions. From the beautiful beaches on the Atlantic and Gulf coasts to the bustling entertainment options along International Drive, there’s plenty to see and do. Downtown Orlando also boasts cultural landmarks and local eateries that are well worth a visit. Adding an off-park day to your itinerary can make your trip even more memorable.
Final Thoughts
While it’s important to stick to a budget, certain experiences at Walt Disney World are worth the splurge to elevate your vacation. Staying at a Disney Resort, enjoying fine dining, experiencing character meals, and exploring Central Florida’s offerings can all add extra magic to your trip. By prioritizing these unforgettable moments, you’ll create memories to cherish for years to come.
