Walt Disney World Resort is a massive, magical destination, and whether you’re planning your first visit or you’re a seasoned park-goer, understanding the lingo can be a challenge. From abbreviations for attractions to special dining experiences, knowing what Disney terms mean will help you navigate your magical adventure.
In this guide, we’ve gathered the most common Disney abbreviations and explained them in simple, easy-to-understand language!
Disney Parks Abbreviations
Walt Disney World Resort features four unique theme parks, each with its own special atmosphere and experiences. Understanding the abbreviations for these parks can save you time when researching rides, shows, or services.
MK – Magic Kingdom
The heart and soul of Walt Disney World Resort, Magic Kingdom Park, is where you’ll find classic attractions like Space Mountain, Cinderella Castle, and Peter Pan’s Flight.
EPCOT – EPCOT
EPCOT is divided into four themed areas: World Celebration, World Discovery, World Showcase, and World Nature. The second Central Florida Disney park celebrates human innovation, culture, and the experiences that connect us all.
DHS / MGM – Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Themed around the movies, this park offers immersive experiences that place you right in the middle of your favorite films. Whether you’re battling the First Order or escaping a runaway train, excitement awaits at every turn. (MGM refers to the park’s original name: Disney-MGM Studios.)
DAK – Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
From the iconic Tree of Life to Pandora – The World of Avatar, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park immerses you in the world of nature and wildlife. This park blends adventure and conservation, showcasing Disney’s commitment to entertainment and environmental education.
Dining Abbreviations
Disney offers a variety of dining experiences, from Quick Service bites to Table Service character meals. Understanding the shorthand used in Disney dining reservations can help you plan your meals efficiently.
ADR – Advance Dining Reservation
Don’t miss your chance to dine at some of Disney’s most popular restaurants! Booking an ADR up to 60 days in advance ensures you can enjoy meals at venues like Be Our Guest or Space 220, especially during peak times. Pro tip: Book as early as possible for the best chances of securing a spot!
QS – Quick Service
A quicker dining option that doesn’t require a reservation. Popular spots include Connections Eatery and Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café. These locations are ideal for a fast, satisfying meal on the go!
TS – Table Service
Sit-down meals, often requiring an ADR. Indulge in a more leisurely dining experience at spots like Akershus or ‘Ohana, where you can savor dishes while enjoying the ambiance of the park.
Attractions and Entertainment Abbreviations
Disney parks are home to a wide array of attractions, shows, and experiences. Knowing these abbreviations can help you understand your itinerary and maximize your time in the parks.
LL – Lightning Lane
The Lightning Lane system replaces the former FastPass+ and Genie+ systems. This paid service lets you skip regular ride lines and spend more time enjoying the magic. Don’t forget to plan ahead for the most popular attractions!
TBA – Tiana’s Bayou Adventure
The reimagining of Splash Mountain into Tiana’s Bayou Adventure premiered at Magic Kingdom Park in 2024. This refreshed attraction brings the magic of The Princess and the Frog (2009) to life with vibrant colors, music, and storytelling.
BTMR – Big Thunder Mountain Railroad
A thrilling roller coaster ride set in the Wild West, located in Magic Kingdom. It’s a must-see for thrill-seekers, offering high-speed turns and breathtaking views of Frontierland.
Disney Resort and Transportation Abbreviations
Abbreviations come in handy when staying at a Disney Resort hotel or using Disney’s extensive transportation system.
DME – Disney’s Magical Express
DME was officially discontinued in 2022. The service previously provided free airport transportation to Walt Disney World Resort. Now, Disney recommends using third-party services like Mears Connect or Uber/Lyft for airport transfers.
DVC – Disney Vacation Club
Disney’s timeshare program, offering the ability to book accommodations at Deluxe Disney Resort hotels. DVC members enjoy exclusive perks, including discounted dining and resort stays.
Must-Know General Abbreviations
Here are a few more general abbreviations that will help you navigate the Walt Disney World Resort experience:
WDW – Walt Disney World
The main resort in Florida, where you’ll find four major theme parks and numerous other Disney experiences. It’s the ultimate destination for Disney lovers of all ages.
MDE – My Disney Experience
The app you’ll need for managing your park tickets, ADRs, Lightning Lane reservations, and more. Download it to stay organized and get the most out of your trip!
DCL – Disney Cruise Line
Cruising with Disney? DCL refers to Disney’s luxury cruise line offering fantastic adventures at sea. From themed dining to Broadway-style shows, a Disney Cruise is the perfect way to add some extra magic to your vacation.
Now You’re a Disney Expert!
Whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort for the first time or you’re a regular, knowing these abbreviations will help you plan your trip with ease. With the proper knowledge, you’ll be able to focus on the magic and fun Disney parks provide, instead of getting lost in a sea of acronyms.
Ready to plan your Disney adventure? Download the My Disney Experience app today and start mapping out your dream vacation at the Most Magical Place on Earth!
Did we miss any Disney abbreviations in our list? Let Disney Dining know in the comments!
