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Tips & Tricks for Taking a Teen to Walt Disney World

Heading to Walt Disney World with a teenager can be a different experience than traveling with younger kids. Teens have their own preferences, interests, and need a balance of independence and family time. We’ve gathered some essential tips and tricks to help you create a magical Disney trip with your teen, ensuring both fun and harmony. Here’s how to make the most of your Walt Disney World visit with a teen in tow.


1. Get Your Teen Involved in Planning

A group of smiling people in yellow shirts ride Journey to Atlantis at SeaWorld San Diego.
Credit: SeaWorld

Kickstart your Disney adventure by involving your teen in the planning process. Let them share their top must-do attractions, favorite foods to try, and any specific experiences that would make the trip special for them. They might surprise you with their preferences, which could include thrill rides, character meet-and-greets, or even certain dining spots. Giving them a voice in the planning will make them more excited and invested in the trip.

2. Show Sneak Peeks Through Videos

Prepping teens for the Disney magic can go a long way. Share YouTube videos of the rides, dining experiences, and park highlights to help them know what to expect. Ride-through videos, reviews, and Disney vlogs can give them a feel for what’s ahead and help them prepare for the sights and sounds of Disney, easing any feelings of uncertainty or overwhelm. 

3. Set Expectations in Advance

Walt Disney World is known for its fun but also its rules. Talk with your teen about the guidelines in the parks.  This can prevent any surprises or frustrations. Make sure they understand that lines can appear long due to crowd control and that they may need to wait, especially for popular attractions. Setting expectations early will help ensure a smoother day for everyone.

4. Equip Their Phones for Disney

Since teens are usually glued to their phones, make sure they have the right Disney tools at their fingertips. Download the My Disney Experience app and other helpful apps (like airline and weather apps) onto their phones so they can check ride wait times, restaurant menus, mobile ordering options, and bus arrival schedules. This gives them some independence and helps them navigate Disney like a pro.

5. Embrace Their Phone Use

Are Teenagers too Old for Disney
Credit: Disney Dining

While you might hope your teen will disconnect for a while, the reality is that their phones are their lifeline. Let them document the trip, stay in touch with friends, and capture fun photos along the way. Encourage them to take charge of the Disney apps mentioned, or even appoint them as the family photographer to keep them engaged without missing out on the magic.

6. Give Them Some Independence

Spending 24/7 with family can feel overwhelming, so allow your teen a little freedom. If they’re responsible enough, consider letting them relax at the hotel alone or grab a snack solo. It’s a small gesture that can go a long way in helping them reset. Trusting them to enjoy a bit of independence can make them more enthusiastic about family activities later.

7. Schedule Sleep-Ins and Late Nights

Teens are not exactly known for early mornings, so consider adding in some sleep-in days. Plan for later mornings where they can ease into the day, and enjoy park hopping in the cooler, less crowded evening hours. Disney nights are magical, with shorter lines and beautiful nighttime views of the parks.

8. Invest in a Reliable Portable Charger

With all the picture-taking, mobile orders, and app-checking, phone batteries drain quickly at Disney. Be sure your teen has a dependable portable charger that will last throughout the day. Having a fully charged phone means they can keep track of the schedule, take plenty of photos, and stay connected.

9. Skip the Matching Outfits (Or Go for Coordinated Looks)

While matching family T-shirts are a Disney tradition for many, teens might be a little less enthusiastic about it. Instead, opt for coordinating colors or let them choose their own Disney-inspired outfits. Your teen may enjoy the chance to express their unique style while still looking Disney-ready.

10. Consider Splitting Up Occasionally

If you’re traveling with younger children or other family members, give your teen some special one-on-one time with an adult. Take the chance to let them enjoy the bigger rides without having to worry about rider switch or managing younger kids. Breaking off from the group for a bit can make them feel valued and add a special memory to the trip.


Traveling with a teen can be a balancing act, but these tips will help you create a memorable Disney experience that everyone will enjoy. With a little planning and flexibility, your family can have a magical time at Walt Disney World—teens included!

 

Jennifer Retzlaff

My name is Jennifer Retzlaff and I became a lifelong Disney fan during my first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of my life. I live in Iowa with my husband and two kids who are growing up too quickly for my liking. I started introducing my love for Disney early to my family with a Disney honeymoon and then trips when our youngest of 18 months. Since then, our family has been to Walt Disney World over five times and we continue to plan and dream for the next… More »

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