Disney Lists

10 Insider Secrets Every Walt Disney World Pro Swears By

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World takes more than just booking a hotel and buying park tickets. For Disney fans who have been many times, knowing the tricks of the parks can save you time, money, and stress. It can also make your trip even more magical.

Here are 10 tips that Disney pros swear by. Whether itโ€™s your first trip or your 50th, these ideas will help you enjoy your Disney experience even more.

A crowded Disney World Main Street, U.S.A. at a theme park with a grand, fairy-tale castle at the end. The street is lined with elaborately decorated buildings and adorned with festive pumpkins and autumnal decorations. The sky is overcast. People of all ages are walking and taking photos.
Credit: Nicholas Fuentes, Unsplash

10. Stay Hydrated Without Spending a Fortune

Paying several dollars for bottled water can get expensive fast. But thereโ€™s an easy way to stay hydrated without overspending.

Quick-service restaurants at Disney parks offer free cups of filtered water. Just ask at the counter, and a cast member will gladly help you out. If youโ€™re bringing a reusable water bottle, you can also refill it at fountains or water stations throughout the parks. The water is refreshing and tastes much better than typical tap water.

Some savvy visitors also bring hydration packs or collapsible water bottles that fit easily in a backpack. These are especially helpful during warmer months when youโ€™re walking miles around the parks. Staying hydrated not only keeps you energized but helps prevent overheating, making your day much more enjoyable.

9. Hit the Parks Early for Maximum Fun

Getting to the parks early is one of the best ways to make the most of your day. Thereโ€™s something special about walking into Magic Kingdom as the sun rises when everything feels fresh and ready for adventure.

A joyful family dining in a themed restaurant is visited by a costumed character, dressed in a bright green outfit and a hat. The children, laughing and smiling, interact with the character while enjoying their meal. The atmosphere is cheerful and lively.
Credit: Disney

Early hours mean cooler weather, smaller crowds, and shorter lines. If rides like Avatar Flight of Passage or Mickey & Minnieโ€™s Runaway Railway are on your must-do list, head there first to avoid the long waits that build up later.

Disney pros often recommend taking advantage of Early Theme Park Entry, a perk available to guests staying at Disney Resort hotels. This allows you to enter select parks 30 minutes before the general public, giving you a head start on popular attractions. Pairing this with a well-thought-out plan can make a huge difference in your day.

8. Stay Late for Shorter Lines

If youโ€™re not an early riser, staying late is another great option to experience popular rides with less waiting. Magic Kingdom, for instance, often clears out after the fireworks show, leaving shorter lines for many attractions.

Even if a line is still long, you can jump in just before the park closes. As long as youโ€™re in line by closing time, youโ€™ll get to ride, even if the wait takes you past the parkโ€™s official closing hour.

A young girl with curly hair, wearing sparkly mouse ears, smiles while holding a glowing object. The background is softly lit with pink and red lights, capturing the enchanting atmosphere of Disney After Hours at Magic Kingdom.
Credit: Disney

During extended evening hours, available for Deluxe Resort guests, youโ€™ll find the parks even quieter. This is an excellent time to enjoy attractions like Space Mountain or Peter Panโ€™s Flight without long waits. Walking through the parks at night also provides a unique atmosphere, with dazzling lights and a peaceful vibe thatโ€™s hard to match.

7. Opt for the Second Showing of Nighttime Spectacles

Disneyโ€™s nighttime shows, like Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios, often have two performances. The first show is usually packed, and youโ€™ll have to arrive very early for a good spot. But the second show is much less crowded, making it easier to find a great seat.

Mickey Mouse performs during Fantasmic at Disneyland Park
Credit: Disney

Waiting for a later performance is a smart way to enjoy the same amazing show with much less hassle. While youโ€™re waiting, consider enjoying quieter parts of the park or grabbing a snack. Some guests love to visit gift shops or take photos during this time, as areas near popular attractions tend to be less crowded.

6. Order Kids Meals for Lighter Dining Options

Sometimes, you might not feel like eating a full meal or want to save money. If thatโ€™s the case, youโ€™re in luckโ€”adults can order from the kidsโ€™ menu at quick-service restaurants.

These meals are smaller but often come with a drink and side, making them both budget-friendly and satisfying. Itโ€™s a perfect option for a light lunch or snack while youโ€™re on the go.

A group of six people of various ages enjoying a meal together at a restaurant. The kids are wearing Mickey Mouse ears, and everyone looks happy and engaged in conversation. The table is full of food, including pizza, burgers, and colorful drinks.
Credit: Disney

Disney dining is also highly customizable. If youโ€™re craving something smaller but not listed as a kidsโ€™ meal, simply ask the Cast Member about substitutions. Many restaurants are happy to accommodate dietary preferences or smaller portions, ensuring you enjoy exactly what you want.

5. Use PhotoPass Photographers for Free Pictures

Many guests assume PhotoPass photographers charge to take your picture, but thatโ€™s not true. These photographers are happy to take pictures with your phone or camera for free.

If you want to buy professional photos later, thatโ€™s an option, but youโ€™re under no obligation. Using PhotoPass photographers ensures youโ€™ll have great family photos without paying extra.

disney photopass photographer with camera and family on vacation at disney world
Credit: Disney

Disney pros also recommend keeping an eye out for Magic Shots. These are special photos where Disney characters or animations are digitally added. Theyโ€™re included with the Memory Maker package, but even if youโ€™re not buying photos, itโ€™s fun to see whatโ€™s possible.

4. Experiencing Attractions for Guests of All Ages

Some people think Disney is only for kids, but experienced fans know thatโ€™s far from the truth. Whether itโ€™s a romantic dinner at California Grill or exploring the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival, Disney offers plenty of experiences for adults.

There are thrilling rides, fine dining, unique tours, and amazing entertainment for everyone to enjoy. No matter your age, thereโ€™s always magic waiting for you at Walt Disney World.

A family of four, including two children wearing Mickey Mouse ears, enjoys a meal outdoors with Cinderella's Castle in the background at a theme park. They are smiling and appear to be having a good time, with Minnie Mouse plush toys visible on the table.
Credit: Disney

Special events, like after-hours parties and seasonal festivals, also offer unique experiences for older guests. Adults can enjoy sophisticated cocktails, live music, and exclusive merchandise, proving that Disney magic truly knows no age limit.

3. Purchase Pins for Trading Before Your Trip

Pin trading is a fun Disney tradition, but buying pins in the parks can get expensive. Instead, purchase official Disney pins in bulk online before your trip. Sites like eBay offer bundles of pins at much lower prices than youโ€™ll find in the parks.

Just make sure theyโ€™re authentic Disney pins, as Cast Members will only trade for official ones. If youโ€™re new to pin trading, research tips and strategies before your visit. Many Disney fans recommend looking for rare or themed collections, as these are highly sought after. Bringing a lanyard to hold your pins also makes trading easy and accessible throughout the day.

A grand, whimsical castle with blue-tiled spires and golden domes stands tall against a bright blue sky with scattered clouds. The central tower is adorned with a clock, intricate decorations, and a flag at the very top fluttering in the breezeโ€”reminiscent of magical Disney adventures celebrated by fans wearing pronoun pins.
Credit: Brian McGowan on Unsplash

2. Know Which Attractions Deserve Lightning Lane Reservations

Lightning Lane is an awesome way to skip the line for popular rides, but knowing where to use it is key.

Rides like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tianaโ€™s Bayou Adventure, which replaced Splash Mountain, are perfect for Lightning Lane reservations since theyโ€™re in high demand.

For guests with park-hopping tickets, prioritize Lightning Lane for morning attractions in your first park. Then, once your first three reservations are used, book attractions at your next park. This strategy ensures you maximize your time across multiple locations.

1. Choose the Best Time to Visit

The time of year you visit can make a huge difference. Many Disney fans recommend falling for moderate crowds and fun events like Mickeyโ€™s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party.

Mickey and Minnie wear their Halloween costumes and pose in front of the Haunted Mansion for Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party
Credit: Disney

However, the best time to visit depends on your schedule and what you want to experience. Crowd calendars and event schedules can help you pick the perfect time to go.

Winter months, especially January and February, tend to have lower crowds but cooler weather. Spring brings flower festivals and mild temperatures, while summer offers longer hours but higher crowds. Understanding these seasonal differences will help you plan the trip thatโ€™s perfect for you.

Bonus Tips for Disney Enthusiasts

  • Save Time with Mobile Order: Use the My Disney Experience app to order food ahead of time and skip the lines.
  • Plan Transportation Wisely: Disneyโ€™s transportation options are convenient but can take time. Be sure to budget extra time for buses, monorails, or boats.
  • Pack Essentials: Always bring sunscreen, portable chargers, and comfortable shoes to keep yourself prepared and comfortable.
  • Take Breaks: Donโ€™t be afraid to step back and relax. Whether itโ€™s enjoying a bench on Main Street or visiting a resort for lunch, breaks can help you recharge and make your trip more enjoyable.

By using these pro tips, youโ€™ll enjoy a smoother, more magical Disney vacation. No matter how often you visit, thereโ€™s always something new to explore at Walt Disney World. Happy planning!

Whatโ€™s your best Disney tip? Share your ideas in the comments below!

Eva Miller

Eva was born and raised in the beautiful state of Oregon but has since relocated and lives in New York City. Since she was young, Eva has loved to perform in musicals, especially Disney ones! Through performing, Disneyโ€™s music became the soundtrack of her childhood. Today, Eva loves to write about all the exciting happenings for the Walt Disney Company. In her free time, Eva loves to travel, spend time in nature, and go to Broadway shows. Her favorite Disney movie is 'Lilo and Stitch,' and her favorite Park is Disney's Animal Kingdom.

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