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Top 3 Mistakes to Steer Clear of as a Guest in 2024

Disney guests outside cinderella castle
Credit: Disney

A Walt Disney World trip should be full of magical memories. Unfortunately, you can make big mistakes that significantly impact your vacation experience if you aren’t prepared.

We have three major mistakes you will want to avoid when heading to Walt Disney World in 2024.

Rock n Roller Coaster

Credit: Disney

Not Looking at Closures

Walt Disney himself said that the parks will never be complete. Because of that dream, Disney is constantly updating, changing, and bringing in new attractions and experiences for guests. This means that sometimes your favorite ride is closed.

Related: Disney World Confirms 7 Attractions Will Close in 2024

Before you book your next Walt Disney World trip, be aware of what will be closed in 2024. There are some significant closures as 2024 begins. Work on Tiana’s Bayou Adventure continues in Magic Kingdom. Rock n’ Roller Coaster in Disney’s Hollywood Studios is again facing an extended closure that currently doesn’t have an opening date.

Typhoon Lagoon, as does Kali River Rapids in Disney’s Animal Kingdom, remains closed. As you make your travel plans, look into what closures are happening throughout the Walt Disney World Resort property. It is also essential to look at what Disney Resorts will update. You don’t want to show up only to find the pool closed.

By being aware of what is closed ahead of time, you can plan accordingly and set reasonable expectations.

disney parks expansion

Credit: Disney/ Canva

Not Checking Park Hours

Another major mistake that can significantly impact your Walt Disney World vacation is park hours. Disney is constantly adjusting these as they get a better feel for crowds.

Use the My Disney Experience app to ensure you are current on park hours. During the holiday season, special events can close parks early. Events such as Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party have Magic Kingdom closing around 6 p.m. on select nights for regular park guests. If you aren’t aware of this, it can significantly cut your park time.

Check those park hours often so you don’t miss out on time in the parks during your vacation.

nighttime, magic kingdom in the rain, reflections in the puddles

Credit: Brett Kiger, Flickr

Forgetting it Rains

Don’t forget that weather does happen in Walt Disney World. No matter when you visit, make sure you bring rain gear. Rain jackets, ponchos, or umbrellas can allow you to enjoy the parks even during rain.

We also recommend bringing extra shoes. There is nothing worse than being sucked in wet shoes when walking around the parks. Bring an extra pair of tennis shoes so your feet can still be happy the next day in dry shoes if you get stuck in a downpour.

Don’t think just because the weather app tells you there is no rain in the forecast, it won’t rain on your trip. Rain storms pop up suddenly at Walt Disney World. If you come prepared, a little rain won’t upset your experience.

A lot of planning goes into a Walt Disney World vacation. If you can avoid these three mistakes while planning, you will set yourself up for a successful and magical Walt Disney World vacation.

 

 

 

 

 

About 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 trip. I love the magic that Disney brings to people through the theme parks, cruises, adventures and movies they create. As a teacher, I try to bring that magic into my classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” I recently reached a dream of mine as I joined Magic Vacation Planner as a personal travel advisor. With this team, I can now help others plan magical vacations. As a passionate writer, I also have my own blog at magicalvacationsbyjen which is also where you can follow me on instagram for trip reviews along with tips and tricks for your next magical vacation.