Have you decided to take a trip to Walt Disney World? Congratulations! The excitement starts the minute that you start planning your vacation.

But where do you begin? Whether this is a first trip to Disney World or a repeat visit, it takes patience to research flights, transportation, hotels, dining, tickets, and more.  We know that you have more questions than answers right now. You’re probably asking yourself all of these questions: Should I fly or drive to Orlando? Which Disney resort fits my touring plans? How does Disney transportation work? Where should we have a character meal? Which admission tickets do we need?

Yes, this part of the process can be extremely overwhelming, so we’re here to walk you through the entire planning process.

We’re going to break down each step, while showing you how to plan a Disney World trip. Follow along and we’ll build the perfect vacation for your family.  Let’s get to it!

THE BASICS

First of all, Walt Disney World is absolutely huge!

Within the over 40 square miles of Disney property are four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom), two water parks (Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon and Disney’s Blizzard Beach), hotels, a shopping and dining district (Disney Springs), miniature golf courses, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, golf courses, and more!

What we want to mention right now is that your trip will be a lot more magical if you realize that you can’t see and do it all during one single vacation. Even repeat guests always find something new to do!

Go with the mindset to thoroughly enjoy what you do take part in; don’t worry about the things that you might be missing. Gather precious memories by soaking up priceless moments.

If you spend your time running night and day with the goal to accomplish as much as possible, you really miss out on the VACATION part of your Disney World visit.

Later, we’ll talk about making a list of MUST DO activities and leaving room for spontaneous fun!

So, when should you visit Walt Disney World?

BEST TIME TO VISIT DISNEY WORLD

Your family may have work, school, and other obligations to work around when organizing your Disney trip. And when planning your budget, it helps to see the least expensive times of the year to purchase admission tickets.

Try to choose the dates that best match your availability with the least expensive (least crowded!) days in Walt Disney World. Also, coordinate with any upcoming hotel discounts as well as weather concerns.

Don’t forget to pay attention to Disney World seasons and holidays when booking hotels. Value season is less crowded and cheaper; holidays are more crowded and costlier.

Next, let’s figure out where you should stay?!

What is the Best Time of Year to Go to Disney World?

RESORTS

There are a LOT of different Disney-owned hotels to stay at on Walt Disney World property. There are also some hotels that are technically on Walt Disney World property but are not owned by Disney, like the Four Seasons Orlando or the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. And there are hotels that are off of Walt Disney World property but very close by.

Want to stay at a Disney World hotel and wondering which Disney-owned hotel would be best? With a LOT of options, it can be overwhelming to figure out what the right accommodations are for your family. There are three classes of hotels owned by Disney ranging from the less expensive Value resorts all the way up to posh Deluxe resorts with all the amenities you could want.

Also, keep in mind that some benefits only apply to guests staying at select Disney World hotels. Check out our section below on Park Hours to learn more about the Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours benefits and how those might impact your decision about where to stay.

There are many reasons why you might want to stay at a Disney World-owned hotel — like the free transportation to the Disney parks (a HUGE perk for many guests), the service you get from the Cast Members, and the Disney theming.

Walt Disney World offers four Resort hotel levels: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas. Let’s take a closer look!

Value Resorts

These resorts have the cheapest rates of any Disney World hotels, so the rooms tend to be smaller and the amenities fewer. Still, it’s the least expensive option if you still want to stay on property and have access to all of the Disney World Resort hotel perks.

All-Star Resorts

Get ready for the STAR treatment at Disney’s All-Star Resorts: All-Star Sports, All-Star Music, and All-Star Movies!

You’ll be surrounded by colorful, whimsical, larger-than-life icons themed to your chosen Resort (Sports, Music, or Movies) in addition to reasonably priced rooms, huge food courts with plenty of options, gigantic pools, and much more.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Fours areas are meticulously themed to classic Disney and Pixar animated films. Family suites along with standard rooms, three pools (including the largest one at a Disney Resort!), a huge food court, and access to the Disney Skyliner are just a few of the features that make a stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort a truly memorable experience!

It’s a great hotel for families, particularly if you’re needing some more space and you’re willing to pay for it.

Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Do you want to be close to the action but still save some money in the process? Then you may want to consider Disney’s Pop Century Resort for your upcoming stay!

With buildings whimsically themed to various decades, reasonably priced rooms, enormous pools, access to the Disney Skyliner and much more, there are many reasons why Pop Century is a POP-ular choice for many guests!

Moderate

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a favorite for some and a less exciting option for others. This is a LARGE resort and getting around can be a loooong walk; some rooms are 15-20 minutes from the lobby area.

When it comes to moderate hotels, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort arguably has the best transportation options. Caribbean Beach has two Skyliner stations: the main hub and the Riviera station.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

If you’re wanting luxury but you’re also on a budget, then Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort might be the moderate resort to book!

Until recently, the hotel has been a sprawling, sleepy resort, with clusters of buildings representing three types of housing found in the Southwest and Mexico — casitas (city-dwelling), cabanas (beach dwelling), and ranchos (desert dwelling).

But the Gran Destino Tower adds a cosmopolitan feel to the resort, with a 545-room tower offering a mix of 495 rooms and 50 suites — plus a rooftop table service restaurant (Toledo — Tapas, Steak, & Seafood), a rooftop lounge (Dahlia Lounge), and a lobby bar that pulls double duty depending on the hour (Barcelona Lounge)!

The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Fort Wilderness is only a boat ride away from Magic Kingdom! And this moderate category resort is going to be the best option if you’re wanting some extra space without splurging for a suite.

The cabins might be more expensive than the other moderate resorts, but you’re going to get a lot more space and a lot more privacy for the price.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

And the guest favorite of the moderate resorts is Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter! Though this resort is in the moderate price range, most people consider the excellent theming, convenience, and much-loved dining to be worth the price.

This resort has boat access to Disney Springs via the peaceful Sassagoula River.

Year-round, Port Orleans French Quarter has a fun Mardi-Gras vibe. This resort is smaller than Riverside, so you’ll benefit from fewer people staying here and an easier time navigating the resort.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside Resort is great for those who want Disney theming to the max. Offering Louisiana-inspired charm, you can choose from rustic bayou or elegant mansion rooms.

There is boat transportation that’ll take you over to the shopping and dining district — Disney Springs.

Deluxe

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge’s Jambo House will give you a unique vacation experience, for sure.

If you want that deluxe feel, this resort is going to offer you some of the lowest prices in the Disney Deluxe resort category. Deluxe amenities, memorable Resort activities, a wide range of fantastic and flavorful dining, lovely and relaxing pools, and much more are all part of the Animal Kingdom Lodge experience.

However, what truly sets this Resort apart are the over 200 animals and birds that call the savannas of Animal Kingdom Lodge “home!”

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club has a sandy beachside where you can kick back in a cozy, outdoor lounge chair, relax on an outdoor swing, or take a catnap a hammock.

This is the closest resort to the EPCOT Skyliner station and like the other two EPCOT resort area hotels, you also have access to the Friendship Boats to get to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Do you love high-end nostalgia and hip-happenin’ nightlife shindigs? Then mosey on over to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn!

This EPCOT resort area is truly one of the most convenient locations at Walt Disney World. You have access to the Skyliner, and you can walk (or boat) to EPCOT AND Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Yes, the Contemporary is another high-priced deluxe option that isn’t the greatest option for travel parties on a budget, but if your heart is set on staying here, you can always check out rates for the Contemporary’s Garden Wing rooms.

Via a short walk or monorail ride, you’ll be able to easily hop on over to the Magic Kingdom from here. In fact, the monorail track extends straight through the middle of this resort!

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

The Grand Floridian is going to be the resort you wanna splurge your budget on if you’re celebrating something EXTRAVAGANT — whether that be a honeymoon, a wedding, a vow renewal, a babymoon, or an anniversary…this iconic resort is known for its romantic and high-class atmosphere.

You can get to Magic Kingdom by complimentary transportation via monorail or boat.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

You can expect tropical theming, great dining, and convenient transportation methods. The rooms at Polynesian Resort were recently reimagined to take on a Moana-inspired ambiance. The changes provide a balance of classy island vibes while also incorporating beloved Disney characters, so adults and kiddos alike can enjoy these new changes.

Aside from the fun dining options here, you’re also SUPER close to Magic Kingdom. Because of the Polynesian’s proximity to Disney’s iconic park, you’ll be able to watch the fireworks from several areas around the resort.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Over at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, you can feel like you’re in sync with nature while also keeping your resort stay comfy and upscale. You might remember that this resort tends to tie for cheapest of the deluxe hotels with Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Still pricey compared to the lower categories, but not as sky-high expensive as the other fancy hotels.

You’ll have bus transportation available — per usual — but you can take a boat directly over to Magic Kingdom.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort boasts a great location between Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. Guests can walk or boat to either park!

Home to Stormalong Bay — the ONLY Disney resort swimming area you could technically classify as a mini-waterpark. Stormalong Bay has a sand-bottom pool, a 230-foot water slide, a lazy river, and three whirlpool spas. If you’re staying at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, you’ll also have access to Stormalong Bay.

Deluxe Villas

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is also home to Disney Vacation Club Villas at Kidani Village. There are also some villas at Jambo House.

You can choose from Studios and one-, two-, and three- bedroom Villas which can sleep from 6 to 8 Adults. (Note that Studios offer kitchenettes, while the Villas offer kitchens.)

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Beach Club tends to be pricy but you’re getting a LOT of benefits at that price. Unless you are cooking meals in your villa, we also recommend Cape May Cafe’s character breakfast!

The villas are just a short walk from the main building via a covered walkway.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

You’re paying high prices here for location, location, location. Villa accommodations are a good choice for large families and/or those looking to cook some meals.

This deluxe resort gives you the best of three worlds — it’s fancy AND beachy AND vintage, all wrapped up into one.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Bay Lake Tower is home to the villas at Contemporary Resort.

Guests can choose from studios, or 1-3 bedroom villas.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

If you know you want to spend a lot of time at your resort to savor the amenities offered, this could be a good hotel option for you.

Grand Floridian also has several dining options available, including a AAA 5-Diamond restaurant, Victoria and Albert’s.

Disney’s Old Key West Resort

Out of all Deluxe Villas, Old Key West has the biggest rooms to offer, making them more comfortable for large families to share.

It’s also one of Disney’s more peaceful and relaxing resorts. If you’re looking for a resort that captures those tropical island vibes, then you might find that palm tree and steel drum atmosphere you’re looking for right here!

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

You’re getting bang for your buck, but it’s a lot of bucks.

Right now, the Polynesian has 380 Disney Vacation Club villas, including the Bora Bora Bungalows. And a new villa building is in progress with a projected opening date of late 2024.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

The European Riviera inspires the architectural design and decorative touches. Disney’s Riviera Resort is probably your best bet if you’re wanting to stay somewhere modern and luxurious. Yet, it’s a smaller and more intimate DVC deluxe resort.

The rooms are nice and sleek and give off those posh European vibes, but they’re way smaller than the other deluxe resort rooms and still cost just as much, if not more.

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is the best resort for those who want to spend a lot of time in Disney Springs. Guests can walk or boat to the shopping and dining district. The hotel features an 1800s upstate New York atmosphere when horse racing was all-the-rage.

The Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are a really unique and fun way to host a big group in Disney World! These villas are located in wooded areas, with room for up to 9 adults, including two queen beds, one queen-size sleeper sofa, one bunk bed, and one twin-size sleeper chair.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Take in the rustic beauty of the Pacific Northwest (right in the heart of Florida) by way of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge!

Wilderness Lodge is also home to Disney Vacation Club Villas with Copper Creek Villas & Cabins and Boulder Ridge Villas.

Every Disney World Hotel Ranked!

Non-Disney Owned Hotels at Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resorts and WDW Swan Reserve

They’re not owned by Disney, but guests at these hotels can take advantage of free transportation to and from the parks and Early Theme Park Entry.

All three of these hotels (the Swan Reserve, the Swan, and the Dolphin) get most of the same perks that Disney World hotels get. This includes the early reservation time for the pay-per-ride system.

Bang for your buck is a BIG perk at these hotels as the cost is MUCH cheaper than you’ll find at the Disney-owned Deluxe hotels.

Off-Property Hotels

But there are also some reasons why you might NOT want to stay in a Disney World hotel — like the cost savings or larger rooms. Another consideration to make if you plan to drive or rent a car from the airport is parking. Disney-owned resort guests get complimentary parking at the theme parks.

Should you stay on property or off property? Ultimately, it’ll depend on what’s best for your family.

Finally, before you book your trip, you’ll want to check and see if there are any special deals or discounts being offered on Disney World hotel stays. Sometimes, you may be able to score the hotel of your dreams for less through these deals. You could also look into renting points to stay at a Disney Vacation Club Villa and that could help you save BIG on some great spots.

How Much It Costs to Stay at a Disney-Owned Hotel Versus a Hotel Near Disney World

THEME PARKS

Let’s review the parks, then you should consider devising a touring plan based on the best days to visit each theme park. If possible, it’s best to plan your park days during the Monday-Friday timeframe to avoid crowds.

As a general rule, if schools are out, Disney World crowds will be more difficult to navigate.

Theme Park Admission

Disney World offers several different types of tickets, each with unique inclusions. Figuring out which ticket is right for your vacation can be complicated, so we’re exploring the various types of Disney World tickets so you can know all the options — and make the best decision — for your traveling group’s needs.

Standard Park Per Day Tickets

These tickets allow you to visit ONE of the four Disney World theme parks per day: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, or Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You can choose different parks for different days of your visit, but you are only able to go to one park each day.

However, ticket prices vary by date AND park. Under this new structure (which started December 8th, 2022), the required theme Park Pass Reservation to visit a park with ONLY a 1-Day, 1 Park-ticket is automatically made at the time of purchase. (Again, this is specific to 1-Day, 1 Park-tickets. Guests with any other type of ticket must still make the required theme Park Pass Reservations.)

Interested guests may find pricing for tickets on the Walt Disney World website. And remember, children ages 2 and under do NOT require a park ticket.

Click HERE to learn how to choose the right Disney World tickets for YOU.

Park Hopper

Would you like to visit MORE than one of the four major theme parks per day? Adding the Park Hopper benefit to your ticket will let you visit more than 1 park in a single day. Under the current Park Hopping rules, guests are able to visit one park, and then “hop” to any of the other 3 Disney World theme parks after 2PM (provided that capacity has not been reached).

PLEASE BE AWARE that prices for select add-ons like Park Hopper vary by date. Keep in mind that the Park Hopper option must be added for ALL days for which you have tickets.

Find your Guide to Park Hopping at Walt Disney World HERE!

Water Parks and Sports Option

The Water Parks and Sports ticket option allows you to visit ONE of the 4 Disney World theme parks per day (you can choose a different park for each day of your trip) AND you’ll get a certain number of visits to select other experiences depending on the length of your stay.

For example, a 4-day ticket allows 4 visits to these other experiences and a 5-day ticket allows 5 visits. 

Annual Pass

Guests who frequent Disney World on a more regular basis may want to consider a Walt Disney World Annual Pass.

Guests are able to choose from FOUR different Annual Pass options. You can find out more here.

Click here to find information on Walt Disney World Annual Passes. 

Florida Resident Ticket Options

Often, Disney World offers unique ticket options for Florida Residents.

Florida state residents are advised to visit the Walt Disney World website to select Theme Park Ticket options for Florida Residents.

Theme Park Pass Reservations

The Disney Park Pass Reservation System is an online tool that allows guests to make reservations to visit the four Walt Disney World theme parks.

Park Pass Reservations are currently available for booking through January 18, 2024, for Disney World Resort guests and regular Ticket holders. Annual Passholders may book reservations through their Annual Pass expiration date.

EXCEPTIONS to Park Pass Reservation Requirements

1-Day, 1-Park Ticket

*Disney has implemented a park-specific pricing structure for 1-day, 1-park tickets. Guests now purchase a 1-day, 1-park ticket for a specific park (i.e. a 1-day, 1-park ticket for Magic Kingdom, as opposed to just a generic — or non-park-specific — Disney World theme park 1-day, 1-park ticket). When you purchase that 1-day ticket for a specific date and theme park, a Park Pass reservation is now made AUTOMATICALLY at the time of purchase. Guests purchasing any other type of theme park ticket (such as a Park Hopper or 2 or more-day park ticket) still need to follow the procedures for making Park Pass Reservations outlined below.

Effective April 18, 2023: Disney World Annual Passholders — After 2 PM, with exceptions

Starting April 18, 2023, Annual Passholders will be able enter the parks after 2PM WITHOUT a Park Pass reservation. However, there are some exceptions: Passholders will still need to schedule reservations for Saturdays and Sundays in Magic Kingdom. If an Annual Passholder wants to go to Magic Kingdom on Saturdays or Sundays, they’ll need a Park Pass regardless of what time they want to visit. Keep in mind, Annual Passholder blockout dates will continue to apply, so you’ll want to take a close look at those when planning your visit.

⚠️Click HERE to see our Disney World Park Pass Reservation System FAQ⚠️

Park Hours

Wondering what the theme park hours are for your upcoming visit to Walt Disney World? If so, there’s something you’ll want to know: park hours for all four Walt Disney World theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom — are released just a few months in advance.

It’s important that you know those hours when you plan your trip so you can try to get the most out of every single day you have there.

Also, keep in mind that some guests get to spend a little extra time in the parks, extending those park hours just a bit more with Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours. If you’ll be staying at a resort with one or both of these perks, you’ll be able to factor in that extra time in the parks as part of your plans.

Additionally, even once posted, theme park hours are subject to change!

Click here to see our page with LOTS of park hours updates.

Parades and Fireworks

Be sure to still check the Disney World website to see what’s being offered during your trip! We couldn’t get through this post without mentioning two of the things that Disney is so famous for (even though they aren’t rides) — parades and fireworks! 

These are some of the quintessential Disney things you’ll likely want to set aside time to experience.

Park Maps

There are a lot of rides in Disney World, and it’s important to know what rides are in what park so you can best plan your days. You can find Disney World maps online or in the My Disney Experience app.

We think it’s a good idea for you and your family to look at these maps ahead of time and make a note of what rides are must-dos, which ones you’d like to try, and which ones you’d rather skip.

HOW TO BOOK YOUR DISNEY VACATION

Okay, so you’ve picked your hotel and you know what type of tickets you want to buy — so what do you do in terms of booking? Well, you can book your tickets and hotel room separately. Or you can book a package that includes both.

Often many discounts will require you to book a specific package, so check the fine print of any deals you’re eyeing. What booking strategy is best for you? You’ll have to price out the discounts on hotels, tickets, and combined packages to find out.

 Planning a Disney World vacation can be A LOT. Our recommendation? You might want to think about reaching out to a travel agent. We specifically recommend the awesome folks over at Small World Vacations! Oh, and did we mention that their services are TOTALLY FREE?! In fact, you could SAVE money working with a travel agent. We’ve scored some great deals this way.

Should you use a travel agent for your Disney World trip?

GETTING TO ORLANDO

TO/From Orlando

How will you get to Florida? If you are in the United States, your options are probably driving or flying. To decide how you’ll get to Florida, you’ll need to know how much time you have to travel. Other considerations are gas prices, cost of meals and hotels while on the road, and how many are in your traveling party. Most importantly, how far from Orlando, FL do you live? Let’s take a look at these popular travel options.

We totally understand flying if you live somewhere very far away, like in California or Canada. But, if you are within a reasonable road tripping distance, it can be a tough call between driving and flying.

Driving

Having your own car with you at Disney World also gives you a certain amount of freedom. You can be completely on your own schedule, not having to wait for Disney transportation or a rideshare service to get where you want to go. Plus, you may love taking long road trips with the fam and find that it’s much cheaper for you to drive than fly.

Sure, that price at the gas tank might make you wince, but hundreds of dollars on gas for a road trip might be better than thousands of dollars on flights!

Flying

It’s still true that flight prices fluctuate all the time, and some days are still better for finding low prices.

• A good general rule of thumb is to book your flight somewhere between 1 and 3 months before the flight date. Booking earlier or later could result in higher prices. If you do book early and then find a cheaper flight later on, see what your airline’s cancelation policy is. It might be worth it to cancel your flight and re-book the cheaper one. Because prices change so frequently, grabbing up those deals when you see them is key!
• Look for flights on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays for the cheapest airfare.
• If your travel plans are very flexible, remember that January and February are the cheapest months for flights.

Orlando International Airport is one of the largest in the United States, so it makes sense that there would be a wide variety of flight options. On average, the Orlando Airport sees 850 flights per day. Not only that, but MCO serves 135 destinations both domestically and internationally.

Complete Guide to Booking the CHEAPEST Flight to Disney World

To/From Airport To Resorts

Another thing you’ll need to think about is how you’re going to get from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to your hotel. Disney’s Magical Express was discontinued at the beginning of 2022, so now guests must find their own way to get between the two locations — and it’s going to cost you some $$$.

From MCO, you’re looking at a 24-mile or 30-minute drive on average. Not too shabby to get to the Most Magical Place on Earth.

But you have to cut across Orlando and traverse some pretty busy roads that are often slammed with traffic, so your trip might not always be that quick.

Step-by-Step Guide: How to get to Disney World from the Orlando Airport

Car Rental

Rental car companies currently available at Terminals A, B, and C, include Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, Payless, Sixt, and Thrifty.

Some of the rental car locations at the Orlando International Airport aren’t actually on site, so it could take you a while to get there from the airport, or to get from the drop off location to the airport. Make sure you know what the deal is ahead of time and give yourself extra time, so you don’t miss your flight!

Renting a car can definitely be a good option for you if you’re flying to Disney World. But, it has its negatives, too. If you want to visit a lot of other places besides what’s on Disney World property, then it could be worth it.

Rideshare

But, if you’re only going to use a car to go to and from the airport, you might be better off using a rideshare service.

If you’re planning on using a rideshare service to go to or from the Orlando Airport, we’d suggest downloading both the Uber and Lyft apps to your phone so you can compare costs and arrival times. We’ve been noticing some VERY big differences when it comes to price between Uber and Lyft, and you don’t want to end up paying more than you have to because you think you only have one option.

Shuttle Bus or Van

• Mears Connect: Mears Connect is essentially a Magical Express replacement service. It is run by Mears, the same folks that ran Magical Express for Disney. The service has two options — one that is a standard, shared service and another that is meant to be more “express,” though it is not private. Click here to learn all about Mears Connect.

• Sunshine Flyer: These buses are themed around “old-fashioned passenger cars and train engines” and help get you in the headspace for a special trip as soon as you leave the airport! Since its inception, this convenient option has remained a shared bus for both you and other guests heading to Disney World.
• However, if you would prefer something a little more exclusive, the Sunshine Flyer has a new service line! They have introduced a new private transportation service called the Sunshine Flyer Direct that will provide direct transport from Orlando International Airport to Walt Disney World resorts. Unlike the classic motorcoach-themed buses, these rides will vary and guests can choose from a sedan, luxury SUV or sprinter van. You will also be able to select a pickup time and your driver will handle your baggage for you, even meeting you at baggage claim to help assist. Swanky! Reservations for The Sunshine Flyer must be made at least 4 days ahead of your arrival.

Find out more about Mears Connect and The Sunshine Flyer!

Taxi

This can be a fast option when there, but can be expensive and you’ll need to consider your needs like car seats.

With this handy guide, you’ll be on your way to a Disney World vacation in no time at all!

Click here to see the BEST ways to get to Disney World now that the Magical Express is gone.

DINING

Walt Disney World has TONS of restaurants. We’re going to review the type of dining available, Mobile Order, and Advance Dining Reservations.

Quick Service

Quick-service spots are places where you generally order at the counter and then bring your food to a table yourself. You’ll also see it being called counter-service in some instances.

These are not spots where you are waited on, like you would be at a table-service restaurant — think of it as fast food! They’re typically more casual and less expensive.

BEST Value Fast Food Restaurants at Disney World for 2023

Mobile Order/Join Waitlist

We also need to talk about Mobile Order! Mobile Order is a way to place and pay for your order ahead of time at many quick-service restaurants around Disney World.

You do this through the My Disney Experience app and it can help you skip those long lines you might have to wait in to order food!

Table Service

Table Service at Walt Disney World means diners are seated for the meal and waited on by servers, and can be enjoyed at every park, most Disney World Resort hotels, and in Disney Springs.

There are formal and casual options, high-energy and relaxed options — and plenty in between. Some Table Service spots feature international cuisine (like Morimoto Asia and Sanaa), while others offer tasty comfort food or classic bbq (like Chef Art Smith’s Homecomin’ and 50’s Prime Time Cafe).

Signature Dining

Disney has a host of “signature” restaurants that definitely feel like a step above the regular table service meal. These restaurants serve some pretty pricey eats, but they’re often known for having some of the most spectacular food across Disney World.

There are several restaurants on Disney World property that have won awards and been recognized for outstanding and unique eats. Some of these places have even been recognized by the Michelin Guide.

Advance Dining Reservations

Reservations can (and should) be made for table service spots. At many popular spots, reservations essentially become required if you want to dine there. Right now, you can make dining reservations 60 days ahead of your Disney trip. Reservations can book up pretty quickly for some spots — particularly those popular locations.

When we say “fast” we mean “gone 60 days out” type deal for big spots. So, if you’re looking to eat at Be Our Guest Restaurant, a character meal, or other popular places, you’ll want to book those as quickly as you can!

Make/Find a Dining Reservation

To reserve by phone, call 407-WDW-DINE (3463), answer a few voice-activated questions, and you’ll be transferred to a dining agent who will book your meals for you.

You can also book online via the Disney World Website. Just enter your search specifics in the Disney search box, or use the Check Availability tool on any individual Table Service restaurant’s page.

Additionally, dining reservations can be made replicating the steps above on the My Disney Experience app on your smart device.

WDW TRANSPORTATION

If you’re staying at a Disney World-owned/operated hotel, one of the best perks is FREE transportation between hotels and the parks. Depending on the hotel you’re staying at, different transportation options will be available. Some hotels even give you the chance to WALK to the parks.

Buses

Disney buses are the one mode of transportation that you can find all over the Disney World property. Disney Resort guests will find wait times for all destinations posted at the hotel’s bus stop stations.

As a general rule, bus service from Disney Resort hotels to the theme parks begins 45 minutes prior to park opening and ends one hour after park close.

Find our COMPLETE GUIDE to taking Disney World Bus transportation here!

Skyliner

The Disney Skyliner became Disney World’s newest transportation system when it officially made its BIG debut in September 2019!

This gondola system connects EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios with four Disney Resorts: Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (which is also home to the Skyliner hub), Disney’s Rivera Resort, and Disney’s Pop Century and Art of Animation Resorts.

Click HERE to learn EVERYTHING you need to know about the Disney Skyliner!

Monorail

It’s your “Highway in the Sky”… the Walt Disney World Monorail!

The Transportation and Ticket Center — often referred to simply as the TTC — serves as the “hub” for the three Monorail loops (or beams).  The Resort Monorail brings guests to Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the Transportation and Ticket Center, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. The Express Monorail carries guests directly to and from the Transportation and Ticket Center and the Magic Kingdom. (Uniquely, the Express Monorail zooms through the inside of Disney’s Contemporary Resort!)

The EPCOT Monorail brings guests to and from the Transportation and Ticket Center and EPCOT.

Boats

Water Transportation offers some of the most scenic views of any Disney transportation option!

The Ferryboat provides an additional way for guests to get to and from the Magic Kingdom and the Transportation and Ticket Center.

You can also cruise from several Disney World Resort hotels on a Water Taxi to some theme parks or Disney Springs!

Minnie Vans

A Minnie Van is a vehicle (at present, the program is using the Chevy Traverse SUV for parties up to six or other Chevy-brand vans for parties with wheelchairs or ECVs) designed unmistakably to resemble Minnie Mouse!

Minnie Vans provide a direct and private ride from one location to another at Walt Disney World Resort! For transportation around Disney World Resort, each Minnie Van vehicle is able to accommodate up to 6 Guests and up to 2 complimentary child seats if needed.

Click HERE to find out EVERYTHING you want to know about Minnie Vans!

Ride Share/Taxis

Although Disney World has an excellent transportation system, sometimes you might need to book a rideshare, especially if you’re in a rush or need to travel quickly from one Disney World location to another.

If you’re waiting on Disney transportation and it’s just not arriving to pick you up fast enough, rideshare will get there quickly and you’ll be on your way a lot faster. These options are particularly appealing when you just can’t take that Florida heat another minute and need that air-conditioned ride ASAP, or after your 14th loop around World Showcase, when your legs just can’t hold you any longer!

10 Disney World Rideshare Tips We Learned the Hard Way

Parking

You can also drive to and from the parks. If you’re staying at a Disney Hotel, you get free parking. Otherwise, just keep in mind that there is a cost per day to park at Disney World’s theme parks.

If you hop to the other parks, you won’t need to pay again on the same day though — just keep that receipt! Also, parking is free at Disney Springs!

Car Locator

If you’re prone to losing your car in the parking lots (we’re guilty of this one all the time), you’ll want to check out the Car Locator feature on the My Disney Experience App!

Keep in mind that this feature works best when you have your Location Services, Bluetooth, and notifications enabled.

PHOTOS: The New Car Locator Service Is Now LIVE in the Disney World App

Car Care Center

Automobile repairs and roadside assistance can be utilized by calling 407-824-0976. Car rentals are also available from this onsite location.

For extensive repairs, an appointment can be made.

Electric Vehicle Charging Stations

In addition to the parking lots at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park and Disney Springs, ChargePoint stations are available at Disney’s Coronado Springs, Disney’s Riviera, and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

MY DISNEY EXPERIENCE

First, we highly recommend that you download the My Disney Experience app. You’ll be able to use this app to check park times, make Disney Genie+ ride selections (more on that in a second), make dining reservations, check the wait times for the rides, look at park maps, and SO MUCH MORE.

Compliment a Cast Member

One thing we really wanted to mention is that if you have a question or need assistance during your Disney World trip, don’t hesitate to ask a Cast Member for help. Cast Members are INCREDIBLE and do a fantastic job helping guests with their needs.

In fact, guests can give special, personalized recognition to Cast Members by entering their first name, hometown (or college), and date of interaction! Don’t worry, though; if you didn’t see the Cast Member’s name, you can still leave a compliment by describing the location!

Magicbands/MagicBand+/Magic Mobile

If you walk around Disney World, you’re sure to see people with colorful bands on their wrists that look like this. MagicBands can be extremely convenient. But they are not required if you choose not to use them.

MagicBands can do a whole bunch of stuff! If you set it up online, you can link your park tickets to your MagicBand. Then, all you’ll need to do is scan your band (rather than take your ticket out of your wallet or pocket) to get into the parks. They can also be used to open your Disney World hotel room door, charge purchases to your Disney World hotel room, link PhotoPass photos, and more! It’s a mega-powerful tool right on your wrist.

Click here to see our ULTIMATE GUIDE to MagicBands in Disney World!

There’s also a new version called the MagicBand+ that gives you the chance to interact with the parks like never before!

If you still want some of the benefits of a MagicBand without having to use one, you can utilize the MagicMobile service.

MagicMobile essentially transforms your phone into a MagicBand! With MagicMobile, you can link your tickets, create a virtual pass, and scan your ticket at the parks straight from your phone (no MagicBand needed).

MagicMobile is available now for Apple and Android devices.

Click here for your step-by-step guide to setting up your MagicMobile pass.

Genie/Genie+/Lightning Lanes

A free feature is incorporated into the My Disney Experience app called Disney Genie. Disney Genie is a service that is essentially meant to help you plan your perfect Disney day. You’re able to tell the Disney Genie what types of attractions or things you’re interested in, and Genie will create a customized itinerary for you that is aimed at maximizing your time in the parks.

You’re able to see forecasted wait times for your favorite rides, see personalized recommendations, and more.

Disney Genie+ is a PAID FastPass-like service. If you pay for this service, you’ll be able to see when the next available time is to use various rides’ Lightning Lanes (i.e. FastPass+ lanes). You will select the next available time to use the Lightning Lane for whatever ride you want, and when your time arrives, you can visit the ride and use the Lightning Lane (skipping the standby line).

Select, highly popular attractions (like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT) will NOT be listed on Genie+.

That means that even if you pay for Genie+ you will NOT be able to select a time for/use the Lightning Lane at those attractions. Instead, if you want to use the Lightning Lane for those attractions, you’ll have to pay for the attractions INDIVIDUALLY.

Guests will only be able to get a maximum of 2 Individual Attraction Selections per day.

Want to know more about Disney Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selection? Check out some of our other posts, linked below:

• Click here to learn about Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selection, including what attractions have been listed for each and more details
• Click here to see what Annual Passholders need to know about Disney Genie
• Click here to see how and why you’ll pay for individual rides in Disney Genie+ with Individual Attraction Selection
• Click here to see how Disney Genie+ is different from MaxPass
• Click here to see how being a hotel guest will benefit you with the Individual Attraction Selection service

PhotoPass/Memory Maker

During your trip, you’ll likely see Disney photographers taking other families’ photos. This is called PhotoPass. The photographers are scattered throughout the parks and will take your photos for FREE! So, don’t be afraid to say cheese and take those pictures! You can then link the photos to your account with your MagicBand or admission card (or sometimes your phone) so you can see them online later. Some photographers can even add in fun magical stuff to your photos, so be sure to ask!

If you want to download those photos you’ll either need an Annual Pass that includes free photo downloads, you’ll need to buy the Memory Maker service, or you can pay for each photo individually. Memory Maker is a service that you pay for that allows you to download all your PhotoPass photos.

Click here to see the steps you should take on My Disney Experience NOW before your upcoming Disney World trip.

PACKING LIST

As your travel date nears, you’re going to start wondering what you should pack. Don’t worry — we’ve got you covered there too! To help prevent any disasters on your upcoming vacation, take a look at our ULTIMATE Disney World packing list for 2023. For your convenience, we’ve sorted our list into a few different categories, like what you’ll need in terms of technology, staying cool in the parks, and being prepared for the weather.

We’ve also got a list of 12 essentials you NEED in your Disney World bag, and a video of the things even the pros forget to bring to Disney World.

Our goal is to help you have the most magical vacation possible. Check out our resources including posts and videos to provide helpful tips and information regarding many aspects of your trip.

DFB Tips, Hints, Lists, and Videos for Planning the BEST Disney World Vacation

 

And that’s our step-by-step instructions for planning your trip to Disney World! Don’t get caught up in all the little details. Remember that at the end of the day, it won’t matter if you hit every single attraction or ate every snack on your list. What will matter is whether you got to spend quality time with your family, soak in the magic, and create memories that will last a lifetime. We hope your first trip to Disney World is absolutely stress-free and memorable!

What tip helped you the most when planning your Disney World vacation? We want to hear from you!