Many families enjoy visiting Walt Disney World, but it can be an intimidating vacation. There are lots of hotels, four gigantic theme parks, two water parks, and the Disney Springs entertainment complex, so it’s nearly impossible to see everything on one vacation. Here are eight time-saving tips for families at Walt Disney World.
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Research First
It can be very difficult to just show up at Walt Disney World without making extensive plans first. Researching your vacation in advance is essential. I’d recommend researching the different parks and attractions (with your kids if they are a little older) and then making a list of must-dos.
Arrive at the Park Opening
If you have younger kids, you probably already wake up early. But even if you don’t, I recommend waking up early and getting to the park at “rope drop” (which is when the parks open to guests). That means well before the stated park opening hour because you can go through security and scan your tickets before the official opening time. By arriving early, you can often ride a few popular rides with limited lines.
Stay at a Participating Hotel to Enjoy Early Admission
While guests can arrive at the standard park opening, you can also arrive even earlier if you can take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry. Guests of the Disney resort hotels, as well as some participating Good Neighbor Hotels, can enter the parks 30 minutes earlier than the official opening. Although not all attractions are open during this time, you’ll still be able to ride some attractions before the crowds arrive.
Purchase Lightning Lane Multi-Pass
Several years ago, Disney World eliminated the free FastPass system. The replacement, Lightning Lane Multi-Pass, is offered for an additional fee. If saving time is essential to you, I recommend purchasing the Lightning Lane Multi-Pass for your vacation.
Use Mobile Ordering
During meal times, quick-service restaurants can be busy, with long lines to order. You can skip those lines by utilizing mobile ordering. Download the My Disney Experience App and place your order right on the app. You can pick up your order at the designated window.
Make Dining Reservations
If you want to eat at a table service restaurant, you’ll want to make reservations in advance, as early as possible. Character dining locations are especially popular. Currently, dining reservations at Walt Disney World table service restaurants can be made 60 days in advance.
Prioritize Attractions In Advance
To save time, you’ll want to make a list of attractions that you want to experience. Making a plan is essential to saving time, and if you have older kids, you’ll want to include them in the planning.
Use the Free Disney Genie Tool
Walt Disney World offers a complimentary planning tool, which is available on the app. The Disney Genie (not to be confused with the old Genie+ service) is a way to get Disney’s recommendations for when to experience your must-visit attractions. It updates with real-time data, and can be very helpful.
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