For those planning their perfect Disney World vacation, there is much to consider. These 5 Things Can Make A Difference During A Disney Vacation. Be sure to keep in mind these 5 points when planning your Disney vacation.
1. Fastpass & Advanced Dining Reservations
Prior to arriving for your Disney vacation, be prepared with your Fastpass selections and Advanced Dining reservations (ADR’s). Why wait when you have a chance to skip the line? Having your Fastpass & ADR’s ready to go, means a more relaxing and stress free Disney vacation.
- Fastpass – Guests staying on-site can book at 60 days out from arrival date at 7am EST (+ up to 10 days after). Non-Disney Resort guests can book at 30 days out, one day at a time, 7am EST. Have a plan of your top picks and be ready early on Fastpass selection day. Hard to get Fastpasses include: Slinky Dog Dash (Hollywood Studios), Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Magic Kingdom), Avatar Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom) and Frozen Ever After (Epcot). The Fastpass system is free to use and definitely worth doing.
- Advanced Dining Reservations – Guests staying on or off-site can book Advanced Dining Reservations at 180 days out from arrival date (+ up to 10 days after). Reservations are recommended, here are 7 must book dining reservations.
2. Arrive For Rope Drop At The Parks
Arriving early, at park opening is called Rope Drop in Disney lingo. To make the most out of your day, I highly recommend arriving at rope drop to the your park of choice. For the picture perfect Disney vacation (walking with low crowds, weather is not too hot yet and more), arrive in the morning prior to the afternoon crowds. Have a plan for the first attraction you want to head to and enjoy little to no wait. Guests will be able to see a Welcome Show at Magic Kingdom too, at Cinderella’s Stage many Characters appear to welcome guests for the day. Learn how to make Magic Kingdom by Rope Drop. Furthermore, did you know about the semi-secret entrance to Animal Kingdom?!
3. Plan A Non-Park Day
Your days at Disney parks will be go-go-go mode. Schedule a non-park day to relax, especially for guests staying at a Disney World Resort. Each Disney World resort has its own theming and main pool with added Disney touches. Plan a day just to relax by the pool, children will enjoy a simple pool day just as much. Learn the 20 Best Pools at Disney World. Furthermore, take time to explore your resort such as with these 15 Fun & Free Things To Do At Disney World Resorts.
4. Choosing A Disney Resort
How important is the size of your resort room? For instance, a Value room at Pop Century is 260 sq. ft. versus a room at the Grand Floridian at 403 sq. ft. Room sizes and resort amenities will vary. Disney World has 3 general catagories of resorts: Value, Moderate & Deluxe. If having an on-site sit-down restaurant is important to your vacation, consider a Moderate Resort. If your children love waterslides, these are available at the main pools of Moderate and up Resorts. For guests just needing a place to sleep and rest, a Value resort is still a magical option. Another thing to consider when choosing is location, for instance, if you love Epcot choose a Resort in the Epcot area. Choosing the right Resort for you can make a big difference in your vacation. I recommend staying On-Site for added benefits. However, here is information if you choose to stay off-site.
5. Use A Travel Agent
The use of a Travel Agent comes at no cost to you, this may surprise some people! However, it is truly a no cost added benefit. A travel agent will help as much or as little as you wish. You can still be in control of your whole vacation if you choose. Here are 6 reasons a Travel agent is worth it! I personally love the peace of mind knowing someone is there to help if needed. Furthermore, learn how a Travel Agent saved one readers vacation. Our friends at Destinations in Florida can help you plan your perfect Disney vacation.
Make sure you consider these 5 Things Can Make A Difference during your planning!
Furthermore, Consider the Saving For Disney Course to get started in planning and budgeting.
(Thanks, Sara)
Learn more tips and tricks for your next Walt Disney World vacation. Destinations in Florida can also help you add tips and tricks to your next vacation.