Disney World Guide

Growing up, Disney had always been a big part of my life. It was almost every other year that my family and I would make the trip to Disney World. This has always been my favorite place to travel because it brings back so many great memories.

Although Disney World is great, it can be a PAIN. From the long lines, insane amount of walking, and crying children everywhere, it would seem as though there is a surpassing number of cons. Fortunately, all these issues can be overcome! In this post, I will outline all the tricks I’ve learned throughout the years to avoid these issues, as well as suggestions on favorite hotels, restaurants, and experiences.

GET YOUR FAST PASSES ASAP

If you’re looking to ride any ride, you NEED a fast pass. Even if you think you can get away with beating the crowd early in the morning, you really can’t. Also, fast passes are not something you can get a day or two before your park day. Most popular attractions will sell out of their fast passes weeks before. Therefore, it is important to book fast passes 30 days in advance when they come out.

2. Try to Stay on Property

Staying on Disney property has a lot of perks. For one, you’re eligible to use Disney’s Magical Express. This ultimately, eliminates the stresses of waiting at the baggage claim and lugging your suitcases around. By staying on property, you have the opportunity to use Disney transportation to the parks and other locations. This will save you the money you would be spending on Ubers or renting a car. One of the biggest perks from staying on property is the ability to utilize extra magic hours. This allows you to go into the park either before opening or after the park closes.

3. Plan your Days

Disney World is BIG. Therefore, it is important to plan your day out to prevent feeling overwhelmed, stressed, or tired. My family has always stuck to the same regiment. In the morning, we go to one of the four parks, ride only the rides we have fast passes for, go back to the hotel and rest, and then go to either Epcot or Disney Springs for dinner.

4. Make Dinner Reservations in Advance

Dinner reservations fill up FAST. Therefore, it is helpful to make dinner reservations before your arrival. Disney has so many great restaurants so it is definitely worth the effort.

5. Staying in the Epcot Resort Area is the Way to Go

My family, for the most part, has always stayed in the Epcot area. This is beneficial for many reasons. For one, you have access to the water transportation system for two of the parks. I’ve always hated the buses, so the water taxis were always a nice alternative. Also, all the hotels are only a stroll away from the Boardwalk. The Boardwalk has a great bakery, ice cream and restaurants. The best time to visit the Boardwalk is at night when they have street performers and a nightlife scene. The best reason to the stay in this area is obviously, Epcot. Epcot is amazing for food, therefore, it’s great to be close enough to just walk over and visit one of the many countries for dinner. Epcot also has a firework show at night that is visible from almost all of the nearby resorts.

6. Get There Early for the Fireworks!

It gets REALLY crowded for the fireworks shows, so it’s important to get there early to reserve your spot. I recommend getting there around 45 minutes to an hour early prior the start of the show.

Top Restaurants in Disney World (in no specific order)