Hey there, fellow Disney-loving parents! If you're thinking about taking your kids to Disney World, you're in for a real treat. There's nothing quite like watching your little ones' faces light up as they see their favorite characters come to life. As a mom who just got back from a magical experience with my 6 and 3-year-old, I've got plenty of Disney World tips for kids that I'm excited to share with you!
Ten years ago, my husband and I visited Disney World as a couple, and the magic of that trip stayed with us. Now, with kids in tow, we returned to the magical world. We stayed in Florida for 16 days and spent 8 park days at Disney World. Though it was a very different experience, it was still memorable and fun.
Whether you're a seasoned Disney visitor or a first-timer looking for ways to make your trip extra special, these 40 tips will help you navigate the parks, create unforgettable moments, and ensure that your Disney adventure with the little ones is as enchanting as it can be.
Disney World Tips: Planning and Preparation
1. Choosing the Perfect Time to Visit
First, school breaks and holidays mean bigger crowds, so opt for weekdays during the school year if you can. And weekdays over weekends, if you're staying longer.
Here are some websites that create crowd calendars for your reference. They are not 100% accurate but you can use this as an estimation.
Crowd calendars we recommend:
- Disney World Crowd Calendar – MagicGuides.com
- Disney World Crowd Calendar – WDW Prep School
Now, let's discuss the weather. Florida can be scorching, especially in the summer. If heat's not your thing, plan for cooler months or enjoy Disney's water parks.
Keep an eye out for special events, too. They add magic but bring crowds. Research and choose accordingly.
Our Experience: We chose to go during the last two weeks of August when the kids in the United States already went back to school. The crowd was low but it was even lower during the last week of August.
2. Where to Stay: Finding the Ideal Location
Here's the scoop on whether you should stay in a Disney resort or venture outside the park.
Budget Tip: There are plenty of great hotels and resorts nearby, with free shuttle services to the parks. Ultimately, it comes down to what your family needs and wants.
For the full Disney immersion, you can’t beat staying at a resort and being in the middle of the magic 24/7. You also get extra perks like early park access. You can conveniently return to your Disney Resort for a mid-day break.
Our Experience: We stayed at Westgate Resort which was amazing. It was 6 minutes drive from Disney World and the resort was beautiful.
3. Book in Advance
It's essential to secure your park tickets and restaurant reservations ahead of time. By doing so, you can bypass long entrance lines and plan your park days meticulously, ensuring that you visit all the attractions your kids are excited about.
Early reservation of dining spots can also be a game-changer, especially for character dining or popular restaurants, as it guarantees both a seat and saves precious park time that would otherwise be spent waiting in line.
You can make dining reservations starting 60 days in advance at approximately 6:00 AM. If you are staying in a Disney World hotel room, you can book all of your days at once.
Personal Tip: Start with the most popular restaurants on your list first when reserving.
With proactive booking of both tickets and dining reservations, you're setting the stage for an enchanting Disney experience with your little ones, maximizing convenience and creating magical moments that you'll cherish forever.
4. Create a Daily Itinerary
Keep those magical moments flowing with a well-planned itinerary that's flexible enough to keep up with your kids' pace. Whether it's a meet-and-greet with their favorite character or a quick snack break, it's all about finding balance and creating unforgettable memories that fit your family's unique interests.
Personal Tips:
– Make it flexible – sometimes ‘magical’ surprises happen spontaneously (E.g. accidents, cranky kids, etc)!
– Let your kids have a say in what attractions and experiences they want to prioritize.
– Pace yourself and don't try to do too much in one day.
Check out our free itinerary printable just for you.
5. Pack Essentials
Packing the right essentials can be the key to a successful Disney World adventure with your little ones.
Here are some of the essentials:
- Phones
- Water bottles
- Snacks
- Comfortable Shoes
- Back Pack
6. Prepare for the Weather
Make sure you have the appropriate clothing for any possible weather conditions. Here are some essentials of what you may need to pack for the weather conditions:
Sunny Days
Rainy Days
Windy and Colder Days
- Jackets
- Warm hats
7. Stay Hydrated
It's important to keep everyone hydrated and refreshed. That's why we recommend bringing refillable water bottles for the whole family.
Not only does it save money, but it also keeps thirst at bay so you can focus on the fun.
Personal Tip: Bring hydration packs which are an electrolyte drink mix that makes you hydrate faster than water and it also makes the water taste better.
8. My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app is your ultimate Disney companion. From real-time ride wait times to dining reservations and even finding the nearest restroom, it simplifies your family's park experience, making it both smooth and magical.
9. Plan for Family Outfits at Disney World
When visiting Disney World with your family, it can be fun to wear matching outfits. Not only does it make for great photo opportunities, but it can also help you keep track of each other in the crowds.
Here are some tips for planning your family outfits:
- Choose a theme: Whether it's Disney characters, colors, or patterns, having a theme can tie your outfits together and make them look cohesive.
- Coordinate, don't match: Instead of everyone wearing the exact same outfit, try coordinating colors or patterns. This will give your outfits a more modern and stylish look.
- Consider the weather: Florida can be hot and humid, so make sure your outfits are comfortable and breathable. Opt for lightweight fabrics and comfortable shoes.
- Accessorize: Add some fun accessories to your outfits, like Mickey Mouse ears or matching hats. This will add some extra Disney magic to your look.
Personal Tip: We marked our family outfit theme on our itinerary so we won't forget which theme we need to dress up for a certain Disney park.
10. Go Through Your Checklist
It is important to go through a checklist before leaving the resort or hotel and entering the park to ensure that you have everything you need for a safe and enjoyable experience.
Some items that should be on your checklist include sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, snacks, water, a fully charged phone, and any necessary medications.
Additionally, make sure you have all necessary tickets or passes and that you have a plan for transportation to and from the park.
By taking the time to go through this checklist, you can avoid any potential issues and have a stress-free day exploring the park.
Disney World Tips: At the Parks
11. Rider Swap
One of our favorite features of Disney World is the Rider Swap. If you have young children who either can't or don't want to go on certain rides, one parent can wait with them while the other enjoys the attraction. Then, just swap roles so everyone gets to have their fun!
12. Use Rider Height Requirements
Before heading to the park, take a moment to measure your child to ensure they meet the height requirements for the rides they want to go on. This simple step will save you from walking back and forth to each ride, trying to figure out which one they can ride.
13. Child Care Centers
Here's a tip for parents with babies or toddlers: make use of the Baby Care Centers located throughout the parks. These centers provide a peaceful space for feeding, diaper changing, and resting.
14. Bring Snacks
This is especially important when visiting amusement parks, theaters, or other places where food prices may be inflated. By bringing your own snacks, you not only save money but also have control over what your family is eating.
You can pack healthier options like fruits, vegetables, and nuts, or indulge in your family's favorite treats. Plus, having snacks on hand can help prevent meltdowns from hungry and cranky kids.
15. Memory Maker
Your trip to the happiest place on earth should be memorable, and with Memory Maker, you can capture every moment.
Preserve your magical memories with unlimited downloads of all your Disney PhotoPass photos, including special Magic Shots.
By including Memory Maker in your vacation package, you can sit back, relax, and let the Disney Magic work its wonders. Don't miss out on the opportunity to create cherished memories that will last a lifetime. ✨🏰
Personal Tip: You can share your Memory Maker package with your family and friends to save costs. The downside of this method is that only one account can download the photos and videos. So we will request our friend to save all the photos and videos and send them to us.
16. Pin Trading
Let's talk about one of my favorite things to do in the parks: Pin Trading!
Not only is it a fun way to discover new treasures, but it's also a great opportunity for kids to practice their social skills and make new friends. Head to any store inside the park to start your collection today!
Personal Tip: I bought some pins ahead of time from Facebook groups so the kids can have a few pins to start with.
17. Virtue Queue
There are two rides which are my favorite rides that require you to book via Virtue Queue. They are the Guardians of the Galaxy and Tron. You can only book them at either 7 am or 1 pm.
Personal Tip: Try to book them at 7 a.m. in case you might miss the 1 p.m. slot.
Disney World Tips: Dining
18. Character Dining
Choose character dining experiences for a meal with Disney characters without waiting in line. You get to meet 5 Disney characters for each restaurant.
Our Experience: We went to Chef Mickey which was a wonderful experience for us, but the downside is the time it takes to go there because it is outside of the park. Next time, we would choose a restaurant which is within the park to save some time.
19. Mobile Ordering
Don't waste time waiting in long lines at quick-service restaurants. Instead, take advantage of the mobile ordering feature offered through the My Disney Experience app. This is especially useful during peak hours when lines tend to be the longest.
Disney World Tips: Entertainment
20. Parades and Shows
One of the best ways to make the most out of your day at the theme park is to plan ahead. By checking the showtimes and parade schedules in advance, you can create an itinerary that ensures you don't miss out on any of the must-see attractions.
Additionally, arriving early can help you secure the perfect viewing spots for the shows and parades, which can make all the difference in your overall experience.
21. Fireworks
Fireworks shows are often a highlight of many summer events, and finding the perfect spot to watch them can make the experience even more enjoyable.
Personal Tip: In order to get the best view of the fireworks, try to arrive early and stake out a good spot before the crowds arrive. Quieter areas, such as parks or side streets, may offer a less crowded view and a more peaceful atmosphere.
Fast Passes
22. Genie Plus
Looking to skip the lines at select attractions and experiences? Consider purchasing the Disney Genie+ service and gain access to Lightning Lane entrances.
On average, Genie+ costs around $20 per person per day. However, prices may vary depending on the time of year and number of parks you plan on visiting.
Personal Tip: If you're unsure whether you need it, consider several factors such as the duration of your stay, the ages of your children, and the time of year of your visit.
23. Lightning Lane
Purchase individual Lightning lane entry selections for specific attractions that aren’t offered through Disney Genie+ service. Lightning Lane access costs between $9 and $27 per person per ride.
Disney World Tips: Character Experiences
24. Autograph Books
Bring autograph books for your kids to collect character signatures. There are many ways to make your autograph books or you can just simply buy one. Don’t forget to bring autograph pens for character meet-and-greets – It’s a magical souvenir!
Here are some free printable Disney Autograph Books you can try:
- DIY Disney Autograph Book + Free Printable – The Cards We Draw
- The BEST DIY Disneyland Autograph Books – Moms Who Think
- Free Printable Disney Character Autograph Pages (Perfect for Upcoming Disney Trip) – Hip 2 Save
25. Character Meet
There are some ways to minimize your wait times and make the most of your day.
One great tip is to meet popular characters during off-peak times. This means avoiding meeting characters during peak hours, which tend to be in the morning and early afternoon. Instead, try meeting characters during lunchtime or later in the day when the lines are shorter. Not only will you be able to spend less time waiting in line, but you'll also have more time to enjoy all the rides and attractions the park has to offer.
Disney World Tips: Souvenirs
26. Set a Budget
One trick that’s always worked for me is setting a budget before we leave for a trip. That way, the kids know how much they can spend and we don’t end up overspending on unnecessary goodies. It’s a win-win!
Personal Tip: If you want to make it even more fun, you can grab some Disney gift cards so your kids can have a little independence while shopping.
27. Shop Late
Save souvenir shopping for the end of your trip, so you can make the most of your adventures without carrying all that extra weight.
28. Disney Springs
Explore beyond just the theme parks – visit Disney Springs for additional shopping, dining, and entertainment options.
Our Experience: We did all our shopping at Disney Springs instead. The Disney Store at Disney Springs is much bigger and they have everything in there! There’s a really nice Lego store around there as well along with many gigantic Lego statues that are made out of Legos.
Disney World Tips: Transportation
29. Use Disney Transportation:
Take advantage of Disney buses, monorails, Skyliners, and water transportation to navigate the parks.
Our Experience: Our 3-year-old son loves vehicles and this is a great chance for us to try most of the transportation at Disney World. We went on buses, monorails, ferry boats, Skyliners, and trains. Our kids had a blast just from riding these vehicles!
30. Stroller
If you're planning on taking your little ones to Disney World, you're going to want to read this. Trust us when we say, a stroller is going to be your new best friend! Not only is it a lifesaver for tired little feet, but it's also a great place to store all the essentials that come with being a mom. Snacks, spare clothes, toys, you name it!
Note: We took 20,000 steps on an average per day at Disney World.
Tip: To avoid theft, refrain from leaving any valuables or gift bags unattended in your stroller.
Disney World Tips: Safety
31. Write Your Phone Number
As parents, our greatest priority is keeping our little ones safe. And although we can't always be there to hold their hand, we can provide them with the tools to navigate the world confidently.
Writing your phone number on a piece of paper and slipping it into your child's pocket is a simple, yet effective way to make sure they have access to your contact information if they need it. Just another way we can be there for them, even when we're apart.
32. Emergency Meeting Point
This is an important safety tip, especially when you're traveling with a large group or with children. Having a designated meeting point can help you quickly reunite with anyone who gets lost or separated from the group.
It's a good idea to choose a place that is easily recognizable and accessible, such as a landmark or a well-lit area. Make sure everyone in the group knows where the meeting point is and what to do if they get lost.
Remind them to stay calm and to seek help from a trusted authority figure, such as a police officer or security guard, if necessary.
33. Take a Picture Before Heading To the Park
Taking a picture of your kids before heading to the park is a smart safety precaution. If you were to accidentally become separated from your child, having their photo on hand can aid authorities in locating them quickly.
Additionally, it's a good idea to dress your child in bright, easily identifiable clothing and to teach them your phone number and address in case of an emergency.
Disney World Tips: On a Budget
34. Bring Your Own Food
Consider packing some of your meals to save on dining costs.
Personal Tip: You can buy pre-made lunches from groceries and put them in a cooler bag to make things easier.
35. Use Disney Gift Cards to Budget
Purchase discounted Disney gift cards from warehouse stores (such as Target) to save on dining, parking, merchandise, etc.
36. Travel Insurance
Consider purchasing travel insurance to protect your investment in case of unexpected events.
Our Experience: Our son got an eye infection during our trip. Thank goodness we had travel insurance to cover his walk-in visit and drugs or else it would have cost over $500 USD.
37. Dine Offsite
While it's tempting to indulge in fine dining experiences, these can quickly add up and take a toll on your budget. Instead, consider dining off-site or at quick-service restaurants for more budget-friendly meal options.
Many cities and towns have local food trucks or street vendors that offer delicious and affordable meals. This not only saves you money, but it can also be a great way to experience the local cuisine and culture.
Disney World Tips: Downtime
38. Resort Time
Taking time out to relax and enjoy your resort amenities can be an essential part of any vacation. Taking a dip in the pool or lounging poolside with a book can be a great way to unwind. The playground can be an excellent way to keep them entertained while you catch up on some much-needed rest and relaxation.
39. Naptime
Taking a midday break on your family vacation can be the perfect way to recharge and enjoy some well-deserved relaxation time. Especially with young ones, it's important to plan for some downtime, whether that's a quick nap or some good old-fashioned reading or games.
Resorts have plenty of comfortable and quiet spaces to take a load off, so you can fully enjoy your holiday and recharge for the rest of the fun-filled day with your loved ones.
If your family is not staying inside a Disney resort, you can choose a quieter place away from the crowds to take a break at Disney Park.
40. Disney Resort Hopping
Resort hopping is a great way to take a break from the crowds and chaos of the parks while still experiencing the magic of Disney.
One of the best ways to resort to hop is by utilizing Disney's transportation system. Each resort is conveniently connected to the parks and other resorts via buses, boats, or the monorail. You can easily spend a day exploring the different resorts, dining at their restaurants, and taking part in their activities.
One of the must-visit resorts is Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which boasts Victorian elegance and sophistication. You can enjoy high tea in the afternoon, a romantic dinner at Victoria & Albert's, or take a leisurely stroll along the beach.
Another popular resort is Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, which transports guests to a tropical paradise with its lush greenery and tiki torches. You can indulge in a traditional Hawaiian feast at ‘Ohana, watch the nightly fireworks show from the beach, or take a dip in the volcano-themed pool.
41. Rest Days
Not only will resting give your body a chance to recover, but it will also allow you to explore other areas of Disney that you may have missed otherwise.
You can take a leisurely stroll through Downtown Disney or even enjoy some of the water parks that Disney has to offer.
Additionally, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of the parks can help you recharge and fully enjoy the rest of your Disney vacation.
Our Experience: During our 8-day Disney trip, we made sure to take weekends off to explore Disney Springs and hop around resorts using the magical Disney transportation. We made a splash at the Disney water parks – there's nothing like floating in a lazy river to melt your worries away! 🏊♀️🎉
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Last Thing About the 41 Tips for Traveling to Disney World With Your Kids
As you reach the end of this magical journey, we hope our 41 essential tips have empowered you to create a Disney experience your family will never forget! From planning to enjoying the parks, dining, and entertainment, we've got you covered. Remember, the magic of Disney isn't just about the attractions and shows, it's about the memories you make and the joy in your children's eyes. So go ahead, make those unforgettable memories, and let the enchantment of Disney World become part of your family's story. Don't forget to pin our Pinterest image to start planning for your Disney World vacation!
