The Ultimate Walt Disney World Resort Guide: Insider Tips for a Magical Family Vacation

Are you ready to embark on a magical journey to the most enchanting place on Earth? We’ve compiled a guide about Disney World for families as your go-to resource for insider tips and tricks to maximize your Disney family vacation.

We’ll talk about the best way to score dining reservations and character experiences and how to prepare for your vacation in other ways. Whether you’re a longtime Disney fan or a first-timer, we hope this guide helps you feel confident and excited about your magical vacation.

Disney World for Families: Tips for Planning Your Trip

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Planning a family trip to Disney World can be an exciting and memorable experience for everyone involved. However, to make the most of your time at the park, it’s essential to properly plan and be prepared for the crowds and long lines that come with a fabulous family spot such as Disney World.

For the most Disney magic, plan early!

By planning vacations as far in advance as possible (we’re not kidding), you can secure popular accommodations, dining reservations, and Genie+ passes without the risk of being fully booked. This gives you more flexibility in choosing the dates and experiences you want for your family trip.

You also have time to create a personalized itinerary to ensure your family gets to experience all of the Disney magic. We recommend prepping at least 6 to 12 months before your travel dates.

Set a budget before you visit Disney World.

Disney World can be a costly destination—if you’ve been there before, you know this! A typical vacation for a family of four might cost between $3,000 and $10,000. But by planning, you can research discounts, promotions, and payment plans to make the vacation more affordable for your family. You can even request Disney gift cards instead of presents for your children’s birthdays or holidays.

Decide on what Walt Disney World theme parks to visit.

One of the first things you should do when planning your trip to Disney World is research and decide which parks you want to visit. Disney World has several parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom—each with unique Disney attractions and experiences. By determining which parks you want to visit, you can better plan your itinerary and maximize your time at each park.

Decide if you want to stay at a Disney resort hotel.

Decide ahead of time if you want to stay at a Disney hotel to ensure you have the best experience during your trip.

Staying at a hotel offers many benefits, such as complimentary resort transportation to the parks, early access to dining reservations, and extra magic hours in the parks. However, it is essential to consider the cost and compare it to other accommodation options to find the best deal.

Make dining plan reservations as early as possible.

When planning your vacation, we recommend making dining plan reservations as early as possible to ensure you get the best selection of restaurants and times. Popular dining locations can book quickly, especially during peak travel seasons or events. By booking in advance, you can secure your spot at your desired restaurants and avoid the disappointment of not being able to dine where you want.

Consider whether you should buy Disney Genie+.

To use Genie+ or to not use Genie+? Formerly known as FastPass, this service allows you to skip the lines for popular attractions by reserving a specific time to ride. However, it does come at an additional cost, so you’ll need to consider if the convenience is worth the extra expense.

If you’re visiting during a busy time of year, like school holidays or weekends, Genie+ could save you hours of waiting in line. On the other hand, if you can visit during a quiet time, you may not need to purchase Genie+ at all!

Download the My Disney Experience App

Download the My Disney Experience app before your trip to make your vacation more magical. This app is a must-have for any Disney visitor, as it allows you to access park maps, wait times, showtimes, and more, all in one convenient location.

Having the app downloaded beforehand can save time and help you be better prepared for your time in the parks. This app lets you make dining reservations, view your PhotoPass pictures, and manage your Genie+ passes.

Plan how you’ll get around Walt Disney World.

Walt Disney World offers several options for getting around with kids. One popular choice is the Disney World Monorail System, which provides convenient transportation between hotels, theme parks, and other attractions.

The monorail is a fun and unique way for kids to travel around the resort and offers excellent views of the surrounding area. Another option is the Disney Transportation System, which includes buses, boats, and the Disney Skyliner.

These modes of transportation are free for guests staying at Disney resorts and provide easy access to all areas of the resort. Guests can also use rideshare services like Uber or Lyft to get around the resort quickly and easily.

As for transportation within the parks themselves, families can choose to rent strollers from a Guest Services area (near the main entrance) or bring their Disney-approved stroller. Or, to make things even easier, families may rent an extra-comfy stroller with plenty of storage from a third-party company like BabyQuip.

Pack your bags appropriately.

Aim to pack appropriately for your trip to Disney World without overpacking. This means comfortable shoes, sunscreen, hats, and plenty of snacks and water to energize everyone throughout the day. Handy accessories like stroller fans aren’t a bad idea, either.

Having a well-packed bag can make all the difference in your enjoyment of the park, so be sure to take the time to pack everything you’ll need for a fun and successful trip to Disney World with your family.

Plan for rest days—you won’t regret it!

Planning for rest days with young children is pertinent to ensure that your family can fully enjoy all the magic and excitement of the parks without getting burnt out.

Consider scheduling break days in between park days to relax and recharge. Use these days to explore the resort amenities, such as swimming pools, spa services, or outdoor activities. It’s also an excellent opportunity to explore Downtown Disney or take a day trip to nearby attractions.

Stay flexible during your Disney vacation.

Planning a Disney vacation with family can be an exciting experience, but we encourage you to stay flexible throughout your trip. With so many attractions, shows, and dining options, your itinerary will inevitably change.

Staying flexible allows you to adapt to unexpected closures, long wait times, or weather changes. This mindset will help keep everyone in good spirits and help you make the most of your magical vacation.

Magic Kingdom

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Now, to the good part—Disney park information! Let’s start with Magic Kingdom. This park opened on October 1, 1971, and was the first theme park built within the Disney World complex. It is the epitome of enchantment and wonder, captivating visitors of all ages with its timeless charm and iconic attractions.

With its blend of nostalgia, innovation, and unparalleled entertainment, Magic Kingdom reigns as the ultimate destination for creating cherished memories and experiencing the joy of pure imagination.

Fantasyland

Fantasyland at Disney World is a magical place where dreams come true for children of all ages. From iconic attractions like Dumbo the Flying Elephant and ‘It’s a small world’ to meet-and-greet opportunities with beloved characters like Cinderella and Belle, there is something every little prince and princess can enjoy.

The vibrant colors, whimsical architecture, and enchanting music create an immersive experience that transports kids to a world of fantasy and wonder. Whether riding a carousel or watching a live show, children will undoubtedly be delighted by all the enchanting offerings in Fantasyland.

Adventureland

Adventureland at Disney World is a magical place for kids to let their imaginations run wild. From thrilling rides like Pirates of the Caribbean to interactive shows like The Enchanted Tiki Room, this vibrant park section has no shortage of excitement. Little ones can explore hidden caves, encounter exotic animals, and even set sail on a swashbuckling adventure. The colorful scenery and lively music transport children to a world of fantasy and wonder, making Adventureland a must-visit destination for families with young ones.

Main Street, U.S.A.

As soon as they enter the grand gates of Main Street, U.S.A., they are transported to a world filled with wonder and excitement. The cobblestone streets, colorful shops, and charming buildings make them feel like they’ve returned in time.

From delicious treats like ice cream and popcorn to fun souvenirs and toys, Main Street offers something for every child to enjoy. The friendly cast members in their costumes add to the enchanting atmosphere, making it a truly unforgettable experience for young visitors.

Tomorrowland

Tomorrowland Disney World is a fantastic place for kids to explore and have fun. The futuristic theme is sure to capture their imagination and spark their sense of adventure. They can ride attractions like Space Mountain and Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin, which make them feel like they are traveling to different galaxies.

Tomorrowland’s interactive experiences and immersive environments will keep kids entertained all day. From meeting their favorite characters to enjoying delicious treats, there’s something for every child to enjoy in this enchanting land.

Frontierland

In Frontierland, kids can embark on wild rides aboard Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, where they’ll zoom through canyons and caves on a runaway mine train. They can also take a splash-tastic journey down the whimsical waters of Splash Mountain, meeting beloved characters from the Song of the South along the way.

The lively Country Bear Jamboree, where animatronic bears sing catchy tunes, and Tom Sawyer Island’s caves and forts are also worth checking out.

Liberty Square

Check out Liberty Square, a park inspired by colonial America, for some historical fun. Children can journey through the eerie Haunted Mansion, where friendly ghosts await to entertain them with spooky delights.

They can also marvel at the majestic replica of the Liberty Bell and learn about the founding of the United States. For those craving a thrilling experience, the dark and mysterious corridors of the Haunted Mansion offer one.

EPCOT

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Next on our list is EPCOT, which is short for the Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow. This theme park offers a blend of futuristic innovation and cultural exploration. Divided into two distinct sections, Future World and World Showcase, EPCOT provides a journey through cutting-edge technology and diverse cultures from around the globe. EPCOT’s fusion of imagination, learning, and fun makes it a must-visit destination for families seeking entertainment and enlightenment.

Future World

Future World is an innovative and interactive theme park designed to transport children into a futuristic world filled with thrilling rides, advanced technology, and exciting attractions. With virtual reality experiences, robotic characters, and flying cars, this imaginative park will captivate the imagination of young visitors and provide a unique and unforgettable experience. Children can explore space stations, underwater cities, and robotic kingdoms as they embark on thrilling adventures and discover future possibilities.

World Showcase

For culture exploration, check out World Showcase. With 11 pavilions representing countries such as Mexico, France, Japan, and Germany, children can immerse themselves in these diverse nations’ sights, sounds, and tastes. From trying authentic food to meeting characters from different cultures, there is something for every young explorer to enjoy. The Disney Imagineers have created an interactive and educational experience to entertain and educate children of all ages.

Hollywood Studios

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Our third park is Disney’s Hollywood Studios. In this entertaining park, kids can unleash their creativity at Toy Story Land, where they shrink down to toy size and join Woody, Buzz, and the gang on exciting adventures.

For fans of Star Wars, Galaxy’s Edge offers an out-of-this-world experience, where they can pilot the Millennium Falcon and immerse themselves in the bustling Black Spire Outpost. Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a blockbuster destination for families seeking unforgettable adventures.

Toy Story Land

Toy Story Land at Disney World is a dream come true for kids of all ages. With larger-than-life characters like Woody and Buzz Lightyear, kids can explore rides like the Slinky Dog Dash roller coaster and the Alien Swirling Saucers ride.

The attention to detail in this immersive land makes kids feel like they have entered the Toy Story movies. One of the highlights of Toy Story Land is Toy Story Mania, where kids can test their skills in a series of carnival games inspired by the movies.

Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge

Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge is a dream come true for kids who are fans of the iconic franchise. From meeting favorite characters like Chewbacca and Rey to experiencing thrilling rides like Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Rise of the Resistance, there is no shortage of excitement for young Jedi and Sith alike.

The immersive details of the land, such as the bustling marketplace of Black Spire Outpost and the chance to build your lightsaber or droid, make it a truly unforgettable experience for kids of all ages.

Sunset Boulevard

Sunset Boulevard offers a variety of entertainment options for kids of all ages. If you’re into thrills, this is where you’ll find the famous Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. But if you prefer something more low-key, there are live shows featuring beloved characters for kiddos to watch.

As the sun sets, the street comes alive with colorful lights and music, creating a magical atmosphere that will enchant young visitors.

Animal Kingdom

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Fourth on our list is Disney’s Animal Kingdom. As the largest Disney theme park in the world, Animal Kingdom is divided into several distinct areas, including the lush and immersive Pandora – The World of Avatar, where guests can soar on the back of a banshee or journey through the bioluminescent forests.

Families can also explore the African savanna, spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes along the way, or embark on a thrilling river raft ride through the jungles of Asia on Kali River Rapids.

Pandora – The World of Avatar

Experience the mesmerizing world of Pandora with your kids. This immersive land based on the hit movie Avatar will transport your family to another planet filled with bioluminescent plants and floating mountains. Kids will love thrilling rides like the Avatar Flight of Passage and Na’vi River Journey.

Be sure to explore the incredible detail and craftsmanship that went into creating this magical world. From delicious food options to unique souvenirs, World of Avatar is a must-visit for families looking for a one-of-a-kind adventure at Disney World.

Africa

Want to jump into the world of Africa? From majestic lions to playful elephants, the park offers a glimpse into the diverse wildlife of Africa. Children can go on safari rides (check out Kilimanjaro Safaris), watch animal shows, and even interact with some creatures up close.

The park is educational and entertaining, with fun rides for the whole family. Exploring Africa is like stepping into a real-life jungle book.

Asia

From the majestic Asian elephants to the playful tiger cubs, many animals exist to see and learn about. Kids can also enjoy interactive exhibits and shows that teach them about conservation efforts in Asia and around the globe.

Whether riding the Expedition Everest roller coaster or watching the Flights of Wonder bird show, there is something for every child to enjoy in Asia.

Dining Options for Families

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Who doesn’t love to eat? At Disney, there’s no lack of food options. Here are some of the best dining options for Disney families, from character experiences to table-service restaurants to quicker on-the-go options.

Character dining experiences

Character dining experiences at Disney World allow guests to enjoy a meal while interacting with beloved Disney characters.

Here are some popular character dining options across the Walt Disney World Resort:

• Cinderella’s Royal Table. Dine in Cinderella Castle with Disney princesses such as Cinderella, Ariel, Aurora, Snow White, and Jasmine.
• Crystal Palace. Meet Winnie the Pooh and his friends, including Tigger, Eeyore, and Piglet, while enjoying a buffet-style meal.
• Be Our Guest Restaurant. Breakfast and lunch are quick-service meals, but during dinner, guests might encounter the Beast himself as they dine in the grand ballroom, West Wing, or Castle Gallery.
• Chef Mickey’s. Enjoy a lively buffet-style meal with Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Pluto, Goofy, and Donald Duck in their chef attire.
• ‘Ohana. Start your day with a character breakfast featuring Lilo, Stitch, and Mickey Mouse, or enjoy a family-style dinner with Stitch and friends.

Each offers a unique atmosphere and menu, providing guests with memorable interactions with their favorite characters. Advanced reservations are highly recommended!

Table-service restaurants

Magic Kingdom:

• Be Our Guest Restaurant: Inspired by Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast,” this restaurant offers French-inspired cuisine in the grand ballroom, the West Wing, or the Castle Gallery. It’s particularly popular for its immersive theming and the chance to dine in Beast’s Castle.

EPCOT:

• Le Cellier Steakhouse: In the Canada Pavilion, Le Cellier Steakhouse offers premium steaks, seafood, and Canadian specialties in a cozy cellar-like setting. It’s famous for its upscale dining experience and delicious cuisine.
• Biergarten Restaurant: Transport yourself to a lively German beer garden with communal seating, live entertainment, and a buffet featuring traditional German dishes. Biergarten is famous for its festive atmosphere and delicious food.

Hollywood Studios:

• ’50s Prime Time Café: Step back to the 1950s at this nostalgic restaurant where “Mom” serves homestyle comfort food. Guests are treated like family, and the retro decor adds to the immersive experience.
• Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant: Dine in vintage cars at this retro-style drive-in theater-themed restaurant serving classic American fare. Guests enjoy their meals under a starry sky while watching campy sci-fi movie clips.

Animal Kingdom:

• Tiffins: Enjoy world-class cuisine inspired by flavors from around the globe at this elegant restaurant celebrating the art of travel. Tiffins is known for its upscale dining experience and creative menu offerings.

Quick-service options

Magic Kingdom:

• Columbia Harbour House: In Liberty Square, Columbia Harbour House offers seafood dishes, sandwiches, salads, and hearty platters in a colonial-era setting. It’s famous for its diverse menu and spacious seating area.
• Casey’s Corner: Located on Main Street, U.S.A., Casey’s Corner offers classic ballpark favorites like hot dogs, corn dog nuggets, and French fries. It’s famous for its nostalgic atmosphere and tasty comfort food.

EPCOT:

• Sunshine Seasons: Located in The Land Pavilion, Sunshine Seasons offers a variety of fresh and flavorful options, including sandwiches, salads, Asian-inspired dishes, and desserts. It’s famous for its diverse menu and convenient location.
• Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie: Transport yourself to France with a visit to this charming bakery in the France Pavilion. Les Halles offers a variety of freshly baked bread, pastries, sandwiches, and quiches. It’s famous for its authentic French cuisine and delightful desserts.

Hollywood Studios:

• ABC Commissary: Enjoy classic American fare like burgers, sandwiches, salads, and chicken nuggets in a casual cafeteria-style setting. ABC Commissary is famous for its convenient location and family-friendly menu.

Animal Kingdom:

• Satu’li Canteen: Located in Pandora – The World of Avatar, Satu’li Canteen offers customizable bowls with protein, grains, and sauces inspired by the flavors of Pandora. It’s famous for its fresh and healthy options.
• Flame Tree Barbecue: Feast on smoked ribs, chicken, pulled pork, and other barbecue favorites with stunning views of Discovery River. Flame Tree Barbecue is known for its delicious barbecue dishes and generous portions.

Disney Springs:

• D-Luxe Burger: This modern burger joint offers gourmet burgers made with high-quality ingredients, hand-cut fries, and artisanal milkshakes. It is famous for its delicious burgers and upscale fast-food experience.
• Earl of Sandwich: Feast on made-to-order sandwiches, salads, and wraps inspired by the famous British sandwich shop. Earl of Sandwich is popular for its hearty and affordable options.

Snack recommendations

Disney World is full of delicious snack options to satisfy any craving. Here are some popular snack recommendations across the parks and resorts:

• Dole Whip. This pineapple soft-serve is A classic Disney treat at Aloha Isle and Pineapple Lanai at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
• Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bar. Indulge in a Mickey-shaped ice cream bar coated in chocolate, available at various ice cream stands almost around every corner.
• Churros. These crispy, cinnamon-sugar-coated delights are available at various parks, such as Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe or La Cantina de San Angel in Epcot.
• Popcorn Buckets. Disney offers themed popcorn buckets that make fun souvenirs. You can refill them for a discounted price. You can find them at popcorn stands throughout the parks.
• Turkey Legs. Sink your teeth into a giant turkey leg, a savory snack at various outdoor carts across all parks.
• Mickey Pretzels. At outdoor pretzel stands throughout Walt Disney World, you can savor a warm, soft pretzel shaped like Mickey’s iconic ears.
• Fruit and Nutella Waffle Sandwich. Try this delicious combination of fresh fruit and Nutella sandwiched between two warm waffles at Sleepy Hollow.

You can practically find anything at Disney that will satisfy your cravings!

Entertainment and Shows

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In addition to rides and restaurants, there are also parades, fireworks, and more!

Parades

Disney World features several magical parades that bring beloved characters, music, and floats to life. While specific parades may vary over time, here are some of the iconic parades that have been featured at Disney World for families:

• Festival of Fantasy Parade. This daytime parade celebrates the magic of Disney with vibrant floats, dazzling costumes, and beloved characters from classic and contemporary Disney films. It typically features characters like Mickey Mouse, Tinker Bell, Ariel, Elsa, and many more.
• Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade. This parade showcases larger-than-life floats inspired by Disney classics like “Peter Pan,” “The Little Mermaid,” “Beauty and the Beast,” “Sleeping Beauty,” and “Tangled.” It’s a celebration of fantasy and imagination.
• Main Street Electrical Parade. A nostalgic favorite, this nighttime parade features sparkling lights, catchy music, and beloved characters illuminated in thousands of twinkling lights.
• Disney’s Electrical Parade. Like the Main Street Electrical Parade, this nighttime parade features dazzling lights and beloved characters, including favorites like Mickey Mouse, Goofy, and Cinderella.
• Move It! Shake It! MousekeDance It! Street Party. This interactive street party invites guests to dance and sing with their favorite characters aboard colorful floats. It’s a lively celebration that occurs several times throughout the day in front of Cinderella Castle.
• Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade. During the holiday season, this festive parade features holiday-themed floats, cheerful music, appearances by Santa Claus, and beloved characters dressed in their holiday best.
• Mickey’s Boo-to-You Halloween Parade. Another seasonal favorite, this parade features spooky floats, costumed characters, and a special appearance by the Headless Horseman, all set to a catchy soundtrack.

Fireworks

Disney World offers spectacular fireworks shows that light up the night sky and create magical moments for guests. Here are some of the iconic fireworks displays at Disney World for families:

• Happily Ever After. This nighttime spectacular combines fireworks, projections, music, and storytelling to celebrate the power of love and imagination. It features scenes and songs from beloved Disney films like “The Lion King,” “Aladdin,” “Frozen,” and “Moana,” all culminating in a breathtaking finale.
• EPCOT Forever: Created as a temporary replacement for “IllumiNations: Reflections of Earth,” Epcot Forever pays tribute to the park’s past, present, and future with fireworks, lasers, special effects, and a nostalgic soundtrack featuring classic Epcot tunes.
• Harmonious: Debuting in October 2021, “Harmonious” is Epcot’s new nighttime spectacular celebrating the global connection of Disney music and storytelling. It features massive floating platforms, choreographed fountains, LED panels, pyrotechnics, and a soundtrack featuring Disney songs from around the world.
• Disney Enchantment: Premiering in October 2021, “Disney Enchantment” replaces “Happily Ever After” as Magic Kingdom’s nighttime spectacular. It features stunning fireworks, projections, lighting effects, and an original song titled “You Are the Magic,” celebrating the enchantment found within Disney stories.
• Fantasmic!: While not strictly a fireworks show, “Fantasmic!” is a nighttime spectacular featuring live performers, water effects, pyrotechnics, and projections. It tells the story of Mickey Mouse’s imagination as he battles villains and celebrates the power of dreams.
• Holiday Fireworks: During special events like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, Disney World offers seasonal fireworks shows that celebrate the holidays with festive music, projections, and pyrotechnics.

Check the park’s schedule for the latest showtimes and viewing locations during your visit.

Stage shows

Now for the stage shows! Disney offers a variety of stage shows featuring beloved characters, music, and storytelling. Here are some of the iconic stage shows you can experience across the parks:

• Festival of the Lion King. This Broadway-style musical celebrates the music, characters, and themes of Disney’s “The Lion King.” It features colorful costumes, acrobatics, puppetry, and audience participation, all set to the beloved songs from the film.
• Finding Nemo – The Musical. Dive into the underwater world of Disney/Pixar’s “Finding Nemo” with this vibrant and imaginative musical. Featuring larger-than-life puppets, original songs, and stunning visuals, it brings the heartwarming story of Nemo and his friends to life on stage.
• Beauty and the Beast – Live on Stage. Experience the tale as old as time with this live retelling of Disney’s “Beauty and the Beast.” The Broadway-style production features beloved songs, elaborate costumes, and impressive sets, recreating the magic of the animated classic.
• For the First Time in Forever: A Frozen Sing-Along Celebration: Join Anna, Elsa, and friends for a hilarious and heartwarming sing-along adventure inspired by Disney’s “Frozen.” Hosted by royal historians, this interactive show invites guests to sing along to popular songs from the film.
• Mickey’s Royal Friendship Faire: This lively stage show brings together favorite Disney characters, including Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, Donald Duck, and Goofy, as they celebrate friendship with music, dancing, and storytelling in front of Cinderella Castle.
• Disney Junior Dance Party!: Perfect for young children, this high-energy dance party features characters from famous Disney Junior shows like “Mickey Mouse Clubhouse,” “Doc McStuffins,” “Puppy Dog Pals,” and “Vampirina.” Kids can sing, dance, and interact with their favorite characters.
• Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!: Experience the thrill of adventure with this live-action stunt show inspired by the Indiana Jones film series. Featuring daring stunts, special effects, and audience participation, it offers an exciting behind-the-scenes look at Hollywood movie magic.

As always, check times ahead of time!

Character Meet and Greets

Character meet-and-greets are among the most popular and beloved parts of the Disney World experience. They allow guests to interact with their favorite characters and create magical memories.

Here are some popular character meet-and-greet locations across the parks:

• Magic Kingdom:
  • Town Square Theater: Meet Mickey Mouse in his magician outfit.
  • Princess Fairytale Hall: Meet Disney princesses like Cinderella, Rapunzel, Elena of Avalor, and more.
  • Ariel’s Grotto: Meet Ariel from “The Little Mermaid.”
  • Pete’s Silly Sideshow: Meet classic characters like Minnie Mouse, Daisy Duck, Donald Duck, and Goofy in circus-themed costumes.
• Epcot:
  • Meet characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Goofy at various locations around Future World.
  • Meet Disney princesses like Anna and Elsa at the Royal Sommerhus in the Norway Pavilion.
  • Meet Baymax from “Big Hero 6” in Future World.
• Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
  • Animation Courtyard: Meet characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Olaf from “Frozen.”
  • Star Wars Launch Bay: Meet characters from the “Star Wars” saga, such as Chewbacca and Kylo Ren.
  • Toy Story Land: Meet characters like Woody, Buzz Lightyear, Jessie, and Green Army Men.
  • Disney Junior Play ‘n Dine at Hollywood & Vine: Meet characters from Disney Junior shows like “Doc McStuffins,” “Vampirina,” “Fancy Nancy,” and “Puppy Dog Pals.”
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
  • Discovery Island: Meet characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and Pluto.
  • Pandora – The World of Avatar: Meet a Pandora Conservation Initiative scientist and a Utility Suit performer.
  • Meet characters from “The Lion King” at the Hakuna Matata Time Dance Party.

Remember that character availability may vary, and it’s always a good idea to check the park’s schedule or app for the latest character information, meet-and-greet locations, and times during your visit.

Disney Resort Hotels and Places to Stay

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So, where should you stay? Let’s give you some ideas about the benefits of staying on-site.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Disney World’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a luxurious and iconic hotel located on the grounds of Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida.

The Victorian-style architecture and elegant decor make guests feel like they have returned to a more glamorous era. The resort offers a range of amenities, including multiple pools, restaurants, and a full-service spa.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

Disney World’s Contemporary Resort is one of the most iconic hotels at the Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. The resort boasts stunning views of the park and top-notch amenities such as multiple pools, restaurants, and shops.

Guests can also enjoy easy access to transportation to other Disney interests, making it the perfect home base for your Disney vacation.

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Disney World’s Polynesian Village Resort offers a taste of the South Pacific in the heart of Orlando, Florida. The resort is known for its stunning tropical landscaping, tiki torches, and serene beaches.

Guests can relax in rooms inspired by traditional Polynesian architecture, with bamboo furniture and vibrant floral accents. The resort also features a beautiful lagoon-style pool with waterfalls and a waterslide for added fun.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney World’s Animal Kingdom theme lodge is a stunning resort that brings the safari experience to life in the heart of Florida. Adults and kids can view exotic animals from their balconies or the viewing areas throughout the property.

Various dining options, including Boma and Jiko, offer delicious African-inspired cuisine. The lodge also offers cultural programs, a pool with a slide, and savannah-view rooms for a truly immersive experience.

Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels

Disney Springs hotels offer luxurious accommodations close to the magic of Walt Disney World for families. Various hotel options provide world-class amenities, dining options, and convenient park access. Whether you prefer a cozy boutique hotel or a spacious resort, there is something for every traveler’s taste and budget.

The resort area hotels also offer special perks, such as early theme park entry and park transportation, making it easy for guests to make the most of their Disney vacation.

Tips for a Smooth Experience

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Lastly, we are throwing in some handy-dandy tips for your trip. Here are some insider tips to enhance your family’s Disney World experience:

• Character Dining for Breakfast: Consider booking character dining experiences for breakfast rather than lunch or dinner. Breakfast tends to be less expensive and crowded, allowing for more personal interaction with the characters.
• Use Mobile Ordering: The My Disney Experience app offers mobile ordering for quick-service dining locations. You can order and pay for meals in advance, saving valuable time in line.
• Arrive Early for Rope Drop: Arriving at the parks early can significantly reduce wait times for popular rides. You can experience several with minimal waits before the crowds arrive.
• Take Midday Breaks: Consider returning to your hotel for a midday break during the hottest and busiest part of the day. This allows your family to rest, cool off, and recharge for the evening festivities.
• Stay Late for Extra Magic: If you’re staying at a Disney Hotel, stay late to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours. The parks are typically less crowded during these extended hours, allowing more time to enjoy them.
• Pack Snacks and Water Bottles: Bring snacks and refillable water bottles to save money and stay hydrated throughout the day. You can refill water bottles at water fountains or ask for free cups of water at quick-service restaurants.
• Use Rider Switch and Single Rider Lines: Take advantage of Rider Switch for height-district rides. This allows adults to take turns riding while someone stays with the non-riding child. Additionally, look for single-rider lines at select rides to bypass longer standby lines.
• Visit During Off-Peak Times: Consider visiting Disney World during off-peak times, such as weekdays in the fall or spring. Crowds tend to be smaller, and you’ll likely experience shorter wait times for rides and dining.
• Explore Beyond the Parks: Pay attention to the recreational activities and entertainment options at Disney Hotels and Disney Springs. These areas offer plenty of family fun, relaxation, and exploration opportunities.
• Plan a Rest Day: Consider scheduling a rest day during your Disney World vacation to recharge and explore other interests in the area. You can visit a water park, shop at Disney Springs, or relax by the pool.

FAQs: Disney World for Families

What are the benefits of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel?

A Disney hotel offers various perks, such as early access to park rides, complimentary transportation to the Disney theme parks, and immersive Disney-theming throughout your stay.

How can families make the most of their Disney World vacation?

Plan to maximize your trip by booking theme park tickets in advance, utilizing the Disney Experience app for real-time information, and exploring interests that cater to all age groups, such as Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.

Which Disney character experiences are a must for families?

Meeting classic characters like Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse at Disney Parks, partaking in character meals, and attending character meet-and-greets can create unforgettable family memories.

What are some top attractions at Disney World for families?

Popular attractions at Disney Parks, such as Toy Story Land, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, and World of Avatar, offer engaging experiences for all ages.

How can families best navigate the Disney parks with little ones?

Utilize amenities like the monorail system for easy transportation, take breaks at designated child-friendly areas, and consider using a stroller to ensure comfort for young children throughout the day.

Conclusion

Whether it’s your first Disney trip or a return visit to Walt Disney World, we hope you feel prepared and ready to go! From choosing the perfect resort accommodation to navigating the theme parks and making the most of dining and entertainment options, there’s a lot to plan for!

This guide to Disney World for families provides a game plan to help make your Walt Disney World vacation magical.