5 Things First Timers at Walt Disney World Need to Know by Debbie

Walt Disney World is truly the “Most Magical Place on Earth”. That is why people of all ages fall in love with this magical destination.  There is always something new and exciting to draw you back as often as possible.  However, planning your first or even your tenth visit to Walt Disney World can feel a bit overwhelming.

Here are 5 Must Dos for First Timers:

1. Reach out to your travel advisor who specializes in Disney destinations. Mystical Dream Travel is    proud to be an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner. We were awarded this privilege based on our  expert knowledge of Disney products and performance in planning the best customized Disney vacations. We visit the parks often and stay up to date on all things Disney. Your travel advisor will keep you organized and take care of all of the details from choosing the perfect resort for your family to a step-by-step guide with utilizing My Disney Experience, including lightning lanes. Our goal is always for you to have the most enjoyable and memorable Walt Disney World vacation.
2. Stay in the Magic and choose to stay at a Disney Resort hotel. There are so many Benefits of staying at a Disney Resort. Here are a few: Being immersed in Disney legendary details, service and storytelling. Proximity to the theme parks – being close to the theme parks saves you time. Early theme park entry – Guest of Disney resort hotels can get a 30-minute jump on their Disney day at all 4 parks. Extended Evening Theme Park Hours – available for Disney Deluxe Resort hotel guests – who will enjoy extended evening hours after regular park hours at select theme parks on select nights. Walt Disney World provides resort hotel guests complimentary transportation to the theme parks – bus, boat, monorail services or glide across the sky on Disney Skyliner. Advanced Dining reservations at 60 days, and now Early Access to reserve Lightning Lanes selections – 7 days prior to arrival.
3. Download the My Disney Experience app before your trip to start getting familiarized with all of the features. This will be your key for each day during your visits to the theme parks. Here you will be able to look at wait times, mobile order food, make dining reservations and lightning lane selections, and so much more.  You can also view your photos, and even shop from your MDE app. I definitely recommend purchasing the Lightning lane multi pass and Single pass to avoid lines to enable a more productive and pleasant visit to each theme park.  If you are staying at a Disney resort hotel – you now can purchase & select up to 3 attractions with the multi pass and make your single pass selections – 7 days prior to your arrival. This is a big advantage for being able to experience all of the attractions, entertainment, and allows for downtime to enjoy restaurants, snacks, and the fun experiences at each theme park.
4. Be prepared for the Florida weather. Depending on the month you visit Walt Disney World – it can be very hot and humid, and expect afternoon thunderstorms. Come prepared with water bottles, cooling towels, portable hand fans, and ponchos. During late winter and early spring – it may be a bit chilly in the morning and evening – bring layers. There is also a lot of walking during your Walt Disney World vacation – so, be prepared with good walking shoes. If you need a stroller, you can bring your own stroller or rent one for your stay. Scooters and wheelchairs can be rented as well. Consider taking a break from the parks one day during your stay and enjoy your resort. You can rest and enjoy all the amenities offered including the amazing themed pools.  Watching a movie on the lawn under the stars at our resort has always been a great way to relax at the end of our Disney day.
5. Make a list of your Must Dos at each park – the attractions you want to experience, the parade, shows, fireworks, animal experiences, dining options, any experience you don’t want to miss out on(you can actually do this in your MDE app). This will help you determine how many days you want to stay, and what’s important at each park for your family – you can then plan accordingly. Having a plan is key, but also being flexible will allow you to have a more enjoyable experience.  Don’t miss out on all of the little moments along your way during each day.  If you spot your favorite character take the time to hug them and take a photo – this will be a highlight of your trip.  Consider a character dining experience to allow more time with your favorite characters while you enjoy a great meal and down time with your family. Don’t be shy to dance to the music and have fun – after all, Walt Disney World is the place to be a kid at any age.  Lastly, be sure to grab a coffee or ice cream and just have a seat on Main Street, USA to “take it all in” – it really is the best feeling. There are multiple great “spots” at all four theme parks to breath in all of the Disney Magic.

Ready to start planning your next adventure?