Planning a trip to Disney World can be overwhelming, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor. With new attractions, changing policies, and a vast array of dining and entertainment options, it’s important to be well-prepared. To make the most of your magical adventure, follow these expert tips to ensure a smooth, fun-filled Disney experience in 2024.
1. Arrive Early and Plan Strategically with Disney Genie+
Disney World is massive, and the crowds can get overwhelming, especially during peak seasons. To beat the crowds, arriving early is still one of the best strategies, but you should also take full advantage of Disney’s Genie+ service, which replaced the old FastPass system.
Pro Tip: Plan your day using the Disney Genie+ app, which allows you to book rides and attractions ahead of time. Disney Genie+ lets you choose your first Lightning Lane reservation at 7 a.m., so be sure to grab the most popular rides (like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance) early in the morning. Use the app to check live wait times and modify your plans as you go.
2. Make Dining Reservations 60 Days in Advance
Securing a dining reservation at Disney can be tough, especially if you’re eyeing popular spots like Be Our Guest or Cinderella’s Royal Table. Disney allows you to make dining reservations up to 60 days before your visit, so mark that date in your calendar and plan ahead.
Pro Tip: If you can’t secure a reservation, try checking the app periodically throughout the day, as spots may open up due to cancellations.
3. Stay at a Disney Resort for Extra Perks
While staying off-site can save money, Disney resorts offer extra perks like early park entry, free transportation, and proximity to the parks. This can help you maximize your time and avoid the hassle of parking or long commutes.
Pro Tip: Staying on property gives you early access to booking Disney Genie+ attractions, dining, and other experiences.
4. Use Mobile Ordering for Meals
Avoid long waits at quick-service restaurants by using the Mobile Order feature through the My Disney Experience app. You can pre-order your meals and pick them up without standing in line, giving you more time to enjoy the parks.
Pro Tip: Plan your meals during off-peak times (early lunch or late dinner) to avoid crowds and get quicker service.
5. Maximize Park Time with Park Hopper Tickets
If you’re planning to visit multiple parks in a single day, the Park Hopper option is a great way to maximize your experience. It allows you to switch parks after 2 p.m., giving you the flexibility to enjoy more rides and attractions without feeling rushed.
Pro Tip: Start your day in a park that tends to be less crowded in the morning (like EPCOT), then hop to more popular parks like Magic Kingdom later in the day when crowds thin out.
6. Take Breaks During the Day
Disney World is huge, and walking around all day can be exhausting, especially with kids. Make sure to schedule breaks, whether it’s a sit-down meal, a return to your hotel for a quick nap, or a leisurely ride on the Disney Skyliner.
Pro Tip: Use the slower, air-conditioned attractions (like Spaceship Earth at EPCOT) as a break from the heat and crowds.
7. Plan for the Weather
Florida weather can be unpredictable, so it’s best to be prepared for everything from intense heat to afternoon thunderstorms. Carry a small backpack with essentials like sunscreen, ponchos, and a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated.
Pro Tip: Afternoon rain is common, but it often clears up quickly. Stick around during rainstorms—many people leave, so ride wait times can drop significantly after the weather clears.
8. Capture Memories with PhotoPass
Disney’s PhotoPass photographers are stationed around the parks, ready to capture professional shots of your family with iconic backdrops like Cinderella Castle. If you want unlimited downloads of your photos, consider purchasing the Memory Maker package in advance.
Pro Tip: Ask PhotoPass photographers for Magic Shots—they can add fun Disney characters and effects to your pictures for an extra touch of magic.
Final Thoughts
A Disney World vacation can be a magical experience, but it takes a bit of planning to make the most of it. By following these updated tips, you’ll be well-prepared to handle the crowds, optimize your time, and create unforgettable memories. Stay flexible, take breaks, and enjoy all that Disney World has to offer!
FAQs
1. What is Disney Genie+?
Disney Genie+ is a paid service that lets you reserve Lightning Lane entrances to skip the lines at select attractions. You can make your first reservation at 7 a.m. each day of your visit.
2. How far in advance can I book dining reservations?
You can book dining reservations up to 60 days before your visit using the My Disney Experience app.
3. Is PhotoPass worth it?
If you want to capture lots of professional-quality photos during your trip, the Memory Maker package, which includes unlimited downloads, can be a good value.
