Insider tips and tricks for your Disney vacation
Walt Disney World® Resort is overflowing with Disney secrets. The trick is finding them. So whether you’re looking to capture the perfect photo moment, make the most of your time at the parks, or take a breather with some relaxing down time, uncovering some of the insider tips and tricks behind a Walt Disney World® Resort vacation will make everything that much more magical.
Get the perfect picture.
The most important part of any vacation is capturing the memories. But if you don’t trust strangers with a quality family photo, don’t worry, there’s a better way. When you pre-purchase the Disney’s PhotoPass® Service there are many locations for you to stop and have your photo taken by a professional Disney photographer. Spread throughout all four Theme Parks, these photographers will capture the perfect moment in front of the most iconic Disney landmarks. Plus, they’ll even use your own phone to take a family photo. That way you can instantly share your adventures online.
But the Disney photo magic doesn’t stop there. After making photo memories all day, you can check them out and download through the Disney's PhotoPass® feature in the My Disney Experience app. Or if you prefer you can later download them directly to your computer via your Disney's PhotoPass® Service account. Pro tip—use Magic Shots to add in Disney Characters.
Put more time in the day.
Next, if you’re looking to make the most out of your time at the parks, you’ll want to know these insider tips. When you’re planning which park to visit on which day, and you’re staying at any of the Official Walt Disney World® Hotels, be sure to coordinate your schedule with Theme Parks offering Extra Magic Hours. That way you can enjoy even more adventures outside of regular park hours. Then, a way to save time during regular park hours is by using your My Disney Experience app to make FastPass+ selections for some of the most popular park attractions. You’re allowed three selections per day before you arrive at the parks, and you can easily schedule them online or at Fast Pass Kiosks.
A few more ways to save time at the parks are using the single rider line and rider switch. If you don’t feel the absolute need to be on the same ride with friends and family, the single rider line may get you close to the front of the line. This option is best for families with older kids who aren’t afraid to go on the rides by themselves. Then there’s the rider swap option. If your family does have a young child who’s too small to ride, both parents can still enjoy the fun. Simply grab a rider switch pass when you get in line and when one parent waits with the child, the other one can enjoy the ride. Afterwards, you can swap.
Take it easy.
Since even the best vacation can tire you out, a great remedy is some down time at the pools. A day at any one of the Disney Water Parks allows you and your family to kick back with water slides, zero entry pools and even poolside bars. Another great way to relax is an unforgettable breakfast experience at Cinderella’s Royal Table inside Cinderella Castle. The whole family can meet classic Disney Princesses and take a bit of a breather from all the excitement at the parks. But make sure you plan in advance, like 180 days in advance. These reservations go quick.
With so much to see and do at Walt Disney World® Resort, a few insider tips and tricks really help. And now that you’re familiar with more ways to get the most out of your Disney experience, you can add extra magic to your entire trip. After all, when it comes to vacations, Disney really knows what they’re doing. (And now, so do you.)
