It’s no secret that a Walt Disney World Resort vacation is expensive, and trying to cut things from the itinerary can be overwhelming. Some activities add extra magic, while others might not be worth the cost, especially if you’re trying to stick to a budget.
Knowing which extras may not be necessary is key to making the most of your trip without overspending. While some travelers enjoy these premium experiences, many Disney Park guests find they can get just as much enjoyment without the additional costs.
Here’s a list of 10 expensive experiences you may want to skip during your visit to Magic Kingdom Park, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
1. Are Disney VIP Tours Worth $450+ Per Hour?
VIP Tours let you skip lines, get behind-the-scenes access, and enjoy a custom itinerary. However, these tours cost between $450 and $900 per hour and require a minimum of seven hours.
This means the total price for a VIP tour can easily exceed $3,000 for just one day. The cost can be split between large families or groups, but for many guests, this is simply out of budget.
While VIP Tours are great for a hassle-free Walt Disney World Resort visit, you can still enjoy the Disney parks without breaking the bank.
More Affordable Options:
- Use Lightning Lane to cut down wait times.
- Arrive early for rope drop to get ahead of the crowds.
- Plan your day strategically to maximize your time in the parks.
- Utilize Park Hopper tickets to see multiple parks in a day.
2. Private Cabanas: A Costly Luxury
Some Disney Resort hotels and water parks offer private cabanas with shade, lounge chairs, and concierge service. These can provide a relaxing escape from the heat and crowds.
However, at $350 or more per day, they may not be worth the price unless you plan to spend most of your time lounging in one spot. If you’re only using the cabana for a few hours between rides and shows, the price doesn’t justify the limited use.
More Affordable Option:
- Grab a shaded seat early in the day.
- Take breaks in air-conditioned spaces when you need to cool off.
- Visit indoor attractions during peak heat hours to avoid the sun.
3. Is Disney After Hours Worth the Cost?
Disney After Hours events let you experience the parks with fewer crowds and free snacks. They often include exclusive character meet-and-greets and shorter wait times for popular rides.
But tickets can cost more than $150 per person for just a few extra hours of fun. If you’re visiting with a family of four, that means an additional $600 for just one evening.
More Affordable Option:
- Visit during slower seasons for naturally lower crowd levels.
- Take advantage of complimentary Extended Evening Hours if you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort.
- Consider an early morning rope-drop strategy to enjoy shorter lines.
- If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, you can use free Early Theme Park Entry to get an extra 30 minutes in the parks in the morning.
4. Fancy Dining: Is It Worth It?
Upscale Disney dining, like Victoria & Albert’s, offers high-end meals but can cost $200 or more per person. While the dining experience is excellent, the price tag makes it inaccessible for many guests.
Likewise, a meal at Cinderella Castle is beautiful, but you can meet the same characters for free in the parks.
More Affordable Option:
- Dine at Table Service spots like Be Our Guest or ‘Ohana for a great experience without the extreme price.
- Opt for Quick Service meals that are tasty and budget-friendly.
5. Are Disney Dessert Parties Worth $99+?
These parties include desserts and a prime view of nighttime shows, but at $99 or more per adult, they may not be worth the cost when free viewing spots are available.
Plus, delicious Disney desserts are widely available at various locations, making this extra cost unnecessary for many visitors.
More Affordable Option:
- Watch fireworks from Main Street, U.S.A., or the area behind Cinderella Castle.
- Try spots outside the parks, like the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, for a great view. Some spots even play the fireworks’ soundtracks on speakers!
- Grab a Quick Service snack and camp out for a comfortable viewing location.
6. Professional Disney Photo Sessions: Do You Need One?
Disney’s Capture Your Moment sessions cost $99 for 20 minutes (not including the photos). While great for special occasions, you can still get fantastic pictures for free.
More Affordable Option:
- Ask a Disney cast member to take a photo with your phone.
- Purchase Memory Maker for unlimited Disney PhotoPass downloads. It costs $185 for the duration of your Walt Disney World Resort visit as long as you purchase at least three days in advance.
- Take your own high-quality photos at iconic Disney landmarks.
7. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique Makeovers: Cute But Pricey
Transforming kids into princes or princesses at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique starts at $99.95 and up. This cost doesn’t include accessories or photo packages, making the total cost even higher.
While it’s a magical experience, you can create a similar effect for less.
More Affordable Option:
- Bring your own Disney-themed outfits from home.
- Visit Sir Mickey’s in Magic Kingdom for some free pixie dust.
- Use Disney-inspired hair accessories and face paint to DIY the look.
- Check out the Ear for Each Other Facebook group, where former Disney cast members offer magical makeover services and in-room deliveries at a lower price.
8. Character Dining: Fun, But Expensive
Meals at places like Chef Mickey’s and Story Book Dining at Artist Point cost over $75 per adult. While these meals guarantee character meet-and-greets, you can see the same characters elsewhere in the parks for free.
More Affordable Option:
- Visit character meet-and-greet locations in the parks.
- Enjoy other Table Service meals without the character upcharge.
9. Minnie Vans and Other Costly Transportation
Walt Disney World Resort’s premium transportation options, like Minnie Vans and private boats, are convenient but expensive. Since Disney offers plenty of free transportation, these extras aren’t necessary for most visitors.
More Affordable Option:
- Use free services like the Monorail, Disney Skyliner, boats, and buses.
- Use ride-sharing apps for a cheaper alternative to Minnie Vans.
10. Are Deluxe Disney Resorts Worth $700+ Per Night?
Luxury hotels like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are stunning, but rooms can cost over $700 per night. While they have prime locations, you can still have a fantastic stay at a lower price.
More Affordable Option:
- Stay at a Moderate or Value Disney Resort hotel to enjoy Disney theming without the sky-high cost.
- Consider Disney Springs-area hotels or nearby off-property resorts for significant savings.
- Look for limited-time promotions and discounts on Disney Resort hotel stays.
Save for What Matters Most
A Walt Disney World Resort trip is a big investment, and while some splurges might be fun for special occasions, many expensive add-ons can be skipped without losing the magic. Thoughtful planning, strategic dining choices, and taking advantage of free Disney perks can help you have an amazing vacation without overspending.
How do you make a Walt Disney World Resort vacation less expensive? Share your tips with How to Disney in the comments!
