Summer is an exciting time to experience the magic of Disney, but the heat and crowds can make it challenging. Whether you’re visiting Walt Disney World in Florida or Disneyland in California, careful planning can help ensure your trip is a success. Here are ten essential tips to help you make the most of your Disney summer vacation in 2025.
1. Book Dining Reservations Early
Dining at Disney is a unique experience, but it can be tough to get a reservation at popular spots. To avoid disappointment, book your table-service dining reservations 60 days in advance.
Popular restaurants such as Be Our Guest Restaurant and Cinderella’s Royal Table tend to fill up quickly. Use mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app for faster, counter-service meals. This feature lets you skip the lines and pick up your food without waiting.
Best Dining Picks:
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Wish Makers Enchanted Dining – Step into a storybook setting at this Grand Floridian favorite, where enchanting décor, character interactions, and elevated family-style meals create a truly magical dining experience for guests of all ages.
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Chef Mickey’s – Dine alongside Mickey Mouse and his pals in the heart of Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This lively, all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet offers breakfast and dinner favorites in a fun, upbeat atmosphere perfect for families and character fans.
2. Make the Most of Lightning Lanes
Lightning Lane access is one of the best ways to minimize waiting time in line, especially during the busy summer. With a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you can reserve access to attractions in advance, helping you experience more rides with less stress.
For the most in-demand experiences, like Avatar Flight of Passage or Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, you’ll want to consider buying Individual Lightning Lane. This option lets you reserve a return time specifically for these high-demand attractions, giving you a smoother and more efficient day in the parks.
3. Arrive Early or Stay Late
To avoid crowds and the intense afternoon heat, it’s best to either arrive early or stay late. Many guests don’t arrive until later in the morning, so getting there at park opening gives you a head start.
If you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel, take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry, allowing you to enter the parks 30 minutes before the official opening time.
For those who prefer evenings, staying later has its perks. The parks clear out as it gets closer to closing time, and the cooler temperatures make for a more enjoyable experience. Additionally, Deluxe Resort Guests can enjoy Extended Evening Hours at select parks.
4. Plan for Midday Breaks
With the sun at its peak during the afternoon, it’s important to take breaks. A midday break can keep everyone refreshed and energized, making it easier to power through the rest of your day.
Head back to your Disney Resort for a swim, a nap, or to relax in the air conditioning. Alternatively, you can escape the heat by visiting indoor shows like Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond! or Festival of the Lion King, in Animal Kingdom.
5. Seek Out Indoor Attractions
When the summer sun is unbearable, head indoors to enjoy air-conditioned attractions. These provide a cool, comfortable way to keep enjoying Disney without overheating.
Popular Indoor Attractions:
- Pirates of the Caribbean: A classic indoor boat ride in Magic Kingdom.
- The American Adventure: An immersive show in EPCOT.
- Mickey and Minnie Runaway Railway: A family-friendly attraction in Hollywood Studios.
6. Stay Hydrated and Pack Sunscreen
The Florida sun can be intense, so staying hydrated and applying sunscreen is essential. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated throughout the day.
Disney offers free water at quick-service restaurants, so don’t hesitate to ask for a cup of water while you’re there.
You can also wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses to shield your face and eyes. Additionally, look for shaded areas or air-conditioned spaces to take daily breaks.
7. Take Advantage of Parades and Nighttime Shows
Disney’s parades and nighttime shows are part of what makes the experience so magical. Be sure to schedule time to see performances like Happily Ever After at Magic Kingdom or Luminous: The Symphony of Us at EPCOT.
These shows are immensely popular, so arrive early for a good viewing spot. If you want to avoid the crowds, try watching the later performances, as the park tends to clear out toward closing time.
8. Use the My Disney Experience App for Real-Time Updates
The My Disney Experience app is an essential tool for navigating the parks. It provides real-time updates on ride wait times, showtimes, and dining reservations.
You can also use the app to check menus and place mobile orders to save time. By utilizing the app, you’ll have all the information you need at your fingertips to make your Disney day as smooth as possible.
9. Don’t Forget About Character Meet-and-Greets
Meeting Disney characters is one of the highlights of any visit. Be sure to check the times and locations for character meet-and-greets so you don’t miss out on your favorites.
While some characters are now available for photo ops and autographs, others are featured in more immersive settings like the Princess Fairytale Hall or the Storybook Circus, both in Magic Kingdom.
10. Don’t Overplan—Leave Room for Flexibility
While it’s important to have a plan, don’t forget to leave some room for spontaneity. Some of the best Disney moments happen unexpectedly, like stumbling upon a surprise parade or discovering a secret spot for a relaxing break.
Being flexible and enjoying the magic of the moment will help ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible.
Your Summer Disney Vacation Awaits
Visiting Disney in the summer can be an unforgettable experience, especially when you follow these tips. By planning ahead, staying cool, and using Disney’s helpful tools and services, you can make your vacation more enjoyable and memorable.
Don’t forget to take breaks, stay hydrated, and enjoy the iconic shows and attractions that make Disney parks so special. With a little preparation, your Disney summer vacation will be a fantastic adventure for the whole family.
Pack your sunscreen, grab your Mickey ears, and get ready to create lasting memories at the Most Magical Place on Earth!
