With so much to see and do throughout Walt Disney World, having a general plan for each day can help maximize your experience. This doesn’t need a detailed itinerary but rather an overall strategy to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
To help you create an easy daily plan, we’ve outlined seven steps for making the most of your day at Walt Disney World. Considering each step, you’ll be well-prepared for a magical experience.
1. Set Up Your Disney Planning Tools
Before you arrive, familiarize yourself with Lightning Lane Multi Pass (formerly Genie+) and Lightning Lane Single Pass (previously Individual Lightning Lane). These are paid options that allow guests to bypass standby lines for select attractions.
Advance Booking Options:
- Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can book Lightning Lane selections up to 7 days in advance.
- Non-resort guests can book up to 3 days in advance.
The My Disney Experience app remains an essential tool for managing reservations, checking wait times, and making mobile food orders.
2. Plan Your Mornings Wisely
Early Entry Advantage: Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can enter the parks 30 minutes before the official opening, which is a great time to experience popular attractions with minimal waits.
Breakfast Considerations:
- If you want to enjoy a character breakfast, make advance dining reservations for locations like Chef Mickey’s, Topolino’s Terrace, or ‘Ohana.
- If you prefer a quicker start, consider grabbing a mobile order from your resort or a quick-service favorite like Gaston’s Tavern (Magic Kingdom) for its famous cinnamon rolls.
3. Make the Most of Lightning Lane & Rope Drop
If you’ve purchased a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, be ready to select your first attraction as soon as your booking window opens.
Rope Dropping: Arriving before the official park opening can be one of the best ways to experience rides with lower wait times. Prioritize headliner attractions such as:
- TRON Lightcycle / Run (Magic Kingdom)
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind (EPCOT)
- Slinky Dog Dash (Hollywood Studios)
- Avatar Flight of Passage (Animal Kingdom)
4. Plan for Lunch and Midday Breaks
Dining Strategy:
- If you skipped a sit-down breakfast, consider a table-service lunch at nearby resort restaurants like Grand Floridian Cafe, Steakhouse 71, or Ale & Compass.
- If you prefer to stay in the parks, mobile ordering is the best way to avoid long lines at quick-service locations.
Afternoon Breaks:
- Midday heat and crowds are great times to head back to your resort for a swim or nap.
- If staying in the parks, opt for indoor attractions or shows to take a break from the sun. Shows like Carousel of Progress (Magic Kingdom), The American Adventure (EPCOT), and Festival of the Lion King (Animal Kingdom) provide a comfortable and entertaining respite.
5. Enjoy a Relaxing Dinner
Dinner is a great time to slow down and enjoy a relaxing meal. Advance reservations are highly recommended for popular restaurants like:
- ‘Ohana (Polynesian Village Resort)
- Be Our Guest (Magic Kingdom)
- Le Cellier Steakhouse (EPCOT)
- Yak & Yeti (Animal Kingdom)
For a more casual option, check out Disney lounges like Nomad Lounge (Animal Kingdom) or Oga’s Cantina (Hollywood Studios) for small bites and themed drinks.
6. End Your Night with a Spectacular Show
Disney’s nighttime entertainment is a must-see. Plan ahead to get a good viewing spot or book a dessert party for premium seating.
Current Nighttime Shows:
- Happily Ever After (Magic Kingdom)
- Luminous: The Symphony of Us (EPCOT)
- Fantasmic! (Hollywood Studios)
7. Final Tips for a Smooth Day
- Use Mobile Ordering for meals to save time.
- Take breaks to avoid burnout—Disney days are long!
- Stay hydrated and wear comfortable shoes.
- Be flexible! Plans can change, and some of the best Disney memories happen spontaneously.
By following these steps, you’ll create a seamless, stress-free plan for your day at Walt Disney World. Whether you’re aiming for maximum rides, delicious dining, or a mix of both, careful planning ensures a magical experience!
