
At How to Disney, we strive to make your Walt Disney World trip as magical and seamless as possible. Whether you’re looking for tips on planning your park days, making the most of Lightning Lane, or uncovering hidden dining gems, we’re here to help. Today, we’re sharing insider tips that can enhance your vacation in unexpected ways.
These little-known tricks can make your Disney experience even more magical, saving you time, money, and stress.
1. Celebrate Your Special Occasion with Free Buttons
When visiting Walt Disney World, be sure to grab a celebration button to commemorate your special occasion. Available for free at Disney Resort hotels and Guest Relations in the parks, these buttons come in themes like “Happy Birthday,” “First Visit,” “Happily Ever After,” or the customizable “I’m Celebrating.”
Whether you’re marking a family reunion, a promotion at work, or simply your Disney vacation, wearing a celebration button can add a layer of magic to your trip. Cast members and fellow guests often go out of their way to share in your joy. And don’t forget, these buttons make for a charming (and free!) keepsake.

Pro Tip: If you have Memory Maker, capture your magical moments while proudly wearing your button for photos you’ll treasure forever.
2. Head to the Left for Shorter Lines
Here’s a quirky tip: when faced with multiple lines, opt for the one on the left. Most Guests instinctively gravitate to the right, whether it’s at park entrance touchpoints, ride queues, or food counters. By heading left, you might shave a few minutes off your wait time.
This tip can be particularly useful when entering the parks in the morning or joining a line for popular attractions. Keep an eye out for overlooked touchpoints or shorter queues—being observant can save time and help you avoid crowds.
3. Bring Your Own Food and Water
Unlike many other theme parks, Walt Disney World allows Guests to bring their own food and non-alcoholic drinks, as long as they meet these guidelines:
- No glass containers
- No items requiring heating or refrigeration
- No pungent odors
This is a huge money-saver and a great way to ensure you stay hydrated. Bottled water at Disney can be pricey, so bring your own or use refillable water bottles at fountains or quick-service locations. Packing snacks like granola bars, fruit, or crackers is also a lifesaver, especially when hunger strikes during long lines.
Pro Tip: Keep some portable snacks in your park bag for little ones (or adults!) who get hungry between meals.
4. Master Stroller Parking
If you’re bringing a stroller to the parks, familiarize yourself with designated stroller parking. Cast Members often rearrange strollers left in non-designated areas, which can cause confusion when you return to retrieve yours.
Before heading into an attraction or restaurant, take a moment to locate the stroller parking area. To make your stroller stand out, consider adding a ribbon, tag, or brightly colored accessory. This will save you from searching through a sea of identical strollers.

If your stroller is moved, don’t panic. A nearby Cast Member can help you locate it quickly.
5. Choose the Right Monorail Line
The monorail is an iconic Disney transportation option, but knowing which line to take can save you time at the end of a busy day. There are two primary lines servicing the Magic Kingdom:
- Express Monorail: Directly connects Magic Kingdom to the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC).
- Resort Monorail: Stops at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, TTC, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort before looping back to Magic Kingdom.
At park closing, the Express Monorail often has long lines as most Guests head to the TTC. Instead, opt for the Resort Monorail—even with additional stops, it may still get you to your destination faster.
6. Compliment Cast Members
Walt Disney World’s cast members are the heart of the magic, going above and beyond to create unforgettable experiences. If a cast member makes your day extra special, consider sharing your appreciation through the Cast Compliment feature in the My Disney Experience app.
Provide details like their name, location, and how they enhanced your experience. While cast members cannot accept tips (except certain roles like servers and bell services), compliments contribute to their recognition within Disney and boost morale.
7. Enhance the Magic with Memory Maker
If you’ve purchased Memory Maker, maximize its value by taking advantage of all the Disney PhotoPass opportunities. From ride photos to character interactions and Magic Shots, you can capture priceless moments throughout your trip. These photos often feature fun animations or themed overlays that add an extra touch of Disney magic.
8. Strategize Your Dining Experience
Walt Disney World offers countless dining options, from quick bites to signature meals. To make the most of your dining experience:
- Make Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs): Secure reservations up to 60 days before your trip through the My Disney Experience app.
- Use Mobile Ordering: Skip the line at quick-service locations by pre-ordering your meals through the app.
- Try Unique Options: Explore non-traditional foods at locations like Jungle Skipper Canteen in Magic Kingdom or Satu’li Canteen in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

9. Embrace the Little Things
Sometimes, it’s the small details that make a Disney vacation truly magical. From hidden Mickeys to spontaneous character appearances, keep your eyes peeled for the unexpected. Slowing down to enjoy the ambiance, parades, and live performances can add a layer of magic to your trip that rides alone can’t provide.
10. Stay Flexible
Lastly, remember that even with the best-laid plans, things may not go as expected. Embrace the unexpected, adjust your plans as needed, and focus on making memories with your loved ones.
By incorporating these insider tips into your Walt Disney World planning, you’ll be well on your way to having a stress-free and magical vacation.