When heading to Walt Disney World for the first time, it can be a lot to think about and plan for. There is so much to see and do throughout the four Disney Parks, water parks, Resorts, and Disney Springs that you might need help knowing precisely what you want to do when you visit.
To help you get the most out of your vacation, we will share some must-do tips for your first time at Disney. These tips will help you make the most out of your magical time at Walt Disney World.
Do Your Research
Our first tip for first-timers you are already accomplishing by reading this blog is to do your research. Walt Disney World is expansive. Take time before your vacation to learn about what is offered.
Learn about what is offered at each of the four Parks. Doing this will help you get familiar with the layout of the different Parks and better understand what is provided at each Park. Nothing like promising your little one a ride on a specific ride only to realize you are in the wrong Park.
Dive into Disney Resorts to determine the best for your family. Although they are all fantastic, each Resort offers something unique, and you want to make sure you find one that fits you.
We also recommend taking time to learn the Disney language. Yes, Disney does have its very own language. By becoming familiar with it, you will feel less overwhelmed when you arrive.
Related: Disney’s Secret Language
Doing this research will prepare you for the trip and make you feel more comfortable when you arrive. We have tons of blogs on How to Disney to help with this.
My Disney Experience is Key
Before your first trip, download and explore Disney’s official app: My Disney Experience. Through this app, you will stay connected to the magic throughout your trip.
My Disney Experience is where Guests can find wait times, access dining, book Genie+, join the virtual queues, and more. The app offers so much information for Guests; however, it can be overwhelming if you don’t take the time to navigate it early on.
Explore all it offers before you leave so you are already a pro when you arrive at Walt Disney World.
Related: Key Features of My Disney Experience
Pack Like a Pro
As you prepare to pack for your trip, take time to look at what the pros recommend. When you go to Walt Disney World, you must ensure you have rain gear.
Pack comfortable, reliable shoes for everyone to manage the miles they will walk each day. And make sure that clothes are comfortable and breathable. Having layers is excellent as well. The buses, restaurants, and shows can get chilly even during the hot summer.
Make sure you don’t forget anything essential during your trip.
Related: Critical Items for Packing
Be Realistic
As you plan for each day, make sure you are realistic with your goal. It doesn’t matter how long your vacation is to Walt Disney World; you won’t be able to see and do it all. Instead, set realistic expectations for each day in the Parks.
Have a list of 3-5 must-do experiences for the day. Focus on ensuring you accomplish those experiences and the rest of the additional magic.
This is a great way to get kids involved in the planning process. Having them help generate the must-do list allows everyone’s voices to be heard.
Go to the Parks Early
If you want to get ahead of the crowds, get to the Parks early in the morning. Take advantage of early entry for those staying at a Walt Disney World Resort. Early entry allows you to enter any of the Disney Parks thirty minutes before posted opening. These thirty minutes can make a huge difference in getting ahead of the crowds.
Slow down
When you are in the Disney Parks, allow yourself time to slow down. We always recommend having a general plan for the day but also be willing to toss the plan out. Some of the best times in the Parks are those that are unexpected and not planned.
Enjoy a snack while people-watching on the hub grass in Magic Kingdom. Explore the Tree of Life by finding the different animals hidden. Dance to live music or listen to the Dapper Dans on Main Street, U.S.A.
These unique, unplanned moments will be a special part of your trip. Don’t rush by them.
Enjoy Your Disney Resort
Don’t make a mistake during your first trip of not planning time at your Walt Disney World Resort. The Disney Resorts are part of the magic, so make sure you also have time to explore them.
Take a day to enjoy the pool, enjoy the Movie Under the Stars, or participate in some of the many activities. Disney Resorts have so much to offer Guests, and many first-timers miss out on it all.
Those are must-do tips for first-time visitors to Walt Disney World. These tips will help you maximize your Walt Disney World vacation. By planning ahead of time and being flexible during your vacation, you will have a magical first trip to Walt Disney World. It can be stressful heading to Walt Disney World, but we hope these quick tips will make you feel more prepared and ready for a beautiful time.
Related: Five Disney Planning Mistakes to Avoid Making
