At How to Disney, we love sharing tips and tricks to help make your Walt Disney World vacation as magical as possible. We’ve got you covered whether it’s advice on rides, packing, dining, or park strategies.
Today, we’re sharing some key things to avoid during your Walt Disney World vacation. Avoiding these common mistakes will ensure you have the best experience possible. Let’s dive in!
Not Planning Your Park Days Strategically
As of 2024, date-based Walt Disney World tickets no longer require park reservations, making planning a bit easier. However, if you have an Annual Pass or certain special ticket types, you may still need a reservation. Be sure to check the latest requirements before your trip.
Even though reservations aren’t necessary for date-based tickets, planning your park days strategically is still important. Consider crowd levels, early entry perks, and Extended Evening Hours if staying at a Disney Resort hotel. Arriving early, taking mid-day breaks, and staying late can help you maximize your time in the parks.
Not Slowing Down
One of the biggest mistakes you can make is overloading your schedule. It’s tempting to cram as many rides and attractions as possible into your trip, but you don’t want to burn out. Be sure to take time to relax and enjoy the magic beyond the rides.
Make the most of your resort’s amenities—swim at the pool, take part in activities, or watch a movie under the stars. In the parks, enjoy quieter moments like grabbing a snack and relaxing at the Hub Grass in Magic Kingdom, taking a leisurely stroll through EPCOT’s World Showcase, or catching a live performance.
Skipping the Lesser-Known Attractions
While headliners like TRON Lightcycle / Run and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind grab most of the attention, there are plenty of hidden gems worth experiencing. Attractions like Living with the Land at EPCOT, The Hall of Presidents at Magic Kingdom, and Walt Disney Presents at Disney’s Hollywood Studios provide unique entertainment and a break from the crowds.
Take time to explore the smaller attractions, shows, and walkthrough experiences that can add a special touch to your trip. You may discover a new favorite!
Eating the Same Food Every Day
Walt Disney World is home to some of the best theme park food in the world, so don’t settle for burgers and fries every day. Take the time to explore unique dining options throughout the parks and resorts.
Quick-service favorites like Sat’uli Canteen in Disney’s Animal Kingdom offer fresh, flavorful options, while table-service restaurants like Skipper Canteen in Magic Kingdom and Space 220 in EPCOT provide immersive dining experiences. Even for picky eaters, planning ahead and checking menus can help you find exciting meals that everyone will enjoy.
Spending Your Entire Day Waiting in Long Lines
Walt Disney World is known for its crowds, but that doesn’t mean you have to spend your entire day in long lines. A few smart strategies can help you avoid excessive wait times:
- Visit popular rides early or late – The first and last hours of the day often have lower wait times.
- Use the Lightning Lane Premier Pass – Introduced in 2024, this pass allows guests at select resorts to skip standby lines at most attractions for a set price.
- Take advantage of lower-wait attractions – Shows, continuous-loading rides, and attractions like The American Adventure in EPCOT or Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway at Disney’s Hollywood Studios often have shorter waits.
By planning your day wisely, you can experience more attractions while spending less time in line.
Final Thoughts
Planning a Walt Disney World vacation can feel overwhelming, but avoiding these common mistakes will help you have a smoother, more magical experience. Take time to plan strategically, slow down, explore hidden gems, enjoy diverse dining, and manage wait times effectively.
With the right approach, you can make the most of your trip and create unforgettable memories. Happy planning!
