Visiting Walt Disney World with teenagers can still be incredibly magical, though the experience will differ from when they were younger. Thoughtful planning is key to making the most of your trip, as teens bring their own unique preferences, energy, and priorities. Tailoring your Disney adventure to their interests can ensure an engaging and memorable vacation.
Here are some top tips for navigating Walt Disney World with teens, guaranteeing a fun, stress-free, and unforgettable experience.
Get Them Involved in Planning
Even if your teen acts indifferent about planning, involving them in the process is one of the best ways to ensure they have a great time. Teens appreciate having a say, so giving them decision-making power will help them feel included. Plus, it’s a great way to get them excited about the trip ahead of time!
Ways to Get Teens Involved:
- Ask them which parks they’re most excited about visiting.
- Let them choose a few must-do attractions at each park.
- Get their input on dining reservations or favorite snacks they want to try.
- Encourage them to research and suggest activities they’d enjoy.
Knowing what your teen wants to do before you arrive at Walt Disney World helps ensure that their priorities are considered, making the trip more enjoyable for everyone.
Embrace Technology
Let’s face it—teens are glued to their phones, and instead of fighting it, they use technology to enhance their Disney experience.
Ways to Use Tech on Your Trip:
- MyDisney Experience App: Let them set up their profile to check wait times, manage Lightning Lane selections, and browse menus.
- Photo & Video Capturing: Let them take pictures and videos to document the trip creatively.
- Interactive Experiences: Engage them in queue lines or challenges like the Batuu missions in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge with Disney Play app games.
- Social Sharing: If your teen loves social media, let them share their experiences in real-time. Encourage them to create fun Instagram Reels or TikToks of your Disney adventures.
Instead of enforcing strict ‘no-phone’ rules, designate moments when they can use their devices freely and when they should fully engage with the family.
Give Them Choices
Teens can be unpredictable. Something they were excited about before the trip may not interest them at the moment. Keep your plans flexible and allow them to make choices throughout the day.
Examples of Giving Options:
- Instead of saying, “We’re going to ride Space Mountain next,” ask, “Would you rather ride Space Mountain or Big Thunder Mountain Railroad?”
- They can stay with the group or spend independent time in a specific area.
- Ask if they’d prefer watching a stage show or exploring a different park section.
Giving teens options keeps them engaged and reduces potential frustration from feeling forced into an activity they may not be in the mood for.
Plan for Downtime
No matter how much energy they have, teens still need breaks. Spending all day in the parks can be exhausting, and allowing for some downtime can prevent burnout.
Ways to Build in Breaks:
- Resort Relaxation: Schedule an afternoon break to swim or chill in the room at your Disney Resort.
- Lounge Time: Take breaks in air-conditioned lounges, like the relaxation spots around World Celebration in EPCOT.
- Solo Exploration: If your teen is responsible enough, let them wander an area solo for a short time while you take a break elsewhere.
Teens will appreciate having space to recharge, making them more enthusiastic for the next adventure.
Make Time for Food
Teenagers are always hungry, and ensuring they have access to food when needed is a crucial part of a successful Disney trip.
Dining Tips for Teens:
- Have a solid meal plan, whether table service dining or mobile ordering quick service.
- Keep snacks handy in case of long lines or unexpected hunger strikes.
- Let them choose their favorite Disney snack as a treat—whether it’s a classic Dole Whip or something from Connections Eatery in EPCOT.
Being proactive with food planning avoids hangry meltdowns and keeps the group happy.
Allow for Some Independence
As teens grow, they crave independence. Giving them some freedom during your Disney trip can make a huge difference if you feel comfortable.
Ways to Give Teens Independence:
- Let them explore a section of the park alone for a set time, such as an hour in Tomorrowland, while the rest of the family rides another attraction.
- If they’re with friends or siblings, let them leave independently and meet back at a designated time and place.
- Give them spending money to pick out souvenirs at the Creations Shop in EPCOT or the World of Disney in Disney Springs.
Allowing responsible teens some freedom will make them feel more grown-up and invested in the trip.
Mix in Thrill Rides & Unique Experiences
Teens often love thrills, so include high-energy attractions in your itinerary.
Top Thrill Rides for Teens:
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind
- TRON Lightcycle / Run
- Expedition Everest
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith
- Avatar Flight of Passage
If they enjoy unique experiences beyond just rides, consider activities like:
- The Animation Experience at Conservation Station in Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
- Shopping for exclusive Disney merchandise.
- Experiencing Luminous The Symphony of Us at EPCOT for an incredible nighttime show.
Keeping a mix of excitement and chill experiences ensures teens stay entertained.
No matter how grown-up they may seem, Disney still holds magic for teenagers. Get ready to enjoy your Disney adventure with your teen and make memories that will last a lifetime!
Which Disney attraction or activity do your teens love the most?
