Planning a shorter trip to Walt Disney World? While a week-long adventure is ideal, sometimes a weekend is all you have. With a bit of strategy, you can still pack in plenty of magic. Here are some top tips to make the most of a quick getaway at Walt Disney World.
1. Choose Your Flights Wisely
For short trips, every minute counts, so picking the right flights can make a big difference. Opt for early morning flights to maximize your time in the parks or consider flying in the evening before to hit the ground running the next morning.
Even if your room isn’t ready upon arrival, you can leave your bags with Bell Services at your Walt Disney World Resort and head straight to the parks. To squeeze in even more magic, book a late return flight on your final day. That way, you can spend more time in the parks before heading home.
2. Narrow Down Your Must-Do Experiences
A shorter trip requires a focused approach. Instead of trying to see and do it all, prioritize the attractions, shows, and experiences that mean the most to you.
Consider listing your top must-dos in each park. Do you want to catch a show like Fantasmic! or experience the thrill of new rides? Plan ahead so you’re not scrambling to decide once you’re there. A little pre-planning ensures you hit the highlights and enjoy your must-see attractions.
3. Choose Your Resort for Convenience
Choosing the right resort can make a big difference on a short trip. Staying at a resort with quick access to the parks helps you save precious time. Resorts along the Disney Skyliner or Monorail lines, such as Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Beach Club Resort, allow you to easily travel to parks like Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
For instance, if EPCOT’s International Festival is on your list, staying at a Crescent Lake Resort like Disney’s Yacht Club or Disney’s BoardWalk Inn puts you within walking distance. By selecting a strategically located resort, you’ll have more time to soak in the magic and less time in transit.
4. Utilize Early Theme Park Entry
When you stay at a Walt Disney World Resort, you can enter each park 30 minutes before it opens to the general public. This small window can make a big difference on a shorter trip, allowing you to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times. Even 30 minutes can let you get a jump on must-do rides before the crowds swell.
Guests at Deluxe Resorts, including Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Yacht Club, also have access to extended evening hours on select nights at EPCOT and Magic Kingdom. For those who want to maximize their time, these additional hours can be the perfect opportunity to enjoy quieter parks and shorter lines.
5. Consider the Park Hopper Option
Park Hopper tickets let you visit multiple parks on the same day, which can be beneficial on a short trip. You can start your morning at one park and hop to another in the afternoon or evening. This option lets you experience a little bit of everything Walt Disney World has to offer, maximizing your time and allowing for flexibility.
For example, start at Animal Kingdom for a morning safari and then head to Magic Kingdom for fireworks in the evening. If experiencing all four parks in one trip is your goal, Park Hopping makes it achievable without over-committing to one location.
6. Attend Special Events
Special events at Walt Disney World can extend your park time, making it feel like you’re getting more out of your day. If you’re visiting during Halloween or Christmas, consider purchasing a ticket to one of the seasonal parties like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. These events provide unique experiences and additional hours in the park after general admission closes, with lower crowd levels and access to popular rides.
Additionally, Disney After Hours events at select parks, like Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, allow limited-entry access for three hours post-closing. Fewer guests mean shorter lines, making these events a great way to see more in a condensed amount of time.
7. Use Ride Share Services to Save Time
Disney’s complimentary transportation is a wonderful perk, but it can take time. For quick trips, consider using ride-share services like Lyft or Uber, especially when hopping between resorts or parks. With limited time, the convenience of door-to-door transportation helps you focus on fun instead of waiting for the next bus or boat.
Minnie Vans, operated by Lyft, offer a Disney-themed ride-share option that even drops guests off directly at Magic Kingdom’s entrance. While not always essential, ride shares can streamline your schedule on a busy weekend getaway.
8. Don’t Skip on Dining Reservations
If there’s a particular Disney dining experience on your list, make sure to secure a reservation ahead of time. While counter-service spots are convenient, table-service restaurants give you a chance to relax, recharge, and enjoy a themed meal, which can be a nice change of pace on a short, busy trip.
If you couldn’t score a reservation for a popular spot, keep checking availability on the My Disney Experience app or consider joining the walk-up waitlist. Dining at a special restaurant, even for a quick bite, adds an extra layer of magic to your trip.
9. Opt for Mobile Ordering to Save Time
Mobile ordering through the My Disney Experience app is a fantastic way to save time at quick-service locations throughout the parks and resorts. Instead of waiting in line, you can place your order from anywhere, choose a convenient pick-up time, and simply grab your food when it’s ready.
This is especially useful when you’re trying to squeeze in as much park time as possible, allowing you to enjoy meals quickly and hassle-free.
10. Enjoy the Moment and Go with the Flow
While planning is essential for a short trip, it’s equally important to embrace the magic in every moment. Walt Disney World is packed with spontaneous entertainment, character interactions, and magical surprises. While hitting your must-do list is exciting, sometimes the best moments are the ones you didn’t plan for.
Take time to savor the small details, whether it’s listening to the Dapper Dans on Main Street U.S.A., grabbing a Mickey-shaped snack, or catching a surprise parade. Allowing a little flexibility in your itinerary can add unforgettable memories to your quick Disney getaway.
Whether you’re squeezing in a weekend at Walt Disney World or planning a three-day adventure, these tips will help you get the most out of your time. Short trips can still be incredibly memorable, especially when you plan with intention and embrace each magical moment.
