A trip to Walt Disney World is always an unforgettable adventure, but there’s no denying it can get expensive. The total can climb quickly with resort stays, park tickets, dining, and souvenirs.
That said, some experiences are worth the splurge. A little extra spending here and there can add even more magic to your vacation and create memories that last long after you’ve left the parks.
If you’re wondering where to get the most magic for your money, we’ve put together some of the best Disney splurges that are totally worth it and might just take your trip to the next level.
1. Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort
One of the best ways to enhance your Disney vacation is by staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel. While booking a less expensive offsite hotel may be tempting, Disney Resorts offers incredible benefits that can make your trip smoother and more enjoyable.
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Extra Magic Beyond Park Hours: You can get a head start or a late-night bonus in the parks by staying at a Disney hotel. All guests can enter the parks 30 minutes before the official opening time.
If you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort or Disney Vacation Club property, you can also access Extended Evening Hours on select nights. Both options will give you more time to enjoy the parks than regular guests.
- Complimentary Transportation: Disney provides free transportation across the resort, including buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner. You can avoid the hassle of parking and traffic while seamlessly traveling between parks and resorts.
- Complimentary Water Park Access: Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel will receive complimentary access to Disney water parks on check-in day.
- Theming and Disney Magic: Staying on Disney property immerses you in the magic 24/7, with resort themes ranging from tropical oases to classic Disney nostalgia.
Extra Tip: If your budget allows, consider upgrading to a moderate or deluxe resort. You’ll get larger rooms, themed pools with slides and hot tubs, and closer proximity to the parks (some are even walkable!), which can save time and make heading back after a long park day much easier.
Treat Yourself to a Special Disney Dining Experience
Dining is a big part of Disney’s magic, and spending a little extra on a special meal can make your trip even more memorable. Whether celebrating something big or just wanting to enjoy a magical meal, Disney has you covered.
For upscale experiences, Signature Restaurants like California Grill (with fireworks views), Le Cellier in EPCOT, or the luxurious Victoria & Albert’s offers top-notch food and unforgettable atmospheres.
Traveling with kids (or just love the characters)? Character dining at spots like Topolino’s Terrace or Cinderella’s Royal Table combines excellent food with meet-and-greets, making every bite even more magical.
These meals might cost a little more, but the memories? Worth it.
Celebrate the Season with a Touch of Disney Magic
If you want to elevate your Disney trip, attending a special ticketed event is a great way to do it. These limited-capacity parties offer a more exclusive experience, with shorter wait times, unique entertainment, and even complimentary snacks.
Disney’s seasonal events are especially magical, and two of the biggest happen at Magic Kingdom each year:
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Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party: A spooktacular night featuring themed entertainment, rare character appearances, trick-or-treating, and a special Halloween parade.
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Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: Enjoy festive fireworks, holiday parades, seasonal treats, and even snow on Main Street, U.S.A.
These events come at an extra cost, but the festive atmosphere and lower crowds make them unforgettable for any Disney trip.
Disney After Hours: Low-Crowd Magic
Disney After Hours events are offered on select nights at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios — and they’re perfect if you don’t mind staying up late.
These events let you stay in the park for three extra hours after closing, with minimal crowds, much shorter wait times for top attractions, and complimentary snacks like ice cream, popcorn, and bottled drinks.
One of the best perks is that these events happen at night, so you won’t have to deal with the daytime heat. With fewer little ones around, the parks feel a little more relaxed and grown-up.
If you want to stretch your budget, consider skipping a regular park ticket and doing an After Hours night instead. You’ll still get plenty of time in the park but with a more laid-back vibe.
For 2025 event dates, check the official Walt Disney World website to see what’s available during your trip.
See Disney from a New Perspective with a Special Tour
For Disney fans looking beyond the typical park day, specialty tours offer a unique, behind-the-scenes look at the magic. Here are a few unforgettable experiences you can book to add something extra to your visit:
Keys to the Kingdom (Magic Kingdom): A 5-hour walking experience perfect for Disney history fans. Guests can learn fascinating insider secrets about park design, storytelling, and the behind-the-scenes magic that brings it all to life.
Caring for Giants (Animal Kingdom): This 60-minute experience offers an incredible behind-the-scenes look at how Disney cares for its African elephant herd at Animal Kingdom. You’ll get surprisingly close to these gentle giants while learning all about their daily care, behaviors, and Disney’s conservation efforts worldwide.
Up Close with Rhinos (Animal Kingdom): If you’re looking for a one-of-a-kind animal encounter, this tour brings you face-to-face with one of the world’s most endangered species. Led by Animal Kingdom’s expert keepers, you’ll meet the white rhinos and hear firsthand about their personalities, routines, and how Disney is helping protect them in the wild.
VIP Tours: Ultimate Disney Experience
A Private VIP Tour is hard to beat if you’re looking for the ultimate Disney upgrade. With a personal Disney guide, your day is wholly customized, whether that means hitting all the big rides, skipping lines, or hopping between parks in private transportation.
Tours range from $450 to $900 per hour (with a seven-hour minimum), and theme park admission is required but not included. While it’s a luxury, it’s an unforgettable way to experience Walt Disney World with minimal stress and maximum magic.
Is It Worth Spending Extra at Disney?
A Walt Disney World trip is already a significant investment, but spending a little extra in the right places can take your vacation to the next level.
Whether you upgrade to a Deluxe resort, treat yourself to a signature meal, attend a seasonal event, or take a behind-the-scenes tour, these magical extras can turn magical moments into unforgettable memories.
What’s your must-do Disney indulgence?
