Disney ParksUpdates

Where to Splurge and Save at Disney for the Most Magical Trip

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is an exciting adventure, but there’s no denying it can be pricey. Between flights, accommodations, tickets, food, and those iconic souvenirs, the costs add up quickly. If you’re trying to decide where to save and where to splurge, we’ve got some magical tips to help make your Disney vacation unforgettable.

Here are three areas where spending a little more can take your trip from great to extraordinary!


1. Attend Special Holiday Parties at Magic Kingdom

If you love holiday magic, there’s no better place to celebrate than Walt Disney World’s Magic Kingdom. Events like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party offer unique experiences that make the extra cost worthwhile.

These special ticketed events provide exclusive access to Magic Kingdom on select nights, complete with festive treats and entertainment. During Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party, all ages can enjoy trick-or-treating, spooky overlays on rides, and the famous Boo-To-You Halloween Parade, featuring the Headless Horseman. On the Christmas side, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party enchants with snowfall on Main Street, U.S.A., complimentary cookies and hot cocoa, and the dazzling Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show.

Disney World - Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse on a float during a parade at Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party.
Credit: Disney

Both events also include reduced wait times for popular attractions, making them a practical choice for families wanting more ride time. If holidays are your favorite time of year, these parties are worth every penny for the immersive magic.


2. Take a Disney Tour

For guests looking for a truly unique experience, Disney’s tours offer behind-the-scenes magic like no other. Whether you’re an animal lover, a Disney history buff, or just someone looking for VIP treatment, there’s a tour for everyone.

  • Keys to the Kingdom Tour (Magic Kingdom)
    This 5-hour walking tour takes guests behind the curtain to learn how Walt Disney’s vision came to life. You’ll visit iconic attractions, learn insider secrets, and even explore the legendary Utilidor tunnels under Magic Kingdom.
  • Caring for Giants (Disney’s Animal Kingdom)
    This enchanting tour offers up-close interactions with the park’s majestic elephants. Guests learn about conservation efforts and get a unique perspective on how Disney cares for its animals.
  • VIP Tours
    For the ultimate Disney splurge, a VIP tour offers personalized service, skipping the lines, and exclusive transportation between parks. A private VIP tour starts at $425 per hour (7-hour minimum), making it a big investment but one that guarantees a day of pure Disney luxury.

No matter your interest, these tours add an unforgettable touch of magic to your trip.


3. Stay at a Disney Deluxe Resort

Disney’s resorts are an attraction in themselves, and upgrading to a Deluxe Resort can elevate your experience significantly. While Value Resorts like Pop Century are fantastic for budget-conscious travelers, Deluxe Resorts offer more in terms of location, amenities, and overall magic.

Here’s why splurging on a Deluxe Resort might be worth it:

  • Convenient Location
    Resorts like Disney’s BoardWalk Inn or Beach Club put you within walking distance of EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, saving you time and hassle. Similarly, staying at monorail resorts such as Disney’s Grand Floridian or Contemporary Resort makes access to Magic Kingdom a breeze, especially for families with strollers.
  • Enhanced Amenities
    Deluxe Resorts feature stunning pools, high-end dining options, and immersive themes. Resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort transport you to a tropical paradise, while Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offers savanna views with live animals grazing outside your window.
  • Perfect for Resort Days
    If you’re planning a day off from the parks, Deluxe Resorts are ideal. Enjoy poolside relaxation, activities like scavenger hunts or crafts, and unique dining experiences without leaving the property.
A collage of four Walt Disney World resort images. Top left: A Polynesian-themed Disney Deluxe Resort at night. Top right: A beachfront resort with Grand Floridian-style architecture. Bottom left: A lakeside resort with Victorian-style buildings. Bottom right: An African lodge-inspired resort amidst trees.
Credit: Disney/D23

By budgeting for a Deluxe Resort, you’ll enhance your stay and create lasting memories.


4. Add a Little Extra Magic to Your Dining

Disney is known for its dining experiences, and splurging on one or two special meals can make your vacation even more magical. Here are some ideas to consider:

  • Wish Makers Enchanted Dining at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers an unforgettable character meal in a charming setting.
  • Dine under the stars at California Grill, perched atop Disney’s Contemporary Resort, and enjoy breathtaking views of Happily Ever After fireworks.
  • Savor the family-style feast at ‘Ohana in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, complete with island-inspired cuisine.

Special dining experiences allow you to celebrate milestones, indulge in world-class food, and enjoy Disney magic at its finest.


5. Celebrate With a Splurge-Worthy Activity

For those looking to add a “wow” factor, consider one of these splurge-worthy activities:

  • Fireworks Cruises: Watch EPCOT’s Luminous The Symphony of Us or Magic Kingdom’s Happily Ever After from a private boat on the Seven Seas Lagoon.
  • Behind-the-Scenes Animal Encounters: Visit Up Close With Rhinos or Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom for unforgettable wildlife experiences.
  • Dessert Parties: Enjoy reserved seating for nighttime shows along with delectable treats and drinks.
Fireworks over Cinderella Castle at Tokyo Disney Resort
Credit: Tokyo Disney Resort

Final Thoughts

A trip to Walt Disney World is a magical experience, and with a little extra budgeting in the right areas, it can be even more unforgettable. Whether you’re enjoying a seasonal party, upgrading your accommodations, or exploring behind-the-scenes tours, these splurges ensure your Disney vacation is filled with memories you’ll cherish forever.

Start planning your magical getaway today and remember: sometimes, a little extra pixie dust is worth the investment!

Jennifer Retzlaff

Jennifer became a lifelong Disney fan during her first trip to Walt Disney World in 6th grade. From that moment, Disney became a big part of her life. She quickly started to introduce her love of Disney to her family with a Disney honeymoon and then family trips when her youngest was 18 months old. She loves the magic that Disney brings to people through theme parks, cruises, and adventures. As a teacher, she tries to bring Disney magic into her classroom to help kids believe that “If You Can Dream It, You Can Do It.” She is also part of the Magic Vacation Planner team as a personal travel advisor. With this team, she can now help others plan magical vacations. She loves bringing her love to Disney to readers with How to Disney.

Related Articles

Close

Adblock Detected

Please consider supporting us by disabling your ad blocker