There is a TON of Disney World information out there! This is amazing if you’re planning a trip–especially if you’ve never been before.
But the downside to all that info is that it can be a little overwhelming. This can be particularly true for first-time visitors.
With that in mind, I put together my top nine pieces of advice for anyone heading to Disney World for the first time. I would definitely suggest going beyond this info as you prep, but if you need a simplified place to start, this post is for you!
Here are my top nine tips for Disney World first time visitors.
Give yourself plenty of time to get everywhere
It cannot be overstated how massive Disney World is. If you’re staying on property, you may be able to walk to some parks, depending on your resort, but you should not plan on walking everywhere.
It can take twenty to thirty minutes to get from one park or resort to another, depending on your starting point and destination.
Luckily, Disney does have its own transportation system, which you can read all about here!
But even if you’re using Disney transportation, delays happen, so you want to make sure you give yourself plenty of time to get to where you need to go.
Always ask a Cast Member
Cast Members are there to help, and they often greatly enjoy doing so! If you have any questions or concerns, you should not think twice about asking a Cast Member.
They aren’t miracle workers, but if there’s anything in their power they can do to help, they typically will. It’s also really beneficial to be kind to Cast Members–even if things aren’t going right.
Not only is this polite, but you may also find Cast Members can add a little extra magic to your vacation (if they’re inclined to do so).
Don’t try to do everything and be sure to take breaks
Because Disney World is so big, it can be impossible to get to everything.
And if you try to do everything, there’s a much better chance that you and/or members of your family or group will end up tired and cranky. This makes for a much less enjoyable trip.
Instead, make a list prioritizing the shows and attractions that are essential for your group and make a list of things you’d like to do, but would be okay missing this time around.
This way, you can ensure you get to the essentials and enjoy them to the fullest.
Also, do what you can to take some breaks. This can mean heading back to your hotel for a few hours in the middle of the afternoon, taking a full down day in the middle of your trip, or simply making the time for a sitdown table service meal–whatever makes the most sense for you and your group.
Consider staying on property if you can swing it
Ultimately, this is going to be a personal decision based on your family and budget, but if you can swing it, I always recommend staying on property.
Staying in the Disney Bubble can add an extra layer of magic to your vacation. And while a Disney Resort may be more expensive, in my opinion, you absolutely get what you pay for.
This includes great amenities, theming, service, and added Disney perks.
For more on choosing the right Disney Resort for you and your group, check out this post!
Use the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience App will streamline everything about your vacation. You’ll be able to easily access your Fastpasses and Dining reservations, your resort reservation, park wait times and more!
For tips on how to use the My Disney Experience App, check out this post.
Use your FastPasses!
And speaking of FastPasses, make sure you use them! FastPasses allow you to ride some of Disney’s most popular rides at a significantly reduced wait time.
You can book three FastPasses per day in advance of your trip and more once you use up your pre-booked FastPasses in the park.
They’re essential to helping you maximize your park time.
For more on Disney’s FastPass system, check out this post.
Disney Park food is really good!
If you’ve never been to Disney World, you might expect park food to be your standard burgers, fries, pizza, etc. You can totally get those things in Disney World, but you can also get some fantastic meals that are a lot more than you’d expect.
This is true for your quick service/fast casual meals and for your sit down table service meals.
For more on Disney park food, I love and recommend Disney Food Blog!
Stay hydrated and use sunscreen
It’s hot and sunny in Florida for most of the year. Even in the cooler winter months, the sun can still be pretty strong.
Couple that with all the walking you’ll be doing and all the rides and attractions you’re trying to get to and you may find it easy to overlook the basics like sunscreen and water.
You’ll have a much more enjoyable trip if you’re feeling as good as you possibly can. That starts with avoiding dehydration and sunburn
And if you find you’re not feeling so good in the parks, be sure to stop by a First Aid Station. They should be able to help you out.
Make use of Disney photographers
You’ll undoubtedly want to get pictures of your whole family or group. The good news is, you don’t have to rely on the skill and kindness of strangers to make this happen!
Disney has professional photographers stationed all throughout the parks. This includes popular photo areas (like the Castle) and with characters.
And you can absolutely ask these photographers to take a picture with your phone or camera. They are happy to do this! They’ll also take some pictures with their camera, but you are under no obligation to purchase that photo.
For more Disney World tips and tricks, check out the other Disney World Posts!
Sound off: If you’ve been to Disney, what’s something you wish you knew about before you went? If you haven’t been yet, what are you most excited for? Tell us about it in the comments!