Planning a Disney holiday can be thrilling, but without the right tricks, it can easily turn into a series of long queues and missed experiences. Disney travel insider Jaimie Michaels shares exclusive insights to help visitors make the most of their trip, from saving on bookings to hitting the top rides with minimal wait times. Here’s what you need to know to make your Disney holiday a magical success.
Book Early to Score the Best Deals
To secure the best rates, plan your Disney holiday several months in advance. Experts recommend booking tickets and accommodation around six months before your trip, as Disney often releases deals three to six months prior. Start setting aside funds as early as possible for a stress-free experience. Aiming for mid-January to mid-March or mid-September to mid-November can mean fewer crowds and lower prices—ideal for families wanting a quieter visit without the peak-season frenzy. Additionally, Tuesdays through Thursdays are usually quieter than weekends, helping you avoid some of the busiest days.
Time Your Rides and Take Advantage of Lightning Lanes
If you want to experience Disney’s top attractions with minimal waiting, it’s all about timing. Michaels suggests “rope dropping”—arriving early enough to be among the first in line as the parks open—to access the most popular rides before lines build up. For a second chance to ride without the crowd, plan for the end of the day, when wait times typically drop as families head to dinner or return to their hotels.
To further cut wait times, take advantage of the Lightning Lane passes, available up to seven days ahead if you’re staying at a Disney Resort. The Lightning Lane Multi Pass lets you pre-select three attractions per day to skip the queues. For big-ticket rides like Guardians of the Galaxy and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, the Single Pass (available twice daily) can be a worthwhile investment, especially if your Disney holiday is a rare treat.
Don’t Miss Out on Dining – Book Early!
Disney’s dining spots are as popular as its rides, so it’s crucial to book reservations up to 60 days ahead. Notable dining options like Space 220 Restaurant, Be Our Guest, Cinderella’s Royal Table, and ‘Ohana fill up fast, and reservations can be made through the My Disney Experience app. Although some walk-up options exist, availability is far from guaranteed—booking in advance is your best chance to savour these coveted dining experiences.
Get the My Disney Experience App: Your Essential Travel Companion
For a streamlined experience, the My Disney Experience app is a must. The app offers live updates on queue times, restaurant availability, character locations, and even contactless payment options. You can also use it for mobile food ordering, allowing you to place an order ahead of time and simply pick it up when ready—saving valuable time that would otherwise be spent in line.
Planning a Disney holiday doesn’t need to be overwhelming. By booking early, strategically scheduling rides, and using tools like the My Disney Experience app, you can create an enchanting, memorable adventure for the whole family.