15 Ways To Make Your Disney Vacation Extra-Special
15 Ways to Make Your Disney Vacation Extra-Special
There are plenty of ways to add some extra magic to your Disney vacation and create memories that your family will never forget.
*Related: 25 Things You Didn't Know About Disney Parks
Most people go to the park without researching the perks. They feel that a successful trip consists of riding the most popular rides, watching famous shows and taking a character photo. The truth is that, although those are key things to do at Disney, there are plenty of ways to take your experience to the next level.
Sit front row of every single rollercoaster
If you are an adrenaline seeker, one of the best ways to make your Disney vacation more exhilarating is by sitting in the front row of every single rollercoaster. Make a list of all the rollercoasters in the park and check off each one after you ride it. Some of the best include Space Mountain in Magic Kingdom, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster in Hollywood Studios, and Primeval Whirl in Animal Kingdom.
Dine with the characters
Make your trip to Disney the most memorable one yet and visit Cinderella's Royal Table. It's home to three Character meals. Cinderella will greet and take photos with you and your family upon arrival, and then you will all have the opportunity to join her for a delicious meal.
Stop for PhotoPass photographers
There is no better way to capture the moment than by stopping for a photo with one of Disney's PhotoPass photographers. They are located at iconic locations throughout the park. You don't actually have to purchase the photo, but at least you have the option to do so.
Go on a behind the scenes tour
Contrary to what many people believe, behind the scenes is not just for Disney actors; there are actually tours specifically designed for you. Go on a Backstage Magic tour for behind-the-scenes access to Walt Disney World attractions or take Disney's The Magic Behind Our Steam Trains Tour to explore the world of steam trains on an educational and fun experience.
Watch a movie under the stars at a Disney resort
Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests should never pass on the opportunity to watch complimentary movie screenings outside, under the stars. It is truly an incredible experience.
Take a dive with Epcot Seas Adventures
Make your vacation extra special by doing something out of the ordinary – scuba diving with Epcot Seas Adventures. Dive in the 5.7-million-gallon saltwater aquarium at Epcot and swim with over 6,000 sea creatures. Enjoy amazing views of marine life and coral.
Take a private surf lesson
Disney's Typhoon Lagoon is one of the best waterparks in the world, and for good reason. Along with their variety of recreational activities and adrenaline pumping slides, you will have the opportunity to take private surfing lessons in the world's largest outdoor wave pool.
Get the FastPass+
Waiting on long lines is likely to put a damper on your Disney vacation, which is why you should take advantage of the FastPass+. It is simple – just check the availability for rides and lock in your FastPass+, then skip the standby line for select attractions, character greetings and shows.
Go during a festival
Make your Disney vacation more enjoyable by visiting during a festival. Some of their famous special events and festivals include Mardi Gras, the Epcot International Food and Wine Festival, Festival of the Masters, Night of Joy and New Year's Eve.
Educate yourself on the attractions
One of the worst feelings is having waited in line for almost an hour to be told you have to exit because your child is not tall enough. Avoid this by educating yourself on the attractions and spending some time researching what each attraction is like. Make sure that you check the height requirements and intensity of each ride.
Go on Magic Kingdom’s Jungle Cruise
Guest of all ages will have the opportunity to embark on a Jungle Cruise in Magic Kingdom Park – don't pass it up. You will venture on a scenic boat tour throughout rivers across Asia, Africa and South America. Capture views of nature, encounter wildlife and observe waterfalls.
Wake up to a phone call from Mickey
Start your day off with a smile and wake up to a recorded character voice. Those of you staying on-site at a Walt Disney World resorts can arrange this call by simply calling the front desk of your hotel or pressing the wake-up call button on the phone in your hotel room.
Don’t forget to relax
Disney is full of thrills and adventures, it is easy to become overwhelmed and ware yourself out. If you want to get the most out of your vacation, it's important to take some time to relax. You need to be properly energized to fully enjoy your experience.
Experience Walt Disney World’s Marceline to Magic Kingdom Tour
This is a 3-hour walking tour located in Magic Kingdom Park. You will have the opportunity to learn about the design and operation of several classic attractions as well as discover how key events in Walt Disney's life inspired the creation of the park.
VIP Tour Experience
Guests of all ages will enjoy the freedom to see and do whatever they want, on their own schedule, with the highest level of service at Walt Disney World Resort. Enjoy a VIP experience – private dining, tastings and meet-ups, and special access to some of the parks entertainment and most popular attractions.