The idea of a Disney cruise for adults is gaining traction thanks to the line’s array of exclusive spaces and high-end experiences. Onboard service is another draw, as Disney ranked in the top 5 cruise lines for customer service in 2024.

Before jumping onboard a more adult-oriented cruise brand, first consider these top 5 reasons cruisers without children choose to sail with Disney.

Adult-Exclusive Spaces Are Reserved for Adults on a Disney Cruise

The blog “Eat, Sleep, Cruise” run by Don and Heidi Bucolo, conducted a survey in 2024, asking cruisers to name their chief complaints about cruising. Allowing children to hang about adult only spaces was the top thing travelers wanted lines to change.

While Disney’s family brand means you’ll find plenty of youngsters onboard, we rarely found them in adult-exclusive spaces. The thoughtful design of the ship may have something to do with that. On other lines, passengers frequently complain that families wander through adult spaces on their way to other areas onboard.

On Disney cruises, the Quiet Cove adult pool decks are tucked away in the aft of the ship. It simply isn’t an area where someone might accidentally wander.

Cruisers on other lines have frequently expressed frustration with crew members who fail to nudge children out of adult areas or parents who feel free to bring them into these grownup havens. In our experience on a Disney ship, cast members would politely remind parents that they’d entered an area reserved for adults. In most cases, parents would apologize and leave.

Of course, there is always the possibility for at least one bad actor, but onboard a Disney cruise, we found the family atmosphere worked in favor of adults traveling kid-free. Since parents tend to spend time with their youngsters when vacationing together, adult spaces are far less crowded than on many other lines.

Our recent experience on the Disney Wish was a case in point. With the exception of the 2000’s music trivia night, we always found ample room to sit and enjoy adult lounges and other spaces. Serenity Bay at Castaway Cay also had open sand and surf across the beach, with multiple loungers and umbrellas available throughout the day.

Exclusivity at Serenity Bay – Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point

Travel agents agree that experienced cruisers prefer itineraries that include a stop at the line’s private island. With full control over these exclusive destinations, cruise brands can tailor amenities and activities based on guest feedback, creating a more seamless and enjoyable experience. Travelers especially appreciate the relaxed atmosphere, thoughtfully curated excursions, and the convenience of included dining while in port.

Disney may not be the first to offer a private island experience to onboard guests, but the line now features 2 private destinations available on Caribbean sailings. Both are designed with an adult-only beach scape known as Serenity Bay.

Serenity Bay is a sought after haven on a Disney cruise for adults, offering guests sublime comfort in the shade or sun. Loungers and umbrellas are plentiful, and the thoughtful addition of shorter surfside chairs add flexibility for guests who may want to feel the waves lap against their feet.

Serenity Bay is the perfect spot for adults to enjoy lunch while on the island. A barbecue buffet is offered only to passengers aged 18 and up, with plenty of shaded space for grownups to chat freely.

Overall, older travelers visiting Disney’s private islands appreciate the appeal of exclusivity. Unlike other lines, Disney does not share space at either Castaway Cay or Lighthouse Point with other cruise brands, meaning little competition for available amenities and excursions.

Disney Cruise for Adults Delivers Sophistication and Serenity

Disney Cruise Line has crafted an atmosphere that caters to adults seeking both relaxation and refinement. While best known for its family-friendly experiences, the cruise line offers a range of exclusive spaces designed with grown-up travelers in mind. 

The Quiet Cove Pool provides adults with a retreat away from the bustling family areas, featuring a serene infinity-edge wading pool, whirlpool spas, and plush lounge chairs. Nearby, the Cove Café serves specialty coffees and craft cocktails, making it a perfect spot to unwind while remaining in sight of ocean views.

For those looking for an upscale dining experience, Disney Cruise Line offers adults-only restaurants that rival high-end establishments on land. Palo, with its Northern Italian cuisine and sweeping ocean views, delivers an elegant yet inviting atmosphere, while Remy, inspired by French gastronomy, provides a multi-course fine dining experience with impeccable service. Strict dress codes and reservation requirements enhance the sophisticated ambiance, allowing guests to indulge in a night of culinary excellence without distraction.

Beyond dining, Disney’s adult-focused entertainment options add to the elevated onboard experience. Themed lounges and nightclubs offer live music, handcrafted cocktails, and an elegant nightlife scene reserved for guests 21 and older. These spaces blend modern sophistication with Disney’s signature attention to detail, ensuring that adults can enjoy a lively yet refined evening atmosphere.

While Disney Cruise Line stays true to its brand, the experience for adults is anything but overwhelming. Themed elements are woven subtly throughout the ship, from Art Deco and Art Nouveau-inspired design to tasteful nods to Disney’s storytelling legacy. This careful balance allows adults to enjoy the signature magic without feeling immersed in a child-centric environment, proving that a Disney cruise can be just as appealing for those seeking sophistication and serenity as it is for families with young children.

Disney’s Emphasis on Service and Quality

Long before a Cruise Line was a thought in the Disney collective consciousness, Walt Disney said, “Whatever you do, do it well. Do it so well that when people see you do it, they will want to come back and see you do it again, and they will want to bring others and show them how well you do what you do.” That same spirit of excellence carries over to a Disney cruise and offers significant appeal for adult travelers. 

Customer service standards associated with any Disney brand are built on the 4 keys of safety, courtesy, show and efficiency. You’ll find all four richly integrated into a Disney cruise for adults.

The well-oiled efficiency of a Disney cruise is evident from embarkation through disembarkation. Traveling as 4 adults, we sailed right through arrival day at the port. Cast members seamlessly directed passengers to the next available security point, eliminating that dreaded fear of entering the wrong and longer line. Check-in was equally as fast and efficient thanks to the number of crew on hand to assist and their obvious level of experience.

Whether at the port or onboard, cast members on a Disney cruise are helpful, courteous and polite, but also not afraid to have fun. Even during family-friendly shows, performers have been known to slip in sly adult jokes. While always clean in nature, the unexpectedness brings added delight to adults sailing a Disney cruise. 

Onboard, you’ll find servers that are both attentive and focused on guest comfort and safety. As an example, our server was well-apprised of our food allergies and regularly consulted with us on off-limit menu items.

However, it’s the element of show that elevates Disney above other lines. In addition to spaces themed to bring Disney’s array of intellectual property to life, every detail exudes a level of Disney mastery. 

Remaining true to Walt Disney’s storytelling legacy, Disney cruise ships seamlessly evoke the element of show in imaginative ways. The 1923 restaurant onboard the Disney Wish is just one example.

Designed to showcase the animator’s craft, it’s a venue that serves both breakfast and dinner. But Disney imagineers weren’t content to have artwork seen only through the steam of gourmet dishes. Unlike other shipboard restaurants, 1923 remains unlocked throughout the day, acting as a museum where adults can peruse the artwork at their leisure.

Disney Cruise for Adults Features Specially Appointed Staterooms and Cost-Friendly Upgrades

Disney staterooms may be designed with families in mind, but the added space and extra thoughtfulness are appreciated by adults when sailing Disney Cruise lines. Deluxe balcony staterooms afford passengers around 245 square feet of space, appointed with a queen size bed and fold-out sofa. Deluxe family balcony staterooms offer nearly an additional 60 square feet of space with the same bedding configuration.

With 4 adults sharing a deluxe family verandah room, we never felt crowded, and thanks to efficient touches, found it easy to get prepared for meals and outings without stepping over each other.

On many lines, so much space would come at a high cost, particularly when booking a verandah stateroom. Fortunately, Disney makes it easy to upgrade from less favorable inside cabins. The cruise line was recently recognized as having the second lowest cost to upgrade to a verandah stateroom.Whether it’s sipping coffee while watching the ship sail into port or enjoying an evening glass of wine as the sun sets over the ocean, adults in particular enjoy the balcony on a verandah stateroom.

We Can Help You Book Your Disney Cruise and Guide Your Planning Every Step of the Way!

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Why a Disney Cruise for Adults is the Ultimate Getaway

A Disney Cruise for adults offers a unique combination of sophistication, relaxation, and world-class service, making it an ideal escape for those seeking an adult experience inside a family-friendly vacation. From the tranquil shores of Serenity Bay on Disney’s private island to the thoughtfully designed adult-exclusive spaces onboard, Disney Cruise Line provides a level of privacy and luxury that stands out in the industry. 

What truly sets Disney apart, however, is its unwavering commitment to service and quality. Guided by Walt Disney’s four pillars of customer service—Courtesy, Show, Safety, and Efficiency—every detail onboard is designed to enhance the guest experience. Whether it’s the seamless interactions with crew members, the meticulous cleanliness of the ship, or the immersive yet subtle theming, adults can enjoy a level of care and attention that make sailing with Disney a rare treat.

For those looking for a sophisticated yet stress-free getaway, a Disney Cruise for adults delivers an experience that is equal parts relaxing, elegant, and undeniably magical. With unparalleled service, thoughtfully curated adult spaces, and a commitment to excellence, Disney proves that its cruises aren’t just for families—they’re for anyone seeking a high-quality, memorable vacation at sea.

Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? Answers and Comprehensive Tips and Tricks for the Best Adventure

Saving Money on a Disney Vacation: Is It Cheaper to Book with a Travel Agent?

The post Why a Disney Cruise for Adults May Beat Other Lines for Kid-Free Relaxation appeared first on Seconds to Go.

Here’s what’s included in a Disney cruise, why you’d want to book Disney over another line, and the Disney Cruise tips and tricks you’ll need to make the most of your voyage.

Sailing a Disney Cruise, What’s Included

To determine whether a Disney cruise is worth it, you need to understand that Disney includes some magical extras in the cost of every fare.

Water, Coffee, Tea and Soft Drinks are Included

If you have a passion for soda or just enjoy some bubbly refreshment with meals, then you’ll love sailing on a Disney cruise. Unlike other lines who offer only water, coffee and tea with your cruise fare, Disney allows for unlimited soda throughout the day and night, as well as water, coffee, tea and juices.

This perk is included at mealtimes in onboard restaurants and is also offered self serve. Locations vary by ship, but you’re sure to find at least one drink station serving Coke products onboard. 

Magical Entertainment

Entertainment options are plentiful across a Disney cruise ship, from arts and crafts to trivia, bingo, karaoke, sports and game shows. Whether you’re a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy, and most activities are included in your fare.

All guests may also enjoy Disney Cruise Line’s Broadway style shows, featuring some of Disney’s most beloved characters. When you’re done with the stage performance, cross on over to the theater and catch a movie. Stage performances run nightly, opposite your dinner schedule, while movie showings run throughout the day and night. It’s the perfect escape when it rains or when the ship is out to sea.

Character Meet and Greets

One thing that makes a Disney cruise worth it for many passengers is the opportunity to meet with Disney characters. If you’ve ever waited in line at Disney parks to be greeted by Mickey and pals, you’re in for a treat onboard a Disney cruise ship. You’ll find ample opportunities to meet with Mickey, Minnie, princesses and more. Best of all, lines are usually much shorter than those you’ll encounter within the parks, and the visit is included in the price of your fare.

If posing for photos with Disney stars isn’t your idea of a relaxing time, it’s easy to abstain from the festivities. Most meeting locations occur on the main deck of the ship while guests are commonly off enjoying other areas and activities. If you aren’t looking for a character meeting, odds are, you won’t even know it’s happening.

Special Touches are Common Onboard a Disney Cruise

One thing you’ll find in high supply are the special sprinklings of pixie dust that make a Disney vacation so special. One night, we came into our room after dinner to find an elaborate towel creature resting in our bed. He even brought chocolates to share.

While themed evenings are not uncommon on cruise ships, Disney brings added flare. On pirate nights, guests receive a Mickey pirate themed bandana to wear, just in case you forget to pack your eyepatch and parrot. On formal nights, you’ll be offered a glass of champagne. These little touches added a special blend of Disney to the cruise experience.

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Soft Serve Galore

Unlimited soft serve ice cream is another stated perk of a Disney cruise. However, if this conjures images of waltzing up to a self-serve machine day or night, let me provide you with some Disney cruise tips and tricks that will serve you well on this score. While you may request as many ice cream cones as you want during a day, you may not find them offered in a self-serve format. Generally, cast members serve up cones and dishes at a specified location onboard the ship. This keeps things hygienic, but you won’t be grabbing your sweet frozen snack in the middle of the night. Each soft serve venue does observe certain hours. However, you are free to order Mickey Ice Cream bars from room service at any time.  

Fireworks at Sea

One of the most magical moments onboard a Disney Cruise ship is watching the fireworks erupt in splendid colors over the black expanse of sea. It’s a spectacle that easily sets Disney apart from other cruise lines. 

Unlike land-based fireworks shows, fireworks on a Disney cruise are launched using an environmentally friendly system designed to be safe for marine life. The experience of standing on deck, surrounded by the vastness of the sea, as brilliant colors illuminate the night sky set to an unforgettable soundtrack, creates an unforgettable moment for guests of all ages.

Amenities Included in a Disney Cruise

When you book a Disney cruise, your base fare includes:

• All taxes and port fees
• Your stateroom
• Breakfast, lunch and dinner
• Various snacks throughout the day
• Disney character meet and greets
• Screenings of first-run Disney films
• Access to highly imaginative youth clubs
• Themed Nightclubs and lounges for adults
• Soft drinks at meals and onboard drink locations
• Pools and waterslides, including Aqua Mouse and Aquadunk
• Luggage tags mailed to your address (no need to print tags at home)

Amenities not included in your Disney cruise fare:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Port excursions
• Purchases at onboard stores
• Spa and salon services
• Onboard photography services
• Nursery babysitting for children under age 3
• Specialty dining (more on this later)
• Services at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique

What It’s Like to Sail with Disney: Understanding the Logistics

The magic of a Disney cruise lies in several important logistical details that help make your trip more pleasant from start to finish. The Disney Cruise tips and tricks below will help you understand why so many families find a Disney Cruise worth it and even superior to other lines.

The All-Essential Disney Cruise Navigator App

The magic of a Disney cruise can start almost as soon as you book your adventure if you download the Disney Navigator app. This handy pocket tool provides essential details such as deck plans and other information related to your cruise. Later, you’ll use it to book shore adventures and to check-in for your cruise. Once onboard, you’ll find information on your dining schedule, onboard activities and other information.

After you download the app, you’ll be asked to sync your reservation. Keep in mind, that you will need a Disney account to access the app, so if you haven’t created one when visiting the parks or accessing other Disney services, you’ll be asked to do so before linking your reservation.

Approximately 30 days prior to your sailing departure, you will be asked to check in using the Disney Cruise Navigator app. If you have status as a Castaway Club member, you will be allowed to do this sooner.

Pre-Sailing Magic from Disney in the Form of Luggage Tags

If you’ve ever sailed another line, you may be familiar with electronic luggage tags. These paper marvels are emailed to you 30-60 days prior to your cruise departure. It is then your responsibility to print them out and secure them to your luggage before heading out to the cruise port.

If this doesn’t sound like a big deal, consider the fact that you’ll likely be doing this from a hotel room, since it’s advisable to arrive the day prior to your cruise. You’ll need a stapler or at least some dependable tape to complete this task.

To simplify things, cruisers often purchase special luggage tag holders. These vinyl sleeves protect the paper tags and make them easier to attach but are an added expense. 

On a Disney cruise, sturdy luggage tags are included in your fare. They arrive in the mail several months before you set sail. Best of all, they’re simple to affix to your luggage, attaching in the same way as an airline luggage tag. It’s another perk that makes a Disney cruise worth it in our estimation.

Checking in for Your Cruise on the Disney Navigator App

Checking in for your cruise is a fairly simple process, one the app will walk you through seamlessly. However, it can take time if you aren’t prepared when you enter the app. 

Here are some Disney cruise tips and tricks for navigating online check-in like a veteran cruiser. Be sure to have the following on hand before opening your Disney cruise Navigator app and starting the online check-in process:

• A picture of each passport for anyone you are checking in. Be sure there is no glare on the image or your passport picture may be rejected.
• A picture of each person you are checking in. You can use a selfie, but the person checking in must be the only person in the frame, be facing the camera and be in front of a plain background, like a wall.
• Credit card number for charging onboard purchases. If you have multiple adults in your room be sure to have the credit card number they want to use, or all charges will go to your account.
• The name and phone number of an emergency contact for each person in your stateroom. You will also be asked to specify their relationship to the individual.

Once you’ve submitted these items and all required information, it may seem like you’ve fallen into a black hole. My check-in status remained under “pending review” until right before I left for my cruise. Rest assured, Disney cast members are busy in the background vetting your documents and ensuring you’ll be able to enter the ship without disruption at the port.

DisneyBand+ or Disney Cruise Key to the World Card

When sailing on a Disney Cruise, your Key to the World Card is your ticket to the ship. You’ll use it to to unlock your stateroom, charge purchases and access some of the onboard activities. For instance, I was asked to leave my Key to the World Card at the desk when taking advantage of Spa services.

One thing that sets a Disney cruise apart for many sailors and makes it worth it compared to other lines, is DisneyBand+. If you’ve ever been to a Disney park and used a MagicBand, then you’re familiar with the technology.

This wrist worn device holds all of the details of your cruise and provides you with some very convenient functionalities. The first is the tap to pay feature. When making onboard purchases, you have only to tap the DisneyBand+ to have charges applied to your room. 

DisneyBand+ also offers a convenient way to enter your stateroom. Simply tap the band to the specified spot on your stateroom door, and the lock is released. Guests prefer DisneyBand+ because they don’t have to wear a lanyard to hold their card or pull it out of a pocket every time they need to enter their stateroom or make a purchase.

Disney Cruise Embarkation Day: Tips and Tricks for an Amazing Voyage

Embarkation day on a Disney cruise, like any other line, can be the start to an exciting adventure or a day fraught with anxiety and trouble. It all depends on how well you prepare and whether you heed the Disney cruise tips and tricks that will ensure smooth sailing.

When to Arrive at the Port

If you will need to hop a flight to reach your cruise port, it’s important that you give yourself ample time for doing so. That means arriving the day before your cruise departs.

While most Disney cruises do not embark until late afternoon, you could risk missing the ship if you fly in the day of and your flight gets delayed. Cruise lines and travel agents alike will always recommend that you fly in the day before embarkation day. That can mean arriving late the day before, staying near the airport and heading to the port the next morning or staying in a hotel near the port.

If you plan to drive to the port, be sure to arrive about 30 minutes prior to your assigned boarding time. This will allow you to park your car and take care of your luggage before boarding the ship. Just keep in mind that Disney Cruise Line does hold firm to the time you choose to board during online check in. If you arrive too early, you will be asked to wait until your boarding time arrives. 

Disney Cruise Ground Transportation

Unless you live in close proximity and plan to drive to the port, you will need to arrange for ground transportation from the airport to the cruise port and back again. Fortunately, there are a number of options.

One reason that many travelers find a Disney Cruise worth it compared to other lines is the excellent shuttle service provided both from Orlando International Airport, as well as Disney World hotels. When you book a Disney cruise line shuttle, online check in is simplified. You won’t have to worry about selecting a boarding time. You’re automatically cleared for the time your shuttle will arrive.

On our most recent voyage on Disney Wish, our shuttle picked us up from Disney’s Beach Club in the morning. Our luggage had been collected around 7:30 am and already delivered to the port. All we had to do was bring a small bag with a bathing suit, medications and other items we wanted with us.

When we arrived at the port, we were escorted through security. The process was quick and seamless. Check-in to board was completed in record time, including an extra stop to add a few alternative payment methods to different travelers in the room. All told, it took us about 15 minutes from arriving at the port to walking onboard.

If your cruise embarks from a point other than Port Canaveral, you will need to find an alternative mode of transportation. Depending on the distance from the airport to the cruise port, ride sharing may be an alternative. Other travelers will book a one-way rental car. You should also find ample shuttle services that also transport passengers from airport to cruise terminal.

Disney Cruise Activities: Fun for All Ages

If you’re still wondering if a Disney cruise is worth it, the staggering array of activities for young and old alike might convince you. From kids’ clubs and adult-exclusive retreats to the excitement of Disney’s private island, a Disney cruise delivers magic at every turn. 

Here’s what you can expect onboard, along with some Disney Cruise tips and tricks to make the most of your voyage.

Disney Cruise for Kids: Endless Fun on the High Seas

For young sailors, a Disney cruise is packed with immersive experiences at the Disney Cruise Oceaneer Club. Here, children aged 3 through 12 engage in age-appropriate interactive activities, designed to foster imagination and entertain kids of every interest. They can explore themed spaces inspired by their favorite Disney movies, engage in hands-on activities, and even meet Disney characters. Whether they’re piloting the Millennium Falcon, playing in Andy’s Room, or training with Marvel superheroes, there’s so much to do, they may not want to leave.

Parents of the youngest cruisers may opt to utilize the Disney cruise nursery, It’s a Small World! Accomodating children aged 6 months to 3 years, trained caregivers offer interactive play and quiet nap spaces so adults can enjoy their own adventures.

Disney Cruise Line also ensures older kids and teens have dedicated spaces designed just for them:

• Edge (Tweens 11-14): A trendy, high-tech hangout where tweens can watch movies, play video games, participate in creative workshops, and join in themed activities with new friends.
• Vibe (Teens 14-17): A sleek, stylish lounge for teens to relax, listen to music, enjoy smoothie tastings, and even access an exclusive sundeck and splash pool on select ships.

On select ships, parents along with their princes and princesses aged 3-12, can enjoy a royal tea party with some of Disney’s own princesses. It’s a dining celebration held in your honor, featuring 2 delicious courses and a selection of herbal teas.

Disney Cruise Adults Only: Relaxation, Fitness and Exclusive Experiences

While Disney Cruises are family-friendly, adults can enjoy their own relaxing experiences onboard.

For those looking to stay active at sea, the Disney Cruise fitness center offers state-of-the-art equipment, ocean views, and instructor-led classes like yoga and cycling. If relaxation is your goal, the Senses Spa & Salon provides massages, facials, and other luxury treatments. On board the Wish, you will even find medical grade services, such as Coolsculpting and Thermage.

We Can Help You Book Your Disney Cruise and Guide Your Planning Every Step of the Way!

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Disney Cruise Line also offers adult-exclusive spaces, including refined lounges, cocktail bars, and signature dining experiences, such as Palo and Remy, where you can indulge in gourmet meals. For a peaceful retreat, head to Quiet Cove Pool, a serene, adults-only pool area with a cafe and plush loungers.

When nighttime falls, adults will find an entertainment scene all their own, with adult only trivia competitions, themed game shows and comedy performances that will offer more of an adult take on Disney’s signature family entertainment. Many ships also feature interactive game nights, such as Match Your Mate, where couples test their knowledge of each other in a fun and often hilarious setting. 

Themed lounges and nightclubs, like The Skyline Lounge, O’Gills Pub, and The Tube, offer a mix of live music, beverage tastings, and mixology classes where guests can learn to craft their own cocktails. On the Wish, adults can launch into space at Hyperspace Lounge, an upscale Star Wars themed experience with cocktails and libations that appeal to all.

Onboard the Disney Treasure, join the 999 happy haunts from the Haunted Mansion ride. The Haunted Mansion Parlor welcomes guests for specialty drinks, beer and wine in a spooky setting. If you ever wanted to bail out of your doom buggy on the ride and explore the mansion, this is the place for you.

For a more laid-back atmosphere, adults can unwind with a handcrafted drink while enjoying piano performances, jazz bands, or even dueling pianos in select venues. 

Disney Castaway Cay: Paradise Awaits on Disney’s Own Private Island

One of the highlights of any Disney Cruise is a stop at Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. You’ll find a variety of activities for families, adults and even solo cruisers.

For families, Castaway Family Beach offers calm, turquoise waters, shaded loungers, and plenty of opportunities to play in the sun. Adventurers can snorkel through an underwater trail featuring Disney surprises, rent bikes to explore the island’s scenic trails, or try paddleboarding and kayaking.

Adults seeking a quiet retreat can head to Serenity Bay, an exclusive, adults-only beach featuring private cabanas, a full-service bar, and even oceanside massages.

For a unique experience, consider signing up for the Castaway Cay 5K, a scenic fun run around the island. Other excursions include stingray encounters, guided nature walks, and glass-bottom boat tours are available for an additional fee.

With exclusive experiences for all ages, beautiful destinations, and top-tier Disney service, it’s easy to see why so many travelers say a Disney Cruise is worth it. Whether you’re setting sail on a family cruise or looking for a more adult-focused getaway, a Disney voyage offers plenty of relaxation and adventure on the high seas.

Dining on a Disney Cruise: What to Expect

Enjoying the exceptional dining experiences onboard is one of the highlights of a Disney cruise. From gourmet meals to quick-service options, Disney Cruise Line ensures guests have plenty of delicious choices to enjoy throughout their voyage. 

Does a Disney Cruise Include Food and What Is Rotational Dining?

Yes! All Disney Cruises include meals at a variety of dining venues. However, instead of eating each night in the main dining hall or buffet restaurant, as you do on other lines, guests rotate through three themed table-service venues. 

One thing that makes this experience truly unique is the fact that your serving team rotates with you. By working with the same servers every night, you’re assure personalized service throughout your cruise. Our head server, Ronald, learned our food allergies and always steered us away from menu items we could not eat. 

Depending on the ship, the 3 main restaurants may include favorites like Animator’s Palate, where Disney animation comes to life; Tiana’s Place, a lively New Orleans-inspired venue with live jazz music; or Royal Court, which immerses guests in the grandeur of a fairy tale palace.

During our sailing on the Wish, we joined Anna, Elsa and the cast of Frozen for an engagement party, helped keep Ant Man from destroying the ship and enjoyed a quiet evening with Disney animation art at 1923.

Other Dining Venues Included in Your Disney Cruise Fare

In addition to the rotational dining restaurants, guests can enjoy unlimited meals during breakfast and lunch from an included buffet restaurant. Depending on the ship you sail, that could be either Cabanas or Marceline Market.

Quick-service locations are also available for lunch or dinner, and guests can enjoy onboard beverage stations 24/7. Another thing that sets a Disney cruise apart and may make it worth it for some guests, is the fact that soda is included in the cost of your fare. You’ll find Coke products in all restaurants and at self-service drink stations.

For an additional charge, guests may enjoy specialty dining options, such as Palo, Enchante by Chef Arnaud Lallementand Remy. These upscale restaurants offer elevated, adult-exclusive culinary experiences.

Disney Cruise Attire: What to Wear for Dinner

Disney Cruise Line has a flexible dress code depending on the length of your sailing. On three- and four-night cruises, dining attire is mostly cruise casual. On 5-night cruises, guests can expect the same, with one optional dress-up night. On longer cruises, such as seven-night sailings, guests can expect both a formal night and a semi-formal night.

If you’re wondering how formal a formal night is, you’ll find a wide variety of opinions. Some cruisers believe a formal night should be long gowns and tuxedos. Others find that dictate to be too costly for a single night of your cruise. 

Most people tend to agree that cruisers should dress how they feel most comfortable. You can expect to see some cruisers dressed to the nines, while others enjoy more business casual attire.

On normal nights, rotational dining restaurants allow relaxed dress like polos, sundresses, and nice jeans, but adult-exclusive dining at Palo and Remy requires more formal attire, such as dress shirts and slacks for men and elegant dresses or pantsuits for women. Disney Cruise Line also hosts themed dinner nights, like Pirate Night, where guests can dress up in costumes for a night of swashbuckling fun!

Disney Cruise Room Service: 24/7 Dining at Your Door

A lesser-known perk that makes a Disney Cruise worth it is the complimentary 24-hour room service. Guests can order a variety of meals and snacks to their stateroom, including sandwiches, salads, and the famous Mickey ice cream bars. While most items are included in your fare, certain specialty snacks and alcoholic beverages come at an extra charge.

If you enjoy sipping coffee on your balcony in the morning, or like to enjoy a meal in your room, this is one perk that will make Disney Cruise worth it for you. However, there are a few things to note about room service. First, if you wish to enjoy room service for breakfast, be sure to fill out your menu card and place it on the outside of your stateroom door before 3:00 am. Next, room service is not available on disembarkation day. We had planned to take advantage of room service on the last day of our cruise to make for a more relaxing disembarkation, but the cruise director informed everyone by ship board announcement that room service was not available on Disney cruise on the last day.

Disney Cruise Gluten-Free and Special Dietary Concerns

Disney Cruise Line is known for accommodating dietary restrictions, including gluten-free meals. Guests can request special accommodations when booking their cruise and speak with their servers each night to ensure their meals meet their needs. Most restaurants offer gluten-free bread, pasta, and desserts, and buffets provide allergy-friendly options.

If you need special dietary meals or suffer from food allergies, be sure to note this through the Disney cruise Navigator app. Doing so before sailing will allow the crew to prepare for your arrival and have ingredients on hand to make your dining experience tasty and enjoyable.

Can You Find Alcohol Onboard a Disney Ship?

While Disney Cruises are family-friendly, there are plenty of bars, lounges, and specialty drinks for adults to enjoy. Guests can find a variety of alcoholic beverages, from tropical cocktails and fine wines to craft beers.

One of the best perks for beer lovers is the Disney Cruise Beer Mug program. When you purchase a 21-ounce Disney Cruise beer mug, you’ll receive an extra 5 ounces with each paid refill—a great deal for those who enjoy beer throughout their cruise.

Many guests ask, “Does Disney Cruise have drink packages?” Unlike other cruise lines, Disney does not offer unlimited alcohol packages. However, guests can pre-purchase bottled wine and beer packages to be delivered to your rotational dining venue, and there are daily drink specials available onboard. Additionally, Disney Cruise Line allows guests to bring a limited amount of wine or beer onboard, helping to reduce drink costs.

Where to Find Coffee Onboard a Disney Cruise

Coffee lovers will find plenty of ways to get their caffeine fix onboard Disney Cruise Line, with specialty coffee shops and complimentary options available across all ships. 

For premium espresso-based drinks, lattes, and cold brews, head to Cove Café, an adults-only coffee lounge found on all Disney ships, offering a relaxing atmosphere with ocean views. Guests can also enjoy specialty coffee at Wishing Star Café and Enchanted Sword Cafe on the Disney Wish. Other ships have additional venues.

If you’re looking for complimentary coffee, you’ll find brewed coffee available at the buffet and 24-hour beverage stations located on the pool deck. For added convenience, guests can order coffee via room service, though specialty drinks come at an additional charge. 

If you plan to drink a lot of specialty coffees, ask for a Cove Café punch card. After several specialty coffee purchases, you’ll receive a free drink!

Disney Cruise, What to Pack

When sailing away with Disney Cruise Line, you’ll want to pack more than a swimsuit and sunscreen. You’ll need comfortable clothing for any shore excursions you’ve planned as well as suitable dinner attire, toiletries and other necessities.

While these basics are essential, there are some lesser-known items that can make your cruise experience more enjoyable. Here are some commonly forgotten, yet incredibly useful items, cruisers often overlook:

• Magnetic Hooks & Clips – Disney Cruise stateroom walls and doors are metal, making magnetic hooks perfect for hanging hats, bags, or wet swimsuits. Clips are great for keeping daily itineraries or excursion tickets easily accessible.
• USB Charging Hub – Staterooms have limited outlets, so a USB charging hub can keep all your devices powered up.
• Reusable Water Bottle or Tumbler – While free soft drink stations are available onboard, the cups are small. Bringing your own insulated tumbler or water bottle allows you to fill up and stay hydrated throughout the day.
• Towel Clips – Windy sea breezes can send your pool or beach towel flying. Bring towel clips or bands to keep them in place when lounging on the pool deck or at Castaway Cay.
• Small Fan – If you prefer white noise while sleeping or better airflow in the stateroom, a small portable fan can make a big difference.
• Over-the-Door Organizer – Space is limited in staterooms, and an over-the-door organizer can be a great way to store toiletries, small accessories, and sunscreen without cluttering the counters.
• Over the Counter Medications – If you get a headache while onboard or start to come down with a cold, you’ll be glad you have a small stash of over the counter items on hand, as purchasing these essentials onboard can be quite costly. Even if you don’t usually get motion sickness, you may also want to bring Dramamine, Sea-Bands, or ginger chews just in case.
• Disney Gift Cards – Many people don’t realize that Disney gift cards can be used to pay for onboard expenses, including gratuities, excursions, and souvenirs. If you stock up on them at a discount from retailers like Target or Sam’s Club, you can even save a little money on your cruise.
• Pirate Night Accessories – Most Disney Cruises feature a Pirate Night, and while Disney provides bandanas, many guests like to bring their own pirate costumes or accessories to fully participate in the fun.
• Ziploc Bags or Wet Bag – Useful for keeping wet swimsuits separate from the rest of your clothing when packing for disembarkation.
• Disney Cruise Door Decorations: Cruisers are always in a festive mood, and many like to show their enthusiasm by decorating stateroom doors with special cruise magnets.

Packing these small but essential items can make a Disney Cruise even more enjoyable and help you avoid unnecessary onboard expenses. Whether it’s staying organized, maximizing comfort, or being prepared for special events, a little planning goes a long way!

Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? The Magic Behind the Experience

If you’re still wondering, “Is a Disney Cruise worth it?”, the answer depends on what you’re looking for in a vacation. Disney Cruise Line is known for exceptional service, immersive entertainment, and unique onboard experiences that set it apart from other cruise lines.

One of the most iconic and unique features of a Disney Cruise is the Disney Cruise horn. Unlike standard cruise ships that use a single deep blast to signal departures and arrivals, Disney Cruise ships play musical tunes from classic Disney songs using a specially designed multi-tone horn system. 

Each Disney ship has its own repertoire of melodies, with the original ships—Disney Magic and Disney Wonder—playing the beloved “When You Wish Upon a Star.” The Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy expanded the tradition by adding a collection of other tunes, including “Be Our Guest,” “Yo Ho (A Pirate’s Life for Me),” and “A Dream is a Wish Your Heart Makes.” The Disney Wish introduced even more magic by incorporating tunes from Frozen.

The experience of hearing the Disney Cruise horn echoing across the ocean is a cherished memory for many guests, reinforcing that a Disney Cruise is unlike any other vacation at sea.

Another reason guests rave about Disney Cruises is Disney Cruise Castaway Cay, Disney’s private island in the Bahamas. With white sandy beaches, crystal-clear waters, and exclusive activities, it’s one of the most beloved cruise destinations. Families can enjoy the Castaway Family Beach, while adults seeking a tranquil escape can relax at Serenity Bay, a secluded, adults-only beach with cabanas, hammocks, and an open-air bar. Adventurers can snorkel, bike, paddleboard, or even participate in the Castaway Cay 5K, making this island a highlight of any Disney sailing.

Beyond the destinations, Disney Cruises provide top-tier entertainment, including Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, themed deck parties, and first-run Disney movies in the ship’s theaters. Families with kids love the youth clubs, which are among the best at sea, while adults appreciate the luxurious spa, upscale dining at Palo and Remy, and adults-only lounges offering craft cocktails and live music.

Is a Disney Cruise worth it? If you love immersive entertainment, exceptional service, exclusive destinations like Castaway Cay, and dining experiences that go beyond the ordinary, then yes—it’s absolutely worth it. While Disney Cruises can be more expensive than other cruise lines, the quality, attention to detail, and all-inclusive magic make it a truly unforgettable vacation.

The post Is a Disney Cruise Worth It? Answers and Comprehensive Tips and Tricks for the Best Adventure appeared first on Seconds to Go.

Often referred to as Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park, this adventure is less than an hour drive from Disney World resorts and offers multiple opportunities for wildlife viewing, including a chance to pet a capybara.

What Is Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park?

Before heading out, you’ll need to know that Wild Florida Airboats and Gator Park in Kenansville, Florida has been officially christened Wild Florida. However, you’ll find the company website under Wildfloridairboats.com, and there is a good reason for that. Providing airboat rides along the headwaters of the Florida Everglades was one of the first excursions offered at Wild Florida.

Today, Wild Florida continues to provide airboat tours from their Lake Cyprus location, preserving one of the pristine and beautiful waterways in the Everglades ecosystem. Guests have the chance to glimpse native Florida animal species in their natural habitat while enjoying a new and unique thrill aboard an airboat.

If you haven’t seen enough animals by the time you’re done, head back down the road a bit to the Wild Florida Gator Park. Acting as a sanctuary, the environs are home to more than 200 native and exotic species. One highlight particularly appealing to younger children is the petting zoo, where goats and other docile animals are waiting for guests to visit and maybe offer a snack. The Gator Park is also the one place at Wild Florida where you can pet a capybara, but we’ll have more on that in a minute. 

To experience more exotic species, including giraffes, zebra and antelope, you can add admission to the Wild Florida Drive-Thru Safari Park. With 150 animals on display, it’s hard to pick a favorite attraction within this section of the Wild Florida alligator and wildlife park, but we’d have to say the giraffe viewing platform takes top honors with us. 

The chance to pet a capybara and feed giraffes. Who could resist?

Wildlife Florida Animal Encounters – The Chance to Pet a Capybara

The Wild Florida alligator and wildlife park first entered our radar when my youngest daughter decided she wanted to pet a capybara. Wild Florida offers a 15 minute capybara encounter for a very reasonable rate, and the cost of the experience includes admission to the Wild Florida Gator Park.

We were checking out of Old Key West at Disney World on Saturday morning to start our stay at Universal Orlando on Sunday. Since we had a day before we could start park hopping again, we took a drive down to Wild Florida.

Reaching the alligator and wildlife park was an easy and enjoyable drive. We drove mostly backroads to take in the scenery. After spending several days in the palm shaded bliss of Old Key West, it was equally as nice to enter the canopy of native trees as we rolled through acres of central Florida farmland.

Soon enough, we reached the Wild Florida alligator and wildlife park. Checking in was easy since we reserved our spots online before arrival.

With wristbands securely fastened, we made our way to the checkpoint for the capybara experience. Our guide met us promptly and escorted us to the capybara enclosure. We had a brief “safety” chat and learned the important tips for interacting with capybaras. Then, we were let inside the enclosure

It was an exciting day at Wild Florida as baby capybaras had just joined the family a few days before. Since capybaras are born fully formed and able as any adult, seeing the babies was included as part of the experience.

Capybaras are very friendly, particularly when you’re armed with romaine lettuce, their favorite treat. Upon entering the capybara habitat, we were quickly surrounded. We chatted with the animal specialist as we fed and pet capybaras, learning a host of facts about life for these docile creatures. 

As capybara bellies grew full of lettuce, they started to get a little dozy. Many stretched out on their sides to politely request belly rubs, as they soaked up the sun on a beautiful November day.

As the encounter ended, we all agreed it had been worth the drive to Wild Florida for the chance to pet a capybara, but we hadn’t yet experienced all that the park had to offer yet. Since our Capybara Encounter included admission to the gator park, we spent another couple of hours wandering the pathways, where we saw and learned about many animal species beyond the lovable capeys, including gators.

Animal Encounters at Wild Florida Alligator and Wildlife Park

We only had one regret after visiting the Wild Florida Alligator and wildlife park: We didn’t book one of the other available animal encounters. In addition to the chance to pet a capybara and visit with a host of animal species on a walking or drive-thru tour, guests can also join wildlife experts in the following encounters:

• Sloth Encounter: Guests can pet and take photos with a resident sloth. If you want to see the sloth, this may be your best option. Sloths sleep a large portion of the day and can be pretty well camouflaged in their enclosures when doing so.
• VIP Sloth Experience: Take the Sloth Encounter to a whole new level by booking a VIP experience. You’ll get to hold and feed a sloth during this 30 minute experience. To avoid stressing the animals, sloth encounters are limited to 4 guests a day and are offered only 3 days a week.
• African Crested Porcupine Encounter: Feed and pet an African Crested Porcupine in this wild encounter. Rumor has it, they love armpit scratches and are quite sweet and lovable.
• Ring-Tailed Lemur Encounter: Young children today are too young to remember Zaboomafoo from the PBS children’s series, but if you’re a child of the 90s who was a fan of the ring-tailed lemur, this is the encounter for you. Join Wild Florida animal experts and meet one of the park’s lemurs.
• VIP Safari Tour: Help feed the animals on a safari tour. Guests can experience the drive-thru safari park like none other and visit with the alligators in the gator park, before enjoying lunch at the Chomp House Grill.
• Giraffe Painting Experience: If you ever wanted to own a novel piece of art painted by a giraffe, here is your chance. This encounter is also a great opportunity to feed and interact with the tallest residents at Wild Florida, and the chance to support an animal cause, as a portion of your ticket price is donated to the Giraffe Conservation Fund.
• Gator Feeding Encounter: Reptile enthusiasts will love this chance to feed multiple very hungry gators. Through food incentives, alligators will be lured from the water for closer viewing, while guests stay safely elevated on a secure platform.
• Albino Gator Training Encounter: Wild Florida is home to rare albino gators. In this encounter you’ll learn about these creatures and how animal handlers use cues to train them.
• VIP Reptile Encounter: If gators alone aren’t enough to satisfy the interest of your reptile enthusiasts, book the VIP encounter. You’ll visit with and learn about monitor lizards, a Rhino Iguana, and venomous snakes, to name a few, before experiencing the unforgettable opportunity to meet Crusher, a 1,000 pound alligator. The VIP Reptile Encounter includes admission to the Gator Park and the Albino Alligator Encounter.

Final Thoughts on Visiting Wild Florida

If you’re visiting the Orlando area or want an outside excursion during your trip to Disney World, Wild Florida provides unique animal encounters, as well as a chance to view native species during an airboat ride through the headwaters of the Florida Everglades. Located less than an hour from Disney World, the park is easy to reach and will offer animal lovers a prime experience, with the chance to pet capybaras a well as other non-native species.

Just remember to wear closed toed shoes for animal encounters and clothes you don’t mind getting a little dirty.

More Florida Insights

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Which Disney World Park Is Best: Exploring Parks in Disney World

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While it’s true the weather can be less than ideal for some people, there are a lot of advantages to visiting Disney World in summer. Lower crowds, combined with lower resort and ticket prices, could make this the perfect time to take your dream vacation. Throw in the added discounts we’ve been seeing lately, and it’s really hard to make a case against a Disney World Summer vacation.

Best Time to Visit Disney World in Summer

When considering the best time to take a Disney World summer vacation, most guests focus on 2 primary factors: weather and crowds. While weather remains fairly consistent throughout the summer months, crowds can differ greatly deepening on when you schedule your trip.

Visiting Disney World in June

Guests who visit Disney World in June can expect temperatures in the high 80s with increasing humidity as the month progresses. According to Weather Spark, humidity is typically in the oppressive range by month’s end. The good news is, that humidity is made more bearable by cloud cover most days.

Since temperatures are generally lower in June than July or August, you’ll see more people in the parks. Crowds are generally elevated, but lower than you would see during holiday periods, such as Christmas, Easter or popular school break weeks in February or March.

To put crowd conditions in perspective, you can expect the following peak wait times for the most popular Disney World attractions:

• Tron Lightcycle Run: 40 minutes
• Frozen Ever After: 64 minutes
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure: 63 minutes
• Star Wars Rise of the Resistance: 71 minutes
• Slinky Dog Dash: 106 minutes
• Avatar Flight of Passage: 85 minutes

Keep in mind, these are peak wait times, usually reached later in the day. Morning wait times, particularly if you are utilizing Early Theme Park Entry, are typically much lower.

Visiting Disney World in July

Once July rolls around, you can expect highs to reach the low 90s for the entire month. Humidity settles in at the oppressive range, with most days experiencing periods of overcast conditions. You can expect a shower most days, since July receives an average of 23 days of precipitation.

Crowds begin to thin out as well after the fourth of July week, and wait times for rides begin to trend downward as well. In general, you’ll see the following peak conditions for these popular Disney World attractions:

• Tron Lightcycle Run: 40 minutes
• Frozen Ever After: 50 minutes
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure: 50 minutes
• Star Wars Rise of the Resistance: 65 minutes
• Slinky Dog Dash: 78 minutes
• Avatar Flight of Passage: 88 minutes

As mentioned above for June, these are the average top wait times. You may experience higher wait times for brief periods during the day. Much of the day may also have lower queue lengths.

To learn more about visiting Disney World in July, click here to access our detailed guide.

Visiting Disney World in August

August turns out to be the crown jewel of the summer months, with decreasing crowds and some of the lowest ticket and resort prices of the year.

Weather wise, you can expect more of the same, with average high temperatures topping out in the 90s, to start the month, but gradually decreasing to the high 80s toward the end of August. You’ll find humidity is behind temperatures in following a downward trend. Weather Spark reports that oppressive humidity reigns supreme in August, with a 99% chance than any given day will be muggy (better than oppressive).

With so much humidity, it isn’t surprising that there is a 42% chance of rain on any given day throughout the month. Pop-up showers that come in quickly and disappear are the norm.

Since many schools resume session in August, crowd levels also fall consistently until month’s end. Starting around the middle of the month, you’ll see lower average peak wait times across major attractions:

• Tron Lightcycle Run: 40 minutes
• Frozen Ever After: 55 minutes
• Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure: 55 minutes
• Star Wars Rise of the Resistance: 65 minutes
• Slinky Dog Dash: 64 minutes
• Avatar Flight of Passage: 65 minutes

Keep in mind, the numbers above reflect average peak conditions. You will find lower wait times early in the morning and closer to closing.

To learn more about visiting Disney World in August, click here to access our detailed guide.

Best Disney World Resorts in Summer

While we love all Disney World resort hotels for their immersive theming and atmosphere, there are a few that provide some additional perks or considerations when visiting Disney World in summer. While all Disney World resorts provide free admission to one of Disney’s waterparks on check in day, there are 3 we’d highly recommend for hotter months as listed below:

Disney’s Contemporary Resort for Summer Travel

If you plan to spend much of your time at Magic Kingdom, then the Contemporary Resort is the place to stay. As the first resort built on the property, the Contemporary has a lot of Walt’s magic imbued in the design, including the monorail track which runs right through the resort.

With the monorail station inside, you’ll be able to wait for your ride in crisp, cool comfort. If you’re staying in a tower room, you’ll be able to head right to the station without leaving the AC, but even garden view rooms are a short walk to the cool comfort of the station.

While staying at the Contemporary, you can watch the nightly fireworks from your room, if you book a theme park view. That means standing in the temperature of your choice while the show erupts over Cinderella’s castle. 

A viewing platform is also available for guests of the Contemporary resort. It is outside, but it’s far less crowded than watching the show from inside the park. Add in a bit of a breeze, and it’s bound to feel much cooler.

Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts

Guests who plan to spend any portion of their day at the hotel pool, should consider a stay at Disney’s Beach Club or Yacht Club. These two sister properties share a water park, complete with lazy river, sandy beach and pirate slide. It’s the perfect oasis for the beating the heat, and you won’t have to go far to get there. Best of all, the area is reserved for guests of these 2 resorts, so it’s easy to find a nice shady spot or a tube to float.

Location is another perk of a Beach Club or Yacht Club stay. Located on the shores of Crescent Lake, there is often a breeze at this resort. There is nothing like a little bit of wind to relieve the feel of soggy air.

Another locational advantage is the proximity to 2 Disney parks. You can catch a quick air conditioned boat over to Hollywood Studios or reach EPCOT via a mostly shady 5-minute stroll.

For other parks, the bus pick-up area is shaded and centrally located. You’ll find it easy to reach, with no long walks to your depot.

Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside

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This is hands down our favorite moderate resort. While you won’t have access to a water park or monorail, you can fit far more in your budget with the lower rates at Port Orleans Riverside.

The amazing grounds are another reason we rate this resort high for a Disney World summer vacation. Most paths are shady treelined retreats, providing a cooler and more peaceful ambiance than you’ll find at other resorts.

Given the magnificent tree cover at Port Orleans, we also found it easier to find a shady spot at the pool. In addition to the main Ol’ Man Island pool, complete with pool bar, you’ll find 5 leisure pools, so there is always a nearby watering hole to cool off. 

Need Help Finding the Right Resort Hotel for a Disney World Summer Vacation?

We can help you find the right resort, provide a quote and even take care of your booking – all at no added cost. Then we’ll help you plan your Disney World vacation, providing as much or as little assistance as you like

Just fill out our handy quote form, and we’ll be back in touch soon. It only takes a few minutes to start planning the Disney World vacation of your dreams

Click here to be taken to our quote form.

Disney World Summer Tickets

Disney World summer tickets come in 2 main varieties: A single park per day ticket or a park hopper ticket.

A base ticket allows you to visit one park each day of your trip. If you enter Magic Kingdom in the morning on a Tuesday, you may leave and re-enter that park as many times as you wish that day. You may not, however, visit any other parks on that Tuesday.

A park hopper ticket allows you to visit multiple parks in a day. You may take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry to experience Tron Lightcycle Run with reduced wait. Then, since EPCOT typically opens later than other parks, head in that direction before the lines get long.

When visiting Disney World in summer, a one-day ticket starts at $119 per day and top out at $196 per day. However, if you’re purchasing a multi-day ticket, you’ll find the per-day cost decreases the longer you plan to stay and visit the parks.

In both 2023 and 2024, Disney released a special 3- and 4-day ticket just for the summer months. Guests could purchase a base ticket for a discount, and even combine this purchase with available special offers for Disney World resort hotels.

Click here to access our quote form.

Get a quote for Disney World park tickets for your summer trip.

Disney World in Summer Special Offers

Guests visiting Disney World in Summer can usually take advantage of special offers to reduce the overall cost of their trip. For summer of 2025, Disney has rolled out 2 separate discount specials.

The first provides a free dining plan for each person on your hotel reservation, when you book a Disney World resort with park hopper ticket. With this offer, each guest on your booking will receive 2 meals and 1 snack per day, as well as a resort refillable mug, included in the cost of a room and ticket package.

If you don’t think the dining plan is for you, or you plan to spend some time at other Florida attractions during your stay, you can book a discounted room at many resorts. Plan on saving up to 30%, depending on where you stay and when you travel.

For complete details on current special offers, you may visit our Disney Discount page.

Disney World Summer Events

Another reason to visit Disney World in summer is to take part on some of the summer events. Since days are longer and nighttime warmer, you’ll find some interesting happenings when visiting Disney World in the summer.

• Disney After Hours: This special ticketed event limits attendance at specially selected theme parks. The fun starts after the park closes for the day, so you must have a ticket to enter. Capped attendance means low to no wait for rides. Disney After Hours in 2025 will be held on select dates at Hollywood Studios and EPCOT June through August.
• EPCOT Food & Wine Festival: As of this writing, dates for this popular festival have yet to be announce. However, with the EPCOT Flower & Garden show coming to an end in early June, we do expect the Food & Wine Festival to start some time during the summer. We’ll post exact dates here when they are announce. You can also sign up for our monthly newsletter to be apprised.
• Special Tours: Throughout the summer, you’ll find a full slate of tours available. These include the popular Keys to the Kingdom Tour, allowing you to escape for half a day into backstage magic, as well as the unbelievable VIP Tour. A VIP tour provides you with your own guide for a day, private transportation to and from the park, and Lightning Lane access to all attractions.
• Disney H2O Glow After Hours at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon: Splash into cooling fun at this special ticketed event held at Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water park. Dates have not yet been announced for 2025. We’ll post exact dates here when they are announce. You can also sign up for our monthly newsletter to be apprised.

Things to Do Near Disney World in Summer

When visiting Disney World in summer, some guests will take advantage of the time in the Orlando area to visit other attractions. Universal Studios Orlando is one of the more popular destinations.

At Universal, you can visit both Diagon Alley and Hogsmeade at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, come face to face with rogue dinos and visit with some rather unique characters. There are very few places where you will run into life size versions of the Simpsons or Transformers.

Others seek adventure outside the theme parks. Visiting one of the nearby springs is a great way to cool down and see some of Florida’s natural geography.

Wekiwa Springs State Park is only 30 miles from Disney World and offers crystal clear spring water for swimming as well as snorkeling. Other nearby natural springs offering swimming, kayaking and outdoor adventure include Rock Springs in Apopka and Silver Glen Springs in the Ocala National Forest. For the best experience, you’ll want to take your trip to any of these locations during the week when fewer visitors will be joining you.

We recently embarked on an adventure to Wild Florida Gator Park. Despite the name, this sanctuary is home to more than 200 different animal species, including the cute and cuddling capybara. We joined the capybara experience and spent around 20 minutes feeding and interacting with these fun and adorable creatures. Airboat rides are also available.

How to Stay Cool at Disney World in Summer

Since you may be battling high temps and humidity when visiting Disney World in summer, it’s important to know some of the best strategies for beating the heat. 

1. One of the most important tips is to stay hydrated. We usually carry insulated water bottles which we fill with ice or refrigerated water before leaving the resort. Alternatively, you can always stop at any quick service restaurant or kiosk serving fountain drinks and ask for a cup of water.
2. Your apparel will also play an important role in staying cool. Athletic shirts made of moisture wicking material are perfect for days in the parks. Other travelers swear by Merino Wool for its temperature regulating properties as well as the material’s ability to resist odor.
3. Other tips for staying cool at Disney World in the summer revolve around how you structure your day. Since many attractions are indoors, we recommend hitting those rides with outdoor queues early or late in the day when temperatures are cooler. It’s also a good idea to rotate rides with outdoor queues with those where you will spend most of your queueing time indoors.
4. When visiting Animal Kingdom in the summer, it’s easy to duck into a show to cool off. You can choose from Finding Nemo, the Lion King and the new Zootopia: Better Zoogether show coming soon to the site of the former “It’s a Bug Life” theater under the Tree of Life.
5. When looking to beat the heat at Magic Kingdom, the queues for Pirates of the Caribbean, Monsters Inc. Laugh Floor, It’s a Small World and Space Mountain are located entirely inside. It’s a situation where a long line could actually spell relief from the heat.
6. If you’re at EPCOT, you’ll find that most ride queues, with the exception of Spaceship Earth, are located in a cool air conditioned space. At Hollywood Studios, though, you’ll find a mixed bag. Head to Star Wars Rise of the Resistance or Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (soon to become a Muppet themed experience) to completely escape the heat while waiting to ride. Other experiences, such as Toy Story Mania and Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railroad, may have partial outdoor queues if the lines are extremely long.
7. One of our favorite ways to break the heat is to head back to our resort hotel and spend the afternoon at the pool. We usually return to our room right before dinner, get changed and go back to the park in the evening hours when it’s cooled down some. If pool time isn’t appealing, why not take a nap in your air conditioned room?
8. Personal mini fans are another way to help alleviate the impact of the heat. It’s amazing what a little moving air can do when the temperatures soar. We see many parents using clip on fans with strollers to keep kiddos from overheating.
9. Another way to make the heat more manageable is to grab a cool snack. Dole Whip is our favorite, and it’s now available in more places than Magic Kingdom. You can also swap it for a Mickey Ice Cream sandwich or any other cold snack or drink.
10. It’s important as you make your way from ride to ride that you take frequent breaks to cool down. This is particularly important for parents who are pushing strollers or anyone who may be piloting a wheelchair. It’s easy to overexert yourself in the heat, so grab a place in the shade and just sit for 5 or ten minutes.
11. It may be tempting to have a glass of wine or cool beer with lunch, but waiting until dinner when temperatures are cooler might be a wiser choice. Alcohol can cause dehydration, which can inhibit your body’s ability to stay cool.
12. Last, don’t forget that pop-up showers may be part of your day. It’s entirely possible that you’ll be queueing inside for a ride when they hit, but if you’re outside, you’ll want protection against the precipitation. Some rain showers can become torrential downpours. Either a rain poncho with a hood or an umbrella works, but you’ll want to have something tucked away, just in case. Emerging drenched from a storm into the ensuing heat won’t help you feel cooler when the humidity is high. Click here for our complete packing guide.

Visiting Disney World in Summer Final Thoughts

Don’t let the heat deter you from enjoying a trip to Disney World in summer. Recent special offers, combined with some lower costs during specific weeks, make the summer an advantageous time to visit. Many children will already be out of school and families often vacation during this season anyway, so it just makes sense to take your bucket-list trip to Disney during the warmer months.

More Disney Tips & Insights

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Time to Visit Disney World: What the Experts Say

Disney World in Spring, the Best Time to Chase Disney Dreams?

Magical Holidays at Disney World: Upcoming Festivities and Events

The post The Surprising Perks of Visiting Disney World in Summer appeared first on Seconds to Go.

If you’re ready to visit Disney World and looking for Disney World discounts in 2025, you’re in luck. Some of the best deals at Disney World have been released to help you make the most of your Disney World budget this year. Best of all, we’ll be updating this page as new discounts become available, so be sure to bookmark it and return for more savings.

If you’re ready to book one of these magical offers, click here or email ka******@mi***************.com.

First, Let’s Understand What a Disney World Discount in 2025 Entails

Booking a Disney World discount offer in 2025 will always offer savings over standard pricing, but to take advantage of the money-saving opportunities, you need to understand how the promotions work.

Typically, there are 3 types of Disney World promotions offered: room only, ticket only or package promotions. The first is just what the name suggests – a discount on the cost of your hotel room.

However, there are some things to know about room-only discounts.

1.  Discounts are based on occupancy levels at Disney World resorts, so all hotels may not be available for the discount.

2.  Disney World Discounts are offered seasonally to cover certain dates of travel.

3.  Not all offers are available to the general public. Some will have certain eligibility standards, such as being a Disney+ subscriber.

In simplified terms, if the powers that be see that there is a surplus of rooms in a certain date range, they will issue a room only discount to entice travelers to book a reservation. Since discounts are meant to fill resorts where there are vacancies, a room-only resort discount may not be offered for all resorts during every offer.

Discounts are also applied differently across the three resort categories—Value, Moderate and Deluxe.  You’ll usually see the biggest discounts at Deluxe resorts and Deluxe Villas with the lowest discounts at Value resorts. Again, the best Disney World deals in 2025 are based on supply and demand, so where the demand is highest, you’ll see lower discounts.

To put this in perspective, a Disney World discount may drop the price of some deluxe resort stays by 20 percent. However, the same offer may only snip 10 percent off the cost of your value resort accommodations. With a stay at a moderate resort, you might save 15%.

It’s also important to note that only a certain number of rooms will be set aside for booking with any given Disney World deal. Under some circumstances, you may still be required to book a room at a resort by paying standard rates, if all room set aside for the discount have been booked. To get the discount, you may need to be flexible about where you stay. If you’re set on a particular resort, be sure to move fast and book within a day or two of the offer being released.

When it comes to Disney World discount packages, there are times when Disney will offer reduced rates on a combination of hotel accommodations and theme park tickets. Purchasing a package deal is usually the best way to book a Disney World vacation. For one thing, the deposit is usually less, but you can also take advantage of payment plans and flexible cancellation policies. Read our blog on Disney vacation packages to learn all of the ins and outs of package bookings at Disney World.

Trying to decide on a resort? Our detailed and informative Disney World Resorts list will provide you with the details you need to select the resort that’s right for you and your party.

Disney World Discount Offers Available for 2025

Disney currently has several fabulous offers available to all members of the public, in addition to special rates for Florida residents and annual passholders. Keep reading for all of the details.

Stay More Save More at Disney World in Summer 2025

For travel May 1 through September 30, you can save up to 30% on the cost of your Disney World Resort hotel with this Stay More, Save More offer. The longer you stay, the more you save. See the chart below.

Save up to 30% for stays of 5 or more nights
Save 25% for stays of 1 to 4 nights

• Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (Disney Vacation Club)
• Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
• Disney’s Beach Club Resort
• Disney’s Beach Club Villas
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
• Disney’s BoardWalk Villas
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort
• Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort – King Bed Rooms
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort – 2-Bedroom Villas
• Disney’s Riviera Resort
• Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
• The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Save up to 25% for stays of 5 nights or more

Save 20% for stays of 1 to 4 nights

• Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
• Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
• Disney’s Old Key West Resort – Deluxe Studios & 1-Bedroom Villas
• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
• Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
• Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside

Save 20% for stays of 5 nights or more

Save 15% for stays of 1 to 4 nights

• The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
• Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
• Disney’s Pop Century Resort

Need help deciding which offer is right for you? Let us help! Mickey World Travel, Platinum Authorized Disney Vacation Planner

We’re now Disney vacation planners with Mickey World Travel!

• Let us provide a free no obligation quote (fill out quote form here or contact ·  ka******@mi***************.com for more information)
• Get help selecting your resort and the right ticket options, make advanced dining reservations and more.

Book now and receive ongoing support with your Disney World vacation. We’ll even monitor Disney World pricing for special offers and discounts and rebook you if a better deal becomes available for your hotel and travel dates.

Learn more about working with a Disney travel planner or contact us today to start planning your magical Disney adventure. Our services are offered at no cost to you.

FREE Dining When You Book a Room and Ticket Package with Park Hopper Option

It’s hard to beat the value of a Disney Dining plan, especially when it’s thrown in for free. For most travel dates this summer, guests can enjoy a free Disney dining plan when booking a minimum 3-night, 3-day vacation package that includes a room at a Walt Disney World Resort and a park hopper ticket. Offer is valid for travel May 27 to June 26, 2025 and July 7 to August 6, 2025. With the Disney dining plan, you’ll receive 2 meals per day, a snack and a resort refillable mug. See below for specific details.

To learn more about Disney dining plans perks and benefits, read our dining plan guide.

Save Up to $200 a Night on Disney World Vacation Packages in Early 2025

When you stay at Disney Resorts Collection of hotels, you’ll experience more than magic, close proximity to the parks and included transportation. Guests who visit in early 2025 can also save up to $200 for each night of their stay when booking a 3-night, 2-day Walt Disney Travel Company room-and-ticket package (longer stays may be available). Plus, you’ll get free admission to a Disney Water Park on check in day. This offer is valid for arrivals most nights from February 26 to June 30, 2025.

View the chart below to explore eligible Disney Resort hotels and savings.

Save Up to 25% on Rooms at Disney World Resorts in 2025

Guests visiting Disney World in early 2025 can save up to 25% most nights from February 23 to April 30, 2025. Guests who travel most Sunday to Thursday nights from January 1 to February 20, 2025 can save up to 20%!

This offer is valid for the Disney Resort hotels listed below. View the chart to explore savings.

US Military Discounts for 2025

Active or retired US military personnel, including active or retired members of the National Guard, Reservists, the US Coast Guard, the US Space Force, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service (PHS), and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) can save up to 30% off the cost of a Disney World Resort Hotel stay in 2025. Discounted rooms are bookable through December 15, 2025 and are available most nights from:

• January 1, 2025 to April 12, 2025
• April 27, 2025 to May 31, 2025
• September 1, 2025 to November 22, 2025
• November 30, 2025 to December 19, 2025

A valid military ID will be required upon check-in, and the military member (or spouse) must stay in the room. Check the chart below for exact discounts and resorts.

Disney World Discounts on Tickets in 2025 for U.S. Military Members

Both active and retired military members, (including personnel of the National Guard, reservists, the U.S. Coast Guard, the Commissioned Corps of the Public Health Service, and the Commissioned Corps of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) as well as their spouses, can take advantage of discounted theme park tickets in 2025.

Choose between a 4-day, 5-day or 6-day Disney World Ticket and save up to $30 per ticket if purchased by February 1 2025. Savings based on the nondiscounted price of the ticket beginning February 2, 2025 (date subject to extension). 

Choose between a 4-Day, 5-Day or 6-Day Disney Military Salute Ticket with the Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus option (formerly the Disney Military Promotional Ticket) for visits in 2025.

The promotional tickets below are available for purchase:

6-Day Military Salute Tickets
Purchase now through December 14, 2025

• With the Park Hopper Option: $409 plus tax
• With the Park Hopper Plus Option: $439 plus tax

5-Day Military Salute Tickets
Purchase now through December 15, 2025

• With the Park Hopper Option: $389 plus tax
• With the Park Hopper Plus Option: $419 plus tax

4-Day Military Salute Tickets
Purchase now through December 16, 2025

• With the Park Hopper Option: $369 plus tax
• With the Park Hopper Plus Option: $399 plus tax

Receive admission for 4, 5 or 6 days when you visit during the period from January 1, 2025 through December 19, 2025, subject to the following blackout dates:

• April 13, 2025 through April 26, 2025
• November 23, 2023 through November 29, 2025

Remember that a valid theme park reservation is required in addition to a ticket to gain entry to the parks for each person in your party ages 3 and up. You can also purchase the Memory Maker product for a special price of $98 through December 19, 2025.

You will need to make a park reservation for each day of your trip with this type of ticket. For more details, please contact your participating U.S. military base ticket office.

What to Do if You Can’t Find a Disney World deal for Your Travel Range and Preferred Accommodations

If you find that the selected Disney World discount is not available during your travel dates, and you have flexibility in your travel plans, try running a search for different dates.

If you can’t find full availability at a single resort using a discounted rate, you may be able to book a split stay. That means booking the same resort using two or three separate reservations to get the bulk of your travel covered by the discount.

For example, you can make one reservation using the discount for the first part of your stay, and book a separate using the discount for the last part of your stay.

Of course, this gets trickier when booking a package reservation, since ticket prices become less expensive per day the longer you stay. You’ll need to run multiple scenarios to see which option provides you with the best pricing.

If a split stay sounds like a lot of hassle, Disney does a great job of simplifying split bookings. If you notify the desk when you check in that you have more than one reservation, they will often make it possible for you to stay in the same room for both reservations.

In addition, by asking for online checkin on the subsequent reservations, you won’t have to go to the desk to check in again when the new reservation starts.

You can also consider splitting your stay across two or more different resorts. This is a great way to experience the magic of Disney in all its realms as each resort offers its own vibe and amenites.

Disney makes split stays across multiple resorts easy as well, by transfering your bags for you while you are out enjoying your daily activities. Simply drop them off at baggage check on your way to the parks. When you get to your new resort later that day, a quick call down to baggage check from your in-room phone will have them quickly delivered to your room.

Last, and most importantly, consider getting a quote from a Disney World travel professional. A travel agent who specializes in Disney travel can run different scenarios to find you the best options for your stay. Keep reading for more information on working with a travel agent on your Disney vacation planning.

Disney World Discounts the Easy Way – Let Someone Else Look for Discounts

For simplified booking, consider using a travel agent who specializes in Disney travel. You’ll get the same discounts offered through Disney online without the hassle of searching for available hotels or the best travel dates. Disney travel agents can look up pricing, provide you with a quote, and you’ll never pay more than you would booking directly through Disney.

Often, people fear that they will be required to pay a commission when working with a travel agent. This is simply not the case. Disney pays the commission to travel agencies on your hotel booking, allowing agents to book the same discounted rates you would find on the Disney website or by calling directly.

This provides travel agents who specialize in Disney with some added flexibility to combine discount reservations with concierge service. For example, we at Mickey World Travel, will go above and beyond making your hotel, ticket or package booking by also making dining reservations on your behalf. By working with a Disney World travel agent, you don’t have to get up at 5:30 am on the 60 day mark to make your ADRs, because someone else will do it for you.

Travel agents will also help you plan your days in the park, make better use of My Disney Experience and will be on call to answer any questions you might have. Best of all, they’ll continuously monitor Disney discounts as they are released and snag any newly released offers on your behalf.

If you’d like a quote on Disney travel, click here to fill out our handy quote form or email ka******@mi***************.com.

Additional information you might enjoy

An Insider’s Guide to the Best Time to Visit Disney World: What the Experts Say

4 Reasons You Need a Walt Disney World Travel Agent and How to Find One

Disney Dining Plan: Eat, Drink, and Save Big at the Happiest Place on Earth!

The post Disney World Discounts in 2025: Score Hotel Deals and Savings appeared first on Seconds to Go.

This leaves many visitors to Orlando wondering if renting a car at Disney World is worth it? While renting a car at MCO has its ups and downs, heeding a few car rental travel tips for your Disney World vacation should help you avoid many of the hassles.

Always Make a Reservation When Renting a Car at Disney World (or Anywhere)

It isn’t uncommon for high traffic airports to run out of available cars, even if you make a reservation. This happens because rental agencies, like airlines, overbook their inventory counting on cancelations and no shows. At other times, inventory can be depleted by late returns.

When this happens, your reservation can’t be honored, or the agency will need to move you to a different class of vehicle. This happened once to us in Salt Lake City where we reserved a Toyota Camry or similar. When we approached the ticket counter, we were informed that the only available vehicle was a Dodge Challenger, a car wholly unsuited to our needs.

If booking a car rental reservation won’t guarantee a vehicle is waiting for you, why go through the trouble? Because lines at Orlando airport rental counters can be long. It isn’t uncommon to find 10-30 people standing in line to pick up a car, leading to waits of over a half an hour  or more. 

While there are many reasons for long airport rental counter lines, one major impetus is the lack of reservations. In our experience, the vast number of travelers simply pick an airport rental agency after arriving and ask for a car. 

Since agency personnel must gather all of the information related to your rental onsite, including details travelers don’t always have at the ready, creating each reservation takes an inordinate amount of time.

Making a reservation ahead of your arrival streamlines your pickup and reduces the amount of time you’ll stand at the counter before being handed the keys to your rental car.

Provide as Much Information When You Make Your Reservation as You Can

Depending on the company, rental car agencies may not ask for much information when you make your booking. That doesn’t mean they don’t require more information before they hand over the keys.

A time-saving travel tip for Disney World car rentals is to look up your reservation online using the confirmation code sent to you by the company. In most cases, you can add your drivers license, insurance information and other details the agency may require before your arrival at the airport. 

This will save you time and hassle at pickup and get you on your way faster.

Always Join Rental Agency Loyalty Programs When Renting a Car at Disney World

Even if this is your first time renting a car at Disney World (or anywhere), take some time to join the agency’s loyalty program. Similar to airline and hotel loyalty programs, you can earn free rental days and enjoy other perks that will enhance your rental experience. One of these is an expedited service line.

Consider it a Lightning Lane to your car, and it’s offered to loyalty members at many rental agencies operating in Orlando and other major airports in the U.S. I’ve been promoted to the head of a line of 20 or 30 people before, simply because I am a loyalty member. Just look for the separate queue when you arrive at the rental counter at MCO

Look for Ways to Skip the Rental Car Counter

No matter how short the line, picking up your car at the rental counter is always going to be a time sink for your vacation. One of the biggest travel tips for Disney World is to skip the experience entirely, but it will require you to rent from specific companies.

Rental car agencies, such as National, offer loyalty program members the chance to skip the line at the counter and go right to the garage to select a car. Once you’ve loaded your luggage, simply drive to the exit where you’ll be checked out in a flash.

Utilizing these programs usually requires you to reserve your car through a special program. At National, loyalty members have the option to book a mid-size car and pick any car from a special Emerald Aisle. Available vehicles are guaranteed to be mid-sized, but larger or premium vehicles are often available.

Avis offers a similar program, but you will be required to download the app and select an available car when you land at the airport. Upon doing so, you’ll be given a parking space number. After picking up your luggage, simply head to the assigned space in the parking garage where your vehicle with keys is waiting.

While not every airport or rental car agency offers a skip-the-counter program, you will find many agencies offering this perk when renting a car in Orlando, Florida. These include:

• Alamo
• Avis
• Budget (Fastbreak service)
• Hertz
• National (Emerald Aisle)

No matter what your Disney World rental car budget is, you should be able to find an agency offering skip-the-counter benefits.

Make Sure to Add Your Flight Details to Your Reservation

When you book your rental car reservation, you’ll be asked to provide flight arrival numbers and departure times. This helps the rental car company manage inventory to help ensure your reserved class of vehicle is ready when you arrive, but it has added benefits for early and late arriving passengers.

Like other businesses, airline rental counters have established operation hours. However, companies will be certain to staff counters when they know your flight is arriving late. Adding your flight number will help ensure agencies keep staff on hand.

While agencies at Orlando airport are commonly prepared to facilitate very early arriving or departing passengers, you should be made aware of closures when you make your reservation. If you receive such a notice, it’s a good idea to call the company or choose a different agency.

Be Aware of Fees When Making Your Reservation

When quoting rental prices, some agencies have been known to play a bit of a shell game. The initial price shown may only reflect the base fare without required taxes and fees. This means you could compare several offers and select one that seems the cheapest, only to receive a much higher price when taxes and fees are added in.

In fact, Orlando airport began assessing rental car customers a customer facility charge of $9 per day in 2024. This rate was increased from $6 a day to help support the construction of a new consolidated rental car facility, and now comprises the second highest fee of its kind in the U.S.

Prepare for Tolls When Renting a Car at Disney World

No matter how you slice it, your drive to Disney World is likely to be interspersed with toll roads. When renting a car in Orlando, or anywhere tolls are common, cars may come equipped with a box on the windshield. Activating this box will incur you a daily charge from the rental car company in addition to any tolls you incur.

However, you don’t need to activate a device to incur rental car company handling charges for toll fees. Now that many toll booths have been eliminated in favor of self-scanning overhead gantries, rental car companies regularly receive charges for customers who drive these roads.

They’ll be sure to pass any assessed tolls along to your credit card, along with a daily processing charge. If you’d like to avoid these added fees, you can always purchase a SunPass or similar device and set up an account. 

Answering Some Frequently Asked Questions About Renting a Car at Disney World

Is MCO the closest airport to Disney World?

While Orlando International Airport (MCO) is nearly 17 miles away from Disney World, it is still the closest airport when flying in to visit Mickey and friends. Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB) is 47 miles away, providing travelers with another option, though travel time will be longer.

Can you rent a car at Disney World?

Guests wishing to take a day trip from their Disney World resort hotel will be happy to hear that rental cars can be reserved and picked up right from Disney World’s Car Care Center. Drivers will even pick guests up at their resort and bring them to pick up their waiting car.

Can you hire a car at Disney World?

There are many car services available for guests visiting Disney World. Most focus on providing airport transportation and rides to popular local attractions, such as Universal Studios or Kennedy Space Center. 

Ridesharing is also an option, with Uber and Lyft drivers plentiful around the resort.

Do I need to rent a car at Disney World?

If you are staying at a Walt Disney World Resort, complimentary transportation to and from the parks is included in your resort stay. With this added perk, many guests do not feel it is necessary to rent a car at Disney World, especially when airport transportation options are plentiful.

If you’re looking for a travel tip for getting around Disney World, remember you can always order an Uber or Lyft if you need to leave the Disney campus.

Other Disney World Tips and Tricks

The Walt Disney World Skyliner: A Whole New Highway in the Sky

The Walt Disney World Monorail- What It Is and Why You’d Use It

Disney World Resort Transportation: The Ridesharing Bus Showdown

The post 7 Time-Saving Travel Tips for Renting a Car at Disney World (or Anywhere Else) appeared first on Seconds to Go.

What Is Universal Studios Orlando?

One of the biggest Universal Orlando vacation tips is this: You aren’t dealing with a single park but rather 2 dramatic theme parks.

Universal Studios Florida opened its gates in 1990 with a groundbreaking vision: to immerse guests in the magic of filmmaking by bringing movie action to life. Unlike traditional theme parks, Universal designed its attractions to put visitors at the heart of the story, transforming them into the stars of their own cinematic adventures. 

Here, you’ll find the Wizarding World of Harry Potter Hogwarts Diagon Alley, a realistic representation of the hidden London venue featured in the J.K. Rowling classic and the Warner Brothers Film series. Additional Hollywood style rides include a clash with The Mummy as well as adventures with transformers, the Simpsons and E.T, among others.

Universal’s Islands of Adventure opened in 1999 as a companion park to Universal Studios Florida, designed to offer immersive experiences across a variety of themed “islands.” Each island is centered around a distinct concept, such as superheroes, mythology, or children’s stories.

Highlights include Marvel Super Hero Island, featuring attractions like The Incredible Hulk Coaster, and The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Hogsmeade. Known for its advanced ride technology, Islands of Adventure is home to some of the world’s most innovative attractions, including Jurassic World VelociCoaster and Harry Potter and the Forbidden Journey. 

Opening in 2025, Epic Universe is set to expand the Universal Studios world with 5 themed lands, including a new Harry Potter experience: The Wizarding World of Harry Potter—Ministry of Magic. Additional areas within the park will continue the movie focus and include Super Nintendo World and How to Train Your Dragon—Isle of Berk. 

Epic Universe will also include 2 new lands not themed to a particular movie, but rather the adventures we experience through storytelling. These include Dark Universe, where classic monsters come to life, and Celestial Park where guests can explore the future. 

Planning Your Trip to Universal Orlando

Universal Studios Orlando brings the world of the movies to life and sets you as the star. As you plan for your own epic adventure, it’s best to get off on the right foot with these Universal Orlando vacation planning tips.

Deciding When to Visit Universal Theme Parks

Finding the right time to visit Universal Orland Resort depends on a number of factors. For many guests, finding time when the parks are less crowded makes itinerary planning easier and park visits more enjoyable.

Like most Orlando theme parks, you’ll find that Universal Studios is most crowded when schools are out of session and less crowded when classes are being held. For that reason, you’ll want to avoid common school holidays if you are crowd averse as well as shoulder seasons associated with these dates. These include:

• The week between Christmas and New Years
• The week following Christmas
• Thanksgiving week
• Any Friday through Monday that includes a Monday holiday, such as Columbus Day
• Early March through mid-April (spring break)
• Beginning of June through mid-August

During these peak travel times, you’ll find hotels will be booked more fully, making it harder to find a reservation. Parks will also be more crowded, swelling wait times on the most popular attractions.

When it comes to avoiding crowds, the best times to take a theme park vacation to Universal Orlando are:

• Mondays through Thursdays the starting the second week of January through the week before President’s Day
• Sunday through Friday beginning the third week of April through the middle of May
• Sunday through Friday in September through the first week of October
• Tuesday through Thursday late October until the week before Thanksgiving
• Sunday through Friday beginning the week after Thanksgiving until the week before Christmas

Deciding When to Visit Universal Orlando: Thinking Beyond Crowds

While avoiding crowds may be a top priority for some guests, it isn’t the only factor to consider when planning a trip. You’ll also want to consider weather.

If you’re picturing sun-filled days and warm temps, keep in mind that winter days are not always warm. It is possible for highs to dip into the 40s sporadically during the winter months. Since we can’t control the weather, it’s better to avoid these months if you run a little cold blooded.

Your budget is another consideration. Pricing on hotels and tickets is typically lower when traveling during one of the less crowded times listed above.

However, if you’re a Halloween ghoul looking to scream your way through the thrills and chills of Halloween Horror Nights, you’re confined to the dates this event runs, usually September through the end of October. Fortunately, that’s a fairly easy time to find low crowds. October also offers some of the best weather Orlando has on tap.

It’s a similar situation if you want to visit Universal during the Christmas holidays. Decorations tend to go up right after Halloween and special events begin in November.

Essential Universal Orlando Vacation Tips: Deciding Where to Stay

If you’re familiar with Disney World vacation planning, then you know that where you stay can have a big impact on your vacation experience. We found the same was true at Universal.

For our first trip, we scoured maps and read countless reviews of the available hotels and Universal resorts. In the end, we opted to stay onsite at a Universal hotel. There were more than a few reasons behind this decision.

Advantages of Staying at a Universal Orlando Hotel

One Universal Orlando vacation tip is to stay at a Universal onsite hotel, where you’ll enjoy exclusive perks. The first is transportation to and from the parks. 

Complimentary Transportation to the Parks for Guests of Universal Orlando Resorts

Universal’s complimentary transportation system includes buses and/or boats. 

All modes of transportation run on a regular schedule throughout the day. You’ll find that multiple boats and buses run early in the day and closer to closing, so your wait is likely to be lower during those times. While hotel personnel will likely tell you that vehicles run every 20 minutes, we never waited more than ten minutes, even when we narrowly missed a departing boat.

In addition to accessing the Universal transportation network, guests at Universal’s Premier resorts can also take a short stroll to the theme parks. Hard Rock Hotel and Portofino Bay share a walking path, surrounded by beautiful landscaping and shaded from the sun, that leads directly into City Walk. You’ll find the entrance to both parks here. 

Lowes Royal Pacific also has a walking path. However, it will not take you to both parks. On the positive side, it does offer a more private way to enter Islands of Adventure, putting you a little ahead of other guests.

Early Park Admission Put Guests of Universal Hotels Ahead of the Crowds

Whether you’re enjoying the premier perks of Universal’s signature hotels or Universal’s superior budget-friendly amenities, you’ll have access to Early Park Admission. With Early Park Admission, guests staying at Universal’s line of hotels are permitted entry into Islands of Adventure one hour before standard opening. During more popular travel dates, this perk may be extended to Universal Studios.

Skip the Line with Universal Express Pass by Staying at a Premier Resort

An Unlimited Universal Express Pass is included for each guest booked into a room at one of Universal’s Premiere Resort. Universal Express Pass puts guests ahead of the crowds with access to most rides via a special queue exclusive to Express Pass users.

Since the only other way to get Express Pass is by purchasing it, this is a perk that could be worth the splurge on a Premier resort. Universal Premier Resorts offering Express Pass include:

• Loews Portofino Bay
• Hard Rock Hotel 
• Loews Royal Pacific

Charge Purchases on the Fly

By staying at a Universal resort hotel, purchasing everything from souvenirs and food is simplified. Just link a credit card to your room, and your key card becomes a charging card. If you’re using this card to access implied Express Pass privileges, you’ll have it readily available, so using it to charge purchases just makes sense.

Universal Orlando Vacation Tip #3: Maximize Your Time in the Park

Whether you’re visiting Universal Theme Parks during a peak travel season or during a less crowded time, you’ll want to make the most of your time in the parks. The Universal Orlando vacation tips in this section are designed to help you do just that, with guidance on itinerary planning and perks to help you beat the crowds.

Early Mornings Are a Breeze at Universal

We found early mornings to be less crowded than other times of day. From park opening to around 11:30 to noon, the parks were relatively uncrowded and wait times for attractions were at the lowest of the day.

Early Park Admission for the Win

If you’re looking to beat the crowds, there is now better way than to utilize Early Park Admission, particularly if you want to experience attractions in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter with little wait or you aren’t using Universal Express Pass. This perk is exclusive to guests of Universal hotels and permits entry into Islands of Adventure one hour ahead of scheduled times.

Universal Express Pass Let’s You Skip the Lines

If you’re serious about rides and soaking up as much movie immersion as you can, you’ll want to at least consider Universal Express Pass. With Express Pass, you’ll enter rides from a separate queue exclusive to Express Pass Holders. Since the only way to score an Express Pass is to stay at a Premier Resort on Universal Property or to purchase one, lines are much shorter than traditional standby queues.

Arrive Early, Stay Ahead of the Crowds

If you take advantage of Early Park Admission or enter the parks at opening, you might just realize an unusual perk. You’ll remain ahead of the crowds for most of the day.

The trick to this is to start your day in the most popular sections of the park and keep moving from land to land. At Islands of Adventure, that means starting in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, moving onto Jurassic Park and onward from there. When visiting Universal Studios, start again in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and keep moving in a clockwise direction.

Since all lands are laid out in circular fashion, it isn’t possible to cut across the park to another land. That means that all guests must move from one land to another. 

Guests who enter after you will remain behind you for most of the day as they make their way from land to land. This strategy is only effective if you arrive for Early Park Admission, when offered, or when the park opens if there is no Early Park Admission.

Enjoying Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure with Minimal Wait

Hagrid’s Magical Creatures Motorbike Adventure is one of the most popular rides in Islands of Adventure, and with good reason. However, that also means it stacks up some powerful wait times during the day. The fact that this is the only headliner attraction without an Express Pass Queue means you could be waiting in long lines to experience it, even if you arrive during Early Park Admission.

That leaves one Universal Orlando vacation tip to beat the crowds: arrive even earlier. On our first park day, we arrived about 20 minutes before the start of Early Park Admission. This put us about 25 people back in our single queue line. However, almost all of the many entry points had a similar number of guests queued and waiting to enter.

One thing to realize about Universal is that their admission process is a little clunky, with a slightly outdated camera system in use to ensure you own the ticket you are using. That means it can take time to move guests through the queue. 

On this day, it took us 10 minutes just to get into the park. By the time we arrived at the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, the queue for Hagrid’s Motorbike Adventure stretched into the Lost Continent and registered an 80-minute wait.

We decided to do better the next day and arrived about 50 minutes prior to Early Park Admission. We chose a queue line where we would be first to enter and waited it out. Time passed quickly as we chatted, and soon we were admitted to the park.

Some guests tried to run or at least fast walk their way to the Wizarding World. We kept a steady comfortable pace and arrived with no visible line at the ride.

We stowed our backpacks and entered the queue. It’s a lengthy line to walk, but we did it without stopping and were put on the ride with no wait.

You May Want to Skip the Backpack

One of the biggest Universal Orlando vacation tips for convenience is this: leave your backpack, purse or other larger bag at home. At many rides, you are required to stow these in a locker before entering the ride queue. This can become a little cumbersome ride after ride, so you’ll find it more convenient if you can leave a carrying bag at home.

You could also find it cheaper. While smaller lockers are free to use, larger lockers require a fee, and even modest size backpacks will require a larger locker. This includes Loungefly bags from Disney parks, a popular crossover carrying pack for guests who visit both franchises.

Going Upside Down? Prepare for Extra Security

While the use of lockers is recommended on many attractions, you’ll find it strictly enforced on rides that turn riders upside down. Be prepared to pass through a metal detector when entering the ride queue to make sure you’ve left nothing in your pockets.

Do You Need Express Pass?

If you’re staying at one of the Universal Studios Premier resorts (listed above), Unlimited Express Pass is included in the price of your room reservation. If you aren’t a recipient of this perk, you’re likely wondering if it’s worth the purchase.

One Universal Orlando vacation tip we commonly give to first timers is to make the purchase if your budget permits it. This will simplify your trip and reduce the stress of planning an itinerary and rushing from ride to ride to beat the crowds. Simply show your room key or Express Pass at the entrance to the Express Pass line, and you’ll be riding in no time.

Express Pass is particularly important if you’re visiting the parks during one of the peak times listed above and could save you money in the long run. If you’re waiting in lines of 30 minutes plus, you could easily need 2 days per park to experience all of the attractions. With Express Pass, we rode everything in a single day with time to spare.

Universal Orlando Vacation Tips Regarding Express Pass

If you do decide to use Express Pass, there are some important Universal Orlando vacation tips to heed and general things to know. First, Express Pass does not eliminate the line entirely. You will wait a few minutes for each ride, but your wait will be significantly shortened when compared to the standby queue.

Second, Express Pass lines ebb and flow in length just like the standby lines. We saw the longest Express Pass lines beginning around noon and extending into the late afternoon. The shortest lines occurred early in the day. 

If you receive Express Pass as part of your hotel booking, your pass will be tied to your hotel reservation. This means, you’ll need to show your hotel key at each Express Pass Line. Some of us found it easiest to purchase a lanyard and plastic card holder to carry the Express Pass. Scanning it at each ride through the plastic sleeve was a cinch.

Dining at Universal Studios Theme Parks

There are 3 important Universal Orlando vacation tips to understand when it comes to dining at Universal Studios. The first is the availability of table service restaurants. 

Reservations Ensure a Space at Table Service Restaurants

You’ll find very few table service restaurants within the theme parks, so if you want to sit down and be served while enjoying your day, you’ll need to be sure to make reservations ahead of time. A good time to do this is about a month before your arrival, but you will be able to find availability at some establishments as close as a week away.

If you are not able to book a reservation for a sought-after restaurant, try scoring a same-day reservation. However, you should expect a wait if you take this approach with no guarantee that seating will be available. Guests staying in club level rooms at Universal hotels are likely to find greater availability by speaking with your hotel concierge.

Mobile Ordering Saves You Time

If you’re going to eat counter service, you’ll certainly simplify your dining experience. If you use the mobile order option, you’ll find dining in the parks even easier.

Mobile ordering is available through the Universal Orlando app and is well worth the effort. We mobile ordered our meals while waiting in line for the last ride before we intended to eat. We then clicked to prepare our meals when we were within sight of the restaurant, found a seat and waited for the notification that our meals were ready. In most cases, we walked right past other guests who were waiting in a lengthy line to order, when picking up our food.

Coca-Cola Freestyle Souvenir Cups

Before leaving off with dining, we have one last Universal Orlando vacation tip. We saw many guests carrying insulated mugs and refilling them at Freestyle machines throughout the parks. We also saw a splash headline within the Universal App regarding free Freestyle drinks.  It turns out the 2 are related.

When you purchase a refillable mug, you are granted free unlimited refills throughout the day. The break-even point was about 3 drinks, so if you plan to purchase at least 3 fountain drinks throughout the day, including Icees, purchasing a refillable mug may be worth it.

If you do opt for a mug, be sure to hang onto it for the rest of your trip. You can purchase a refill pass on subsequent days of your trip for a discounted price when using a prepurchased mug.

Booking Your Hotel and Tickets

When it comes to making your hotel reservations and purchasing your theme park tickets, the easiest way to do so is by booking a vacation package. Doing so, bundles the cost of your theme park ticket and hotel reservation into one purchase, allowing you to make a minimal deposit at time of booking.

Universal offers a number of package options, including selections that roll in popular experiences, such as a meal at Three Broomsticks or tickets to a popular after-hours event. You’ll also find build your own packages, but before you take this route, it’s wise to brush up on the various types of theme park tickets available.

Park-to-Park tickets allow you to visit more than one park in a day and is an essential ticket type if you plan to ride the Hogwarts Express. Single Park tickets will restrict you to visiting one park each day.

In addition there are 1-park, 2-park and 3-park tickets. You will only be able to visit the number of parks associated with your ticket type. For example, if you pick a one-day ticket, you will be asked to specify whether you plan to visit Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios. With a 2-park ticket, you will be able to visit both, and a 3-park ticket throws in a visit to Volcano Bay, Universal’s premier water park. Beginning in May of 2025, you will be able to select Epic Universe as one of your 3 parks.

Last, you must specify how many days you want on your ticket. A 3-day, 2-park ticket, for example, will allow you to visit Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios each day for 3 days. If you wish to visit both parks on each day or any day of your trip, you will need a 3-day, 2-park, park-to-park ticket.

All tickets for Islands of Adventure or Universal Studios can be purchased with an Express Pass add-on allowing you to skip the regular line on most rides. 

Guests planning to visit Epic Universe in 2025 will initially need to purchase at least a 3-day ticket. However, 2 of those days must be spent at the original parks. Guests will only be able to visit Epic Universe for one day when the park opens in May of 2025.

Given the many ticket types, add-on options and available discounts, many guests find it easiest to work with a travel agent when booking their trip. This way, they can more easily find the right ticket type for their trip and ensure they aren’t missing any special experiences.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Planning a trip to Universal Orlando Resort can be a complex experience, especially for first-time visitors. Ultimately, a successful trip boils down to thoughtful preparation. Whether you’re navigating the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, braving Jurassic Park’s VelociCoaster, or exploring the upcoming Epic Universe, the right strategies will ensure you maximize your time and budget while minimizing stress. 

Use our Universal Orlando vacation tips as a guide, and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey into the heart of the Universal Orlando Resort.

The post Essential Universal Orlando Vacation Tips for First Time Visitors appeared first on Seconds to Go.

While Jollywood Nights offers unique experiences for guests of all ages, we found this event to be decidedly adult oriented. In fact, adults dominated the attendance roster, many dressed in their Hollywood finest.

Keep reading our Disney World Jollywood Nights review to see what this event may have in store for you.

Overview of Disney World Jollywood Nights

Launched as a reimagined way to enjoy the holiday season at Disney World, Jollywood Nights features exclusive stage shows, rare character meet-and-greets, and beloved attractions enhanced with holiday theming. 

For instance, laser projections dress up the Hollywood Tower Hotel (aka The Tower of Terror) in festive scenes, diminishing its otherwise abandoned appearance. Special lighting outside Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster also brings an unexpected holiday flair. Even the Chinese theater gets in on the festive excitement, donning an all new façade that changes throughout the event.

Guests can revel in this joyful atmosphere while savoring seasonal treats and beverages crafted especially for the event. With limited-capacity tickets, shorter wait times for rides, and exclusive entertainment offerings, Disney Jollywood Nights provides a more intimate holiday experience compared to the general park hours.

While Jollywood Night theming and event offerings are family friendly, the festivities really do appeal more to an adult crowd. In contrast to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party at the Magic Kingdom, this after-hours extravaganza focuses on adult enticements. 

You’ll find pop-up street bars throughout the event, featuring a wealth of adult libations and special alcoholic concoctions. Entertainment also tends to emit an adult feel, highlighting music and characters from the heyday of old Hollywood. When it comes to Disney’s star lineup, you’ll find traditional characters as well as old favorites, many who sport a decidedly millennial appeal.

That’s not to say that younger guests won’t appreciate walk-on waits at popular Toy Story Land Star Wars attractions, but most of the entertainment, including dance parties and character experiences, are geared to adults over 21. When compared to the child-friendly focus at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, parents may feel let down if they opt for Jollywood nights over the Magic Kingdom event. On the night we attended, the number of adults far outnumbered the few children we saw.

Disney World Jollywood Nights Event Dates and Ticket Information

Disney World Jollywood Nights is scheduled to take place on select evenings from November 9 to December 21, 2024, at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This special event runs from 7:30 PM to 12:30 AM, with ticket holders permitted to enter the park as early as 6:00 PM on the event night.

Event Schedule and Operating Hours

The 2024 event dates are as follows:

• November: 9, 13, 16, 18, 23, 25, 30
• December: 2, 7, 11, 14, 18, 21

Each event night begins at 7:30 PM and concludes at 12:30 AM. Guests with event tickets can enter Disney’s Hollywood Studios starting at 6:00 PM on the day of their ticketed event. They do not need to hold a separate Hollywood Studios park ticket.

Jollywood Ticket Pricing and Purchase Options

Ticket prices for Disney Jollywood Nights vary by date, ranging from $159 to $179 per person, plus tax. Tickets are available for purchase through the official Walt Disney World website and authorized Disney Vacation Planners.

Disney World Jollywood Party Entry Policies 

To join in the fun at Disney World Jollywood Nights, you’ll need a special event ticket just for this magical celebration—standard park admission tickets won’t cover it. The good news? You may enter the park as early as 6:00 pm with your party ticket. 

However, if you’d like to explore Disney’s Hollywood Studios earlier in the day before the party begins at 6:00 PM, you’ll need both a regular park ticket and a Jollywood party ticket for that day. 

Disney World Jollywood Special Offers and Discounts

Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club Members are eligible for a $10 discount per ticket on all event nights. To receive the discount, tickets must be purchased through the appropriate channels, and valid membership identification may be required at the time of purchase.

Jollywood Nights Entertainment and Attractions

Disney World Jollywood Nights is bursting with entertainment and attractions designed to immerse guests in holiday cheer and Hollywood glamour. 

Exclusive shows take center stage, featuring festivities that blend classic holiday music with Disney magic. Fans of character interactions will be thrilled to meet rare Disney characters dressed in their holiday best, while popular attractions like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror are enhanced with seasonal touches to add extra sparkle to the night. 

Themed dance parties and roaming performers bring an interactive flair to the event, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. 

Exclusive Shows and Performances

Disney World Jollywood Nights offers a lineup of exclusive shows that bring the holidays to life. At the Theater of the Stars, “Disney Holidays in Hollywood” dazzles with a spirited holiday musical hosted by Kermit the Frog and Miss Piggy. Joined by beloved characters like Tiana, Belle, Minnie, and Mickey Mouse, along with a talented ensemble of singers, dancers, and jazz musicians, this star-studded show is a must-see. 

Over at Hyperion Theater, “What’s This? Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas Sing-Along” invites guests to sing along with Jack Skellington to iconic songs from the film. This enchanting journey through Halloween Town culminates in a showdown with Oogie Boogie. With multiple showtimes throughout the night, you’re sure to fit one of these performances into your schedule.

On Hollywood Boulevard, “Glisten!” presents a stunning skating spectacular featuring internationally acclaimed skaters performing dazzling routines to holiday music and Disney classics like “Be Our Guest” and “When You Wish Upon a Star.” With showtimes spaced throughout the evening, these interactive elements keep the holiday spirit alive wherever you go.

Meanwhile, the Twilight Soirée at the Tip Top Club offers a classy escape with cocktails and live swing music in the courtyard of the Hollywood Tower Hotel. Each venue delivers a distinctive and unforgettable holiday vibe.

Disney World Jollywood Night Character Appearances

Rare character appearances are a highlight of Disney Jollywood Nights, giving guests the chance to meet Disney favorites in their holiday attire. Many of the more unique sightings will appeal to millennials who are most likely to remember the shows and movies in which these special actors starred.

Head to Echo Lake for a nostalgic bash featuring throwback characters like Phineas, Ferb, Max Goof as Powerline, and Baloo and King Louie from Talespin. Characters such as the Mandalorian have been spotted in Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge while Bo Peep or Lotso have popped up in Toy Story Land and Joy has made her way to Pixar Place. Guests should also be on the lookout for the mischievous Santa Stitch terrorizing…er visiting, Echo Lake.

Jollywood Night Parades and Fireworks Displays

The night wouldn’t be complete without a dazzling display, and “Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM!” is the grand finale you won’t want to miss. This nighttime spectacular lights up the façade of the Chinese Theater with projections of holiday moments from Disney films, synchronized with fireworks, lasers, and a holiday inspired soundtrack. This exclusive display captures the spirit of the season in a way only Disney can.

Interactive Experiences and Street Parties

Interactive experiences and street parties ensure that the energy never dies down at Disney Jollywood Nights. 

The Animation Courtyard transforms into the “Holiday Fiesta en la Calle,” a vibrant street fair with Latin holiday tunes, festive décor, and appearances by José Carioca and Panchito from The Three Caballeros. 

At Pixar Place, the Pixar Disco invites guests to groove alongside Edna Mode, Frozone, Joy, and other Pixar favorites. We found this event to be the one happening focused on delighting the under 12 guests.

Disney Photopass  Pictures

If you really want to commemorate the event, you’ll have the chance with Disney PhotoPass photographers stationed at key points within the park to snap your photo. Best of all, these digital, high quality images can be downloaded for free as part of the cost of your event ticket.

While we did not find any special surprises hiding in our downloaded photos, special effects are often added to pictures snapped at key locations. 

Disney World Jollywood Nights Exclusive Merchandise

Disney Jollywood Nights will feature an exclusive line of merchandise for attendees in 2024. The collection centers around Ollie, a whimsical gingerbread man created to reflect the nostalgic charm of the event’s vintage Hollywood theme. 

Key items include a Spirit Jersey adorned with an all-over Ollie print and the phrase “Happy Ollie Days 2024” on the front, accompanied by the event logo on the back. A graphic tee showcasing Ollie walking along Sunset Boulevard aligns with the event’s Tinseltown theme. Accessories include a specially designed ear headband featuring embroidered plush Ollie ears, a satin bow, and an event marquee, marked with “2024” to commemorate the year.

Additional merchandise includes a Lug bag tailored for convenience during the event, a retro-inspired mug featuring Ollie and event branding, and a collectible trading pin designed for Disney pin enthusiasts. A decorative ornament depicting Ollie and the Jollywood Nights logo is also available, catering to those seeking keepsakes for holiday décor.

These items are exclusively available to attendees of Disney Jollywood Nights. The merchandise can be found at designated locations, including the Stage 1 Company Store and Once Upon a Time shop within Disney’s Hollywood Studios during the event dates. Further details and insights about Ollie and the merchandise collection are accessible on the Disney Parks Blog.

Disney World Jollywood Nights Dining and Beverage Options

No Disney holiday party would be complete without a staggering array of special treats, and Jollywood Nights won’t disappoint.

Some of the more interesting options include:

• Agent P Croissant: A waffle croissant dipped in caramel-chocolate, topped with mint cream, a chocolate hat, and M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies. 
• Holiday Turkey Popover: Roasted turkey and creamy mashed potatoes topped with gravy and cranberry chutney in a house-made popover. 
• PB&J Doughnut: A half-glazed doughnut with creamy peanut butter and grape jelly, dipped in dark chocolate, served with house-made salt and vinegar chips. 
• Kermit’s Frozen Banana Shake: A non-alcoholic frozen banana and white chocolate shake with caramel swirls, topped with matcha whipped cream and sprinkles. 
• Mistletoe Martini: A festive blend of Tito’s Handmade Vodka and St-Germain Elderflower Liqueur mixed with cranberry juice, garnished with fresh cranberries and mint leaves.
• 1939 Royale: A sophisticated blend of Teremana Blanco Tequila, Cointreau Orange Liqueur, desert pear, agave nectar, and lime juice, crowned with Domaine Ste. Michelle Brut and served in a souvenir Disney Jollywood Nights Champagne Flute.
• Holiday Mickey Hot Cocoa: A rich house-made hot cocoa topped with whipped cream, caramel-chocolate brownie Mickey ears, and festive sprinkles.

For a more comprehensive look at the exclusive food and beverage treats offered at Disney World Jollywood Nights in 2024, you can check out this Disney Parks Blog article.

Visitor Reviews and Testimonials: Disney World Jollywood Nights 2024

As previously stated, adults attending Disney World’s Jollywood Nights in 2024 should enjoy the experience. Hollywood Studios is one of the most visited parks in the Disney Florida lineup, so it’s hard to resist a chance to experience lower crowds. This is particularly the case earlier in the season. 

Our Jollywood night took place in mid-November, with few crowds and no wait on any attraction with the exception of Slinky Dog Dash. Here, we timed a posted wait of 35 minutes at only a 10 minute continuously moving queue. We even rode twice.

The lower crowd levels, particularly when attending early in the season, really highlight the festive atmosphere and provide more guests a chance to participate in the celebration. Special events, such as Glisten, are offered multiple times a night, allowing more guests to participate without large crowds.

Jingle Bell, Jingle Bam was the only portion of the night that was crowded. Since this finale presentation was offered once, that wasn’t surprising. The good news is, it’s a great time to visit other areas of the park that are typically more crowded if you aren’t interested in the show. We watched for a bit and then headed over to the Tower of Terror to pick up our 1939 Royale in souvenir glass.

When compared to the holiday fireworks show at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party, this show is a bit of a sleeper. However, if you’ve never been to any of Mickey’s holiday extravaganza’s at the Magic Kindom, the splendor of the holiday projections and quirky story line could suit your festive mood—if you can find a place to see the Hollywood Theater clearly.

We were riding Slinky Dog Dash when guests began staking out space to watch the show. By the time we ambled in with 2 minutes to showtime, there was really nowhere to stand where we could see the show well enough, given our shorter statures. A word to the wise: make sure you find a good spot to watch the show at least 15 minutes before it stars, earlier if the event seems a little more on the crowded side.

What We Loved about Disney World Jollywood Nights

Despite some less than satisfactory reviews for the 2023 premier of Jollywood Nights, we found the event offered some real positives that will appeal to many guests:

• The over 20 crowd will enjoy the adult oriented theming of this event and the chance to dress up like the Hollywood stars of the 40s if they choose.
• Since crowds are lower at Jollywood Nights than you’ll experience during typical park hours, it’s a chance to experience the Hollywood theming, particularly on Sunset Boulevard where we could stroll crowd free for much of the night.
• Low wait times on rides are one of the biggest highlights of the event. We walked on and off rides all night, with the exception of Slinky Dog Dash, which had a 10 minute queue later in the evening.
• There is much to do at Jollywood Nights. Whether you want to focus on rides, enjoy the shows or dance the night away, you’re bound to find something to amplify the spirit of the holidays.
• The party is long. A run time from 7:00 to 12:30 am provides guests with the opportunity to fit in much of their must-do experiences.
• Some treats may be given away for free at closing time. We visited Starbucks right as the event ended and were offered some free confectionaries, since they’d be thrown out otherwise.

Drawbacks to Disney World Jollywood Nights in 2024

As with any extravaganza, there are bound to be a few downsides. We didn’t find much to dim our enjoyment, but here are a few things we found regrettable.

• It isn’t possible to do everything at Jollywood Nights. If you focus on rides, you’ll miss many of the shows or character experiences and vice versa. We suggest selecting some must-dos before heading out and prioritizing those experiences first.
• To keep people flowing through the attractions, many ride preshows are skipped. This could seriously impact your enjoyment of attractions such as Star Wars Rise of the Resistance, so think twice about making your only visit to Hollywood Studios during Jollywood Nights. 
• You’ll wait in lines to meet characters. While we didn’t wait any longer than 10 minutes, those queues do add up over the course of the night. If you want to visit any of the rides or shows, be sure to have an idea of which character visits you’d like to prioritize.
• Exclusive merchandise was hard to find. We scoured every shop on Hollywood and Sunset Boulevards, only to find out at closing time that we should have visited  Stage One Company Store across from Mama Melrose’s Ristorante. Since this is a seldom visited area of the park, at least by us, we never made it there to find the exclusive party merch. If you’re interested in purchasing party exclusives, be sure to ask a cast member early in the evenings where these can be found.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts on Disney World Jollywood Nights Review 2024

Disney Jollywood Nights at Hollywood Studios provides a distinct holiday experience with anostalgic Hollywood charm and more adult-oriented atmosphere. Unlike the festive energy of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Jollywood Nights leans into a more refined and stylized celebration focused on the glitzy glamour of old Hollywood. 

From themed entertainment like Glisten! and the Twilight Soirée, the event feels tailored for guests seeking a unique take on Disney’s holiday magic. While there are opportunities to enjoy popular rides and attractions, it’s the overall atmosphere—one that channels the glamour of classic Tinseltown—that sets this event apart.

For those seeking an alternative to the bright cheer of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Jollywood Nights offers a quieter, more stylized celebration. While it’s not without its drawbacks, it’s an enjoyable addition to Disney’s holiday lineup, particularly for those looking for a change of pace from the usual festive Disney offerings.

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The post Disney World Jollywood Nights: Is It the Ultimate Holiday Event for Adults? appeared first on Seconds to Go.

It’s the premier party event of the holidays, and it takes place at the happiest place on earth. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party brings an extra dose of magic to the Christmas season, with magical rides, parades and special events, including a cookie stroll and free hot chocolate. If you’re thinking about joining the festivities, follow along as we cover Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2024 dates, happenings and more.

When Is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2024: Dates and Times

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party begins at Magic Kingdom park in November and wraps up just before Christmas. Below are the Mickey Very Merry Christmas Party 2024 dates:

• November – 8, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 19, 21, 22, 24, 26, 27 and 29
• December – 1, 3, 5, 6, 8, 10, 12, 13, 15, 17, 19 and 20

While the party officially kicks off at 7:00 pm each night, guests with a party ticket may enter the Magic Kingom park as early as 4:00 pm. No valid theme park ticket is needed for guests entering at this time or later as long as they hold a valid Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Ticket for that date.

What Are Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Prices?

Prices for tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party vary by date and day of the week, with weekends generally commanding higher pricing. Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party pricing for 2024 is as follows:

Adults

$169 plus tax      November 11, 12, 14

$179 plus tax       November 17, 19, 21

$189 plus tax      November 15, 22 and December 1, 3, 5

$199 plus tax      November 24, 26, 27, 29 and December 6, 8, 10, 12

$209 plus tax      December 13, 15, 17

$219 plus tax       December 19, 20

Children aged 3-9

$159 plus tax       November 11, 12, 14

$169 plus tax      November 17, 19, 21

$179 plus tax       November 15, 22 and December 1, 3, 5

$189 plus tax      November 24, 26, 27, 29 and December 6, 8, 10, 12

$199 plus tax      December 13, 15, 17

$209 plus tax      December 19, 20

Buy Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets

Get a Quote for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets

As Disney Vacation Planners, we can help you purchase your Mickey’s Not So Scary Party tickets, backed with our years of Disney experience and planning tips. Click here to request your quote. You’ll never pay more than booking directly with Disney.

What Happens at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2024?

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is filled with events for the entire family, from special character sightings to exclusive merchandise and snacks, you’ll find plenty to keep you busy. Plan on experiencing rides with little wait, enjoying a spectacular Christmas parade complete with Disney Characters, witnessing special castle lighting, dancing the night away with familiar friends from Disney movies, strolling for a unique collection of cookies, and more.

How Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Works

As previously mentioned, guests may arrive at the Magic Kingdom as early as 4:00 pm to attend Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in 2024. If you don’t hold a theme park ticket for the day, you’ll be admitted through a dedicated queue for partygoers. 

Here, you’ll scan your MagicBand or ticket and then be directed to pick up your wristband from a cast member waiting just beyond the gate. At this time, you will also receive your special party favor, usually a collectable ornament, and guide to the party festivities.

Guests often begin lining up at the park gates as much as an hour or more before party opening time. However, this hardly seems necessary. The line is dispersed pretty quickly once 4:00 hits, so you really aren’t saving yourself that much time by standing in line for an hour or more to be one of the first ones let into the park. If you want to avoid waiting a few minutes for your wrist band, you’re better off arriving a little later, once the crowds have dispersed.

On the other hand, if you have a theme park ticket for the day and are already in the park, you’ll still need to pick up a wrist band before the party starts. You can do this at a number of places. Just look for the signs or cast members holding a sign. We usually pick up our wrist bands, party favor and guide at the entrance to Tomorrowland, right behind what used to be the Stitch’s Great Escape ride.

Once you have your wristband, fasten it on tight. After 7:00 pm, cast members will start asking to see it as you board rides or attempt to move away from the exit to the park. This is to ensure that only people who have purchased admission remain inside the Magic Kingdom once the party begins.

As the night wears on, cast members usually stop asking to see your band.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Schedule

You’ll find included in Mickey’s Verry Merry Christmas Party a strong lineup of events. These take place throughout the night, offering you non-stop activity even if you don’t ride a single ride.

Shows and Dance Parties

Shows and dance parties will take place at multiple locations and times. Mickey’s Most Merriest Celebration is presented several times during the evening on the Cinderella Castle stage. You can catch Disney characters celebrating the holidays at 7:40, 9:25, 10:35 and 11:55 pm.

Show off your moves at the Club Tinsel, the ultimate holiday dance party on the Rockettower Plaza Stage! Join Disney friends in Tomorrowland for a night filled with festive beats and nonstop dancing.

Little ones can enjoy their own holiday dance session at Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café. At the Disney Junior Jingle Jam, young guests get to groove with characters from Disney Junior favorites like Fancy Nancy, Vampirina, Doc McStuffins, and The Lion Guard.

Frozen Holiday Surprise
At 8:15 PM, join Elsa, Anna, Olaf, Kristoff, and the snowgies as they transform Cinderella Castle into a magical, icy wonderland—a holiday spectacle you won’t want to miss!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Character Greetings

Capture memories with your favorite Disney friends as they join the holiday cheer! Keep an eye out as you wander Magic Kingdom park—these Disney Characters will be dressed up in their seasonal finest, ready for festive photo ops.

Many characters will take up residence at a particular location to pose for photographs. When this happens, lines will usually form. It isn’t uncommon to stand in line for 15 to 20 minutes for photo ops with rarely seen characters.

Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade

One of the biggest highlights to the night is Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade. This spectacular event is filled with imaginative parade floats featuring many of your favorite characters, including the mouse himself, decked out in their finest holiday garb. The parade takes place nightly at 8:30 pm and 11:00 pm, but may be canceled due to inclement weather, which most often means torrential rain.

Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show

If you’ve ever seen a fireworks display at one of Disney’s ticketed events, you know how special the experience is. If you haven’t seen one yet, be sure to make time for this incredible presentation as the castle comes to life in moving beams of light and the sky above erupts with fireworks orchestrated to favorite carols.

Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show begins each party night at 10:00 pm, but like the parade, may be canceled due to inclement weather. In this case, inclement weather may mean heavy wind or rain.

Cookie Stroll

Stroll through Magic Kingdom, collecting cookies and hot chocolate as you go. Cookies are distributed at various locations throughout the park, and each venue offers a different flavor. Similar to Trick or Treating in the Magic Kingdom during the Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, you may visit each location as many times as you’d like.

Holiday Ride Overlays

While these can be experienced at any time during party hours, it’s important to note that some rides will also be decked out for the holidays or feature special ride elements. These include Mad Tea Party, Tomorrowland Speedway, Space Mountain and Monsters, Inc. Jungle Cruise will become Jingle Cruise during the holidays, bringing an array of seasonal jokes, but this can be experienced during normal park hours.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party PhotoPass

PhotoPass photographers will be out in full force during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, to help you catch all of the Magic of the night in photographic memories. You may find added festive props and holiday-themed surprises show up in your shots. Special photo frames are also available around the park, so you can step into the shot.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Merchandise

If shopping is your vibe, you’ll find exclusive finds just for ticket holders to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. In fact, a number of surprises are likely in store. From unique holiday sippers and popcorn buckets to exclusive shirts and other apparel, we’ve seen it all.

Generally, merchandise features a specific holiday design for each year. For instance, in 2024, we saw this Mickey with a present graphic adorning a number of party-specific apparel and houseware as well as merchandise such as ornaments.

Some items, you may find at limited locations outside of the Christmas party, like our favorite from 2023, this Donald Tree Sipper.

While we won’t know what party merch is available until the start of Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party in 2024, we’ll be sure to report back with some pictures after our trip in early November.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Food and Dining

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party food choices include a bounty of treats and eats. From exclusive party snacks to all out special surprises, it’s sure to be a feast for all your senses. 

Holiday Snacks and Specialties 

Special snacks this year include the Letter to Santa flourless chocolate cake. Or, delight in hot cocoa mouse and marshmallows topped with chocolate pieces at Main Street Bakery.

If neither sweet treat appeals to your taste buds, no worries. Disney promises over 30 new items premiering at restaurant locations throughout the park:

• Main Street Bakery: Letter To Santa: Flourless chocolate cake, hot cocoa mousse, and marshmallow topped with chocolate pieces (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only); Mickey-shaped Cinnamon Roll with holiday-themed icing (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)

• Plaza Ice Cream Parlor Hosted by Edy’s: Gingerbread Milk Shake: Vanilla ice cream, gingerbread syrup, and ginger snap crumbles topped with whipped cream and a chocolate piece (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only); Peppermint Brownie Sundae: House-baked brownie topped with peppermint ice cream, hot fudge, and chocolate granola with candy cane pieces (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours); Peppermint Ice Cream Cookie Sandwich: Peppermint ice cream sandwiched between two oatmeal-peppermint chip cookies and rolled in candy cane pieces (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

• The Plaza Restaurant: Gingerbread Milk Shake: Vanilla ice cream, gingerbread syrup, and ginger snap crumbles topped with whipped cream and a chocolate piece (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours); S’mores Cake: Chocolate cake with chocolate ganache, toasted marshmallow mousse, and sugar snowflakes (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)

Casy’s Corner Hosted by Coca-Cola

• Holiday Dinner Hot Dog: All-beef hot dog with turkey and gravy, fried onions, and cranberry sauce (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only; foot-long version also available)
• Holiday Dinner Loaded French Fries: French fries with turkey and gravy, fried onions, and cranberry sauce (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Candy Cane Tart: Chocolate tart filled with peppermint ganache topped with festive meringue (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Black Currant and Mint Lemonade (New) (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Main Street Snacks  

• Festive Pretzel: Jumbo pretzel with chocolate-hazelnut drizzle, caramel sauce, TWIX Cookie Bar Pieces, and festive sprinkles (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Hot Cocoa Churro: Churro rolled in hot cocoa powder and topped with marshmallows and peppermint candy pieces (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)
• Red Velvet Christmas Wreath Doughnut: Red velvet doughnut topped with buttercream and holiday sprinkles (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)
• Gingerbread Cola: Coca-Cola served with gingerbread syrup (New) (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Popcorn Cart near Cinderella Castle

• Hot Cocoa Churro: Churro rolled in hot cocoa powder and topped with marshmallows and peppermint candy pieces (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)
• Red Velvet Christmas Wreath Doughnut: Red velvet doughnut topped with buttercream and holiday sprinkles (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)
• Gingerbread Cola: Coca-Cola served with gingerbread syrup (New) (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Aloha Isle Refreshments Hosted by DOLE Packaged Foods

• Holiday Pineapple-Orange-Guava Juice Float: Pineapple-orange-guava juice, coconut soft-serve, and a spiced pineapple tree pop (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 11 p.m.)
• Cranberry Citrus Float: Sprite Winter Spiced Cranberry and fruity boba pearls topped with DOLE Whip (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 11 p.m.)

Golden Oak Outpost 

• Holiday Chicken Nugget Platter: Crispy chicken nuggets with sage butter and cranberry barbecue glaze served with mashed potatoes and corn (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Festive Beignets: Light and fluffy beignets dusted with blue sugar cookie dust and served with cookie butter icing (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Fried Ice Cream Christmas Tree: Peppermint ice cream rolled in cereal topped with green cookie butter whipped cream and festive sprinkles (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Café

• Carne Asada Loaded Fries: Seasoned french fries with carne asada, chipotle queso, caramelized onion, avocado salsa verde, and queso fresco (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 11 p.m.)
• Cheese and Chile Tamale: Served ‘Christmas-style’ with mild red chile and green chile-pumpkin seed sauces, citrus-chipotle chicken, cilantro rice, pinto beans, and queso fresco (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 11 p.m.)
• Chocolate Eggnog Tart: Chocolate tart topped with eggnog mousse and chocolate antlers (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 11 p.m.)
• Salted Caramel Horchata (New) (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 11 p.m.)

Sleepy Hollow  

• Orange Chicken Tenders: Fried chicken tenders with orange-soy glaze, glass noodles, green onions, and crispy garlic (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Szechuan Cauliflower: Spicy breaded cauliflower tossed in kung pao sauce, glass noodles, green onions, and crispy garlic (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Brownie Peppermint Bark with peppermint candy pieces (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party starting at 8:30 p.m.)
• Holiday Red Velvet Waffle Sundae: Mickey-shaped red velvet waffle topped with M&M’S Milk Chocolate Candies, peppermint ice cream, and hot fudge (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Milk and Cookies Mousse: Brown sugar cookie cake topped with chocolate chip cookie dough mousse, milk mousse, and chocolate chip cookies (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Pinocchio Village Haus

• Baked Brie Flatbread: Brie-cheese spread, mango chutney, green apples, arugula, almonds, and a honey drizzle (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 9:30 p.m.)
• Lasagna Flatbread: Italian sausage, meatballs, five cheese mix, ricotta cheese, and pesto (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 9:30 p.m.)
• Black Forest Parfait: Flourless chocolate cake with chocolate mousse and cherry chantilly topped with brandy-cherry compote and chocolate popping candies (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only until 9:30 p.m.)

The Friar’s Nook

• Holiday Pot Roast Hot Dog: All-beef hot dog topped with braised pot roast, Swiss fondue, horseradish mustard, and crispy onions (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Italian Beef Tots: Tots topped with braised beef, cheese curds, zesty giardiniera, and red wine gravy (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Sugar Cookie Hand Pie: Sugar cookie dough wrapped in a flaky crust with icing and festive sprinkles (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Toasted Marshmallow-Panna Cotta Tart with graham cracker ganache macaron (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Eggnog Shake: Eggnog soft-serve with ginger snap crumbles topped with whipped cream and festive sprinkles (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)

Storybook Treats

• Sugar Plum-Vanilla Soft-serve Sundae: Sugar plum-vanilla soft-serve swirl dipped in birthday cake cone dip topped with marshmallows and almonds (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours) 

Pretzel Cart in Storybook Circus

• Festive Pretzel: Jumbo pretzel with chocolate-hazelnut drizzle, caramel sauce, TWIX Cookie Bar Pieces, and festive sprinkles (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Hot Cocoa Churro: Churro rolled in hot cocoa powder and topped with marshmallows and peppermint candy pieces(New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and regular park hours)
• Santa Belt Buckle: Pistachio mousse with a dark chocolate truffle center and a chocolate buckle (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café Hosted by Coca-Cola

• Holiday Pot Roast Melt: Slow-cooked beef on thick toast with cheddar, provolone, and beef gravy (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Holiday Turkey Burger: Turkey burger topped with traditional stuffing, provolone, and cranberry chutney on a brioche bun (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Christmas Cookie Cake Roll: Christmas cookie roll with buttercream topped with festive holiday sprinkles (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Peppermint Éclair: Éclair with white chocolate peppermint mousse and chocolate pieces (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Christmas Punch: Cranberry and citrus punch with amaretto syrup and Seagram’s Ginger Ale (New) (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Auntie Gravity’s Galactic Goodies  

• Lump of Coal In Your Stocking: Cookies and cream shake topped with whipped cream, cookies and cream crumbles, and a chocolate doughnut hole (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Smoky Chocolate Brownie Sundae: House-baked brownie topped with smoky chocolate soft-serve covered in chocolate cone dip topped with marshmallows and festive sprinkles (New) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Whoopie Pie: Chocolate cake sandwiched with marshmallow mint buttercream (New) (Plant-based) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)
• Cherry Cordial Cold Brew: Joffrey’s Cold Brew topped with cherry whipped cream, chocolate drizzle, and chocolate curls (New) (Non-alcoholic) (Available during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party only)

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Dining

To make sure revelers stay fueled for the long night ahead, several quick service restaurants stay open during Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party 2024. These include: 

• Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Café
• Casey’s Corner
• Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn Cafe
• The Friar’s Nook
• Sleepy Hollow

If you’re willing to take more time away from your party-going adventures, 3 different table service restaurants will be offering dinner dining at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party. These include: 

• Be Our Guest Restaurant
• Cinderella’s Royal Table
• The Plaza Restaurant

Special Dessert Parties

For a truly special addition to your Mickey’s party agenda, why not try a dessert party? You’ll sample a selection of yuletide delectables while watching Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks, all from a prime viewing location.

Desserts are prepared by one of Disney’s pastry chefs and include classic Disney treats such as Candy Cane Tarts. Beverages, including beer and wine, are also available.

Dessert parties are categorized by the viewing location, either the East Plaza Garden viewing area or the Tomorrowland Terrace. Reservations are required. Dessert parties also incur a separate charge. 

You can check ticket pricing for various dates of Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party with Plaza Garden Viewing here. Pricing and availability for Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Dessert Party at Tomorrowland Terrace can be found here.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tips

Like any Disney activity, knowing some special Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party tips can help you make the most of your trip. Based on our personal experience with this event, we recommend the following:

• If you plan to eat dinner at Magic Kingdom, dine early, preferably at 4:00 after you first arrive. We don’t advise that you wait until the party officially starts. Once party festivities begin, you only have a short time to enjoy them. There is so much to see and do, you’ll want to have time to take it all in.
• Be advised that Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass are not available during party hours. However, you really won’t need it. Lines tend to be far shorter than during regular park opening and get shorter as the night wears on. You may be able to use the virtual queue for Tron Lightcycle Run.
• If you’re looking to hit those really popular rides, Like 7 Dwarfs Mine Train, with little wait, be sure to ride during the first parade of the evening. Just make sure to make time at the end of your night to catch the last showing.
• Consider how badly you really want a picture with a character before jumping in line. These queues can be deceptively long and take up much of the time you could be spending on other party festivities. If you want to see popular characters, such as Jack Skellington, Pooh characters or the 7 Dwarfs, get in line when greeting locations first open. Consult the guide passed to you at entry for times and locations.
• Don’t skip the parade and fireworks. We tried to do this the first time we visited an after-hours event, but soon found ourselves being drawn in. Both the parade and fireworks at Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas party are worth the time.
• Stake out a viewing spot for the parade or fireworks at least 15 minutes before starting time. You’ll notice people beginning to grab ground as much as an hour before. However, unless you’re very particular about where you stand or sit, this isn’t necessary. For the fireworks, in particular, people will fill in around you, so there are very few private viewing spots. 
• The best place to view the fireworks is the castle hub at the end of Main Street USA. However, anywhere you have a clear view of the castle will allow you to see most of the show.
• Party parades begin in Frontierland and end at the firehouse on Main Street USA. This means, if you watch the parade from Frontierland, the procession has passed you by while viewers on Main Street are still enthralled in the action. This gives you a few minutes to jump on a ride or into character greeting line or grab that coveted piece of merch before people start to rejoin the queues.
• The second parade of the evening will have fewer people in attendance, meaning an easier time to grab a more choice viewing spot. Many people with young children will leave right after the parade or fireworks.
• Purchase your ticket now. Seriously, don’t wait until you arrive to buy tickets for Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party. This is one of the most popular events of the year, and party dates do sell out.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, Is It Worth It?

If you’re a fan of the Christmas holidays and/or Disney, you really need to be at this party. Where else can you combine seasonal festivities with the magic of Disney?

However, you don’t need to be a Christmas nut to enjoy this party. For one thing there are several exclusives, such as snow on Main Street USA, that can only be enjoyed during party hours. It’s also the only time to see the Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmas Parade and Minnie’s Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks Show.

For many, it’s a chance to experience all of the popular attractions with little to no wait, particularly as the night wears on. It’s also a time to be in the park after dark, with the Christmas lights twinkling and Cinderella’s Castle lit up in holiday illumination.

If you have the funds in your travel budget, Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a great way to add some park time to your vacation, experience more of the Magic Kingdom rides and enjoy the holidays while doing so. If you’re worried about budget and planning to purchase Multi Pass on your regular Magic Kingdom day, you could consider foregoing the purchase. Doing so won’t cover all of your party ticket, but could take a bite out of the cost.

More Disney World Tips

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The post What Is Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party: 2024 Dates and More appeared first on Seconds to Go.

Vacation packages at Walt Disney World come in all sizes, designed to fit multiple travel styles and budgets. From packages with bundled ground transportation to all-inclusive deals, you’re bound to find a package to Walt Disney World to make your trip both magical and efficient.

The question many travelers ask is whether they need to book a Walt Disney World vacation package or if it’s better to make reservations a la carte. To help you decide, we’re breaking down the benefits of booking a package to Walt Disney World.

What Is Included in a Walt Disney World Vacation Package?

When booking a package to Walt Disney World, you are able to roll a number of vacation elements into a single unit. For most people, this means bundling their tickets and resort hotel into a single cost.

However, the flexibility associated with a Walt Disney World vacation package means you can also include the cost of your ground transportation as well as other extras. To break it down, imagine that you want to book a 6-night stay at Port Orleans, a Disney World moderate hotel.

You could book your hotel in one reservation and then separately purchase theme park tickets. Or, you could purchase both in a single transaction called a package.

With a Walt Disney World vacation package, you also have the added advantage of purchasing travel insurance, Disney’s Memory Maker, a dining plan, transportation to and from the airport as well as magical extras, such as a round of golf. It’s the most simple and convenient way to plan and reserve Disney World travel.

Packages to Walt Disney World, What Are the Advantages?

As discussed, when purchasing a package to Walt Disney World, you’re rolling all of the elements associated with your trip into a single transaction. This is beneficial for a number of reasons:

Fewer Up-Front Costs with a Walt Disney World Vacation Package

When it comes to booking a Walt Disney World vacation package, you’ll only be required to make a $200 deposit at the time of booking. Contrast this to a booking where you reserve your hotel and purchase your tickets separately. In this scenario, you’ll need to leave a deposit equivalent to one night’s stay. At many resorts, this is more than the $200 required to hold a package reservation.

When it’s time to purchase your tickets, you’ll need to pay for the total cost up front. In contrast, booking a Walt Disney World vacation package allows you to hold the reservation with a $200 deposit. You then have up until 30 days prior to arrival to pay the balance. This provides you with ample time to save or to even make payments on your trip. Keep reading for more information on flexible payment plans.

Keep in mind, that while the $200 deposit will stand as an inititial down payment for most package elements, you will be asked to pay in full for any extras at the time of booking, such as travel insurance and Memory Maker. However, this would be true whether you booked these services separately or include them in your package.

If you aren’t ready to pay for extra add-ons to your package to Walt Disney World at the time of purchase, you can always add them later by contacting your Disney World travel agent. The same holds true if you simply decide later on that you want to add Memory Maker, ground transportation or other value-added benefits.

Package to Walt Disney World Offers Payment Flexibility

All Walt Disney World vacation packages must be paid in full 30 days before your arrival date. However, if you’re on a budget or prefer to make regular payments, you can easily set up a payment plan by booking your vacation through a travel agent specializing in Disney World vacations.

Your travel agent can set up a personalized payment plan, according to your needs, whether it be weekly, biweekly, monthly or whatever you choose. For guests booking reservations into the next year, a payment plan provides a nice runway for spreading out the cost and helping families afford a trip to Disney World easier.

Flexible Cancellation Policies with Package Convenience

Packages to Walt Disney World come with flexible cancellation and change policies. Guests may cancel up to 30 days before arrival and receive a refund of all monies paid, minus any non-refundable portions of a travel protection policy or other third-party charges where applicable.

If you need to cancel your Walt Disney World vacation package between 2 and 29 days before your arrival, you will be credited any monies paid (minus any non-refundable portions of a travel protection policy or other third-party charges where applicable) less the $200 deposit.

Walt Disney World Vacation Package Easy Change Policies

Planning a Disney World vacation can be a complex endeavor. Many guests book months in advance to secure special discounts or resorts for certain dates. So, what happens if plans change?

With a package to Walt Disney World, you’re able to make changes up to 30 days before arrival. This includes swapping out a guest who can’t make it with another traveler (as long as it is not the lead guest), changing travel dates, and selecting new accommodations or party size.

Keep in mind, if any change results in a higher cost to your travel arrangements, you will be responsible for the additional charges, but you will not be required to pay a change fee. Likewise, if the changes result in a decrease in package cost, you will receive a refund of any monies already paid that result in an overage.

For changes made 30 days or less prior to arrival, there is a $50 change fee.

Booking a Walt Disney World vacation package also allows you to cancel and receive a refund on the cost of your theme park tickets, according to the terms above. Tickets purchased separately are non-refundable.

When thinking about cancelations, keep in mind that many changes require a call to Disney World Travel. That means waiting on hold for the next available representative. To streamline their package purchase, many Disney World guests book through a Disney vacation planner or travel agent specializing in Disney vacations. That way, if changes are needed, your vacation planner can make these for you with far less hassle.

Receive a Free No Obligation Walt Disney World Vacation Package Quote

We’ve teamed up with Mickey World Travel as a Connecticut-based travel agent to bring our expertise in Disney World travel planning to your next vacation. Request a free, no obligation package quote, and let us help you plan your Disney World adventure! You won’t pay more, but the value you’ll receive is priceless.

Ready to Book Your Disney Vacation?

Let us help! Free vacation planning included with every Disney vacation booking. You’ll never pay more booking with a travel agent like us, but the added insight you’ll receive could be invaluable.

Contact us for a quote today. Click here to be taken to our quote form.

Easy Setup of Your My Disney Experience Account

With a Walt Disney World vacation package, it’s easy to set up a My Disney Experience account or add your vacation to an existing one. Simply enter your reservation confirmation number and link the tickets associated with your package to the appropriate members of your party.

If you book extras, such as Memory Maker, these will also automatically sync with your account once you add your confirmation number, meaning all of your precious photos taken on rides or with PhotoPass photographers, will appear in your My Disney Experience account for download.

Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Include Magical Extras

When booking a Walt Disney World vacation package that includes a Disney owned resort hotel, you’ll receive Magical Extras that aren’t available with a la carte bookings. If you book a Disney World vacation package in 2024, you’ll receive the following Magical Extras:

• Receive four (4) vouchers per Walt Disney World vacation package, valid for one (1) 18 hole round of miniature golf on one (1) day for one (1) guest at either Disney’s Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course or Disney’s Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course. 
• Receive four (4) vouchers per Walt Disney World vacation package, each voucher valid for one (1) general admission to ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex on one (1) day for ONE (1) guest. Valid only on event days. 
• Receive 10% off the non-discounted price of bowling (walk-in bowling only), receive 10% on the purchase of food and non-alcoholic beverages (dine-in only), and receive 10% off the non-discounted price of merchandise at Splitsville Luxury Lanes located in Disney Springs West Side.
• Receive 10% off the cost of surrey bike rentals and resorts offering this recreation option.
• Receive 10% off food & non-alcoholic beverages at City Works Eatery & Pour House located at Disney Springs West Side as well as House of Blues Restaurant and Bar and House of Blues® Gear Shop.
• Receive 20% off your entire purchase at Local Green Orlando, located at Disney Springs west side. 
• Receive 20% off your entire purchase at JOFFREY’S COFFEE & TEA COMPANY® at the following locations at Walt Disney World Resort: Magic Kingdom® Park, EPCOT®, Disney’s Animal Kingdom® Theme Park, Disney’s Hollywood Studios®, Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park, ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex, Disney Skyliner and Disney Springs® The Landing including Joffrey’s Coffee & Tea Company® store, or purchase online at JOFFERYS.com using coupon code. 
• Receive 10% off food and non-alcoholic beverages at Pardiso 37 located in Disney Springs.
• Receive 10% off adult entrees at Rainforest Cafe located in Disney Springs Marketplace or outside the entrance to Animal Kingdom Theme Park, the Boathouse restaurant in Disney Springs Town Center.
• Receive 10% off adult entrees at T-REX® located in the Disney Springs Marketplace. 
• Receive $1 off at The Spice and Tea Exchange: $1 off any 16oz Iced or Hot Tea To Go. Offer only available at The Spice & Tea Exchange® located in the Disney Springs® Marketplace.  
• Buy 2 pretzels, get one free at Wezel’s Pretzels located at Disney Springs West Side and Marketplace.
• Receive 10% off your entire purchase at Balocoloc Venian Masks. This offer is only available at the Italy World Showcase Pavilion location in EPCOT. 
• Receive 10% off entire purchase, excluding sale items, at Basin located at Disney Springs Marketplace or Basin White located in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
• Receive 15% off entire purchase at Chapel Hats located at Disney Springs® the Landings.
• Receive 15% off purchases of $30 or more at Coca-Cola Store located at Disney Springs Town Center.
• Receive 10% off your order at Crown & Crest in EPCOT World Showcase.
• Receive 10% off purchases at the Crystal Arts by Arribas Brothers stores at Disney Springs Marketplace, Magic Kingdom Park and EPCOT. Exclusions apply. 
• Receive 20% off your purchase (exclusions may apply) at Edward Beiner Purveyor of Fine Eyewear located in the Disney Springs® Town Center. 
• Receive 15% off entire purchase at Just Fun Socks located at Disney Springs the Landings.
• Visit Kendra Scott located at Disney Springs® Town Center and receive 15% off your entire purchase! 
• Receive 10% off your outbound Shipping services, and shipping boxes at Ricoh Business Centers.
• Receive 10% off non-discounted merchandise at Sugarboo & Co. located at Disney Springs Town Center.
• Visit Superdry at Disney Springs® Town Center and receive 15% off a purchase of regular priced items!
• Receive 15% off the non-discounted price of merchandise at Volcom® located at Disney Springs® Town Center.

Walt Disney World Vacation Packages Are Available for Many Offsite Resorts

When booking a trip to Disney World, many vacationers assume they are limited to reserving Disney World resorts if they want to book a Walt Disney World vacation package. Fortunately, Disney World offers package options that include a number of offsite hotels, including popular chains such as Hyatt, Hilton and Marriott.

Hotels available for package reservations will hold a special designation, such as Good Neighbor Hotels, indicating that they meet Disney World’s stringent quality standards and offer a required set of amenities. However, you may not receive the same perks as you would when booking a Disney World resort hotel, depending on where you choose to stay.

Walt Disney World Vacation Package Caveats

As with anything, there are some things you should know before booking a vacation package to Walt Disney World. For instance, not all costs associated with your Disney resort stay will be included in the cost of your package.

If you opt to charge purchases to your room, you may see additional charges on your checkout statement, including the purchase of Lightning Lane reservations, as well as any purchases or restaurant tabs you charge to the credit card on file with your room.

Second, while MagicBands are available for guests booking a Walt Disney World vacation package or hotel stay, they are no longer included in the cost of your package. Anyone wishing to use MagicBands will need to make a separate MagicBand purchase prior to arrival through their My Disney Experience account, Shop Disney or after arriving at Disney World.

Overall, booking a package to Walt Disney World is a convenient way to plan your travel, providing you the opportunity to consolidate your costs and arrangements. You’ll add convenience and cost protections over booking your travel elements separately, with no additional expense.

More Disney World Travel Tips

Financing Your Disney Dream: Plan Now, Pay Later Disney World Vacation Payment Plan

Where’s the Real Fairy Tale? Staying Onsite at Disney World or at an Offsite Hotel?

Trip to Disney World: All Inclusive Adventure Awaits

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