INTERCOT Info Central
Welcome to INTERCOT’s Info Central… the place to learn more about the Most Magical Place on Earth. Here, our experts will help you plan your next vacation with this collection of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s). Of course, another great way to learn more is to join in the discussion at the INTERCOT Discussion Boards!
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Disney runs some of the best maintained hotels on the planet. They’re also well maintained and provide a immersion in the magic of Walt Disney World. Some benefits of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel are:
- Complimentary Transportation: Monorail, Motor Coach (Bus), Ferryboat, Skyliner Gondolas and Water Taxi transportation are provided to all points of interest on the Disney Property.
- Guests of Disney Resort hotels can get a 30-minute jump on their Disney day with early theme park entry—available at all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks.
- Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels or Disney Deluxe Villas can enjoy extended evening hours—experiencing select attractions, shops and dining after regular park hours—in select theme parks on select nights.
- Midday Breaks: Because you are so close by, it’s easy to make a short trip back to your hotel when you feel tired or want to take a break from the crowds.
- Free parking at the Walt Disney World theme parks.
- As a Disney guest you have the option of adding charging privileges to your magic band or room key. You can leave a cash payment or a credit card.
- You never have to leave the “magic”.
- Free wifi in room and around the resort.
- On-line check-in prior to your arrival at Disney World.
The check in time is 3:00pm for Disney Resort hotels and 4:00pm for Disney Deluxe Villas.
The check out time for all resorts is 11:00am.
You can complete early check in on the My Disney Experience App prior to arriving at the hotel, so you can go directly to your room upon arriving.
Room requests are exactly that: a request – and can’t be guaranteed. It is recommended that guests list their preferences for room locations during the initial reservation process. Your requests will then be documented on your confirmation paperwork and within the information later forwarded to the appropriate resort.
If you use online check in through the My Disney Experience App, you’ll be able to make certain requests at that time. Available options will be presented to you and you may check off items of importance.
Most of the Walt Disney World Resorts offer a refillable mug program for their guests. Refills are available at the beverage dispensers found at the food courts at the Value and Moderate resorts and at specified counter service locations Deluxe/DVC properties.
The variety of drinks depends on the resort – but usually include: coffee, soda, ice tea, hot chocolate, and fruit drinks such as Hi-C, Powerade, and Lemonade. Milk and 100% fruit juice such as Orange or Apple are NOT available for the mugs.
These mugs contain an RFID chip that is read by the machine in order to determine refill eligibility. The RFID chip will be activated at the time of purchase and programmed to the appropriate number of days purchased.
Unfortunately, the popular Disney’s Magical Express service was discontinued from the Orlando International Airport. Now, your only options for getting to Walt Disney World from the airport are:
- rent a car
- hire a car service (taxi, Uber, Lyft, etc.)
- hire a shuttle service (Mears) or private vehicle service
Getting around Disney World is easy – and if you’re ever not sure of how to get somewhere, any cast member can help! But here are a few of the more popular ways to hop from park to park, or from your resort to anywhere on property!
Be sure to check out our Resorts pages for more specific directions on how to travel from your hotel to other parts of Walt Disney World.
🚡The Skyliner Gondola System:
- Disney’s newest transportation system, high in the sky!
- With stops at Pop Century/Art of Animation, Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, Epcot’s International Gateway Entrance, and Hollywood Studios.
🚝 Disney’s Monorail System:
- There are 3 monorail lines to choose from.
- The Express: runs back and forth from the Transportation & Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom.
- The Resort Monorail: runs a loop between The Contemporary Resort, the Ticket & Transportation Center, The Polynesion Resort, The Grand Floridian Resort and the Magic Kingdom.
- The EPCOT Monorail: runs back and forth from the Transportation & Ticket Center to EPCOT.
🚢 Disney’s Boat System:
- There are a number of ferries and watercraft to get you from place to place.
- The Magic Kingdom Ferry: an alternative to taking the Monorail from the Transportation & Ticket Center to the Magic Kingdom.
- Water Taxis: travel from (and between) the Magic Kingdom and its nearby resorts: Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, The Contemporary Resort, The Polynesian & The Grand Floridian Resort.
- Friendship Boats: travel from (and between) EPCOT’s International Gateway Entrance, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, The Boardwalk Inn, The Beach Club, The Yacht Club, The Swan & Dolphin Hotels.
- Sassagoula River Cruises: travel from (and between) Disney Springs and Old Key West Resort, Saratoga Springs Resort, Port Orleans French Quarter and Port Orleans Riverside.
🚌 Disney’s Bus System:
- Pretty much everywhere else you need to go can be accessed by Disney’s bus system.
- For travel between resorts (that aren’t accessible by monorail or boat), you may need to travel to a theme park or Disney Springs and transfer to a bus that will lead you to your final resort destination.
- Many resort bus stops have televisions displaying when the next bus to your destination will be arriving.
When in doubt, just ask!
As you make your way around the Walt Disney World parks, you may notice some guests wearing colorful bracelets that they use to make purchases, enter Lightning Lanes, and even enter their resort rooms. These are MagicBands!
As a Disney Resort Hotel guest, you will automatically be given a plastic key card to your room that will also act as your park ticket to enter one of Walt Disney World’s 4 theme parks. Your hotel concierge can help you link all of that up, if you can’t figure out how to do it in the My Disney Experience app.
But for added convenience, Disney Resort Hotel Guests have the option to purchase MagicBands up to 6 days before arrival at special pre-arrival prices. You can also purchase a MagicBand online at shopDisney or at select merchandise locations at Walt Disney World Resort.
These bracelets are wearable fun! They light up in sync with certain shows and attractions around the park and are great for easily “tapping” to purchase food and merchandise, charging it to your resort room account.
Added bonus: you can use these on all future vacations too! Even if you have the old MagicBand version 1 or 2, as long as they’re still linked to your My Disney Experience profile, they’ll continue to work on future trips to The World.
Most of the rides at Walt Disney World have no height requirements – even the youngest infants can ride on their parents’ laps! But there are some height restrictions to be aware of. These requirements are not meant to exclude anyone, but rather they’re for safety – to ensure the ride vehicle restraint systems work properly:
Magic Kingdom:
- The Barnstormer – must be 35″ tall
- Big Thunder Mountain Railroad – must be 40″ tall
- Tiana’s Bayou Adventure – must be 40″ tall
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train – must be 38″ tall
- Space Mountain – must be 44″ tall
- Tomorrowland Speedway – must be 32″ tall
- TRON Lightcycle/Run – must be 48″ tall
EPCOT:
- Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind – must be 42″ tall
- Mission: SPACE – must be 40″ tall
- Soarin’ Around The World – must be 40″ tall
- Test Track – must be 40″ tall
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- Alien Swirling Saucers – must be 32″ tall
- Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run – must be 38″ tall
- Rock n’ Rollercoaster Starring Aerosmith – must be 48″ tall
- Slinky Dog Dash – must be 38″ tall
- Star Tours – must be 40″ tall
- Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance – must be 40″ tall
- The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror – must be 40″ tall
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Avatar Flight of Passage – must be 44″ tall
- DINOSAUR – must be 40″ tall
- Expedition Everest: Legend of the Forbidden Mountain – must be 44″ tall
- Kali River Rapids – must be 38″ tall
Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park:
- Bay Slides – must be shorter than 60″
- Crush n’ Gusher – must be 48″ tall
- Humunga Kowabunga – must be 48″ tall
- Ketchakiddee Creek – must be shorter than 48″
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park:
- Chairlift – must be 32″ tall
- Downhill Double Dipper – must be 48″ tall
- Slush Gusher – must be 48″ tall
- Summit Plummet – must be 48″ tall
- Tike’s Peak – must be shorter than 48″
- Schedule visits to the parks first thing in the morning. It’s usually not as hot or crowded.
- Stay on Disney property! This makes going back to the room for a rest much easier.
- Bring your own stroller. Your child will be used to their own seat and you’ll also have it when outside the theme parks. It’s also nice to have the reclining feature for napping.
- Check if Rider Switch is available on the attractions they’re too young to participate in.
- Make use of the Baby Care Centers. They’re quiet refuges for parents and little ones. Enjoy private nursing rooms with rocking chairs, feeding stations with high chairs, a kitchenette with sink & microwave, and a small store with diapers and formula. There is one Baby Care Center in each park:
- Magic Kingdom – located behind the Crystal Palace Restaurant
- EPCOT – located in the Odyssey Center
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios – found at Guest Relations in the front of the park
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom – near Creature Comforts in the Safari Village
- Consider renting a car. The Disney transportation options are more than adequate, but quick exits are often easier for both baby and parents. Often, bus rides can be very long, especially if you’re wrangling sleeping kids, strollers, bags and more.
- Character photos with baby are great treasured keepsakes. Be mindful that the characters are very large and can be intimidating to some children. Character meals are a great way to provide interaction in a calmer setting.
- Bring your own snacks! Little baggies or containers of their favorite things can be a lifesaver, especially when waiting in long lines. Kids get hungry at a moments’ notice!
- Keep them hydrated! Always have water available – it gets HOT in Florida!
- Lastly, have fun. Go at your children’s pace and enjoy the World from their perspective.
If a child does not meet the height requirement or a Guest does not wish to board a particular attraction, no problem! With Rider Switch, one adult can wait with the non-rider (or riders) while the rest of the party enjoys the attraction. When the other adult returns, they can supervise the non-riding guests, and the waiting adult can board the attraction without having to wait in the regular line again!
Rider Switch is available at select attractions at all 4 Walt Disney World Resort theme parks.
To Use Rider Switch:
- First check with a Cast member to see if Rider Switch is offered at the attraction in question.
- Once at the attraction, approach the greeting Cast Member with your entire party. At least one adult member of your party and the Guests who are not riding will be issued a Ride Switch entitlement by the Cast Member and asked to wait in a designated area (usually outside of the attraction). This group is “Party 2.”
- The other party members (“Party 1”) ride the attraction.
- After riding the attraction, Party 1 locates Party 2. Then, Party 1 takes over supervision of the non-riding children or Guests.
- Party 2 enters and boards the attraction without having to wait in the regular queue a second time. The Rider Switch entitlement must be validated by a Cast Member at this time.
Please note that if the person in Party 2 waited alone with the child or non-riding Guest, one Guest may join the person that waited alone.
Kidcot Fun Stops are nice quiet craft centers around World Showcase at EPCOT, where children can make crafts and color pictures in every international pavilion around the lagoon.
Pick up a memorable memento with facts and activities featuring the culture and traditions of each country.
Where to find each Kidcot Fun Stop:
- Mexico Pavilion (near Mexico Folk Art Gallery)
- Norway Pavilion (at The Puffin’s Roost)
- China Pavilion (near the exit of Reflections of China)
- Germany Pavilion (at Volkunst)
- Italy Pavilion (outside, near La Bottega Italiana)
- American Adventure Pavilion (outside, near Art of Disney)
- Japan Pavilion (in the Bijutsu-kan Gallery)
- Morocco Pavilion (at the Marketplace in the Medina)
- France Pavilion (at Souvenirs de France)
- United Kingdom Pavilion (at The Toy Soldier)
- Canada Pavilion (at the exit of Canada Far and Wide in Circle-Vision 360)
Strollers are available for rent throughout the Walt Disney World theme parks and Disney Springs.
The strollers at Disney World are hard plastic (easily cleaned) with a small canopy roof. You can rent either a single, or a double wide, and discounts are available for multi-day length-of-stay rentals.
Important: Disney strollers cannot be removed from the theme parks. Therefore you won’t have a stroller available back at your resort or elsewhere on property.
However, there are many third-party companies in the Orlando area that will rent a single or double-wide “jogging” style stroller with delivery direct to your hotel room, that you can use everywhere on your trip – often for less money than renting from Disney.
Remember: many strollers look alike! Distinguish yours from the rest by tying a fancy ribbon, bandana, or even Disney balloon to the handlebars so you can find your stroller in a crowd!
Resembling a great hall from castle lore, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is dedicated to the classic fairytale stories of Disney Princesses, Princes and their castles. Youngsters can be made up as pretty as a princess or as cool as a princely pop-star at one of two Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique locations. “Owned” by the Fairy Godmother and “operated” by Fairy Godmothers-in-Training, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique offers a royal menu of salon services.
There is one location of the Boutique, within Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom. Park admission is required to visit this location and reservations through the My Disney Experience App are required. Appointments can last up to 90 minutes and pricing depends on the package chosen.
On Main Street USA, kids of all ages can get a fresh new look at this charmingly old-fashioned barbershop. In fact, many parents choose to have this special location conduct “baby’s first haircut” in order to make it a memorable experience!
Valid admission to the Magic Kingdom is required. Reservations are required through the My Disney Experience App or the Disney World website.
Yes! This is especially important to international Guests.
Whether you’re spending a magical day at the theme parks, or relaxing at your resort hotel, you’ll stay connected with complimentary wireless high-speed internet access (WiFi). This is available in the majority of public spaces including:
- All four theme parks – Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Both Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks
- Disney Springs
- Disney’s Boardwalk
- Inside and around your Disney resort hotel or Fort Wilderness Campground
If you don’t have an account set-up already at disneyworld.com, sign up now!
Once you have a login, you can use My Disney Experience either on the Disney World website, or on the handy mobile application!
Be sure to download the Walt Disney World app, as it does not apply to other Disney Parks around the globe.
What does the app do?
- Allows you to begin the vacation planning process from home! Organize your plans, purchase park tickets, reserve fun-filled entertainment options and more—all by using the app.
- Find Disney Parks stories and videos—which can help you prep for your trip!
- Allows you to enter the theme parks using your mobile device as a bluetooth enabled park ticket, and even open your resort room door using the Disney MagicMobile Service.
- Place quick service dining mobile orders at participating restaurants.
- Browse menus and make dining reservations at table service restaurants.
- Navigate around the parks using detailed maps, with access to attraction wait times, show times, parades and park hours.
- View and order pictures taken by Disney PhotoPass photographers and on-ride photos.
- Join the Virtual Queue for some of Disney’s most popular attractions!
- Purchase the Lightning Lane Multi Pass or Single Pass service to reserve and verify your favorite attraction ride times!
- Live chat in-app with a Cast member from Guest Relations if you have any questions.
Disney MagicMobile service is a feature of the My Disney Experience app. This app feature offers quick and easy access to select theme park and Disney Resort hotel amenities through an eligible iPhone, Apple Watch or Android phone.
Use Disney MagicMobile to:
- Enter the theme parks (with valid admission)
- Link Disney Photopass images with your account
- Check in at attraction Virtual Queues or Lightning Lane entrances
- Charge food and merchandise payments to your credit card on file at your Disney resort
This service uses Bluetooth technology so you can simply hold your smart device next to the terminal to get it to work. If your device is positioned correctly—place your index finger on the reader and watch for the green light—a check mark and the word “Done” will appear on its screen.
Want to know how you can experience shorter wait times for your favorite attractions? Welcome to Disney’s Lightning Lane service! This is paid service where you can select some of your “must do” attractions and secure a ride time during your vacation. When your ride time rolls around, you can skip the Standby queue and enter the attraction through the special Lightning Lane entrance.
*Remember: only certain attractions have this Lightning Lane access, so be sure to check your My Disney Experience app for availability.
Lightning Lane Multi Pass
When you purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you may make up to 3 Lightning Lane selections in a theme park, in advance of your visit. You’ll also be able to choose available times as you make your selections.
On the day of your visit, once you use a selection, check the My Disney Experience app for availability to make an additional selection.
Lightning Lane Single Pass
Lightning Lane Single Pass will work much like it does today, where you can secure a time to ride one of the most highly demanded attractions, but you’ll now be able to make your purchase and plan in advance.
How to Plan Ahead
Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel and other select hotels will be able to plan Lightning Lane passes up to 7 days in advance, for their entire stay (up to 14 days). All other guests can plan up to 3 days in advance.
These advance purchase windows will let guests secure some of their must-do rides and experiences after they’ve had some time to decide what dining reservations they want to book and any other plans they may need to consider.
Guests may purchase a Lightning Lane Multi Pass, a Lightning Lane Single Pass or both. The app will also be updated to make it quicker and easier to purchase and plan, with fewer steps and a new option to purchase Lightning Lane Single Pass and Lightning Lane Multi Pass in one transaction.
Lightning Lane passes will blend features from our current services and the previously offered FastPass+ service, giving guests the choice to plan ahead and removing the hassle of planning during their vacation.
From time to time, a virtual queue—accessible via the My Disney Experience app—may be used for select attractions or experiences. Usually, the Virtual Queue is used for the newest, most popular attractions.
When a virtual queue is in place, you can request to enjoy that attraction or experience later in the day, so you can enjoy other experiences while you wait. When the virtual queue is in place, a standby queue will not be available, and Guests must use the My Disney Experience app to enter the attraction or experience.
- Log into the My Disney Experience app just prior to 7:00am on the morning of your visit to that park.
- Ensure everyone in your group is connected to your account through the Friends and Family list, and that they each have valid admission to that park for today.
- You can select everyone in your group to enroll in the Virtual Queue as soon as 7:00am hits.
- Your boarding group will be called for that attraction later in the day, when you can go back and enjoy the experience!
Boarding Groups for the Virtual Queue fill up in SECONDS. Waiting much longer after 7:00am means you may not get into the queue.
- Some attractions have an additional opportunity to join the virtual queue later in the day. If you missed the 7:00am opening, look at My Disney Experience for other times throughout the day when they may be accepting more Virtual Queue enrolments.
With more than 600 million pictures taken at Walt Disney World Resort every year, it seems as though guests to the Vacation Kingdom enjoy capturing the memory of their vacations as much as they enjoy experiencing them.
Disney Photopass Photographers are located throughout the parks, set up in the most popular scenic spaces, as well as character meet & greet locations, ready to take your special photos for you! In addition to these professional photographers, a lot of attractions throughout the park take pictures of you while you ride, making for some fun action shots!
When you wear your MagicBand to the park, your attraction photos will even be automatically linked to your account.
Afterwards, these photos are available for viewing through the My Disney Experience app. If you see one you’d like to download, you can purchase the Disney Photopass for that particular shot – OR purchase ALL the pictures from your vacation for one price with the Memory Maker package!
You also have the ability to purchase other personalized photo products, including mugs, cards and prints of these photos, all within the app.
Part of the benefit of staying at a Disney resort is that you are never too far from your hotel room. This is especially true of the resorts on Disney’s Monorail System (Contemporary, Polynesian and Grand Floridian). But even non-monorail resorts aren’t too far away on an air-conditioned Disney Transport Bus!
Staying “on property” allows for your vacation to have a more relaxed pace. The best way to accomplish this is to play your day out well, but still be flexible. Build a mid-day break into that schedule! Crowds start to build around noon and the hottest part of the day begins – so heading for your resort for a leisurely lunch, swim by the pool, bike ride or restful nap might just be what you need!
That way, you can head back to the parks when others are starting to leave after their full day. And we know – nighttime at the parks are beautiful!
Even during the most crowded times of the year, you can still have a fantastic time at Walt Disney World! Your expectations just need to be realistic, and planning is a must.
Figure out what rides/shows you must do, what rides/shows you’d like to do, and what you are fine with missing. Remember: Walt Disney World is a BIG place and chances are you won’t be able to see & do it all. But if you have a plan, you should be able to accomplish most of what you want to do and avoid long waits.
Here are our best tips for making the most of the busy theme parks:
- Start your mornings early! By “rope-dropping” the park and arriving as soon as it opens, your wait time at the most popular attractions will be reduced.
- Remember to get into the Virtual Queues for any attractions that have one. The queues open at 7:00am so don’t forget to set your alarm early!
- Take advantage of the Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass options. If you don’t mind spending the extra money, this is a great way to guarantee you’ll experience your top priority attractions.
- Keep checking the wait times on the My Disney Experience app. This is the easiest way to get up-to-date wait times for your favorite rides and shows.
- Try to eat at the restaurants during atypical dining times. Obviously quick service restaurants will be most crowded around lunch and dinner, so opt for mid-day or later meals in the parks. And take advantage of Mobile Order if available!
- Experience the fireworks and parades from elsewhere in the parks! You don’t need to brave the crowds on Main Street USA to enjoy these spectacular shows! Try watching from Liberty Square or Frontierland!
- At the end of the day when the parks are closing, take your time. Everyone will be running for the buses, boats or monorails. Don’t get caught in the crowds! Enjoy the quiet of each land as it empties out – this is a great time for evening photography! Part of the fun of Disney World is relaxing and enjoying your surroundings.
Tired of the crowds, but don’t want to leave the parks? There are some places in each park that are traditionally less crowded, calmer and cooler.
Magic Kingdom:
- Walt Disney World Railroad
- Walt Disney’s Enchanted Tiki Room
- Tom Sawyer Island
- Country Bear Jamboree
- Hall of Presidents
- Liberty Square Riverboat
- Tomorrowland Transit Authority
- Carousel of Progress
EPCOT:
- Spaceship Earth
- The Seas with Nemo & Friends
- Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival
- Gran Fiesta Tour
- Reflections of China
- American Adventure
- Impressions de France
- Canada Far & Wide
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- Beauty & The Beast Live on Stage
- One Man’s Dream
- Disney Junior Dance Party
- Star Wars Launch Bay
- For The First Time in Forever: A Frozen Singalong
- Vacation Fun: An Animated Short with Mickey & Minnie
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Wildlife Express Train
- Conservation Station & The Affection Section
- Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond
- Gorilla Falls Exploration Trail
- Maharajah Jungle Trek
- Feathered Friends in Flight
If it all gets to be too much at the parks, find a nice shaded park bench, plunk yourself down and people watch! Grab an ice cream or cold beverage. Take in your surroundings and take a few deep breaths. Relax – you’re in Walt Disney World!
Making dining reservations for any table service restaurants on Disney property is highly recommended. Dining books up quickly, especially for character meals and buffets.
Very few restaurants have walk-up availability, so we recommend checking the My Disney Experience app for available dining times if you’re looking for something last minute.
Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR’s) can be made in advance of your trip to Walt Disney World. We strongly encourage you to book any reservations in advance, as restaurants do fill up quickly.
Guests staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel:
- These guests can make reservations for their length of stay up to 60 days in advance of their arrival.
- The reservation system opens at 6:00am Eastern Time.
- Book your dining reservations through the My Disney Experience app or on the Walt Disney World website.
Guests NOT staying at a Walt Disney World resort:
- These guests can make reservations 60 days in advance.
- The reservation system opens at 6:00am Eastern Time.
- Book your dining reservations through the My Disney Experience app or on the Walt Disney World website.
Know before you go:
- To dine at an in-park table-service restaurant, you need a confirmed dining reservation for the total number of Guests, regardless of age and each guest will need valid park admission for that day.
- Planning to dine at a table-service restaurant in a Disney Resort hotel? A confirmed dining reservation is required for day Guests (those not staying overnight) and is highly recommended for Guests staying overnight at a Disney Resort hotel.
- Please be aware that if you cancel a restaurant reservation, your previously scheduled reservation time will immediately be made available to another Guest. You may also be charged a cancellation fee if you cancel within 24 hours of your reservation.
Character dining is a fun, family-friendly way of meeting your favorite friends, take photos and get autographs! These meals are typically served 3 ways: buffet style, family style, and pre-plated meals.
It is highly recommended you make advanced dining reservations for these restaurants, as they book up quickly! Currently, you can dine with your favorite characters at these select restaurants.
- Akershus Banquet Hall: Norway Pavilion, Epcot – Meet your favorite princesses in a medieval castle, and dine on Norwegian inspired fare. $$$$
- Artist Point: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge – Savor a delicious dinner with appearances from Snow White & The Seven Dwarfs in this Storybook Dining experience. $$$$
- Cape May Cafe: Disney’s Beach Club Resort – Enjoy a meal with Minnie Mouse and her friends with a breakfast buffet, or seafood dinner buffet. $$$
- Chef Mickey’s: Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Chef Mickey and his pals will stop by your table and say hello as you enjoy typical American fare. $$$$
- Cinderella’s Royal Table: Fantasyland, Magic Kingdom – Cinderella makes your acquaintance in the majestic Grand Hall as you dine on chef’s specials inside her castle. $$$$
- The Crystal Palace: Main Street USA, Magic Kingdom – Winnie The Pooh and his friends from the Hundred Acre Wood join you at this American-style buffet. $$$$
- Garden Grill: Land Pavilion, Epcot – Chip, Dale and their farming friends welcome you to enjoy their harvest feast overlooking the Living With The Land attraction. $$$$
- Hollywood & Vine: Echo Lake, Disney’s Hollywood Studios – Celebrate breakfast with Disney Junior Stars or enjoy lunch and dinner with Minnie and friends at seasonal dining parties. $$$$
- ‘Ohana: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – Start your day with a bountiful breakfast or sit down to a Polynesian-themed dinner—both served family-style – with Lilo, Stitch & friends. $$$$
- Topolino’s Terrace: Disney’s Riviera Resort – Enjoy a scrumptious character breakfast with Mickey and friends. $$$
- Tusker House Restaurant: Africa, Disney’s Animal Kingdom – Graze on a bountiful buffet brimming with African-inspired flavors and see host Donald Duck and his friends. $$$$
One of the best ways to see Disney characters is to make a reservation for a character meal at Walt Disney World. Character dining meals are very popular, so book your reservations early! Generally at a character meal, your favourite Disney pals will stop by each table to greet you, take photos and sign autographs.
But in the theme parks, you may see even more of characters! They may be dancing in a parade, they may be taking photos with guests in a quiet corner of the park, or they may be visiting with guests in permanent meet & greet locations. Here’s a list of the current permanent meet & greet locations in each park:
Magic Kingdom:
- Mickey Mouse at Town Square Theatre in Main Street USA
- Ariel at her Grotto in Fantasyland
- Aladdin & Friends in Adventureland
- Cinderella & visiting Princess friends at Fairytale Princess Hall in Fantasyland
- Princess Tiana & visiting Princess friends at Fairytale Princess Hall in Fantasyland
- Donald, Daisy & Pals at Pete’s Silly Sideshow in Storybook Circus, Fantasyland
- Mirabel at Fairytale Gardens near Cinderella Castle
- Winnie The Pooh & Tigger at The Thotful Spot in Fantasyland
EPCOT:
- Various Disney characters near the main entrance of EPCOT
- Winnie The Pooh or Alice in the United Kingdom Pavilion
- Anna & Elsa at Royal Sommerhus in the Norway Pavilion
- Asha is near World Showcase Plaza
- Belle and Princess Aurora are in the France Pavilion
- Donald Duck is outside the Mexico Pavilion
- Mickey & Minnie are at the Disney and Pixar Short Film Festival in World Nature
- Figment and Joy are inside Imageworks at the end of Journey Into Imagination attraction
- Meet Mulan in the China Pavilion
- Princess Jasmine can be found in the Morocco Pavilion
- Snow White is in the Germany Pavilion
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- Meet Darth Vader, Chewbacca, BB-8 at the Star Wars Launch Bay
- Woody, Buzz & Jesse are in Toy Story Land
- Various Pixar pals, including The Incredibles, are in the Pixar Plaza
- Meet Olaf at Celebrity Spotlight
- Find Edna Mode at the Edna Mode Experience
- Various Disney stars can be found at Red Carpet Dreams
- Disney Junior Pals are in the Animation Courtyard
- Ariel, from the live action Little Mermaid, is in Walt Disney Presents
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Meet favourite Disney Pals at the Adventurers Outpost
- Moana is at the Character Landing
- Donald Duck is out and about during Donald’s Dino Bash! in Dinoland USA
This is actually a question many people have when visiting Walt Disney World!
Face Characters (those who don’t wear a mask, but show their actual face):
Princesses:
- Rapunzel, Cinderella, Aurora, Belle, Ariel, Snow White & Jasmine: 5’3″ – 5’7″
- Mulan: 5’2″ – 5’6″
- Tiana: 5’5″ – 5’8″
Princes:
- Prince Charming, Eric, Aladdin, Naveen, Snow White’s Prince, Flynn Rider, and Beast (in human form): 5’10” – 6’0″
Fairies:
- Tinkerbell: 4’10” – 5’2″
- Iridessa, Rosetta, Silvermist, Fawn, Vidia & Periwinkle: 5’2″ – 5’5″
- Fairy Godmother: 5’4″ – 5’6″
- Terrence: 5’4″ – 5’7″
Villains:
- Wicked Stepmother, Stepsisters, Maleficent: 5’6″ – 5’10”
- Dr. Facilier: 6’0″ – 6’6″
- Gaston: 5’11” – 6’3″
Other Face Characters:
- Mary Poppins: 5’5″ – 5’8″
- Alice & Wendy: 5’2″ – 5’4″
- Peter Pan: 4’10” – 5’2″
- Mad Hatter: 5’4″ – 5’6″
- Jack Sparrow, Bert: 5’8″ – 6’1″
Fur/Masked Characters:
- Mickey & Minnie Mouse: 4’8″ – 5’2″
- Daisy & Donald Duck: 4’6″ – 4’10”
- Pluto: 5’6″ – 5’8″
- Goofy: 6’0″ – 6’3″
- Chip & Dale: 5’2″ – 5’4″
- Huey, Dewey & Louie: 4’0″ – 4’6″
- Lilo & Stitch: 4’9″ – 4’11”
- Dopey: 4’8″ – 4’10”
- Piglet: 4’10” – 5’0″
- White Rabbit, Pooh: 5’0″ – 5’2″
- Suzy, Perla, Jessie & Bullseye: 5’2″ – 5’4″
- Rafiki, Flik, Buzz Lightyear: 5’6″ – 5’8″
- Eeyore: 5’7″ – 5’9″
- Tigger: 5’10” – 6’0″
- Green Army Men: 5’11” – 6’0″
- Captain Hook, Genie: 6’0″ – 6’2″
- Beast, Woody, Jafar: 6’2″ – 6’4″
Buffets and All You Can Eat family style restaurants are some of the most popular at Walt Disney World! Below is a list of these hearty restaurants:
Magic Kingdom:
- Cinderella’s Royal Table: Fantasyland – Dine inside Cinderella Castle during this one-of-a-kind Fairytale Dining experience. $$$$
- The Crystal Palace: Main Street USA – Dine in Victorian splendor with Winnie the Pooh and friends at a whimsical all-you-care-to-enjoy buffet breakfast, lunch or dinner. $$$$
- The Diamond Horseshoe: Frontierland – Mosey inside this Old West music hall to feast on an all-you-care-to-enjoy holiday inspired lunch or dinner your whole family will love! $$$
- Liberty Tree Tavern: Liberty Square – Pay tribute to our founding fathers as you dine at this stately colonial-style inn serving traditional New England-inspired family style lunch & dinner. $$$
EPCOT:
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: Norway Pavilion – Serving family style Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner with some of your favorite Disney Princesses! $$$$
- Biergarten Restaurant: Germany Pavilion – Celebrate Oktoberfest all year long with authentic German cuisine and lively entertainment at this buffet. Lunch & Dinner only. $$$
- Garden Grill Restaurant: The Land – See Chip ‘n’ Dale and their Disney pals as you dig into family-style dining and revolve around vibrant views from Living with the Land. $$$$
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- Hollywood & Vine: Echo Lake – Celebrate breakfast with Disney Junior Stars or enjoy lunch and dinner with Minnie and friends at seasonal dining parties. $$$$
- Roundup Rodeo BBQ: Toy Story Land – Rustle up some tasty BBQ fare at this western-themed restaurant where you’ll see the world through the eyes of Andy’s toys at lunch & dinner. $$$
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Tusker House Restaurant: Africa – Graze on a bountiful buffet at breakfast, lunch and dinner, brimming with African-inspired flavors with Donald Duck and his Disney friends. $$$$
Disney Resort Hotels:
- Boma – Flavors of Africa: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Resembling a lively African marketplace, this restaurant features all-you-care-to-enjoy buffets at breakfast and dinner. $$$
- Cape May Cafe: Disney’s Beach Club Resort – Stop by this New England-inspired venue for buffet meals––including a bountiful Character breakfast or surf-and-turf dinner. $$$
- Chef Mickey’s: Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Prepare for a Character-filled, all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast or dinner buffet with Mickey & Friends! $$$$
- ‘Ohana: Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – Start your day with a bountiful breakfast or sit down to a Polynesian-themed dinner—both served family-style with Lilo & Stitch. $$$$
- Sebastian’s Bistro: Caribbean Beach Resort – Transport your taste buds to “island time” with delightful family-style dinner infused with rich Latin and Caribbean flavors. $$
- Storybook Dining at Artist Point: Wilderness Lodge – Savor a delicious family-style dinner that everyone will love—with appearances from Snow White and friends. $$$$
- Topolino’s Terrace: Disney’s Riviera Resort – Savor exquisite French and Italian cuisine at dinner—or begin your day with a scrumptious character breakfast. $$$
Fine dining is always extra special at Walt Disney World. Remember, dress codes may be in effect at these signature dining locations on Disney property.
EPCOT:
- Le Cellier: Canada Pavilion – Descend into the cozy cellar of a Canadian château for exquisite steaks and seafood specialties. $$$
- Monsieur Paul: France Pavilion – Make it an evening to remember at Monsieur Paul, a gourmet restaurant serving classic French cuisine. $$$
- Takumi-Tei: Japan Pavilion – Immerse yourself in a truly creative dining experience in a sublime setting at Takumi-Tei—Japanese for “house of the artisan.” $$$$
Disney’s Hollywood Studios:
- The Hollywood Brown Derby: Hollywood Boulevard – Step into the Golden Age of Hollywood at this warm, wood-paneled restaurant serving contemporary American cuisine. $$$
Disney’s Animal Kingdom:
- Tiffins Restaurant: Discovery Island – Set off on a culinary expedition of international cuisine at this restaurant inspired by exploration and adventure. $$$
Disney Resort Hotels:
- Amare: Walt Disney World Swan Reserve – Savor delectable Mediterranean cuisine, unique desserts and specialty cocktails at this inviting restaurant. $$$
- California Grill: Disney’s Contemporary Resort – Savor delectable, market-inspired cuisine as you take in the sights of Seven Seas Lagoon and Magic Kingdom park. $$$$
- Chef’s Table at Victoria & Albert’s: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Join our world-class culinary team in the kitchen as they personally prepare your one-of-a-kind feast—one mouthwatering course at a time. $$$$
- The Dining Room at Victoria & Albert’s: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – An epicurean odyssey awaits. Come experience the ultimate in fine dining—with just one seating each evening. $$$$
- Queen Victoria’s Room at Victoria & Albert’s: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Savor a luxurious and intimate dining experience at the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s. $$$$
- Citrico’s: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Dine underneath the lovely London sky in this newly re-imagined restaurant inspired by Mary Poppins Returns. $$$
- Flying Fish: Disney’s Boardwalk – Feast on premium sustainable seafood and oak-grilled steaks at this contemporary American restaurant. $$$
- Il Mulino: Walt Disney World Swan – Delight in traditional Italian cooking in this lively trattoria at Walt Disney World Swan Hotel. $$$
- Jiko: The Cooking Place: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Vibrant spices, crackling wood-burning ovens and boutique South African wines transport you to the heart of Africa. $$$
- Narcoossee’s: Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Slip away to this waterfront setting for coastal cuisine with spectacular panoramic views.
- Shula’s Steak House: Walt Disney World Dolphin – Sizzling steaks and seafood impress at this award-winning restaurant honoring the only undefeated team in NFL history. $$$
- Todd English’s bluezoo: Walt Disney World Dolphin – Delight in international coastal cuisine at this award-winning restaurant. $$$
- Topolino’s Terrace – Flavors of the Riviera: Disney’s Riviera Resort – Savor exquisite French and Italian cuisine at dinner—or begin your day with a scrumptious Character breakfast. $$$
- Yachtsman Steakhouse: Disney’s Yacht Club – Savor premium steaks, fresh seafood and more at this New England-style steakhouse. $$$
Disney Springs:
- Jaleo by José Andrés: West Side – Savor authentic Spanish tapas, paella and sangria in an inviting, vibrant atmosphere. $$
- The BOATHOUSE®: The Landing – Set sail for upscale waterfront dining—including retro dream boats, vintage amphicars and a romantic water taxi. $$$
- Morimoto Asia: The Landing – Experience the finest in Pan-Asian cuisine as Chef Morimoto of Iron Chef America unveils his most exciting restaurant yet. $$$
- Paddlefish: The Landing – Turn lunch or dinner into a unique occasion! Board an iconic steamboat anchored on Lake Buena Vista to feast on sensational seafood and savory steaks. $$$
- STK: The Landing – Escape the ordinary when you dine at this ultra-modern steakhouse offering incredible cuisine and an upbeat vibe. $$$
Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue: Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
- Get ready to clap, move your feet, sing along or just have a good time at rustic Pioneer Hall in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. In between skits and song standards, chow down on all-you-care-to-enjoy fried chicken and smoked BBQ pork ribs, as well as a tossed green salad, cowboy beans, fresh-baked cornbread, macaroni-and-cheese and creamy coleslaw. And be sure to save room for the grand finale… strawberry shortcake!
Fantasmic! Dining Package: Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Do you prefer the casual ambiance of Mama Melrose’s Ristorante Italiano, the bustling lunch scene at Hollywood & Vine or the fine dining vibe of The Hollywood Brown Derby? Whichever you choose, you’ll be sure to savor a mouthwatering meal, followed by a guaranteed seating area for Fantasmic! with its imagination-bending symphony of lights, lasers, fireworks, music & water animation!
Fireworks Dining Packages: EPCOT
- Choose from dining at the Rose and Crown in United Kingdom, or Spice Road Table in Morocco on a lakefront patio with prime seating for EPCOT’s fireworks spectacular: Luminous – The Symphony of Us!
Fireworks Dessert Parties: Magic Kingdom
- Indulge in delectable desserts at the Tomorrowland Terrace, then behold the Happily Ever After fireworks extravaganza from a prime viewing area in the Plaza Garden.
Festival Dining Packages: EPCOT
- During the EPCOT Flower and Garden Festival, enjoy a leisurely meal at a beloved EPCOT restaurant and have peace of mind knowing that you also have guaranteed seats at one of the Garden Rocks performances that day.
- During the EPCOT International Festival of the Arts, savor a delicious meal and secure a guaranteed seat to a DISNEY ON BROADWAY concert.
- During the EPCOT International Food and Wine Festival, treat your senses to a delicious meal—as well as a guaranteed seat to an Eat to the Beat concert.
- During the holiday season, delight in a delicious feast and listen to the story of Christmas during the Candlelight Processional, narrated by some of your favorite stars!
Dining plans can add the convenience and flexibility of prepaid meals and snacks to your vacation—and give you peace of mind.
Delicious Options
Choose from either the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan as part of a Walt Disney Travel Company Package. Both plans provide everyone in the party (ages 3 and over) a specific number of meals and snacks based on the number of nights of your Disney Resort stay. Just pick the plan that works best with your vacation style and dining needs!
Disney Quick Service Dining Plan: Everyone in the party ages 3 and over receives the following:
- 2 Quick-Service Meals (per night of stay)*
- 1 Snack/Nonalcoholic Drink (per night of stay)*
- 1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug**
Disney Dining Plan: Everyone in the party ages 3 and over receives the following:
- 1 Quick-Service Meal (per night of stay)*
- 1 Table-Service Meal (per night of stay)*
- 1 Snack/Nonalcoholic Drink (per night of stay)*
- 1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug**
* Specific number of meals and snacks are determined by the number of nights included in the package stay. Meals and snacks can be redeemed at any time during your stay. Unused meals and snacks will roll over day to day and expire at midnight on day of checkout. Meals and snacks are nontransferable between party members.
** Resort-refillable mugs are eligible for refills from self-service beverage islands at any Disney Resort hotel Quick-Service location.
Important Information
- Beverages are included with each meal. Guests under 21 years of age may choose from a variety of nonalcoholic beverages. Guests 21 and older with valid identification may substitute for beer, wine and cocktails.
- Reservations at Table-Service restaurants are subject to availability and are highly recommended.
- Two table-service meals will be redeemed from the dining plan for each person dining at a Fine/Signature Dining experience, select Character Dining experience or a Dinner Show.
- Guests ages 3 to 9 must order from a children’s menu, where available.
- Plan must be purchased for the entire length of stay and for the entire party (ages 3 and up).
Dine and Snack at Your Own Pace
Remember, meals and snacks can be redeemed at any time during your stay.
For example, if you book a 4-night package with a Disney Dining Plan, each Guest (ages 3 and up) in your party would receive 4 Table-Service meals, 4 Quick-Service meals and 4 snacks or nonalcoholic beverages—which can be used at any time during your 4-night stay.
For those with dietary challenges such food allergies, intolerances, diabetes, etc., the BEST thing you can do to help yourself enjoy your dining experience in Walt Disney World is to make dining reservations before you travel to the happiest place on earth.
The day of your meal, arrive prior to your reservation and again let the person at the podium know about your restrictions. Also make sure to inform your server of your situation. This may all seem like a bit much, but Walt Disney World Cast Members will go out of their way to make sure that you’re well taken care of. In many cases, the chef will even come to your table to discuss your needs and make a special plate just for you!
The Walt Disney World Resort has increased its awareness of food allergies, intolerances, and special dietary needs dramatically in the past several years. Disney offers a variety of vegetarian options at all its restaurants. Gluten Free and Dairy Free options are available at most food locations. “Allergy” friendly items like french fries and chicken nuggets are easy to find (they are fried in separate oil, not the peanut oil in use by most locations).
Most dining locations (Quick Service and Table Service) will offer a special “allergy” menu, with items designated as peanut free, dairy free, egg free, wheat free, soy free, etc. For these types of restrictions, it is not always necessary to call in advance or speak to a chef, since a special menu has been prepared.
You can order a kosher breakfast, lunch, or dinner at ANY Walt Disney World restaurant (either in the theme parks or at a resort) as long as you call more than 24 hours in advance.
Disney has long been known as a company committed to providing all of their guests an equal ability to enjoy their theme parks. The Disability Access Service pass allows those guests who, due to a disability, cannot wait in Disney’s traditional queues the opportunity to wait elsewhere and return to a ride at a designated later time. The DAS is NOT a “front of the line pass” nor should users expect “immediate boarding” when using a DAS. The DAS is simply a tool to assist guests with the process of waiting for attractions.
After you’ve registered for DAS, a Cast Member will assist you in booking up to 2 one-hour return windows per day for select experiences. They will inform you of the most up-to-date list of attractions offering this DAS Pass service.
How to register:
During the registration chat, you will be able to work with a Cast Member to book up to 2 one-hour return windows for select experiences using our new DAS Advance planning option (you may also make additional DAS selections on the day of your visit). When your one-hour window opens up at the park, you will enter the Lightning Lane queue and experience a much shorter wait time than if you were to wait in standby.
Please note that all park visits must be within 30 to 2 days of the live chat. Please visit here to register: Walt Disney World DAS Pass Registration
If you prefer, you can also register in person with a cast member at Guest Relations at the main entrance of whichever park you’d like to visit.
Wheelchair rentals at Walt Disney World are available on a first-come, first-serve basis. Rented wheelchairs cannot be taken from park to park. However, guests visiting more than one park on the same day can save their wheelchair deposit ticket from the first location they visit. This will allow them access to another wheelchair on the same day, if available, at another park without an additional fee.
Electric Convenience Vehicles (ECV “scooters”) can also be rented on a first-come, first-serve basis. Guests should arrive early, as a limited number are available and no reservations are accepted. Renters must be at least 18 years of age to rent an Electric Convenience Vehicle.
Rental locations are at the front entrance of each of the 4 Walt Disney World theme parks:
- Magic Kingdom: in the stroller shop at the main entrance to the park
- EPCOT: rentals & replacements are available at the main entrance and the International Gateway
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios: at the main entrance at Oscars Super Service gas station shop
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom: at Garden Gate Gifts inside the park’s entrance
- Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach: ask at Guest Relations near the water park entrances
A number of third-party wheelchair and ECV rental companies are available in the area around Walt Disney World. Many of these companies will deliver your wheelchair or ECV direct to your resort so you can use it throughout your entire vacation – not just while at the parks. Often, these rental companies are significantly less expensive then renting daily from Disney.
At Walt Disney World Resort, a service animal is a dog or miniature horse that is trained to do work or perform tasks for, and to assist, an individual with a disability.
Service animals must be under the control of the owner at all times and should remain on a leash or in a harness. Cast Members are not able to take control of service animals.
Due to the nature of some attractions, service animals may not be permitted to ride. At these locations, please ask a Cast Member about available options, including Rider Switch with a member of your party or a portable kennel.
Service animals are not allowed in the water—including water features and fountains—or closer than 4 feet to the water on wet decks.
Service animals are welcome to use any open outdoor area for relief as long as the owner picks up after the animal and leaves the area clean. Designated relief areas are included inside the theme parks, Resort hotels and other Guest areas and are indicated on all maps.
The following 4 Disney Resort hotels have designated dog-friendly accommodations:
- Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
- Disney Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- The Cabins at Fort Wilderness Resort
Rooms at these hotels offer access to designated outdoor walkways for exercise and to green spaces with pet relief areas. Upon arrival, dogs and their owners will be greeted with a Pluto’s Welcome Kit.
At this time, dogs are the only pets allowed, with a maximum of 2 permitted per Guest room. Dogs must be well-behaved, leashed in public areas and properly vaccinated. There is generally an additional charge for each dog staying at your resort.
While certain floors or sections of these Disney Resort hotels are designated as dog-friendly, pets are not allowed in the majority of areas at the hotels. Other than service animals, dogs are not permitted in theme parks, water parks or common areas such as restaurants, pools and recreational spaces.
Best Friends Pet Hotel:
Alternatively, you can give your dog or cat their own holiday getaway!
Best Friends Pet Hotel is located near Port Orleans Riverside resort, and includes:
- 17,000 square feet of air-conditioned indoor space
- 10,000 square feet of covered outdoor runs and play areas
- A 25,000 square-foot dog park
The staff is comprised of highly trained pet care providers, who are all animal lovers, first and foremost.
From the casual sleepover to a week-long retreat, luxurious accommodations are available to provide your pet with privacy and comfort. While the Best Friends Pet Hotel facility can accommodate up to 300 dogs, cats and small pets, reservations are suggested.
Bookings can be made on the Best Friends website.
The most magical holiday tradition comes to the Magic Kingdom each year around the Christmas holidays! Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a separate, special event ticketed event that happens on select nights at the Magic Kingdom.
When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom park lights up with excitement for all ages. Joyful music fills the air. Disney Characters don their merriest attire and enchanting entertainment can be found around almost every turn!
Throughout the evening, you can:
- Behold fantastically festive entertainment, like Minnie’s Wonderful Christmastime Fireworks show!
- Gather to watch Disney Characters give a yuletide nod to the season during Mickey’s Once Upon a Christmastime Parade.
- Get the perfect picture with some Disney pals dressed in their Christmas best!
- Savor sweet moments as you enjoy cookies and cocoa—available in select locations at no additional charge.
- Walk in a winter wonderland as you witness a stunning “snowfall” on Main Street, U.S.A.!
- Take in the elaborate decorations that bring the spirit of the season to life!
And so much more!
Because the park is only open to ticket holders of this special event, you will be able to ride your favorite attractions often with less wait times.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Your special event ticket allows you entry into the park as early as 4:00pm, with the party beginning at 7:00pm until close.
The “not-so-scary” spooks come to the most magical place on earth every year for Halloween! Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a separate, special event ticketed event that happens on select nights at the Magic Kingdom.
This is a wonderful way to celebrate the spooky season with children of all ages!
Throughout the evening, you can:
- Watch the skies come alive with Disney’s Not So Scary Spectacular featuring lasers, fireworks and more!
- Gather to watch Disney Characters dressed in their finest during Mickey’s Boo To You Halloween Parade!
- Get the perfect picture with some Disney pals dressed in their spookiest costumes!
- Trick or Treat around the park and get your fill of sweets at no additional charge as you collect from cast members in every land!
- Come dressed in your own costumes for the party – provided you don’t wear full face masks or carry weapon-style accessories, as per party rules.
- Take in the elaborate decorations that bring the spirits to life!
And so much more!
Because the park is only open to ticket holders of this special event, you will be able to ride your favorite attractions often with less wait times.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: Your special event ticket allows you entry into the park as early as 4:00pm, with the party beginning at 7:00pm until close.
EPCOT has 4 festivals that take place throughout the course of the year. Each one offers unique food & entertainment offerings, and they’re included with your admission to EPCOT!
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE ARTS:
- Typically takes place in January and February
- 20+ specialty food booths around the park offering unique creations from international kitchens
- Animation Academy: learn how to draw your favorite Disney characters
- Visiting artists you can meet, and view/purchase their works on display throughout World Showcase
- A huge paint-by-number mural that guests can participate in painting
- Unique photo opportunities
- Festival exclusive merchandise
- Disney On Broadway concert series on select nights in the America Gardens Theater (*Learn about the festival dining packages to get preferred seating at the concerts!)
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FLOWER & GARDEN FESTIVAL:
- Typically takes place from March to early July
- 20+ specialty food booths around the park offering unique creations from international kitchens
- Stunning landscaping and topiaries throughout the park
- Several small booths with tips on gardening & sustainable living
- Unique photo opportunities
- Festival exclusive merchandise
- Garden Rocks concert series on select nights in the America Gardens Theater featuring many celebrity music acts (*Learn about the festival dining packages to get preferred seating at the concerts!)
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FOOD & WINE FESTIVAL:
- The largest of EPCOT’s festivals, typically taking place from late July to mid November
- 30+ specialty food booths around the park offering unique creations from international kitchens
- A variety of food related topiaries can be found around the park
- Unique photo opportunities
- Festival exclusive merchandise
- Eat To The Beat concert series on select nights in the America Gardens Theater featuring many celebrity music acts (*Learn about the festival dining packages to get preferred seating at the concerts!)
EPCOT INTERNATIONAL FESTIVAL OF THE HOLIDAYS:
- Typically takes place from late November to late December
- About 15 specialty food booths around the park offering unique creations from international kitchens
- Celebrates various holidays, including Christmas around World Showcase Lagoon
- Storytellers in select country pavilions: Father Christmas in the UK, Pere Noel in France, etc.
- Various attractions have subtle holiday overlay decorations
- Photos with Santa in the Odyssey Center
- Unique photo opportunities
- Festival exclusive merchandise
- Experience the joy of Christmas and Kwanzaa in the uplifting Gospel, R&B and holiday songs of the JOYFUL! ensemble
- The Candlelight Processional is the telling of the Christmas story by a celebrity narrator & choir on select nights at the America Gardens Theater (*Learn about the festival dining packages to get preferred seating at the concerts!)
Disney Jollywood Nights are special ticketed holiday party nights at Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme park. Enjoy favorite attractions with lower wait times during this limited-capacity event. Plus, meet some beloved characters for spirited season’s greetings.
Delight in yuletide entertainment, including live bands, an all-new stage show and the Jingle Bell, Jingle BAM! nighttime spectacular. Pose for fun photo ops and get downloads of your Disney PhotoPass digital photos and videos from the event, included with your ticket.
Throughout the year, Walt Disney World hosts a number of special runDisney events – where you get to run throughout the Disney Parks in various-length races! Earn your medals in this incredible events full of music, costumes, a trade show and more!
To find out more about pricing and dates of these annual races, visit www.rundisney.com.
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend: early January
- Full marathon, half marathon, 10K and 5K races
- Goofy’s Race and a Half Challenge (complete both the half and full marathon)
- Dopey Challenge (complete all 4 races in one weekend)
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend: mid February
- Princess-themed half marathon, 10K and 5K races
- Disney Princess Fairytale Challenge (complete both the half marathon & 10K)
- Early morning Princess Yoga at Cinderella Castle
Springtime Surprise Weekend: mid April
- 5K, 10K and 10-miler race
- Stitch’s ‘Ohana Challenge (complete all 3 races in one weekend)
- Springtime Splash event at Typhoon Lagoon
Disney Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend: mid November
- A half marathon, 10K and 5K races that coincide with the EPCOT Food & Wine Festival
- Disney Two Course Challenge (complete both the half marathon and 10K)
Virtual Races:
In addition to these exciting races within the Walt Disney World parks, you can also take part at home with Disney’s Virtual Races! Dates and medals for these virtual races are listed on the runDisney website.
There are 4 types of Annual Passes at Walt Disney World:
Disney Pixie Dust Pass:
- Available to Florida Residents only
- Unlimited entry to the 4 theme parks on most weekdays
- Blockout dates apply, including during peak and holiday seasons
- Free standard theme park parking is included
- Discounts on dining and merchandise
- Special Annual Passholder merchandise purchase opportunities
Disney Pirate Pass:
- Available to Florida Residents only
- Unlimited entry to the 4 theme parks on any day of the week
- Blockout dates apply, including during peak and holiday seasons
- Free standard theme park parking is included
- Discounts on dining and merchandise
- Special Annual Passholder merchandise purchase opportunities
Disney Sorcerer Pass:
- Available to Florida Residents and eligible Disney Vacation Club Members only
- Unlimited entry to the 4 theme parks on any day of the week
- Blockout dates apply, including select dates during select holiday seasons
- Free standard theme park parking is included
- Discounts on dining and merchandise
- Special Annual Passholder merchandise purchase opportunities
Disney Incredi-Pass:
- Available to all guests
- Unlimited entry to the 4 theme parks on any day of the week
- No blockout dates apply
- Free standard theme park parking is included
- Discounts on dining and merchandise
- Special Annual Passholder merchandise purchase opportunities
You can also purchase add-ons to your Annual Pass:
- Disney PhotoPass Downloads – get all photopass photos available for download
- Water Park and Sports Option – enjoy unlimited entry into both water parks, select golf courses, minigolfing, and the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex
Each of the 4 Theme Parks have Electric Vehicle Charging Stations available on a first-come, first-served basis. There aren’t many, however. At our last check, there are less than ten available at each park so you’ll need to check with a cast member for the location and availability.
There are also Charging Stations at Disney Springs, Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.
KNOW BEFORE YOU GO: You’ll need to download the ChargePoint App – as this will enable you to pay the fee for the charging while you park there.
Parking at the 4 main theme parks at Walt Disney World comes with a parking fee*, and is broken down into different categories:
- Standard Parking: Automobile
- Standard Parking: Motorcycle
- Standard Parking: Oversized Vehicle
- Preferred Parking
Preferred Parking gets you closer to the main entrance of each park, but is more expensive than the Standard Parking rates. Check with Walt Disney World for the latest parking rates.
*If you are an Annual Passholder or a guest at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, you do not need to pay for parking at the theme parks. Simply scan your room key card, Magic Band or Annual Pass at the parking gate and you don’t need to pay any fee.
Parking at Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks, as well as Disney Springs, is free of charge.
Currently, the only daily parade at Walt Disney World is the Festival of Fantasy parade at Magic Kingdom. Show times vary from day to day, but usually take place mid-afternoon.
The parade route begins in Frontierland, travels through Liberty Square and finishes down Main Street USA. Anywhere along this route is a great place to see all the floats and dancing characters!
On select nights during the special ticketed party events, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you will also be treated to extra special evening parades.
Most evenings you will be treated to fireworks spectaculars throughout the theme parks! Check the daily entertainment showtimes to make sure you don’t miss these shows:
Magic Kingdom: Happily Ever After
While the fireworks and the musical score can be experienced from anywhere within the park, you won’t want to miss the stunning images on Cinderella Castle during this incredible show. Get a spot early on Main Street USA if you want to see these projections while also enjoying the fireworks!
EPCOT: Luminous The Symphony of Us
All around World Showcase Lagoon at EPCOT is a great place to see the lights, lasers, fireworks and colored fountains of this poignant fireworks show.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: Fantasmic!
Be there as the forces of good and evil battle it out in Mickey’s dream during this extravagant open-air nighttime musical. Featuring stunning effects, thrilling stunts, dazzling pyrotechnics and rousing music, this larger-than-life show is painted on a grand canvas of dancing water and light. Get a seat early in the theatre along Sunset Boulevard, as this show fills up quickly.
Pickleball is quickly becoming a popular sport! You can find tennis courts with pickleball lines painted on the courts at these resorts:
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village: 2 courts near the shuffleboard and basketball courts. Tennis and pickleball equipment at Community Hall.
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Villas: 2 courts adjacent to Community Hall. Tennis and pickleball equipment at Community Hall.
The Campsites and Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort: 2 courts at the Meadow Recreation Area. Tennis and pickleball equipment at the Bike Barn.
Disney’s Contemporary Resort: 1 court next to Bay Lake Tower. Tennis and pickleball equipment at Community Hall or Boat Nook Marina.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort: 2 courts near the main pool and 1 on Old Turtle Pond Road. Tennis and pickleball equipment at Conch Flats Community Hall or Hank’s Rent ‘N Return.
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: 2 courts in the sports courts area. Equipment at Community Hall or Horsing Around Rentals
Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts: 1 court near Admiral Pool. Tennis and pickleball equipment at the Disney Yacht Club Front Desk.
You may also wish to check out our Recreation section of INTERCOT, where you can find many other sports & recreational activities to enjoy around Walt Disney World.
