how to visit disney world for free

You Can Visit Disney World For FREE – Here’s How

in Walt Disney World

If you’ve ever visited  Walt Disney World Resort  in Orlando, Florida, there’s little doubt that you know why it’s called “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” But you’ve probably also concluded that it’s among the most expensive places on Earth — there’s a reason, after all, that t-shirts that say “Most Expensive Day Ever” and “Hakuna NoDolla” exist.

Related:  Guests Share How to Stay at Disney World For Under $150

However, with some legwork and elbow grease, it is actually possible for Guests to visit the Orlando, Florida theme park for free. As you continue reading, you’ll discover some ways you can save a fortune on your Disney World vacation.

Stay In an Offsite Hotel

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The first, and easiest, way to save money on your next Walt Disney World trip — thereby making it less difficult to cover the costs and go for free — is to book an offsite hotel. There are numerous hotels in the Disney World area that are not technically on the theme park’s property. These include the Drury Park Plaza Hotel Orlando , the multiple hotels at Flamingo Crossings — such as Homewood Suites and the Fairfield by Marriot — and the the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista Resort .

Recently, some Disney Parks fans took to Reddit to share their opinions regarding offsite hotel deals.

u/djkmart offered a positive review of the Wyndham, writing:

We’re currently staying at the Wyndham Lake Buena Vista resort. Booked it through Virgin. It’s next door to Disney Springs (literally, 2 minute walk). They have hourly buses to all the disney parks, and an uber to Universal will set you back about $20. We booked it because it classes as a Disney partner hotel, so we get the advantage of early access to the parks, but it’s not official Disney, so it came in at half the price of Disney hotels. Credit: Marriott

Meanwhile, u/goodasgoldGOLD endorsed the Flamingo Crossings area:

The hotels at Flamingo Crossing are about a year old and the prices are much better than on property. We stayed at the HomeWood Suites there last August and it was very nice! Only about a 10 minute drive to Disney depending on the park. Edited to add: We stayed 7 nights for $140/night in the 2 queen bed suite

Use Survey Sites

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One of the most popular ways to earn money towards a Walt Disney World Resort stay is to use online survey sites. Many of these websites, including survey and deal giant Swagbucks, offer apps as well so users can earn extra money on the go.

Depending on specific websites’ rules and regulations, there are various ways to use the money you earn to help pay for Disney. You can, for example, send the funds to your PayPal account, get Visa gift cards that can be used like cash, deposit money directly into your bank account, or obtain Disney gift cards.

Swagbucks, as previously noted, is among the most popular platforms for Guests who want to visit Disney World for free. The website even offers the following information on a page entitled “Ways to Help Pay For a Disney Vacation” :

Nothing will delight young children and create memories of a lifetime quite like a Disney vacation. Though, making them happen isn’t easy because Disney Vacations are not cheap. Luckily, Swagbucks is here to help! To help with savings, countless Disney fans also use Swagbucks to help them pay for their dream Disney vacations. Swagbucks is the most popular digital rewards program that has paid out over $325 million to its members. They offer free promotions to save while shopping online and as a way to earn money online.

Sign up for Swagbucks by clicking here.

SurveyJunkie

SurveyJunkie allows users to earn money for Disney in two ways — by taking traditional surveys and by participating in behavioral market research, such as in-home product testing. The website shares various pieces of information about the platform, including:

As a member, you may choose to participate in one or both of our communities. Our core Survey Junkie community offers opportunities to share your perspective via attitudinal based market research. Our SJ Pulse Community offers opportunities to engage in behavioral market research. Attitudinal research includes activities such as taking surveys or participating in focus groups. Behavioral research includes opting in to share digital browsing activity, which is collected in a privacy compliant way via SJ Pulse. Survey Junkie is an online market research community wholly owned by consumer insights platform DISQO, which delivers data and analytics to the market research industry.

Sign up for SurveyJunkie by clicking here.

Use Credit Card Points

Using credit card points is another great way to minimize your Disney World vacation costs. While there are many cards that offer cash back on purchases, some are better for Disney fans than others. Forbes offered a rundown of the best credit cards for Disney vacations, noting:

Disney vacations are notoriously expensive. While we can’t say “Bibbidi Bobbidi Boo” and make the costs disappear, with strategic credit cards rewards usage you can save on your visit to the house of mouse. Between sign-up bonuses and free hotel night benefits, your trip to the happiest place on earth doesn’t have to empty your wallet.

Chase Disney Premier Visa Card

Chase offers two Disney card options — the Chase Disney Visa Card and the Chase Disney Premier Visa Card . The Premier option includes numerous perks, outlined below, and has a $49 annual fee that the non-Premier card doesn’t have:

Special Vacation Financing 0% promo APR for 6 months on select Disney vacation packages from the date of purchase, after that a variable APR of 14.24% – 23.24% Disney Cruise Line Savings aboard Disney Cruise Line when using your card to pay for select onboard purchases. Disney Parks Shopping & Dining 10% off select merchandise purchases of $50 or more at select locations and 10% off select dining locations most days at the Disneyland® and Walt Disney World® Resorts. Disney Shopping Save 10% on select merchandise purchases at shopDisney.com . Disney Parks Photo Opportunities Pose for special photos at our private Cardmember locations at the Disneyland® Resort and Walt Disney World® Resort. Cardmember Limited-Time Offers Your Disney Visa Credit Card gets you access to limited-time offers in addition to year-round perks. Take advantage of savings, exclusive products and other special opportunities just for Cardmembers.

Apply for a Chase Disney Visa card by clicking here.

Capital One Venture Cards

The Capital One Venture Rewards line of credit cards is a great choice for anyone who loves to travel, including Disney theme park fans. There are multiple options — VentureOne Rewards, VentureOne Rewards for Good Credit, Venture Rewards, and the high-end Venture X Rewards.

Capital One describes their travel points cards as:

Your travel credit card miles can take you wherever you want to go. With Capital One’s travel rewards cards, you’ll earn unlimited miles on every purchase you make. You can use your travel rewards credit card to book any airline, anytime, anywhere with no seat restrictions or blackout dates. You can also redeem your travel rewards for car rentals, hotels, ride sharing apps, cruises and more. Miles don’t expire for the life of the account.

Apply for a Capital One card by clicking here.

These are just a few of the ways you can visit Walt Disney World Resort without paying a cent for your vacation. Even if you don’t pay for your entire trip with these money-saving techniques, you can cover souvenirs, hotel, or food with the extra money you earn!

Are you going to try to go to Disney World for free during your next trip?

Visit the official Walt Disney World Resort website to plan your next magical vacation to Walt Disney World Resort’s four theme parks — Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios — and the Disney Springs shopping and dining district!

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17 Totally Free Things To Do At Disney World

December 23, 2019 //  by  Sarah Etinas //   2 Comments

On the hunt for free things to do at Disney World? Here’s a list of some of the most amazing options! Take a drawing class at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. Perhaps get hands-on and creative at the LEGO Store at Disney Springs. Or maybe even get a glimpse of those famous Disney park firework shows! Which of these amazing free things to do at Disney World will you choose to experience first?

Let’s be real. Tickets to the Disney parks are expensive . Sometimes heading to the Disney parks – especially for multiple days – is just out of your budget. But that doesn’t mean you have to completely cut the Disney magic out of your trip! Here are 17 fantastic free things to do at Disney World!

17 Totally Free Things To Do At Disney World  

Go resort hopping.

With over 25 Disney Resort hotels that you can visit for free, one of the best things to do at Disney World if you’re on a budget is go resort hopping! While you can, of course, take the bus around the area, there are much more fun forms of transportation. You can ride the monorail for free between many of the hotels and even around Epcot! Or perhaps ride on one of the completely free boats, such as the ones around Epcot or in the Magic Kingdom Lagoon.

Most recently, the Disney Skyliner just opened its doors! This fun-filled gondola system takes guests between Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, and the Epcot and Hollywood Studios Parks.

Visit The Animals

You don’t have to visit the Animal Kingdom park to get a glimpse of some of the world’s coolest animals. Rather, you can choose a more affordable alternative, as you can visit many of these same animals, including giraffes and zebras, at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This completely free experience is always a kid favorite.

While quite a few people know about the free animal viewing at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, many forget about the horses that you can see at the Tri-Circle-D Ranch at the Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. While you can pay to take a carriage ride, ride the horses, or even take a sleigh ride during the holidays, you can also just sit and watch the majestic horses for free.

Disney is one of the stops on our Florida Road Trip Itinerary but if you don’t want to spend money, you totally do not have to! Enjoying the animals is such a fun free thing to do!

Make And Race Your Own LEGO Creations

One of the most popular free things to do at Disney World is make and race your own LEGO Creations. As one of the best Disney Springs stores , the LEGO store has proven to be a crowd favorite. At the store, there are a ton of hands-on activities to do with LEGOs, including creating your own LEGO car and then racing them against other people’s LEGO cars outside of the store! While this cheap experience is especially fun for kids, adult LEGO lovers often get in on the fun as well.

Personally, I think this is one of the more unique free things to do at Disney because it isn’t every day you get to go to a LEGO Store, let alone build and race cars for free. Even if you don’t want to race the cars, you will still have a great deal of fun walking through the store and window shopping! 

Enjoy the Electrical Water Pageant

Many people think you can only watch Disney’s famous nighttime shows from the parks. That’s simply not true! As a matter of fact, there’s the fifteen-minute-long Electrical Water Pageant on the Seven Seas Lagoon – filled with twinkling lights, amazing songs, and even a bright green sea monster – that can be seen from five different Disney resorts, as well as from the Magic Kingdom entrance. (But pro tip: the best viewing spots are at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa).

Get Leid At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Leis, the beautiful flower necklaces from Hawaiian culture, were originally used to signify peace between people. Now you too can receive a lei of peace at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. While the leis are automatically given to guests staying at the hotel, you can just ask a cast member in the lobby of the hotel for one, and they’ll give one to you too.

Take A Stroll Around Disney’s BoardWalk

Disney’s BoardWalk is one of my favorite free things to do at Disney World. While most people think of Disney Springs at the go-to free Disney area, Disney’s Boardwalk is underrated! Take in the views of Crescent Lake (it’s spectacular during sunset), do a little dancing at Atlantic Dance Hall, enjoy a stroll around the promenade, or just enjoy the sights and sounds of a traditional boardwalk.

The one downside of Disney’s BoardWalk is the fact that free parking is limited. If you ask the parking attendant, he or she will guide you to the free self-parking area if there are still spots available. If not, valet parking is an option. Or, if you’re coming from somewhere else on the Walt Disney World property, you can take you can choose fro the myriad of Disney transportation options.

See The Fireworks

You don’t have to stay inside of the Disney parks to watch their iconic firework shows. After all, those fireworks burst high up in the sky, so you can see them from pretty far away.

To catch a glimpse of the Magic Kingdom fireworks, there are a bunch of great spots to grab a sit. Lounge at one of the beaches at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Or perhaps take a seat by the Ticket and Transportation Center where you catch the boats. Or you can also see the fireworks while on the bridge between Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower.

As for Epcot’s fireworks, head to the BoardWalk! You could even make a night of it by combining these firework sightings with the many other cool free things to do at Disney’s BoardWalk.

Go Dancing At Atlantic Dance Hall

Have you ever wanted to go nightclubbing for free at Disney ? For those 21+, you can do exactly that at Atlantic Dance Hall! Located on Disney’s BoardWalk, this stylish nightclub plays the best tunes from the ‘80s, ‘90s, and today! And if you want to take a breather, just walk outside and take in the fresh air along the shores of Crescent Lake.

I’ve gone there a few times and if you have “bad luck” and go on a night without a lot of people, do not despair! It can be an extremely lively place to go so try your luck another night. I have been when there are a lot of people on the dance floor and also when I was one of the few, such as on a Disney Marathon Weekend! 

Sing At The Top Of Your Lungs At the Campfire Sing-A-Long

Every night at the campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, you can sing along to a bunch of your favorite songs while sitting around a nice warm campfire. You can even bring your own marshmallows to roast! (Don’t worry, if you forget, there is also a s’mores kit available for purchase at the Chuckwagon Snack Bar.) And, as an added bonus, Chip and Dale always stop by this fun free evening festivity.

Watch A Few Free Movies

Being the movie mogul that Disney is, it’s not a surprise that you can catch free screenings of Disney movies all over Disney World. Known as “Movies Under the Stars,” this exciting, yet affordable event happens at nearly all of the Walt Disney World Resort Hotels (including at the campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, right after the sing-a-long). So which iconic Disney movie will you choose to watch for free? The Lion King ? Tangled ? Toy Story ? Beauty & The Beast ? Honestly, there are just so many to choose from, you really can’t go wrong.

See The Butterflies

Disney is committed to helping preserve the butterfly population with a few butterfly gardens spread around Walt Disney World. While there is one seasonal butterfly garden displayed during the Epcot Flower and Garden Festival , the other two are available all year round – and they’re completely free! These two year-long butterfly gardens can be found at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground. These butterfly gardens attract more than 70 different butterfly species, including skippers, whites and sulfurs, and swallowtails!

To learn more, call Disney’s Gardening Hotline at (407) 938-3900.

Take A Tour

Many Disney World Resorts offer free tours of the property (which, who knows, could give you even more ideas of free things to do at Disney World!). For example, the Animal Kingdom Lodge has three free tours. The first is one that focuses on culture, as, on this fantastic tour, Disney’s cultural representatives explain how Disney incorporated many African cultures into the hotel. This hotel also has the Sanaa Cultural Tour and the Culinary Tour, both of which offer guests little tastes of the great meals offered at the Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge also offers a free, one-hour two. This tour focuses primarily on the art and architecture details of the hotel – including the popular replica of Old Faithful that erupts every single hour!

Enjoy Disney Springs

Disney Springs is the most popular free thing to do at Disney World. As a matter of fact, even parking is free! You can wander around the amazing stores, pose for cool photos with Instagram-worthy walls , and listen to some fantastic live music. To make sure that you get the most out of your time at Disney Springs, make sure you have the official Disney Springs map !

Free Ghirardelli Chocolate Samples!

As you’re walking around Disney Springs looking for the free things to do, there are a few things that you’ll likely end up doing. 1) Listening to the amazing live music, 2) playing with some LEGOs at the LEGO store, and 3) getting a free square of chocolate (or two) from Ghirardelli. It’s the easiest thing in the world to pop into Ghirardelli, get handed your free chocolate square, and walk out. Thirty second of your time, zero dollars of your money, and you somehow managed to get some free, delicious chocolate. It’s basically Disney magic at work.

Visit Disney’s Wilderness Preserve

One of the coolest free things to do at Disney World is actually located quite far from the rest of the other Disney World attractions. Located about 20 miles south from everything at Walt Disney World, Disney has partnered with the Nature Conservancy to preserve a 11,500-acre plot of land known as Disney’s Wilderness Preserve.

Within these 11,500 acres, there are over 1,000 plant and animal species. There is a 2.5-mile nature trail that is perfect for getting an inside look on how these plants and animals live and thrive in their natural habitats. Watch leopard frogs leaping and butterflies fluttering right in front of your eyes! Before you go, do know that sections of this nature trail can get quite muddy after a rainy day.

Go on a Scavenger Hunt

I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite things to do as a kid was go on scavenger hunts! And one of the most famous scavenger hunts in the world is the hidden Mickey scavenger hunt! As many Disney lovers know, there are hidden Mickey shapes scattered all around Disney locations. At Walt Disney World in particular, you can actually get a free “Hidden Mickey Hunt” guide from the front desk of Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

As an added bonus, this hidden Mickey scavenger hunt is an awesome activity for a rainy day, as, while many Disney activities are outdoors, most of the hidden Mickeys at Walt Disney World can actually be found indoors!

Learn To Draw For Free

If you head over to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort (you can take the brand new Skyliner to get there), you can take free animation and drawing classes. This is the perfect cheap, budget-activity to take part in, especially if you have a little artist on your hands. These fantastic 30-minute classes are offered every day from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. And the best part? You could be drawing any Disney character out there – from Mickey Mouse to Jack Skellington to Flynn Rider!

If you do want to take part in these drawing classes, try to get there early (classes start each half hour). Because each class can only accommodate about 50 people, they get full quite quickly! But, on the bright side, if the class does get full, you’ll only have to wait another 30 minutes until the next one!

That completes our list of free things to do at Disney World! Hopefully, it helps you in planning your trip to Disney! I am happy to answer any questions that you may have in the comments. I hope you have a fantastic time at Disney! 

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Reader Interactions

June 30, 2021 at 4:03 am

Are these things still available during the pandemic? Are the resorts limited to guests only now?

July 1, 2021 at 3:16 am

You will have to check on each thing! You are 100% able to visit resorts with a dining reservation, even if you are not staying at the resort. Some resorts do not require a dining reservation at all for you to check out!

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69 Amazing Free Things to Do at Disney for 2024 (even if you’re not a Guest)

Did you know that there are over 69 free things to do at Disney World?

It’s no secret that Disney has a lot to offer you. From a huge assortment of exciting rides for any age group to unconventional snacks and shows unique to Disney.

You are sure to find something you’ll enjoy at The Most Magical Place on Earth .

You may be wondering, what can you do for free at Disney?

From campfires and crafts, to animal viewings and Disney samples, you will find so many things to do on this extensive list of Walt Disney World freebies.

Plus, many of these attractions don’t require an admissions ticket to Disney. But, you don’t always have to spend money going to the theme parks to enjoy Disney World.

Let’s go through them ALL!!!

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

Free Things to Do at Disney Resorts

Let’s first start with the incredible hotels and resorts at Walt Disney World.

It’s important to note that after the pandemic, many resorts require a hotel stay reservation or a dining reservation to get past the parking attendant.

You can bypass this by parking at Disney Springs and taking a bus or boat (transportation options depend on where you’re going and coming from) to your desired location.

Also, you can use Disney transportation from any of the theme parks or other hotels that you may be enjoying at the time.

ORDER NOW to secure your Walt Disney World theme park ticket! GET MY TICKETS.

1. View Animals for Free

The animal viewing section at the Animal Kingdom Lodge is a very popular Disney freebie, as is the resort tour at the same hotel.

The fun part?

You don’t need a Disney ticket to visit Animal Kingdom for viewing the majestic creatures.

All you have to do is visit the Animal Kingdom Lodge and walk around the common areas of the resort.

The back portion of the lobby leads directly to a small safari with amazing wildlife to see.

This is a perfect way to start your solo Disney vacation!

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2. Do the Disney Resort Tours

You don’t need to stay at that particular resort to be able to enjoy the free tour. However, you may need a reservation to enjoy this Disney perk.

Always check with front desk to see if there will be any tours for that day.

Times do change frequently, but once you’re on the tour you’ll learn some amazing history and secrets about each Disney resort.

Some of the Disney Resorts that may require a reservation are:

• Fort Wilderness Lodge
• Animal Kingdom Lodge
• The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
• Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club

Though the resort tours are also technically free, you do need to be booked at one of the Disney Resorts to reserve a seat.

I’d recommend calling ahead to see if the resort tour you’re considering would like you to RSVP in advance.

3. Do a Monorail Bar Hop

This is a form of Disney transportation (public transport of the future) in which you can visit each Disney resort hotel on your bar crawl on the Magic Kingdom monorail loop.

And it’s absolutely free!

All you have to do is catch a bus ride from Disney Springs to one of the Magic Kingdom resorts of your choosing and start your adventure.

You can also book a dining experience at one of the resorts on the monorail loop to save you the time of having to wait for a bus at Disney Springs.

4. Tour the Disney Resort Christmas Decorations

Another one of my personal favorite resort freebies is to go resort hopping in search for all the Disney Christmas Decorations.

This can be done during the holiday season from November until early January .

It’s a fun activity that’s even better with a free sightseeing ride on the monorail around the Magic Kingdom resorts.

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5. Resort Hop at Disney World

You can resort hop throughout the year for free.

This is one of my favorite things to do with family who come into town and don’t want to spend money on theme park tickets.

The Walt Disney World Resort Hotels are attractions in themselves. They all have a unique theme and story to them.

Plus, the dining is usually superb at each resort.

You may also be able to participate in some of the activities that may be happening in the common areas of the hotels.

Activities such as catching Cinderella’s grand entrance at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa or doing the Disney Pin Trading.

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

6. Pool Hop if You’re a Disney Vacation Club Member (DVC)

If you stay at Disney World using your Membership for any Disney Vacation Club Resort or at Disney’s Vero Beach Resort, you and any of your Guests are allowed to pool hop with the following benefits:

• Select pools at Disney Vacation Club Resorts
• The pool(s) at the Disney Vacation Club Resort where you are staying
• Select pools at Walt Disney World Resort hotels

You can read the full guide to pool hopping at Walt Disney World as a DVC Guest.

UPDATE: During the phased reopening of Disney Resorts, pool hopping is currently suspended.

7. Watch Campfire and Movies

Once you’ve had your cowboy sing-along, you’ll be able to enjoy a classic Disney movie under the stars at the Campsites in Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.

You can also watch campfire movies for free at the following Disney World Resorts:

• Beach Club Resort
• Grand Floridian Resort
• Art of Animation
• Port Orleans-Riverside
• Contemporary Resort

This is just a list of a few of my favorite resorts to enjoy a campfire and a movie.

It’s important to know that many of the Disney Resorts offer “campfire” movies on the lawn depending on the weather and time of year.

So, be sure to always check the schedule on or before your visit.

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8. Watch a Geyser Explode

If you head to the back of Fort Wilderness Lodge, you’ll be able to see a geyser reminiscent of Old Faithful erupting every hour on the hour from around 7 a.m. until 10:00 p.m.

9. Explore the Woodsy Area Around Fort Wilderness Lodge

The classic charm of Florida wildlife can be seen around the Disney Resort. However, the resort hotel that displays this natural allure is Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

This Disney resort hotel features pathways that allow you to venture deep into the natural backwoods of Florida.

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10. Play with Butterflies

You can visit the Butterfly Garden located in the Contemporary Resort for free. This colorful garden is located on the backside of the lobby near the pool and lake.

You can always check with the Gardening Hotline at (407) 938-3900 if you want more information as things are constantly changing post pandemic.

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11. Free Art Classes

If you’re in the mood to create, you can take one of the free art classes offered at the Art of Animation Resort.

This class is limited to resort guests, but always check to see if you can register anyway.

UPDATE: During the phased reopening of Disney Resorts, the free art classes are currently suspended.

12. Visit Disney’s Boardwalk for Free

You can visit Disney’s Boardwalk for free at any time. The Boardwalk Resort allows you to park for free for a few hours so you can watch the various talented street performers solo or with your family.

You can also enjoy all of the delicious dining options and nightlife happening on the Boardwalk every day!

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13. Watch a Free Epcot Fireworks Show

For an exciting visual display, take in the fireworks at Epcot from the Boardwalk Resort area. The best viewing spot is on the bridge right by the bakery shop.

14. View the Magic Kingdom Fireworks for Free

You can watch the Disney Happily Ever After Fireworks Show for free at the Polynesian Resort.

The perfect spot is around the beach area where you’ll even hear the actual music from the show.

This is such a great Disney freebie!

Plus, the Disney Happily Ever After Fireworks spectacular is absolutely magical and my favorite fireworks show ever!!!

You can also get a great view for the fireworks from the:

• Ticket and Transportation Center
• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
• California Grill Restaurant at the Contemporary Resort (you’ll have to have dinner here for this freebie)

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15. Enjoy the Electric Water Pageant

You can watch this amazing show on the Seven Seas Lagoon at night. This free water parade features whimsical sea creatures sailing across the lagoon.

This nightly parade usually happens once around the time of the Disney Enchantment Fireworks Show. You can watch the show from any of the Magic Kingdom Resorts.

Best viewing locations for Electric Water Pageant:

• Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort – Begins at 9:00 p.m.
• Grand Floridian Resort & Spa (including Narcoossee’s ) – Begins at 9:15 PM p.m.
• Fort Wilderness Lodge – Begins at 9:30 p.m.
• Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground – Begins at 9:45 p.m.
• Contemporary Resort – Begins at 10:10 p.m.; in instances when the Happily Ever After fireworks show takes place at 10:00 p.m., the Electrical Water Pageant will begin shortly following its conclusion
• Right outside the entrance of Magic Kingdom park – Begins at 10:35 p.m., during Extended Theme Park Hours only

Please note that times do change based on the season, so always check Disney’s website for the current parade times.

16. Get Your Free Lei at Disney’s Polynesian Resort

When you arrive in the lobby of the Polynesian Resort , you can get a free lei placed upon your neck even if you’re not a hotel guest.

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17. Don’t Miss Cinderella Outside the Parks

There’s a free promenade of Cinderella (and sometimes the Prince), where they gather in the lobby of the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for a magical waltz.

This promenade takes place at around 3:30 p.m. each day (days and times subject to change).

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18. Pick Up a Free Balloon

You should always stop by the front desk of your Disney Resort to see if they have any balloons to hand out that day.

Balloons are a nice Disney freebie and a great way to spruce up your hotel room.

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Free Things to Do at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a must do stop on your solo vacation. While there you’ll be able to shop, dine, and enjoy some incredible entertainment.

19. Free Parking

You can park for free at Disney Springs. If you want to see the other resorts throughout Walt Disney World, you can use the buses for free and you can even do some theme park hopping.

20. Enjoy the Outdoor Play Area and Fountains

Disney Springs has a free outdoor play area with interactive fountains that are perfect for cooling off on those hot Florida days.

21. Play with LEGOs

The Lego Imagination Center is filled with thousands of LEGO blocks. It also has a free outdoor play area over 3,000 square feet.

Once a month, there’s a mini model build that usually falls on the first Tuesday. Children ages 6-14 can even take home a free mini model at the event!

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22. Taste Free Chocolate Samples at Ghirardelli in Disney Springs

In the Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop , a Cast Member near the entrance will be there with a basket handing out free squares of Ghirardelli chocolate.

The best part about this Disney Freebie is that the samples change for each season ! So, be sure to grab your free chocolate sample!

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23. Enjoy Welcome Center Amenities for Free

Inside the Welcome Center, you’ll be treated with free cold water, air conditioning, and some comfy chairs to take a break from all your shopping.

You can also get any additional Disney information you may need from Cast Members inside.

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24. Enjoy the Free Live Entertainment

Disney Springs has so many local bands for you to enjoy. You can find them in areas such as:

• Near the BOATHOUSE
• The Westside food truck courtyard area
• Area near Paddlefish
• Next to Ghirardelli Chocolate Shop
• By the Orange parking garage

Disney Springs entertainment usually starts around 7 p.m. during most evenings during the peak season.

The perks don’t stop there either.

In addition to the free things to do at Disney, there are a variety of souvenirs you can pick up before you exit the parks at no additional cost to you.

11 BEST Things to Do at Disney Springs for Adults

Free Souvenirs at Disney World (Things to Take Home)

Part of the magic at Disney are the mementos you can take with you to remember your day at the park(s).

25. Grab Free Epcot Crafts

If you’re the crafty type, you can enjoy the free crafts from around the Epcot World Showcase. It’s one of the best Epcot free souvenirs to grab on your trip.

26. Get a Passport from the Various Epcot Festivals

The festival passport is a pamphlet that allows you to personalize it with your name, country, date issued, and date of completion.

It also includes the locations of the topiaries , the outdoor kitchen offerings, merchandise options, and concert information.

Stickers are also included for you to mark off which kitchen or booth you’ve visited.

You can find this free Disney booklet during the Epcot Food & Wine Festival, the Epcot Flower & Garden Festival , and the Epcot International Festival of the Arts.

Read NEXT: What You Need to Know About Epcot’s Yearly Festivals

27. Get a Free Disney Stickers

Throughout Walt Disney World property you’ll find various Cast Members carrying around Disney-inspired stickers.

They love passing them out to the little ones, but don’t be afraid to ask for one for yourself.

They’re always at any of the Disney Vacation Club stands.

28. Grab a Celebration Button

If you are celebrating a special moment in your life like a birthday, anniversary, or first visit to Disney, then make sure you stop by Guest Services at any Disney Park and receive your very own celebration button.

29. Pirates Adventure Maps

At the Magic Kingdom you can join the swashbuckling voyage in an interactive game inside Adventureland.

During the game you’ll receive a free map that will help guide you on your journey to hunt for secret treasures! Both the map and the game are free!!!

Read: 21 Magnificent Things You Must Do at Magic Kingdom – The Ultimate Checklist

30. Watch Free Disney Vacation Videos

Before your trip, you’ll want to watch the free Disney vacation planning videos that give a full breakdown on what to expect at Walt Disney World.

A new one comes out each year and it’s a perfect way to get excited for your solo Disney trip!

Get Your FREE Epcot Video Planning Guide TODAY!

31. Free Sweet Treats in the Magic Kingdom

As you enter the majestic gates of the Magic Kingdom, be sure to stop at the Main Street Confectionary to get a free sample of cotton candy or ice cream.

Although the “tasting” is meant for you to actually buy something, you’ll be able to experience a variety of flavors instead of just having one.

32. Collect Disney Park Guide Maps

These are my favorite Disney freebies!

I have been collecting theme park maps since I was a child and love watching just how much they’ve change throughout the years.

They are great souvenirs to help you remember you amazing Walt Disney World vacation!

31 Amazing Hidden Magic Kingdom Secrets YOU MUST KNOW

33. Collect Free Wilderness Explorer Badges

You can collect the Wilderness Explorer Badges at Animal Kingdom like the ones Russell would get in the movie Up .

Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide

34. Get Your Free Wilderness Explorer Souvenir

Become a part of the explorer society with Russell and go on a scavenger hunt all around Animal Kingdom using your Wilderness Explorer booklet.

This is a free activity and a great souvenir to take home.

Rafiki’s Planet Watch: Animal Kingdom’s Best Kept Secret

Free Things at Disney World for Your Birthday

Now let’s get to all of those incredible things to receive on your birthday to make your day much more special!

35. Enjoy Magical Moments

Disney Cast Members looooove making you feel special on your birthday.

So, be sure to pick up your special birthday badge from Guest Services that way you’ll have lots of birthday surprises during your Disney vacation.

You never know what free upgrade you may get!

36. Have Free Starbucks Drink at Disney Springs

If you sign up for the Starbucks Rewards program, you’ll be eligible to receive a free drink on your birthday from the Starbucks location inside Disney Springs.

Get your Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party Tickets TODAY!

37. Enjoy a Free Birthday Dessert

On your birthday, make sure you mention the special day to your restaurant server.

It’s Disney, so plan on them giving you something sweet to commemorate your day!

38. Get Your Sprinkles Birthday Cupcake

If you sign up for the Sprinkles Perks , you’ll be eligible to get a free cupcake for your birthday. This is valid for the Disney Springs location.

39. Enjoy a Free Slushy at Epcot

Club Cool has returned to Epcot and along with your free samples of Coca Cola, you may be able to let a Cast Member know that it’s your birthday to possibly receive a sweet treat such as a refreshing slushy!

If you can’t get your free slushy, then my birthday gift to you is to AVOID the Beverly drink during your free sample tour 🙂

7 Best Lounges at Disney World To Unwind and Relax (2023)

40. Grab Your Free Birthday Sandwich in Disney Springs

At Earl of Sandwich, you can sign up for their loyalty program which allows you to get a free sandwich on your birthday.

As you can see, you can have a day where every meal is completely free for you on your birthday at Disney World.

Can you think of any other birthday freebies I might be missing? Please let me know in the comments section below. I’d love to add your suggestion to this article!

Get up to 76% off of the Orlando attractions with Groupon TODAY!

Disney Freebies for Annual Passholders

Now it’s time for all of the free stuff at Disney World for Annual Passholders!

41. Take Advantage of Free Parking

If you’re a Disney Annual Passholder, then be sure to take advantage of the free parking at the Disney Parks.

42. Souvenirs and Magnets

In the past as an Annual Passholder, you could get free and exclusive Epcot Food and Wine Festival mementos. The past few years we’ve been given wine glasses and well-designed beverage cups.

Post pandemic, things have changed a bit but I will keep this guide updated once Disney starts giving out Epcot festival mementos again. But, no need to worry…

You can get your free Disney car magnet multiple times through out the year. Be on the look out in your emails to know when it’s time to get yours.

Hipster Power Tip: Look for some more Passholder freebies at the other Epcot Festivals.

43. Download Your Free PhotoPass Pictures

As if being an Annual Passholder wasn’t awesome already, if you love capturing your memories at Disney, then upgrade your annual pass with Disney PhotoPass Downloads to receive unlimited PhotoPass photos.

The pictures will be connected to your MagicBand once the photos are taken by Cast Members or captured on the Disney rides.

You’ll then be able to download your photos from your MyDisneyExperience account.

What’s the Best Disney Water Park in 2024? Typhoon Lagoon vs. Blizzard Beach

44. Exclusive Access to New Disney Attractions First

If you’re an Annual Passholder, then one of the best perks is being able to get on a new ride before the general public AND without having to purchase a Lightning Lane Pass!

This is one of the best perks for being a Disney Annual Passholder.

Listen: How to Use Your MagicBand for Your Disney Trip

Secret Free Stuff at Disney World

Did you know that there are some secret Disney World freebies that many people do not know about? Let’s go through a few below.

45. Get Free Pirate Flags

If you’re one of the first visitors at Pirates of the Caribbean in the Magic Kingdom, you may be given a special pirate flag for free!

46. Pick Up Your Free Transportation Cards

Cast Members working in the different transportation areas may have free transportation cards for you. You can find these in the following areas:

• Monorail Station
• On the Busses
• On the Ferries

Halloween at Disney World: 10 Things You Can’t Miss in 2023!

47. Get Pixie Dusted

In the Magic Kingdom , you can head into the Harmony Barber Shop to get a little sprinkle of pixie dust.

You can also head over to Hollywood Studios and get pixie dusted by a Cast Member usually hanging around the Center Stage section of the park.

Ready to make your trip out to Walt Disney World Resort, then get your no obligation, FREE Quote by filling out the form with The Park Prodigy by Clicking HERE!

48. Enjoy the Free Special Disney Resort Secret Activities

You may not know it, but may of the Disney resorts have some cool resort amenities like:

• Cast Member storytelling
• Hidden Mickey scavenger hunts
• Resort pool games

Always check with the front desk staff for an up-to-date activity list.

What’s the Best Sushi in Disney World? These 8 Will Help You Decide

49. Get a Free Birthday Call

On your birthday, you can get a wake-up call from most popular Disney characters. Just check with front desk to let them know that you want this set up.

Did you know that you can possibly get the Disney characters to call you right inside the parks?

If you’re lucky, a Disney Cast Member working in one of the shops may set up a little surprise for you.

Hopefully, you’ll be able to experience this on your next birthday trip to Walt Disney World.

7 Best Disney Restaurants for Adults You Have to Visit

50. Get Free Basic Medical Supplies

You may not know it, but each Disney World park has a medical center.

Here you can get basic medical items like Band-Aids and common over-the-counter products to help your day go smoother.

Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!

51. Hike The Disney Wilderness Preserve for Free

This Disney freebie is about 20 miles from the parks and includes more than 1,000 species of plants and animals on 11,500-acres.

The Disney Wilderness Preserve if free for you to hike and is an essential part of the Everglades ecosystem with 3,500 acres of restored wetlands.

The Disney Wilderness Preserve hours are from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., but please call ahead before your visit to make sure that the reserve is open that day. You can reach them at (407) 935-0002. 

Use the Free Disney Transportation

Traveling by monorail , boat, skyliner or bus is a great way to travel considering the value of a relaxed, air-conditioned ride at a $0.00 price tag.

52. Ride the Monorail for Free

You can experience one of Disney’s most magical forms of transportation, the Monorail.

The Monorail “ride” takes you to all three resorts (Polynesian Resort, the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and the Contemporary Resort) on the Magic Kingdom loop.

You can also use the Monorail to get a sneak peek to the inside of Epcot.

To get to the Monorails you will need to take a bus ride to one of the Monorail resorts. Once there, just hop on the Monorail and enjoy your ride.

Hipster Power Tip: Parking for free at Disney Springs to catch the bus to a resort is cool, just know that although you won’t have to pay with money you will pay with time. Traveling on the buses at Disney can eat up a lot of your travel time.

53. Take a Boat Ride

Boat rides are especially family friendly and can even be rather romantic if you travel by night.

The boats visit Contemporary Resort, Fort Wilderness, Magic Kingdom, and even the Wilderness Lodge .

There are also boats that head to Grand Floridian and Polynesian giving you plenty of free options to choose from.

More Disney Boat Routes to take:

• Crescent Lake area around the Epcot resorts (Boardwalk, Yacht and Beach Club, Swan and Dolphin, and even Hollywood Studios theme park)
• Sassagoula River area around Disney Springs (Port Orleans and Old Key West)

Get Your Discounted Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Tickets here TODAY!

54. Take Advantage of the Disney Skyliner

Be sure to tour around Disney in the most magical way by using the skyliner gondolas.

I loooove hopping on this new form of Disney transportation and creating my own version of a resort tour!

On cooler Florida days , it’s relaxing and allows you to see some of the most epic views of Disney property.

2024 Ultimate Insider’s Guide to Fantasmic at Disney’s Hollywood Studios

55. Use the Free Disney Buses

You can use the Disney buses for free to get throughout all of Walt Disney World Resort.

Just park your car at Disney Springs and enjoy your magical adventure discovering the area.

Save up to 25% on mobile exclusive offers with Hotels.com TODAY!

Other Free Stuff at Disney World

As if this extensive list on all the free things to do in Disney World isn’t long enough, I want to make sure I give you EVERYTHING I can think of to help you stretch your Disney budget.

56. Free Water at Disney World

You can get courtesy cups of ice water at theme park kiosks and most quick service locations to keep you hydrated while you brave the hot sun.

57. Get Your Disney Shopping Items Delivered to You for Free

You are able to get your packages delivered for free from the Disney World gift shops to your hotel.

So, you won’t have to stress about whether you’ll have to carry all your Disney goodies around with you for the whole day.

You can find more Disney Halloween merchandise here!

58. Watch Free Concerts at Epcot

Be sure to watch one of the free concerts that take place throughout the year at Epcot. You can watch popular bands like Boyz II Men at events such:

• Epcot Food and Wine Festival
• Flower and Garden Festival
• Festival of the Arts
• Epcot Candlelight Processional

This is the perfect way to enjoy all of the festival food, drinks, and culinary adventures with a musical treat to end the day.

The annual concert series usually features  popular bands from the 80s, 90s, and the 2000s.  It takes place on the American Gardens Theater stage in the American Adventure Pavilion at Epcot.

Absolute BEST Food at Epcot Food and Wine Festival Now AND Through the Years!

59. Get as Many Autographs as You Can

If you’re a true fan of the Disney magic, then you have to plan out your character meet-and-greets to get those coveted autographs.

Hipster Power Tip: Some resorts have character breakfast experiences for you to meet them instead of going into a Disney theme park.

60. Collect Your Free Timon & Pumba Safety Cards

You can collect a total of 22  Wild About Safety collectible cards   throughout the Walt Disney World Resort.

These free cards feature Timon and Pumba who help you learn about park safety.

This is such great free souvenir for you to take home from your Disney vacation!

Magic Kingdom Roller Coasters: ALL RANKED for 2023!

61. Free Character Photo with a Disney Visa Card

You can be eligible for a free souvenir 5×7 picture with a Disney Character next to Journey into Imagination with Figment usually from 1 p.m. to 6:30 p.m.

This freebie will apply to you, if you’re a Chase Card Member that has a Disney logo or Disney inspired debit or credit card.

Cheat Sheet: Disney World Height Requirements (Full 2024 Guide)

62. Disney Pin Trading

Trading Disney-inspired pins is a cultural phenomenon in the Disney community. It’s a fun new hobby for you to try on your solo trip.

Plus, you can trade with any Cast Member anywhere in Walt Disney World.

If you’d like to receive YOUR Free Disney blogging quick start guide INSTANTLY, then join here!

63. Have Your Own Hidden Mickeys Scavenger Hunt

Hidden Mickey’s can be found all over the Walt Disney World Resort area. Even in the most uncommon places, so keep your eyes open.

You can get the full list of Hidden Mickey’s here!

Hipster Solo Trip Challenge: Create your own list of each Hidden Mickeys you want to find on your next Walt Disney World vacation?

A – Z Guide to Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration (What to Expect, See and Do)

64. Look for Instagram-worthy Photo Spots

You can create your own free photo shoot around some of the most colorful places outside the Disney Parks.

These resorts are the most Instagram-worthy locations to make any of your friends jealous!

Best Disney Resorts to Take Photos:

• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
• All Star Sports Resort
• Disney’s Pop Century

65. Use the Free Wi-Fi Throughout the Disney Parks

You will not have to worry about Wi-Fi on your Walt Disney World trip. Every Disney Park and resort comes with free Wi-Fi to the public.

66. Get Free Disney Vacation Planner

You can sit back and relax while an authorized Disney Vacation Planner plans your whole trip for you for FREE!

A Disney travel agent is a specialist in all things Disney.

They stay up to date on all the upcoming attractions and can  customize your itinerary based  on all the interests of you and your family.

Many agents even attend a special Disney college  to make sure they know the best way to put your package together.

7 Best of the BEST Rides at Hollywood Studios YOU CAN’T MISS!

67. Enjoy Free Wine Tasting at Jiko

Did you know that you can enjoy a free wine tasting at the Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort?

On Wednesday’s a Disney sommelier takes you on an African journey of wines paired with delicious cheeses from this beautiful continent. And like I previously mentioned, it’s FREE!

UPDATE: During the phased reopening of Disney Resorts, wine tasting at Jiko is currently suspended.

Free Things to Do Outside of the Disney World Parks

Now that we know ALL of the things to do for free around Disney, let’s go through a few things you can also do for free in Orlando.

68. Tour Celebration, Florida

Market Street, located in Celebration, Florida,  has monthly events like car shows and craft festivals that vary throughout the year.

These events are often season-themed like the “Now Snowing Nightly” event that features “snowfall” about four times a night complete with visits from Santa.

Zip. Zilch. Nada!

Celebration is just a ten-minute drive south of Walt Disney World and was a planned community initially established by the Walt Disney Company.

Recommended: 27 Unique and FUN Things to Do in Orlando for Couples

More free things to do in Celebration, Florida

• Enjoy the Lakeside Boardwalk
• Walk around the shops on Market Street
• Discover the Bohemian Hotel Celebration

Join the Conversation on the  Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Community on Facebook!

69. Explore International Drive

International Drive is a walkable area in the heart of the Orlando tourist scene.

It’s filled with world-class attractions, entertainment, dining and shopping fun that is perfect for a quick getaway from the parks!

I recently had an amazing first-time experience doing the Orlando Game Room challenge.

Hidden Gems: 35 Incredible Things to Do in Orlando Other than Disney World!

Questions You May Have About Finding Free Things to Do at Disney World

Let’s go through a few of the most commonly asked questions that I receive.

Is Disney World free on your birthday?

Walt Disney World is still the ultimate place to celebrate your birthday!

In 2009, they had one of the best promotions going on called “What Will You Celebrate.” This incredible yearlong promotion allowed you to come to any of the Disney Parks for free on your birthday.

Unfortunately, the deal ended on December 31, 2009.

Remember that you can always get cool Disney Freebies on your birthday such as the Happy Birthday button from Guest Relations and possibly some free dessert if you continue to let Cast Members know it’s your big day!

What’s the Best Beach Close to Disney World? Top 9 Florida Beaches Near Disney

How can I do Disney for cheap?

Now that’s a big question to answer. In order for you to conquer your trip to Disney World at a good cost , you’ll have to budget appropriately.

Yeah, I know we all hate that word budget , but in order for you to make the most of your money you have to think about these five things:

• Which park or parks you want to visit?
• What will be the total cost of your trip?
• How to save for Disney in 6-months?
• When to book your vacation?
• How to track your spending while on vacation?

I recommend buying the multi-day ticket if you’re planning a vacation or visiting Walt Disney World for more than three days in one year.

Plus, you can save $20 when purchasing the 3-day or longer tickets online.

Booking through certain travel agencies or authorized Disney planners gives you an opportunity to set up a payment plan. Once you’ve paid for half of your vacation, continue saving the other 50%.

My Final Thoughts on the Best Things to Do at Disney World for Free

Despite the fun, visiting Disney can get very expensive, very quickly –especially if you’re not traveling alone.

Even so, there are a few gems you can do without adding to your total vacation costs. Sightseeing at Disney World certainly doesn’t disappoint!

I hope this list of free things to do at Disney World helps you successfully plan your next theme park trip!

Get more of your Disney questions answered below:

• What to pack for a Disney World?
• How do I find cheap Disney tickets?
• What are the best day trips from Walt Disney World?
• Are Disney pools heated?
• What are the best times to go to Disney?
• Where are Disney Parks Located?
• How to do Walt Disney World on a Budget?

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor , and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

(Original Article Date June 2018/Updated on March 18, 2024)

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15 Most AMAZING Indoor Activities in Orlando for Adults (2024)

Are disney’s pools really heated here’s what you need to know, 3 thoughts on “69 amazing free things to do at disney for 2024 (even if you’re not a guest)”.

Another free item is taking a photo at the metal Mickey ears behind the Contemporary Resort.

Thank you for this extremely informative well-written article! I have lived in Orlando for a few years now and had no idea of all of these wonderful amenities! I will definitely be checking out your suggestions!

My pleasure!

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23 Completely Free Things to Do at Disney World (2024)

Heading to Disney World can be an expensive vacation, and sometimes, the budget has to come into play!

If you want to keep some of your money in your wallet (sometimes impossible at Disney, though the best Disney value resorts help), enjoy this list of completely free things to do at Disney World .

These are all things you can do without paying for entrance to a theme park or water park.

There are so many guides that are like “free things to do at Disney” – go on this ride!

Except you paid like a billion dollars for park entry so that’s not really free is it?

I’ve been going to the Disney parks for over 30 years now and there have definitely been times when I’m like, you know what, I want to experience the Disney magic but I don’t want to spend any money because my bank account is not as high as my desire to ride Dumbo.

That means I’ve spent a lot of time in and around the Disney World property checking out all of the free activities that don’t require a park ticket.

Pro tip: sometimes, part of the fun of a Disney trip can be made beforehand, when you’re choosing what to wear.

I’ve always found that decking everyone out in unique Disney shirts like these “morning person” ones make for great memories, saves you money from feeling like you need to buy inside the parks, and makes whatever you’re doing feel even more magical.

1. Do the Disney Resort Hopper Challenge

If you’ve got a whole free day at Disney World, you could do the entire Disney World resort hopper challenge from beginning to end.

As it uses only Disney public transportation (free, like the Disney Skyliner ) and requires no money to spend, this is a great free day out at Disney World.

We did the challenge in about 12 hours, but you could also shorten the challenge and just do certain resorts, or you can race against the clock and see how many you can complete.

This is a fantastic idea for those who have been coming to Disney World for a long time and feel like they’ve “done it all” – there’s bound to be something you haven’t seen at at least a few of the resorts, and this is the time to see them!

2. Spend the Day at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is one of the best free things to do at Disney World because it doesn’t require you to spend any money in order to enjoy the awesome atmosphere, live music at many times of the year, and family-friendly vibe.

Of course, you can spend money here as it’s the main shopping and dining hub of Disney World, but it doesn’t cost anything to wander around and do some intense window shopping.

Stop by the LEGO store to play with LEGOs and build racer cars for free, or walk across the lake for some gorgeous views.

The Rainforest Cafe volcano erupts at regular intervals, and you can see a grand display of fire!

At seasonal times of the year, Disney Springs is also filled with more free things to do, like the Christmas Tree Trail over the holidays.

It costs nothing to enter this wonderland of decorated trees and Disney decorations.

3. Take a Boat from Disney Springs to the Port Orleans Resorts

One of the most relaxing things to do on Disney property is also free!

You can take the boat from Disney Springs to Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and Port Orleans French Quarter , where you’ll uncover a whole different world of relaxation.

Port Orleans Riverside , in particular, is a lovely and large moderate resort to stroll down, and you can have the kids play on the playgrounds, swing in the hammocks, or sit by the giant water wheel in the food court.

The boat ride takes about 20 minutes each way, and you’ll also pass the beautiful treehouse villas of Saratoga Springs.

One of the best things to do in Disney for free will ironically make you feel like you’re not in Disney at all! (in the best possible way).

4. Walk around Disney’s Boardwalk

Another free Disney activity is enjoying an evening spent on the Boardwalk .

The Boardwalk is both a Disney resort and a shopping and dining area, themed like a true Americana boardwalk with carnival games, street performers, an old fashioned ice cream shop and beautiful views out to the water.

Again, you can spend lots of money on Disney’s Boardwalk because of all of the yummy places to eat and shops to go in, but you don’t have to.

You can walk the Boardwalk at Disney World completely for free and just enjoy your family’s company while soaking in the sunshine.

This is also a great place for a Disney World date night once the sun goes down.

5. Chill Out on the Beaches of the Yacht & Beach Club

There’s a place where white sand beaches and endless sunshine meet, and while that place sounds like a tropical island, it’s actually Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club .

You can access these beaches for free, and they are amazing places for unwinding, rocking back and forth in the rocking benches, or laying out on the provided beach chairs.

Of course, you can’t actually swim in the water off of these beaches because it’s Florida and you should never go in any type of lake, but the overall atmosphere is super chilled and it’s one of my favorite free things to do in Disney when I just need some time to relax.

Kids could also bring sand castle toys and shovels and play in the sand – everything goes!

6. Watch the Electrical Water Pageant from Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

There is a very quaint Disney tradition called the Electrical Water Pageant that crosses in front of Wilderness Lodge as well as the Contemporary, Polynesian, and Grand Floridian.

After seeing all of the pomp and circumstance of parades within the park, this comparatively simple display of lights on the water may not seem like much, but it’s a really nice throwback tradition that remains to this day.

Watching the Electrical Water Pageant is free, and my favorite place to watch is from the boat dock at Wilderness Lodge.

7. Enjoy Disney Fireworks from the Beach at the Polynesian

So it’s Magic Kingdom fireworks time, and you want to get a seat, but you also want to experience Disney World for free so you haven’t purchased tickets to the park.

No problem!

Watch the fireworks from the beach of the Polynesian for free to get a nice view and a bit of a different atmosphere.

On certain nights like the 4th of July, they do check Magic Bands and rope this area off, but the vast majority of nights, you can be a day guest at the Polynesian and still enjoy the fireworks from the beach.

8. Go on a Disney Vacation Club Tour

Not only is taking a Disney Vacation Club Tour something free to do at Disney World, but they’ll even pay you in giftcards at times!

Anyone can take a DVC tour, even if you just want to learn more about it and don’t intend to buy anytime soon (or ever).

You can sign up in all of the theme parks, as well as at the kiosks in the Deluxe resorts.

9. Do an Animation Class at the Art of Animation Resort

Animation is a huge part of Disney culture, and you can have your own experience without paying a dime.

Head over to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort where they hold regular animation classes in the lobby for you to draw a famous Disney character.

These classes began at Disney’s Hollywood Studios , but have now been taken out and moved to Animal Kingdom .

Art of Animation is the only place you can do them outside of the parks, however, and it is well worth a visit if you haven’t done one before.

You also get to take your drawing home with you, so it’s a free thing to do in Disney World and a free Disney souvenir!

10. Ride on the Disney Skyliner for Awesome Views

Some methods of Disney transportation aren’t meant for “joy riding,” like the Disney buses – who wants to stay on a bus longer than necessary?!

But for Disney gurus who do want some great views and Disney transportation combined, the Skyliner is free for everyone to ride and gives you some awesome views over Epcot and Disney’s Caribbean Beach resort, as well as the lake in between Art of Animation and Pop Century.

There are three major “lines” and one main hub, so you’ve got lots of areas to explore and different Skyliner routes to try out.

For more information about taking the Skyliner, check out the full guide to Disney’s Skyliner .

11. Watch the Monorail Fly Through the Contemporary

Whether you’ve got little ones fascinated by the monorail or you, yourself, are taken in by this Disney classic, I love a free afternoon of monorail watching at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The monorail actually goes through the building, which is so unique and great fun to sit and watch.

There is a food court you can see the monorail from, as well as gift shops to walk around and some seating areas.

12. Take a Guided Food Tour at Animal Kingdom Lodge

Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of the best resorts to visit due to the amount of animals that you can see on the savannas.

In addition to just sitting out on a rocking chair and watching giraffes walk by, you can also take a guided tour of the Lodge.

This is one of the best things to do at Animal Kingdom Lodge and one of the best free things to do at Disney World.

The tour takes you all around the resort to point out the African influences, furniture, design ideas and artifacts.

Animal Kingdom Lodge cultural cast members are also on hand to talk to you about where in Africa they’re from and what customs are like in their hometowns.

13. Enjoy Disney Jogging Trails

Now, I appreciate that you may not want to go for a jog while at Disney World, but you can also just use the jogging trails at various resorts to go for a nice family walk for free.

There are jogging trails at many different areas, including the jogging trail at the All-Star resorts , the lap around the lake from the Beach/Yacht Club to the Boardwalk, a jogging trail that connects Art of Animation and Pop Century and more.

14. See the Geyser at Wilderness Lodge and Sit Out by Bay Lake

One of the most peaceful places at Disney World is sitting outside of Wilderness Lodge by Bay Lake as the Geyser goes off in the background.

You’re right near to the Magic Kingdom so you can even take a boat to the Magic Kingdom and back for something to do, but you can’t see Magic Kingdom from the Wilderness Lodge shores of Bay Lake, which makes it incredibly peaceful.

The geyer, too, is a fantastic touch and adds to the theming of the Pacific Northwest theme.

Don’t miss this free place in Disney World for a nice afternoon.

15. Watch Magic Kingdom Fireworks from the Walkway In Between the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower

So it’s time for the Magic Kingdom fireworks, and you haven’t purchased a ticket to get inside. How do you see them?

There’s a bridge in between the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower that’s the perfect viewing spot.

They pipe in the music of the fireworks and you get a clear view of them through the glass.

I absolutely love this free way to watch fireworks in Disney World, and you don’t have the crazy Magic Kingdom exit afterwards!

16. Take the Friendship Boats

The Friendship Boats run from Hollywood Studios to Epcot and all around Crescent Lake past the Boardwalk, Beach Club, and Yacht Club.

These are a nice way to spend an afternoon, puttering along and enjoying the views of the different parts of Disney World.

Particularly when the sun is shining, this is a top notch thing to do and my mom could spend days just riding these boats all around without ever entering a theme park!

17. Get a Celebration Button

Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, an engagement, a wedding, a milestone, or anything else, you can get a free Celebration button from the Guest Relations outpost at Disney Springs or any Disney resort check-in desk.

These are a fantastic way to show cast members and other guests what you’re celebrating and to get a souvenir of your trip to Disney World – get a new one each time you go and put the date on it so you can keep track of the trips as the years go by!

It also can help sometimes in getting a Disney World upgrade , so what’s not to love?

18. Take the Monorail through Epcot

If you enjoy taking the monorail, plus want to see inside a Disney park, here’s a secret.

The monorail from the Transportation and Ticket Center to Epcot actually goes through the park.

You can ride it there, then ride it back, getting glimpses into and over the park each time.

It might make you wish you were in the park inside of riding over it, but, hey, it’s free.

19. Watch Yeeha Bob Jackson at the Port Orleans Riverside Lounge

Yeeha Bob Jackson is a beloved member of the Port Orleans family and he does a fantastic piano show for all ages at River Roost Lounge (the lounge within Port Orleans Riverside resort).

He typically performs on Saturday nights between 8:30pm and 11:45pm, so why not stop by the resort in the evening to check out a really wonderful time.

20. Go to the Campfire Singalong at Fort Wilderness

Fort Wilderness is one of my absolute favorite places on Disney property, and the nightly campfire singalong (with a movie after) is a great thing to do with kids at Disney for free.

Often joined by characters like Chip N’ Dale, it’s a relatively off-the-beaten path thing to do at Disney and it has no entry fee, perfect for a free night out.

21. Play in the Fountains at Disney Springs

If the weather is particularly scorching (ie, most of Orlando all the time) and you don’t have it in you to pay for a water park, bring your bathing suits and play in the free fountains at Disney Springs.

These interactive fountains are for jumping and splashing in, so don’t worry, you won’t be alone or be looked at strangely.

You might get looks of jealousy, but that’s it.

22. Enjoy the Photo Opportunities at Disney’s All-Star Resorts

Disney’s All Star Resorts are some of the coolest resorts on Disney property if you want some photo ops with your younger kids (or older ones, we won’t judge).

From towering Buzz Lightyears to larger-than-life Woodys, each one has some really cool spots to take photos and to feel like you’re really immersed in the Disney magic.

23. Check out the Disney Springs Art Walk

Disney Springs welcomes local and global artists to feature their murals and art along the Disney Springs Art Walk, which changes regularly depending on what month it is.

This exhibition in the town center is a great way to appreciate the joy of artistic expression, especially in traditionally underrepresented communities like Pacific Islanders, African-Americans, and more.

Hey! Want more of our expert Disney guides? Check these out!

• 49 Fantastic Ways to Save Money on a Disney Vacation
• 5 Best Disney Moderate Resorts (and where not to stay)
• Best Disney Value Resorts (and where not to stay)
• 13 Best Rides for Infants and Babies in the Magic Kingdom
• 27 Adorable Magic Kingdom Shirts for Fans
• 9 of the Best Rides for Tweens and Teens at Magic Kingdom
• 23 Adorable Epcot Shirts for Disney Fans
• 23 Fantastic Animal Kingdom Shirts for Disney Fans
• 25 Best Hollywood Studios Shirts for Disney Fans
• Ultimate Guide to Christmas at Disney World
• Which Disney All-Star Resort is Best?
• 21 Best Disney Resorts, Ranked
• Exactly What to Wear to Disney World
• How to Avoid Lines at Disney World
• Exactly How to Avoid Parking Fees at Disney World
• Renting DVC Points: How to Save Hundreds at Disney
• Going to Disney World Alone: the Ultimate Guide
• Fun Tips for Celebrating a Birthday at Disney World
• Perfect Disney World 7 Day Itinerary
• Staying Cool at Disney World: Insider Secrets
• Best Time to Visit Disney World: the Truth
• Best Age for Disney World: the honest, specific truth
• Traveling to Disney World with a non-Disney fan
• Toy Story Land at Disney’s Hollywood Studio: the Ultimate Guide
• Honest + Complete Guide to Disney’s Skyliner
• How to Go to Disney World with Anxiety (and still have fun)
• 11+ Disastrous Disney World Mistakes to Avoid
• 17 Signs You Go to Disney World too Often
• Ultimate Guide to Disney World’s Galaxy’s Edge
• How to Get Upgraded at Disney World
• The Ultimate Disney Resort-Hopping Challenge
• 21 Cute Disney Family Matching Shirts
• 23 Best Disney World Shirts to Wear to the Parks
• 23 Magical Disney Couple Shirts
• 11 Best Pools at Disney World
• 26 Best Magic Kingdom Rides
• 11 Best Hollywood Studios Rides
• 10 Best Epcot Rides
• 8 Best Animal Kingdom Rides
• 21 Best Disney World Instagram Spots
• Secret Things to Do at Disney World
• Don’t Miss Things to Do at Hollywood Studios
• Best Things to Do in Disney World
• Adventurous Things to Do at Animal Kingdom
• Iconic Things to Do at Epcot
• Enchanting Things to Do at Magic Kingdom
• Ideas for the Perfect Disney World Honeymoon
• What to Pack for Disney World
• Free Places to Watch Fireworks at Disney World
• Brilliant Ways to Get Hard to Get Disney Dining Reservations
• Best Disney Resorts for Couples
• Best Places to Propose at Disney World
• Best Rides at Magic Kingdom
• Best Rides at Epcot for Adults
• Disney World for Adults: the Ultimate Guide
• Best Disney Resorts for Kids
• Best Disney Resorts for Toddlers
• Romantic Disney World Date Ideas
• Magical Things to Do at Disney Springs
• Best Disney Resorts for a Honeymoon
• Best Disney Deluxe Resorts

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23 Best Things to Do at Disney World for Free

There’s no question that a trip to Disney World is expensive . Hotel room nights, theme park food, spendy souvenirs, and Disney World tickets can all add up, especially when traveling with children. In fact, some families save up for years just so they can afford a Disney vacation. 

Fortunately, Disney World is filled with fun activities, no pricey park admission necessary! Believe it or not, from the resorts to Disney Springs and beyond, there are plenty of things to enjoy across Disney World property that won’t cost you a dime.  So, whether you and your family are looking for tips on how to do a Walt Disney World vacation on a shoestring or you’re a local hoping for creative date ideas in Orlando , here’s our list of the top 23 best free things to do at Disney World. 

Remember that due to COVID-19, some amenities at Walt Disney World may be closed or operating at a reduced capacity. That said, things are continuing to return to normal. So, refer to Disney’s website, the My Disney Experience app and Disney resort front desk cast members for the most up-to-date information. 

Are you trying to save money on your next Disney World? These 23 activity suggestions are absolutely free and totally fun, meaning that you’ll be able to enjoy all the Disney magic that the Central Florida resort is known for without spending an arm and a leg (well, at least not two arms and two legs). Read on to learn how you can stretch your Disney vacation budget with our 23 favorite things to do at Disney World for free.

Discover Disney Springs

Of all the free must-dos at Disney World, this first suggestion is probably the most obvious. Disney Springs is Disney World’s premiere entertainment destination, a sprawling complex with tons of restaurants, shops, recreational opportunities and more. Not only is entry to Disney Springs completely free, along with all the window shopping your wallet and self-control can handle, but there are even free activities to be had at Disney Springs itself.

Stop into Ghirardelli Soda Fountain and Chocolate Shop for a complimentary sample of one of their signature squares, then head over to the Lego Store to tinker around with those famous building blogs for a while. Then, as the sun sets, listen to a variety of live musical acts placed throughout the Disney Springs shopping and dining district. 

Take a Stroll Around Crescent Lake Along Disney’s BoardWalk

Step into a slower time and place at Disney’s BoardWalk area. Inspired by turn-of-the-century boardwalks like Coney Island and Atlantic City, the nostalgia is real at this entertainment district neighboring Epcot, Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, and the WDW Swan & Dolphin Hotels.

With restaurants, food stands, shops, and live entertainment sprinkled throughout, think of this as Disney Springs’s older , simpler sibling who still likes to cut a rug and enjoy the finer things every now and again. Although it’s worth a visit during the day, we recommend swinging by during sunset and into the evening, as that’s when Disney’s BoardWalk really comes to life. Grab a dining reservation, then enjoy street performers like magicians and jugglers before capping off your visit with a view of Epcot’s fireworks. 

On most vacations, a hotel is simply a place to rest your head and recharge after a day filled with adventures. At Walt Disney World, however, the resorts are the adventure. Or, at least they can be if you have an attention for detail and can keep an open mind. With immersive theming and design, tasty restaurants, and many thoughtful, unique, and, most importantly, free amenities and activities, you could spend a few days appreciating everything each resort has to offer. Hop on the Monorail or Disney Skyliner to make resort hopping to the hotels on those routes a breeze. Then, grab a drink and a snack or just your camera as you explore all the Disney World digs. Consider it research for your next Disney vacation. 

Get in the Holiday Spirit With Disney Resort Christmas Decorations

Is this the same thing as our last suggestion, albeit with a festive twist? Sure it is, but we’re firm believers that Christmas decorations make everything better. That’s why the winter holidays are one of our absolute favorite times to visit Disney World. There’s just so much Christmas cheer in the air – it’s infectious!

Almost all the resorts will have at least some sort of holiday decorations up, however it’s the Disney deluxe resorts that really pull out all the stops. From towering trees dripping with uniquely themed decorations to giant gingerbread confections, there are enough festive trappings to enjoy that even Mr. Scrooge couldn’t stay a grinch for long. 

Join a Resort Tour

While you’re out and about resort hopping, be sure to join one of the free tours. This free Disney must-do is pretty under-the-radar, even for guests staying at the resort. Unfortunately, they’re only available at two Disney resorts that we know of: The Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Wilderness Lodge.

Embark on cultural and culinary tours at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where cultural representatives from countries across Africa show how African cultures were incorporated into the resort’s design and cuisine. You may even get a sample or two if you’re lucky! Then set out on the Wonders of the Wilderness Lodge tour. Led by one of the lodge’s rangers, the tour leads guests on a discovery of the resort’s American art collection and architectural influences. 

Hunt for Hidden Mickeys and Other Things at a Disney Resort

Hidden Mickeys are an extra little dose of Disney magic that’s been sprinkled across Walt Disney World property like pixie dust. These visual Easter eggs have been cleverly hidden throughout the Disney Parks and Resorts by those crafty Disney Imagineers. Track them down in a special scavenger hunt over at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Boulder Ridge Villas, then get your reward from the front desk.

Free scavenger hunts can be found at a few other Disney resorts as well, though you aren’t always searching for a hidden Mickey, including the Port Orleans, Polynesian, Caribbean Beach, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and Animal Kingdom Lodge resorts. Talk to a front desk or recreation cast member to find out how to grab your scavenger hunt checklist and claim your prize. 

Catch a Free Movie Under the Stars 

There’s no question that we love Disney theme parks. Our whole blog is dedicated to them, after all! Another thing we love just as much is Disney movies. So, what could be more perfect than watching a Disney movie under the moonlight while on a vacation at Disney World? (See our next tip below for the answer.) These complimentary, al fresco film screenings can be found at almost every Disney resort – often with a toasty campfire burning nearby – and feature such favorites as Beauty & the Beast , Moana , Frozen , and more. Movie schedules rotate from resort to resort, so ask at the front desk for the most up-to-date slate of films showing. 

Snack on Marshmallows at Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long

Ok, we asked what was better than free Disney Movies Under the Stars at Disney resort hotels. How about: free Movies Under the Stars with a crackling bonfire, sticky sweet s’mores, and a visit from two rascally chipmunks? Held nightly, Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground truly is a hidden gem, and one of our favorite totally free things to do at Disney World. Although there are campfires held at many Disney World resorts, the Fort Wilderness campfire is the only one with a character meet-and-greet.

In fact, it’s also one of the only places where you can have a Disney character experience without ever needing to buy a park ticket or pay a single cent. Bring your own marshmallows, graham crackers, and chocolate squares for s’mores or buy everything you need there. 

If you’d rather skip the characters, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Resort plays host to a nightly campfire with an African storyteller. Meanwhile, Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside, you can also catch storytellers and other entertainment nightly at the Campfire on de’ Bayou near the mighty Sassagoula River. 

Get in Touch With Your Inner Van Gogh at a Free Art Class

We love the simple pleasures of a Disney World drawing class. There’s nothing quite like watching basic shapes and sketched-out lines slowly transform, fingers crossed, into something vaguely resembling a Disney character. While most of Disney’s drawing classes are found in the theme parks, a more intimate session offered at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is an excellent ticketless alternative. Led by a Disney animator, drawing classes are easy enough for even the youngest artists. These classes have been offered at 11a, 2pm, and 5pm in the past, but talk to a front desk Disney cast member for the most accurate schedule. 

Wander Through the Wilderness

The Wilderness Lodge , that is. Inspired by the great lodges of the Pacific Northwoods and American West, this Disney World resort has a penchant for rustic theming, stick-to-your-ribs comfort foods, and an adventurous spirit. There’s even an ode to one of Yellowstone National Park’s most popular attractions. Like Old Faithful, Fire Rock Geyser at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is on a schedule. Tucked at the back of the resort near the pool, the geyser erupts every hour on the hour between the hours of 7am and 10pm. That’s a whole lot more precise than its inspiration, Old Faithful! Grab a Magic Cookie Bar from Roaring Fork or an outdoorsy cocktail from Geyser Point Bar & Grill , then stop by Fire Rock Geyser for the show.

See Animals on the Savanna at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Do you adore wildlife but not have enough room in your budget for Animal Kingdom tickets? Or maybe you’re looking for a pint-sized animal experience instead of a full-day commitment? Then you won’t want to miss the animals of Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge . Much of the resort is surrounded by savannas teeming with African wildlife.

Fortunately, you don’t just have to be a Disney resort guest to pretend that you’re on safari. Several savannas are accessible from the resort’s lobbies at Kidani Village and Jambo House. Sometimes there are even animal experts on-hand to help answer any questions you may have about the various species. If you visit at night, you may even get the chance to look for animals through night-vision goggles. 

Stop and Smell the Roses in the Contemporary Resort’s Butterfly Garden

Take some time away from all the hustle and bustle of Disney World with a walk through the butterfly garden at Disney’s Contemporary. This little nook is nestled behind the resort near the metal Mickey ear. The area is blanketed with different kinds of flowers and other plants that butterflies are attracted to. If you’re lucky, you may even catch (with your eyes, not your hands, of course) a butterfly or two flitting about the area. It’s small, but it’s a peaceful escape from the noise and crowds. 

Horse Around at Disney’s Tri-Circle-D Ranch

Gallop on into Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground for yet another of the resort’s hidden gems: an unforgettable visit to Disney’s Tri-Circle-D Ranch. While animal experiences like pony, trail, wagon, carriage, and holiday sleigh rides are available for an additional fee, guests can visit the stables for free. Horse girls and animal lovers of all stripes will appreciate all of the Walt Disney World horses that live here – seven different breeds in total – including those that work down on Main Street U.S.A. at Magic Kingdom, Cinderella’s Ponies, and the Headless Horseman’s trusty steed from the yearly Halloween parade. You can even see the Dragon Calliope, a horse-powered musical instrument Walt Disney bought way back in the 1950s for Disneyland’s Mickey Mouse Club Circus Parade.

Listen to a Complimentary Concert

Fans of live music will have no complaints when visiting Walt Disney World. Outside the theme parks, musical performers can be found regularly throughout the park, especially at Disney Springs, Disney’s BoardWalk, and at several lounges in moderate and deluxe Disney resorts. Disney Springs comes to life at night with the sound of an array of musical acts. 

Meanwhile, over at some of the hotels, you can tap your toes to some live jazz at Scat Cat’s Club at Disney’s Port Orleans – French Quarter , enjoy some family-friendly fun with Yehaa Bob at River Roost Lounge at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside , or unwind to some relaxing piano music in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort . Additionally, though a cover charge is often required on busy nights, you can often get into Jellyrolls on Disney’s BoardWalk without a fee on slower evenings. 

Star in Your Own Personal Photo Shoot 

Are you always looking for the ideal backdrop for your next social media photo? Then the Walt Disney World Resort is your stage. There’s no denying that The Place Where Dreams Come True is more than just a little bit Instagrammable, but don’t let Magic Kingdom’s purple wall have all the fun! Disney World resorts have just as much eye candy design and immersive details as the rest of Walt Disney World, making them the perfect setting for your next vacation photo.

For larger-than-life themes, we like the Art of Animation, Pop Century , and All-Star Resorts. Or for something more subtle, go for the island vibes of the Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Caribbean Beach, the Spanish-inspired squares of Coronado Springs , the charming streets and sprawling estates of Port Orleans, the rustic Wilderness Lodge, or so much more.

Go on a Photo Safari

Disney World isn’t just fun for those in front of the camera – it’s also a photographer’s dream. Thanks to Disney’s intricate theming, you can easily whisk yourself from the bourbon-soaked streets of New Orleans to a pastel-colored Caribbean paradise to an African savanna all without breaking a sweat or ever having to pull out your passport. So, grab your camera and let inspiration guide you as you capture all of Disney’s best angles. 

Ride on the Monorail

Disney’s original highway in the sky, the Monorail is one of Disney’s free transportation offerings. Two different tracks link Magic Kingdom park, Magic Kingdom-area resorts, and the Ticket & Transportation Center to Epcot. While most folks use the Monorail to get from the Magic Kingdom parking lot to the park’s main entrance, we like using it as a resort-hopping chariot around the various Magic Kingdom hotels. It’s the perfect way to get around for your next self-guided Magic Kingdom food tour and to sneak a peek over the wall into the most magical Disney World park. 

Take the Disney Skyliner

All aboard Disney’s Skyliner for another aerial adventure across the Walt Disney World Resort. The Skyliner is the newest complimentary Disney transportation offering and carries people between the Epcot and Hollywood Studios parks as well as Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort , and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort . We love hopping on the Disney Skyliner for a resort dine-around, plus the bird’s-eye view of Disney World below. 

Relax With a Boat Ride

Don’t just stick to Monorail and Skyliner rides to get from Point A to Point B: Take an absolutely free Disney boat ride instead! Though not as popular as these other more well-known transportation options, boats are actually connected to even more of the Walt Disney World Resort and, best of all, are still completely free. Complimentary boat transportation can be found across Disney property – specifically in the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Disney Springs resort areas. While you won’t get wherever you’re going in a hurry, you will have plenty of time to enjoy the view. 

Ooh and Aah at Free Disney Fireworks

There’s no better way to end a day at Disney World than with a magical fireworks extravaganza. Luckily, you don’t need to have a theme park ticket to enjoy them. Some nightly fireworks displays, like those at Magic Kingdom and Epcot , are easily viewed from outside the parks . Magic Kingdom fireworks can be seen for free from any of the Magic Kingdom area resorts on the monorail loop. However, our favorite spot is from the beach at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.

The Polynesian even pipes in the music so it almost feels like you’re there. If your stomach and wallet feel like indulging, go ahead and grab a Dole Whip to enjoy during the show from Pineapple Lanai. For totally free Epcot fireworks, there’s nothing like watching from the Beach Club Resort with something from Beaches & Cream. 

Watch the Electrical Water Pageant Float By

The Electric Water Pageant is a true Disney World classic and has been running since 1971. This twinkling display features 14 different floats – many themed to look like sea creatures – and takes to the Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake each night. Similar to the Magic Kingdom fireworks, the Electrical Water Pageant can be seen (and heard) from each Magic Kingdom resort on the monorail loop, however it also floats past Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and the Wilderness Lodge. For the best view, snag a spot close to the shore. 

Visit Celebration, the Town That Disney Built

Ok, it’s time for us to come clean. Our next two suggestions aren’t actually at Disney World at all, and while they were once owned or operated by Disney, they have both since switched hands. Yet, Disney’s influence remains. The town of Celebration sits just outside Walt Disney World next to Old Town Kissimmee and Fun Spot. A community dreamt up by Disney, the town sought to be a continuation of what Epcot was meant to be, and it’s every bit as Mayberry-meets-Florida as you’d imagine. Pay a visit to the community’s picturesque and conveniently walkable downtown area. If you visit during the holidays, you may even catch a special festival!

While you’re out and about, why not take things even further and explore some of the other areas around Orlando? Not too far from downtown Orlando, Lake Eola Park offers swan-shaped paddle boats and entertainment in the Walt Disney Amphitheater. Though a bit further away, Loch Haven Park is also home to many cultural activities like theater, museums and the Orlando Science Center. We also recommend a visit to nearby Winter Park. This charming neighborhood is positively filled with delicious restaurants and adorable shops, as well as the Charles Hosmer Morse Museum of American Art, which boasts the world’s most extensive collection of Louis Comfort Tiffany glass, and the fascinating Winter Park History Museum.

Explore Disney’s Wilderness Preserve

The Disney Wilderness Preserve is a bit of a drive from Walt Disney World, around 45 minutes in nearby Poinciana, but it is still a worthwhile visit for thrifty nature lovers visiting the Central Florida area. Part of the Greater Everglades watershed, The Disney Wilderness Preserve is now cared for by The Nature Conservancy and is a 11,500-acre testament to Walt Disney’s commitment to and appreciation for nature. Visitors can enjoy hiking as well as many plant and animal species. While admission is totally free, donations are appreciated. 

Well folks, that concludes our roundup of our top 23 absolutely free Disney World must-dos. We hope we’ve helped to open your eyes to what’s available at Walt Disney World. For a destination that’s so expensive, you really can find some thrifty ways to have fun with just a bit of knowledge and some creativity. Of course, if you’d like to save money on your Disney vacation, you can also go to Park Savers for your discount Disney World tickets . Are you a Disney cheapskate? What are your favorite free Disney World activities?

18 Free Things To Do At Disney World: A Budget Guide

Who says you have to spend a fortune to experience the magic?

As a Disney World annual pass holder who visits the parks often, I’ve uncovered some magical secrets. Believe it or not, there are free things to do at Disney World that can add a sprinkle of pixie dust to your trip without emptying your wallet.

You should be! From hidden gems to unforgettable experiences, we’ve got a list that will make even the most budget-conscious traveler jump for joy.

In this Budget Guide, we’ll reveal 18 free activities, shows, and magical moments that you can enjoy across Disney World parks and resorts.

Free Things To Do At Disney World

1. resort hop the monorail resorts.

Take the Disney World monorail for a free tour of the monorail resorts. These resorts include the Contemporary Resort, the Polynesian Village Resort and the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Stop at each one and enjoy the unique decor, shops or restaurants. At Christmastime especially, these resorts are definitely worth a half-day of touring.

2. Lego Imagination Center at Disney Springs

The Lego Imagination Center at Disney Springs is a great place to visit if you’re looking for some free entertainment. There are several interactive displays where kids can build their own creations using LEGO bricks. Or, play with larger-than-life sculptures made entirely out of LEGOs, as well as video games and more!

Take a picture by one of the life-size sculptures like we did. Click here for a full list of things to do in Disney Springs with kids .

3. Look for hidden Mickeys

What is a Hidden Mickey? It’s a Mickey Mouse silhouette that is hidden in various places throughout the Disney Parks. If you’re looking for a fun scavenger hunt, try to find as many hidden Mickeys as you can.

Disney Imagineers placed hidden Mickey’s all over Disney World. Be on the lookout for them as you are walking down Main Street USA in The Magic Kingdom. Look for them while you are waiting in lines for rides. Or really, just anywhere!

4. Magic Kingdom card game

The Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom card game is a free way to enjoy some more Disney magic at the Magic Kingdom. Take care of Hades’ evil plot by casting spells with cards featuring your favorite Disney characters! The game can be found near the Firehouse on Main Street U.S.A, and you’ll receive all of your spellcasting materials from there, too.

If this is your first visit to The Magic Kingdom, it’s really not advised to spend time casting spells since there is so much more to see and do. However, if you have been here previously and looking for some different type of entertainment, this free activity at The Magic Kingdom is sure to be a hit.

5. Shop till you drop at Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a great place to go shopping, and it’s also free! There are over 150 shops at Disney Springs, ranging from high-end boutiques to souvenir stores. You’re sure to find something that you’ll love!

6. Enjoy some pixie dust

Did you know that some shops will sprinkle a dusting of pixie dust on your child?

The cast member recites a special poem at the same time as they are sprinkling some pixie dust on your child’s head. Kids love how it sparkles in the sun. Plus, they enjoy some of that Disney magic themselves.

7. Animal sightings at The Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is home to more than 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras and giraffes. You don’t need a park ticket to visit Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge; just hop on the complimentary bus from any of the theme parks or Disney Springs!

Many viewing areas are set up around the lodge so you can get a glimpse of these animals close up. Grab a chair and enjoy.

8. Watch street performers at the Boardwalk

Wow-what a part of Disney World I was missing. This area comes alive with shops, bakeries, desserts and nightlife. It’s an easy walk from Epcot or park your car at one of the Boardwalk hotels for 3 hours of free parking.

The Skyliner also serves the Boardwalk – just take it to the Epcot station by the International Gateway.

If you time it correctly, you can also see Epcot’s fireworks from the Boardwalk, for free.

As I mentioned, this place really comes alive. From street performers to impromptu concerts, make an afternoon or evening of the free entertainment.

10. Free resort tours

I love resorts but have never paid the exorbitant amount of money that a Disney Deluxe Resort requires. So, when I found out about these free tours, I wanted to see what I was missing.

Several of the resorts, including Animal Kingdom Lodge, BoardWalk Inn, Wilderness Lodge, Grand Floridian, and Yacht Club, offer  FREE tours  that are open to any Disney resort guest (whether you are staying at that particular hotel or not).

11. Skyliner Ride

Just like taking the monorail around those resorts, Disney’s new Skyliner Ride is a great way to get around other places at the Walt Disney World Resort. The best part? It’s free! Just hop on at one of the Skyliner stations (located near Epcot, Hollywood Studios and several resorts) and enjoy the ride.

Interested in seeing a particular resort that resides on the Skyliner? Go check it out!

See the newest Disney World Resort, the Riviera, or take it to Caribbean Beach, Pop Century or The Art of Animation.

12. Boat ride around Echo Lake (Boardwalk area)

Hop on a Friendship Boat and take a little ride on Echo Lake. The boats run from the Epcot International Gateway to the Boardwalk Inn, to the Disney Swan, Dolphin and Reserve (Marriott Resorts) and Hollywood Studios.

13. Boat ride from Disney Springs to Port Orleans – French Quarter

Enjoy a tranquil ride on the Sassagoula River. Boats dock at both French Quarter and Riverside. However, if you want an awesome Disney snack, stop in at the French Quarter for the only beignets at Disney World . Truly, one of the best snacks.

14. Electrical water pageant at Disney World

The Electrical Water Pageant is a parade of floating barges with lighted displays that are set to music. It travels around Bay Lake and the Seven Seas Lagoon at Disney World.

See it from any hotel on these lakes (the Monorail Resorts plus Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness), but I think one of my favorite spots is the beach area outside The Polynesian Village Resort (especially with the backdrop of Cinderella’s Castle).

The show starts at about 8:30pm at The Polynesian and makes its way around the lake ending at The Contemporary. Check with each hotel for exact times.

Inclement weather may cancel the parade.

15. Take a drawing class at The Art of Animation Resort

Please note: The Learn to Draw classes are not yet re-opened during Disney’s phased re-opening. Hopefully, they will be soon!

Want to learn how to draw Disney characters? Try your hand at an art class at The Art of Animation Resort. Offered at regular intervals, you do not need to be a resort guest to try this out. Little K participated when she was 6 and had a blast. This is her drawing and I thought it was so great, I hung it up in her bedroom.

16. Visit Disney’s Wilderness Preserve

Disney’s Wilderness Preserve is located just a few miles from Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando. It’s a great place to go if you’re looking for some time away from the hustle and bustle of the parks!

Tour through this beautiful nature preserve, which offers views that are just as breathtaking as those found in any of the theme parks or resorts.

17. Collect stickers

Omg, we did this for years! Every time we went to Walt Disney World, we came back with oodles of stickers.

The cast members working at the Disney Vacation Club booths have rolls of stickers. Kids can go up and just ask for some. Usually, they are given 5-7 stickers torn from the roll.

Imagine doing this every time you came across a DVC booth. From the parks to the hotels to Disney Springs, they are everywhere. My daughter loved it!

18. Collect celebration pins

Are you celebrating something special at Disney World? If so, head to a cast member and see if there is a special celebration pin for it!

We have pins from our first visit, birthdays and even one to celebrate Mickey’s birthday! I know there are honeymoon pins, too.

Cast members even recognized my daughter’s birthday button and wished her Happy Birthday. A few even gave her some small treats!

18. Pin trading

As Little K got older, she started pin trading with cast members. I bought her one small starter set (see What to Pack for Disney ) and she was good to go for a couple of years. While this initial set of pins cost around $20, she used them for years and pin trading at Disney is free.

Sometimes, it’s just the littlest things that make a good vacation … great. Keep that in mind.

Free Things To Do At Disney World Summary

Disney World is a great place to visit, but it’s also very expensive. Take advantage of plenty of things to do that don’t cost money. In this blog post, we’ve listed 18 free things to do at Disney World. Many of these are ‘Disney Secrets’ that you won’t know unless you have been there countless times.

Do you have any other free Disney things to do you recommend? Which from this list are you going to add to your vacation? Let me know in the comments!

Save this PIN for later! Please pin it.

Christine is a Disney World annual pass holder and overall Disney expert and fanatic. She often visits the Disneylands around the world naming Disneyland Paris her favorite. To continue reading, click more about me .

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FREE Things to do at Walt Disney World

Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is no small task for you or your wallet. After all, your resort stay, theme park tickets, food, and merchandise can add up quickly. No matter what, you’ll want to make the most of your time and money. But never fear, there are actually a ton of free things to do at Walt Disney World!

While paying for these experiences comes with the territory, you don’t have to spend all your money in order to experience the Disney magic. Here are 9 free things to do at Walt Disney World – and a few extras that are very affordable! 

We visit Walt Disney World every week and our experience in the parks helps us find all the best tips for our readers including all the free Disney World things you can do!

In this article:

Free Disney World Live Music

There is no shortage of free live music at Walt Disney World. EPCOT holds a series of music and entertainment events throughout the year where you can find some pretty famous names. Additionally, located in many countries in World Showcase are musicians specific to their country.

It doesn’t stop here. Throughout Disney Springs are free concerts featuring many local artists playing a variety of music from Spanish guitar to Top 40 hits. You’ll find nightly live music near the Boathouse, in front of Paddlefish, by the fountain next to AMC Theater, and at the AdventHealth Waterside Stage. Event times vary, but you’ll almost surely be guaranteed to find something any night you visit!

Need more? Inside Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort lobby, guests can listen to popular tunes played live on a beautiful grand piano. Performances happen throughout the day, so make sure to check the My Disney Experience mobile app for details. This is one of our favorite free Disney World things to do!

Collect Free Disney World Character Stickers

One of the small but great hidden treasures at Walt Disney World is the free character stickers, which are usually found at character meet-and-greets and Guest Relations locations. Some Cast Members have stickers specific to the character meet-and-greet while others have variations of Mickey Mouse, so you never know what you’ll find!

Over at EPCOT, Kidcot Fun Stops are a great way for kids (and kids at heart) to learn about different countries and collect cards/stickers. Find a Kidcot Fun Stop at each country in the World Showcase.

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Ride the Free Disney World Resort Transportation

Walt Disney was a big transportation buff. That’s why a trip to Walt Disney World isn’t complete without riding the free Disney World transportation. In addition to taking the bus, the monorail is your highway in the sky to getting to Magic Kingdom or the Magic Kingdom Resorts. Speaking of these resorts, when visiting Disney’s Contemporary Resort, don’t pass up the butterfly garden, blanketed with different types of flowers and plants. Over at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, guests can explore the grounds of Disney’s Wedding Pavilion. If you’re lucky, you might be able to take a peak inside.

The Disney Skyliner not only offers a fantastic bird’s eye view of the Disney resort areas. It also allows for travel to and from EPCOT and the EPCOT resorts, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Riviera Resort, and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Over at the EPCOT resorts area sits Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas, where guests can marvel at jugglers, comedians, magicians and more during the evening – all for free.

Walt Disney World also offers a variety of water transportation . The water taxis connect the Magic Kingdom Area Resorts to Magic Kingdom. The Ferryboats connect Magic Kingdom to the Ticket and Transportation Center. The FriendShip Boats connect the EPCOT Resorts to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Finally, the Sassagoula River Cruise Boats connect the Disney Springs Resorts to Disney Springs. You simply cannot go wrong with Disney transportation – and it’s all free!

Go on a Free Disney World Resort Tour

After exploring the Walt Disney World Resorts, why not learn more about a few of the resorts by going on a free tour? At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge are not one or two, but three free tours: the Culinary Tour of Jiko and Boma, the Cultural Tour of Sanaa, and the African-Inspired, Disney Designed Tour. All 3 tours show and teach guests how traditional African design elements were incorporated into the restaurants and the lodge. The Culinary Tour of Jiko and Boma starts at 4:15pm daily at the Jiko lobby area, the Cultural Tour of Sanaa starts at 4:00pm daily at the Sanaa check-in desk, and the Disney Designed tour starts at 4:00pm daily in the Kidani Village lobby. To join, simply show up at each starting area right before their scheduled start time.

Over at Wilderness Lodge is the Wonders of the Lodge Tour. During this 1-hour tour, guests learn about the artifacts, artwork, and architecture that make up the lodge. To join the tour, simply arrive at the hotel lobby any Wednesday – Saturday at 9:00am.

Visit Tri-Circle D Ranch at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Walt Disney World horses are famous for their work on Main Street, USA, during parades, for carriage rides, and even for weddings. Over at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, a free visit to Tri-Circle D Ranch gives you a chance to visit over 90 of the Happiest Horses on Earth. While you’re there, don’t forget to take a look at the fascinating memorabilia housed in this area! For more information on the variety of activities offered at Tri-Circle D Ranch, visit the Walt Disney World website .

Participate in Free Disney World Resort Activities

Throughout the week, Cast Members at the Walt Disney World resorts host a variety of free activities. Sit back and relax by the poolside while the little ones enjoy pool games, participate in Disney trivia or a resort-specific scavenger hunt, enjoy a Disney movie under the stars, or have fun learning arts and crafts! One of the most unique activities happens to be at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, where Cast Members teach guests how to play traditional African drums. Make sure to ask a Cast Member for details.

Cook S’mores by a Campfire

Although this is a resort activity, it’s extra magical because it’s one of the few ways to meet Disney characters at Walt Disney World without paying for a theme park admission or character dining!

At Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground, guests can participate in Chip n Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long. You can bring your own s’mores ingredients or purchase them at Chuckwagon ($9 buys enough for 4 people) and roast your marshmallows while participating in a sing-a-long led by a Cast Member on guitar. The best part? Both Chip and Dale come out to meet guests and sign autographs! Afterward, stay and watch a Disney movie outdoors. Events typically start at 7:00pm in the Fall and Winter and 8:00pm in the Spring and Summer.

Similar free campfire and movie programs are held at Disney’s Grand Floridian and Disney’s Beach Club. For a completely different vibe, Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge hosts nightly campfires with an African storyteller. If you’re looking for a more Southern feel, head over to Ol’ Man Island Fishin’ Hole at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside for a Campfire on de’ Bayou, which runs from Halloween through March several nights per week, weather permitting. Make sure to ask a front desk Cast Member for more information.

Enjoy Disney’s Electric Water Pageant

After all of the day activities at Walt Disney World, make sure to check out this free Disney World wonderful nighttime light show, consisting of 14 whimsical sea creature floats that make their way across Seven Seas Lagoon and into Bay Lake. The pageant can be seen from any of the Magic Kingdom Resorts. Check the My Disney Experience mobile app for show times as they vary throughout the year.

Marvel at the Walt Disney World Fireworks

Believe it or not, some of the best places to view the Magic Kingdom fireworks are in places that don’t require park admission. View the show at the beach along Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, on the pier next to Narcoossee’s at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, or on the balcony near Bay View Gifts at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The best part: at all of these spots, the music is piped in so you can still experience the full Disney magic!

Affordable Disney World Activities

What if you have a little extra money to spend? Here are a number of affordable activities to do at Walt Disney World.

Go Fishing at Walt Disney World

Did you know that you can go fishing at Walt Disney World? Rent a cane fishing pole and go fishing the old-fashioned way at Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside or Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. Prices vary from $4 to $8 per 30 minutes.

Rent a Boat at Walt Disney World

Explore the scenic Walt Disney World lakes and lagoons on a Sun Tracker Pontoon boat. Each boat seats up to 10 guests and cost $49 per 30 minutes. With a full boat, that equates to $4.90 per person! If you’re looking to be closer to the water, go kayaking or canoeing at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort for $15 per 30 minutes. Reservations are not required.

Play Mini-Golf at Walt Disney World

What better way to relax than with a few rounds of mini-golf? Walt Disney World offers not one, but two areas to get your putting game on: Fantasia Gardens and Fairways and Winter Summerland. One round costs $19 for adults and $12 for kids.

Ride a Pony at Tri-Circle D Ranch

While visiting the Walt Disney World horses at Tri-Circle D Ranch, take your children for a pony ride for $10. For something the whole family can do, a horse drawn wagon ride might fit the bill. These 25-minute rides cost $15 for guests ages 10 and up and $10 for guests 3 to 9 years. Wagon rides are only available on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings and reservations are not accepted.

Rent a Bike at Walt Disney World

If you’re looking for a great way to work out, look no further. At several Walt Disney World resorts, you can rent a conventional bicycle or surrey bike to get your workout fix. Prices vary from $9 to $20 per 30 minutes.

Plan Your Walt Disney World Vacation

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There are many items at Walt Disney World that are free, including live music, character stickers, riding the transportation, resort tours, visiting Tri-Circle D Ranch, participating in resort activities, the Electric Water Pageant, and watching the fireworks outside of the theme parks.

Some of the free things you can get at Walt Disney World include celebration pins, character stickers, soda samples at Club Cool in EPCOT, and chocolate samples at Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop.

While walking inside the Walt Disney World theme parks requires an admission fee, walking around the Walt Disney World resorts and Disney Springs is free!

Unfortunately, a ticket to Walt Disney World is not free on your birthday. However, guests are able to get free celebration pins to celebrate their birthday!

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9 Free or Cheap Things to Do at Disney World Outside the Theme Parks

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Disney World theme park tickets are certainly expensive — but it’s possible to vacation at Walt Disney World without setting foot in a theme park at all. Some of the best free things to do in Orlando exist on Disney’s property.

Walt Disney World in Florida consists of four theme parks and two water parks. Given the substantially greater size of Walt Disney World versus Disneyland , there’s also far more to do in the Florida version.

If you’re seeking ways to spend time on Disney World property without needing a theme park ticket, here are nine ideas of cheap — roughly $30 or less — or even free things to do near Disney World theme parks.

1. Resort hop via the monorail

(Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World)

Most folks think of rides when they think of Disney, and one of the most famous rides, Disney’s monorail, doesn’t even require a ticket. The monorail travels across two routes: The primary route circles the Seven Seas Lagoon, which serves as the foreground of the Magic Kingdom Park. The second route runs between Disney’s Transportation and Ticket Center and travels to the Epcot theme park.

To experience both routes, you might start at Epcot (the monorail route beginning here offers slightly better views than riding it the inverse direction). Note that Epcot has two main entrances on opposite sides of the park; you’ll be able to hop on the monorail just outside the gates of the Future World entrance.

Upon arrival at Disney’s Transportation and Ticket Center, you can transfer to another line that makes many more stops. They are:

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Magic Kingdom Park.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Hop off and on at each of the resort stops to explore. Each hotel has a stunning lobby and unique aesthetic. Here’s what you can expect at each resort:

Disney's Polynesian Village Resort

Step off this monorail station and into tropical vibes. If you have time for a full meal, try the noodles served at Ohana, the hotel’s buffet restaurant. Otherwise, don’t leave without tasting a Dole Whip (which is pretty much pineapple soft serve) or an adult drink at Trader Sam’s, a beloved tiki bar.

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

You might catch a pianist tickling the ivories from the lobby of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Sure, the fanciest of folks will fork over the $295 to taste from the prix fixe menu at Victoria & Albert’s, which is Disney’s most premier restaurant and winner of the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award every year since 2000.

But if you’re seeking fancy dining at a more reasonable price point, dine at the “Beauty and the Beast”-inspired Enchanted Rose. The lounge is divided into four spaces themed to the movie, and the menu is mostly French food, including a charcuterie board and croquettes.

Disney's Contemporary Resort

This hotel is perhaps most unique for monorail riders given that the track passes through the hotel and the station is within the lobby. 

Check out the 90-foot-tall mural by Disney legend Mary Blair, who is famous for her work designing Disney’s It’s a Small World attraction.

2. Ride the water taxi to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

Hop on a water taxi (no tickets required) at Disney’s Transportation and Ticket Center or the entrance to the Magic Kingdom Park, and head toward Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

Bask in the six-story lobby of this National Park-inspired resort. Among the wonders inside are two 55-foot-high totem poles and an 82-foot-tall fireplace. There’s a bubbling hot spring inside the lobby that leads outside, eventually turning into a waterfall that spills into the pool. Nearby the pool you’ll also find Fire Rock Geyser, a 120-foot geyser that erupts hourly.

If you’re hungry, the resort’s Whispering Canyon Cafe is a must-visit for its signature, all-you-care-to-enjoy skillets serving Western fare including buttermilk-cheddar biscuits, sausage gravy, scrambled eggs, maple-chipotle barbecue slow-smoked pork ribs and country potatoes. Just be forewarned: The servers at this restaurant have a reputation for sassing customers.

3. Hike, fish and canoe at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground

The neighbor to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort. The resort is unique in that its “hotel rooms” are private cabins, campsites where you can pitch a tent or hookups for you to roll up in your own recreational vehicle. In fact, RV rental company RVshare said its top RV delivery destination in 2021 was The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort.

There’s no better spot to engage in outdoor, recreational activities — many of which are free (even if you aren’t staying there). They include:

Hiking or jogging: The 3.1-mile path is mostly shaded and easy to find.

Horse riding at Tri-Circle-D Ranch: This stable, located near the resort, is home to the same horses that work for Disney. Anyone can visit the stables during the day — for free — to meet the horses that accompany Cinderella’s carriage and the vehicles that ride down Magic Kingdom’s Main Street, U.S.A. Visitors who weigh under 80 pounds and are 48 inches tall or less can take a pony ride for less than $10. Everyone else can sign up for 45-minute horseback trail rides at a higher price. Holiday sleigh rides are available seasonally and for an upcharge.

Fishing: Fishing gear like casting rods are available for rent at the Bike Barn (fishing is catch and release only).

Canoeing and kayaking: Rent a watercraft from the Bike Barn for less than $15 per hour.

Biking: Bike rentals start at $9.

4. Shop, dine and play at Disney Springs

It’s not difficult to spend a whole day at Disney Springs, an outdoor shopping, dining and entertainment complex. With dozens of restaurants, the area has food options for every palate and price point.

Even if you have no intent to buy anything, many shops are interactive. There are photo opportunities and pleasant views from the rooftop of the Coca-Cola Store , and the larger-than-life Disney Lego models at the Lego Store are museum-worthy. There are also plenty of Disney-themed shops, including The Art of Disney for gallery-style framed prints, DisneyStyle for on-trend fashion, Disney's Candy Cauldron and Disney's Days of Christmas.

If you’re willing to go beyond free or cheap, you might splurge on other higher-cost activities here. Those include going to a performance of a Cirque du Soleil show (it’s Disney themed), riding a vintage Amphicar (a vehicle that can drive on land and float on water), bowling at Splitsville Luxury Lanes, soaring in a tethered, helium balloon or catching a movie at the AMC theater.

5. Dine and dance at Disney’s BoardWalk

While not nearly as large as Disney Springs, another shopping, dining and entertainment area is worth visiting — Disney's BoardWalk. It’s a Coney Island-style boardwalk that frames Disney's BoardWalk Inn hotel, and it’s also walkable from a few resorts, including Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, as well as the Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios theme parks. It’s also accessible via Disney’s free-to-ride boats or gondola lift (more on that later).

Two highlights are the Atlantic Dance Hall, an adults-only nightclub, and Jellyrolls, an adults-only dueling piano bar (Jellyrolls commands a cover charge).

Though it's not technically on the boardwalk, head across the way to Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and grab ice cream at its retro soda fountain called Beaches & Cream Soda Shop.

Don’t miss the Kitchen Sink, which claims to serve four (but could realistically serve many more) and consists of eight scoops of ice cream loaded with every topping available. It’s all served in a kitchen sink, of course.

6. Sail on the Friendship Launch boats

There are a few different boat rides available on Disney property, but the Friendship Launch boats are some of the most delightful (and free) ways to get around.

One of the boats’ routes operates within Epcot, so that doesn’t fit this guide’s criteria. But the other runs between Epcot and Hollywood Studios — no ticket required — with stops at a few resorts along the way.

7. Take in views on the Skyliner

The Disney Skyliner is an aerial gondola that also connects Hollywood Studios and the International Gateway at Epcot. The views on the boats are relaxing, but the bird’s-eye views from the Skyliner are unbeatable.

And unlike the boats, the Skyliner branches off to a few different hotels that can be fun to wander, including Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. That resort is an Instagrammer’s dreamscape that can easily be explored via a 1.38-mile, lakeside trail that passes colorful courtyards inspired by movies including “Cars,” “The Lion King” and “The Little Mermaid.” Its “Finding Nemo”-inspired Big Blue Pool is the largest pool on property.

You can get on and off at any station (no ticket required), but don’t miss the route between Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney's Riviera Resort for one of the most scenic views.

8. ‘Safari’ at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

You don’t need to pay for a ticket to Disney's Animal Kingdom Park to see live animals. The nearby resort, Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, offers views of four savannas that over 30 species of African wildlife, including zebras, giraffes, gazelles, kudu and flamingos, call home.

Head through the lobby to the back patio, where you’ll find rocking chairs and designated animal-viewing platforms to take in the safari animals.

If you’re seeking a refreshment, sip on South African wines at the hotel’s Cape Town Lounge and Wine Bar. Or — while not exactly cheap — sample foods you might not necessarily find at home at onsite restaurant Boma. At about $50 per adult for the dinner buffet, Boma has all-you-can-eat African dishes including lamb bobotie, Senegalese Yassa-style salmon, Durban chicken and sweet corn pudding.

9. Watch the fireworks

Some of the best viewing sites of the Magic Kingdom fireworks are outside the confines of the theme park anyway.

The dock of the Transportation and Ticket Center — which is where you’ll find the monorail, many boat departures and many bus lines — provides a pretty epic, free view. Or head back to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and watch the show from the sands of the beach — an itinerary that aligns perfectly with post-fireworks drinks at the onsite tiki bar.

(Top photo courtesy of Walt Disney World)

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How to Do Disney World for Free

Picture the Magic has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Picture the Magic and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed or approved by any of these entities.

NOTE: Prices mentioned in this article were based on research done in July 2020.

Disney World is a dream destination for many people. It’s also a very expensive destination for many people.

It doesn’t have to be though.

In this comprehensive guide, I will share with you a method to:

• Get free flights to Orlando
• Get free hotel stays near Disney World
• Get free Disney World tickets

These money-saving techniques are not the usual penny-pincher ideas, such as packing sandwiches into the park or driving 14 hours to Florida.

Instead, I will show you how to use credit card perks to get free rewards that will make a trip to Disney World absolutely free. 

Table of Contents

The basics of credit card rewards, the trip: family of four to disney world, how to get disney world hotel for free, how to get disney world flights for free, how to get disney world park tickets for free.

A lot of people will get thrown off by the concept of using credit card rewards in order to travel for less. 

Some friends assume I pay for my trips on credit cards and then just never pay them off. Others fear this will impact their credit negatively or that they will need to go into debt to accomplish this.

Please know this is not what I mean when I say you can travel for free using credit cards.

The Unbreakable Rule

Let’s be clear: you should NEVER spend more on a credit card than you can afford to pay off in full that month. 

Instead, you should use everyday expenses like taxes, rent, car payments, home repairs, college tuition, etc, to help you earn maximum rewards and points.

For illustration purposes, this article is written as a plan for a family of 4 visiting Disney World from December 25 th -January 2 nd . 

• Accommodations : Waldorf Astoria Orlando
• Flights : Southwest Airlines
• Park Tickets : 7 days

The Waldorf Astoria Orlando is the definitive deluxe “ good neighbor hotel ”.

For a family who is looking to experience luxury and the nicest amenities possible, no hotel off Disney property can come close to this one.

However, it comes with a hefty price tag.

For a family of four to stay at the Waldorf Astoria from December 25 th -January 2 nd (8 nights) will cost $6,696. 

Instead of cash, we can use Hilton Points. A room with two queen beds will cost 80,000 Hilton Honors points. 

To turn this expensive experience into a free stay, we will need 480,000 Hilton Honors points and a free weekend night certificate from Hilton. 

With these points and the free weekend night, Hilton will give you one free night after using points for four nights. Let’s break it down further:

480,000 Hilton Honors points = 6 nights free

• 1 night free when you pay the full award rate for 4 nights
• 1 free weekend night

HOW TO GET 8 FREE WALDORF ASTORIA ORLANDO NIGHTS

We will get this done through applying for 3 credit cards: 

• Hilton Aspire for you
• Hilton Surpass for you
• Hilton Surpass for your spouse

With the benefits from these cards, we will earn enough points to cover our entire stay and then some.

Here’s how: 

Hilton Aspire

The Hilton Aspire is my all-time favorite credit card I have. 

It comes with a HUGE welcome offer of 150,000 points after spending $4,000 in the first 3 months. It features a TON of other great benefits as well.

With this card’s $450 annual fee you get:

• Hilton Diamond status (free breakfast, lounge access, and room upgrades at any Hilton property you stay at)
• $250 flight credit through American Express (good for baggage, taxes, and fees when booking flights, lounge access, seat upgrade fees, etc.)
• $250 resort credit at any Hilton resort (good for any charge you pay for at the resort such as food, room rate, souvenirs, etc.)
• Free weekend night each year at any Hilton property
• Priority Pass airport lounge access
• These perks will renew each year you renew the card!

You will also earn at least 3 points per dollar spent on everyday purchases. 

⭐️ After you meet the minimum spend with the card, you’ll have 162,000 Hilton Honors points.

Hilton Surpass (x2) 

The Hilton Surpass is a great everyday use card for anyone who stays at Hilton Hotels often or is saving up points for a big trip since it earns points VERY quickly.

Not only does it have a great welcome offer of 150,000 points after you spend $3,000, but you also earn 6 points per dollar spent at grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants.

This card also gives you 20,000 points after you refer a friend to sign up for the card. Have your spouse sign up for this card using your referral link.

Additionally, these perks of the card renew every year you have it:

• Earn 12X Points on Hilton Purchases
• Earn 6X Points on Groceries & Dining
• Earn 6X Points on Gas
• Earn 3X Points on Other Purchases
• Complimentary Gold Status
• Weekend Night Reward

⭐️ When you have achieved the spending requirements ($3000 x 2), you will have 338,000 Hilton Points.  

480,000 Hilton Honors Points = 8 Nights Free (plus Free Breakfast)

After successfully applying for these three cards, you will have 500,000 Hilton Honors Points and a free weekend night certificate. That gives you the needed 480,000 Hilton points to get your 8 nights free (value $6690). 

Plus, now you’ll be able to enjoy free breakfast throughout your stay and a $250 credit toward other expenses at the resort!

Total Hotel Savings: ~$6690

Southwest is a great airline to fly with for many reasons. 

• Top-notch customer service
• Free bags (up to two)
• Reasonable base fares

For our family of four to fly round-trip from the upper east coast to Orlando is going to cost $1,005.84 (as of this writing). 

But let’s save that money. How? 

You guessed it, we can make it cheaper using credit card rewards!

HOW TO GET 4 FREE SOUTHWEST AIRLINE FLIGHTS TO ORLANDO

All we will need is 80,000 Southwest points and $44.80 (20,000 points per person + $11.20 taxes)!

We will get this done with two credit cards: 

• Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus for you
• Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus for your spouse 

Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus (x2)

The Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus card comes with a generous welcome offer of 40,000 points and a $200 statement credit after you spend $1,000 in the first 3 months.

After accounting for the $69 annual fee, you are still netting $131 ($200 statement credit – $69 annual fee) and half the points you need to fly your family to Disney.

This card also comes with the ability to refer your friends and you’ll get 10,000 more points per friend who signs up.

If your spouse is in the market for a new credit card, you can refer him or her to that same offer.  By so doing, you’ll get another 10,000 points for the referral and your spouse will receive 40,000 points after spending $1,000 in the first 3 months.

• 3,000 bonus points after your Cardmember anniversary.
• 2 points per $1 spent on Southwest® purchases and Rapid Rewards® hotel and car rental partner purchases.
• 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.
• All points earned count towards Companion Pass .
• No blackout dates or seat restrictions.

⭐️ This combined total will equal 90,000 Southwest Points + $262 in statement credits. Enough to cover the points you’ll need for round-trip flights to Orlando for your family.

Park tickets are some of the most expensive parts of visiting Disney. And…every year the price goes up.

Four 7-day park passes (one park per day) during the week of Christmas will cost $2,646.

In order to pay for these park tickets with credit card rewards, we had to be a little bit creative with our planning. 

HOW TO GET FOUR 7-DAY PARK HOPPER TICKETS

We will accomplish this by applying for four credit cards:

• Chase Sapphire Preferred for you
• Chase Sapphire Preferred for your spouse
• Chase Freedom Unlimited for you
• Chase Freedom Unlimited for your spouse

Chase Sapphire Preferred (x2)

The Chase Sapphire Preferred has one of the best cashback sign up bonuses available on any card out there.

It gives you 60,000 Ultimate Reward points after you spend $4,000 in the first 3 months.

“Pay Yourself Back”

Ultimate Reward points are worth 1.25 cents per point when you cash them out to cover grocery store, gas station, or travel purchases with the “pay yourself back” feature on the card.

This means the welcome offer is worth $750 in cash back. (60,000 UR points x $0.0125)

Refer Your Spouse  

On top of this, you can refer a friend and get an additional 15,000 Ultimate Reward points when they sign up.

If your spouse is looking for a credit card, this might be a good fit. By using your referral link and meeting the minimum spend, together you’ll have 143,000 Ultimate Reward points (worth $1787.50) after spending $8,000 in 3 months.

• 2X points on travel and dining at restaurants worldwide
• 1 point per dollar spent on all other purchases.

Chase Freedom Unlimited (x2)

The Chase Freedom Unlimited currently offers the best welcome offer in its history with a 20,000 point bonus after you spend $500.

Also, you receive 5x points back on ALL your grocery purchases for the next 12 months.

You Can “Cash Out” These Points at Higher Value

Normally, you would redeem these Freedom Unlimited points for $200 cash back.

However, since you already have the Sapphire Preferred card, you can cash out the points earned with your Freedom Unlimited at a higher value, making the welcome offer worth $250 cash back and the 5x point at grocery stores worth 6.25% cash back.

Refer Your Spouse

If your spouse could use a new credit card, you’ll receive an additional 10,000 Ultimate Rewards points when he or she successfully applies for this card and meets the spending requirements.

After making the minimum spend combined on both Freedom Unlimited cards, you will have earned 51,500 points (worth $643.75) after spending $1,000.

Pro-Tip…Buy Discounted Disney Gift Cards to Save More

Additionally, with the 6.25% cash back you can get at grocery stores, you can load up on Disney gift cards at your local grocery store before your trip to help save additional money on food and souvenirs while you are away. 

For example, each $100 Disney Gift Card you buy with your Freedom Unlimited card will earn you $6.25 cashback.

• Earn 5% cash back on grocery store purchases (not including Target® or Walmart® purchases) on up to $12,000 spent in the first year.
• Earn unlimited 1.5% cash back on all other purchases. No minimum to redeem for cash back.
• No annual fee

Adding It All Up

If you include the additional cash back you earned from your previous Southwest sign up bonuses, you now have more than enough cash back to cover the cost of your tickets and can save 6.25% on all purchases you make at the parks using your Disney gift cards.

I love Disney World, but I also know it is an expensive place to visit.

I have been so thankful for the fact my family and I have been able to travel to Disney frequently over the years, thanks to techniques like the ones described above.

I hope these ideas help your family get back to Disney soon enough. 

After all, we don’t need to break the bank to visit the happiest place on earth.

Picture the Magic has partnered with CardRatings for our coverage of credit card products. Picture the Magic and CardRatings may receive a commission from card issuers.

Free Things at Disney World

There are a lot of free things to do at Walt Disney World. This post offers tips for finding and taking advantage of freebies, all of which require no money and have no strings attached. Some are relatively unknown, being under-promoted offerings at hotels. Others are worthwhile experiences that won’t cost you a dime but are worth your time.

Most souvenirs, gifts, and experiences at Walt Disney World are expensive. Fortunately, some things are totally, no strings attached free. No, I’m not talking about the “Free” Disney Dining Plan , which is not actually free (it can be a good deal, but there’s no such thing as a free lunch) . I mean experiences and stuff that’s actually free. Or at least, won’t cost you any extra.

The existence of such free things and experiences might come as a surprise since sometimes it feels like Mickey Mouse is reaching into your pockets when you’re at Walt Disney World. From the many attractions that end in gift shops to the sticker shock you’re likely to have when you see the price, it might seem like there is no respite from spending on a Walt Disney World vacation.

This list covers things that we feel most reasonable people might feel are “free vacation add-ons,” and are a little less obvious. If you do Disney on a budget, this list is a great way to give yourself some added fun without breaking the bank!

Here’s the list, broken down into souvenirs, food, entertainment, and the catch-all “other” category…

Entertainment

• Resort Performers – There are a variety of resorts, particularly at the Moderate and Deluxe levels, that feature lounge entertainment acts. From Yehaa Bob at Port Orleans Riverside to performers Rix Lounge, there are several no cover options. Alternatively, if you go late enough or on a slow night, Jellyrolls on the BoardWalk might not be charging cover.
• Caravanning ‘Round the World – These colorful RVs travel around to all of the various Disney Resort hotels bringing characters for spontaneous meet & greets and fun inside and outside the resorts. It’s a great way to meet and play with Mickey and friends, but there’s no set schedule.
• Disney Chase Visa Cardholder Perks – We discuss these in depth in our Disney Chase Visa Review , but the biggest one of these is the private meet and greet location in Epcot near Journey into Imagination, which includes a free PhotoPass photo download.
• Concerts – The America Gardens Theatre near Epcot’s American Adventure pavilion has concerts in the spring, summer, and fall, with mostly cover bands. Some of these shows are quite good. Then, in the winter, it’s used for the Candlelight Processional Christmas story. Check here to see if there is any entertainment available during your trip.
• Campfires – Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-Along is a nightly campfire show at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground that occurs at 7 or 8 p.m., depending upon the season. A great way to interact with characters outside the parks! Most other resorts have nightly campfires, but nothing that’s as elaborate of a production as this.
• Animal Viewing – At Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, guests can walk outside and watch the animals. There aren’t as many species here as there are in the park, but it’s still cool, and there are knowledgeable Cast Members nearby to tell you about the animals. If you’re a hotel guest, there’s a special nighttime viewing available!
• Movies Under the Stars – Most of the Walt Disney World resort hotels play a Disney film each night that is free to attend if you’re a hotel guest. Many of these are outdoors on large screens. For more information and specific details, click here .

• Celebration Buttons – Starting as soon as you arrive, this is the first free thing you should get (if applicable). As discussed in our Celebrating at Walt Disney World post , celebration buttons are sort of a “gateway” to other freebies. The buttons are a freebie themselves, but your likelihood of receiving random “other” freebies when wearing these dramatically increases. Just don’t abuse the buttons.
• Park Maps & Assorted Ephemera – This is probably a “duh” one, but it’s worth mentioning that you can collect all sorts of ephemera from your stays at Walt Disney World. On each of our stays, I collect all of the various paper-goods I can, put them in our hotel folio, and then box them up. It’s fun looking back at park maps, entertainment schedules, and hotel maps from the past.
• Driver and Pilot Licenses – That’s right, get licensed to drive and fly for free at Walt Disney World! Regardless of age or experience, Disney will grant you these licenses! (The Mouse is basically a rogue state that answers to no government…besides the RCID…and the State of Florida…and the federal government.) The Tomorrowland Speedway and Dumbo have “license” cards they will give to kids (or adults, if you ask) certifying that they are licensed to drive or pilot those attractions. As far as I know, these licenses have no legal weight outside of Walt Disney World.
• Trading Cards – Cast Members on the various forms of Disney transportation should have transportation trading cards available if you ask. Sometimes they are out of stock, so if you strike out with one Cast Member, just ask another.
• World Showcase Crafts – There are “Kidcot” stations throughout Epcot where they can color crafts and have them for the rest of the day.
• Passports – Available during the various Epcot festivals, these passports that each kiosk will stamp can be a fun thing for the kids, or a good way to remember what you had if you’re Drinking Around the World ! 😉

Transportation

• Monorail – Everyone knows that transportation inside Walt Disney World is free (and if you didn’t, you do now!), but the monorail is worth pointing out as free entertainment. For us, the monorail is a great “attraction,” and riding it around the resort loop is a relaxing and fun activity.
• Skyliner – Walt Disney World’s newest form of transportation is the Skyliner, which connects Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot to a handful of resorts. Anywhere else in the world, a gondola ride will cost you money (we paid a pretty penny in Switzerland…but it also took us to the top of a gorgeous mountain!) but there’s no charge at Walt Disney World. If you’re willing to spend some money, we highly recommend the Disney Skyliner Sip & Snack Stroll . It’s a great way to spend a day outside the parks!
• Boat Rides – Same goes for the many boats on Walt Disney World property. If you don’t have park tickets for a day and need something to do, relaxing on the boats can’t be beat. Highly recommend taking one out to Wilderness Lodge and wandering its gorgeous grounds.
• Buses – Resort to resort bus transportation is also free, but we wouldn’t recommend “joyriding” on the buses like we do with the Skyliner, monorail, or boats.
• Theme Park & Resort Parking – Guests of Walt Disney World resort hotels park for free the theme parks and at the resorts (once again).

• Club Cool – This free soda spot is back in a new location in World Celebration at Epcot, right around the corner from Creations Shop! Sponsored by Coca-Cola, Club Cool in Epcot offers 8 drinks here from around the world. For those also looking for a quick jolt, this is a great option as every drink has copious amount of sugar. If you’re a Club Cool newbie, make sure to try the delicious Beverly.
• Cookie, Cotton Candy, or Ice Cream Samples – As you’re heading down Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, stop by the Confectionary. If it’s not too busy, there will likely be a Cast Member with samples of cookies, cotton candy, or some other sweet. Likewise, anywhere that serves ice cream will let you sample a flavor before you order. Standard practice here is to actually order ice cream after you take the sample, so it’s not entirely “free,” unless you don’t mind breaking custom.
• Water – No, not the drinking fountains! Walt Disney World counter service restaurants will give you a free cup of ice water. (With that said, we highly recommend bringing your own water bottle with filter –Florida water is gross!)
• Ice Cream – This is actually multiple “freebies” all in one. If you take the free Disney Vacation Club tour/pitch, you get free ice cream at the end. Each person who takes the tour is also likely to get a ‘token of appreciation’ for attending. Unlike most timeshare presentations, this isn’t high pressure, but it is highly persuasive. Just remember not to buy into Disney Vacation Club on the spot. (Read our Disney Vacation Club Buying Guide to see why that’s a bad idea.) The tour lasts around 2 hours, which is a lot of time to take away from your vacation just for some “free” ice cream; if you’re not actually interested in owning Disney Vacation Club, you might want to just pay for the ice cream elsewhere.
• Chocolate – If you do go to Disney Springs, the consolation is that Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop offers free chocolate samples.
• Refills – Sunshine Seasons and Regal Eagle Smokehouse at Epcot, Backlot Express in Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Restaurantosaurus & Satu’li Canteen in Disney’s Animal Kingdom all have free, self-service drink refill stations. At all other restaurants, you are given your cup with the soda already in it. Just remember to follow the refillable mug rules ! 😉
• Dining Under Age 3 – At Walt Disney World buffets and family-style restaurants, kids under age 3 eat for free off of a parents’ plate.

Nighttime Spectaculars

• Magic Kingdom Fireworks – The absolute best free spot to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks is from the Ticket & Transportation Center, just to the right of the entrance to the Ferry to the Magic Kingdom. Since the hard ticket parties are expensive, this is a great way to watch those shows for free (or a second time).
• Epcot Fireworks – You can also watch Epcot’s fireworks from most places around the Yacht & Beach Club or BoardWalk. I’d recommend the bridge between the two (nearer the Swan & Dolphin).
• Electrical Water Pageant – A Walt Disney World classic. This is a cute little light parade on Bay Lake outside the Magic Kingdom. Approximate show times are: 9 p.m. at Disney’s Polynesian Resort, 9:15 p.m. at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, 9:30 p.m. at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, 9:45 p.m. at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Campground, and 10 p.m. at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. This is a “Vacation Kingdom of the World” classic that we LOVE. So much, in fact, that it was one of our Top 101 Walt Disney World Tips !

• Christmas Decorations – Visiting resorts year-round is free (and probably such common knowledge that I don’t think it’s worth mentioning here…I’m not going to list every drinking fountain in the parks that offers “free water” or every restroom that has “free toilet paper”), but at Christmas it’s something worth mentioning. Then, you can take our “ Self-Guided Yuletide Tour ,” which is a great way to spend a non-parks day during the holiday season.
• Restaurant Tours – This is one we’ve never done, but apparently, the restaurants at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge offer free 30-minute tours focusing on the culinary selections and architecture. ( Temporarily suspended. )
• Resort Tours – Here’s another one that we just learned about and haven’t had a chance to try. Called “The Wonders of Wilderness Lodge” tour, it’s open to any Disney resort-hotel guest. With the richness of Wilderness Lodge, I’m betting this tour is great. We’ve also heard that a few other Deluxe Resorts offer tours. Check with your hotel concierge for which ones and specific times.
• Art Classes – Disney’s Art of Animation Resort offers free drawing classes that are open to any Walt Disney World resort hotel guests. The Animation Academy in Animal Kingdom also has drawing classes.

• Hair Confetti – The Harmony Barber Shop on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom will sprinkle confetti and “pixie dust” on your kid’s hair for free. We’ve never done this ourselves, but we have friends who have, and it can really make the kid’s day. Our recommendation here would be to actually have their hair actually gelled and colored, as it’s less than $10, quick, and will really make your child’s day. Castle Couture (Fantasyland) also has “pixie dust.”
• Photography – Many guests assume PhotoPass is not useful for them if they’re not going to purchase the service. That’s not true at all–any PhotoPass Cast Member will take photos of you with your camera. Same goes for character attendants.
• First Aid – Dogs barking from walking too many miles at Walt Disney World? First Aid can give you some free Band-Aids if you get blisters. They also have things like Aspirin and other common medicines, but for anything more thorough, you’ll need to visit an urgent care center.
• WiFi – All of the Walt Disney World parks and all of the hotels have free WiFi available. Cell service can be spotty in the parks, causing a serious drain on your phone battery. To save battery life, I often put my phone into Airplane Mode and just turn on the WiFi if I’m not expecting any calls.
• Shopping Delivery – If you’re staying at a Walt Disney World resort hotel, anything you purchase in the parks can be delivered to your hotel for free. This is not available on the last day of your trip, but for all other days, this free service sure beats carrying around what you bought all day! Similarly, each park has a package storage service for items purchased. ( Temporarily unavailable. )
• Wake Up Call – Guests of Walt Disney World resort hotels can request a free wake up call from Mickey or Stitch on their hotel phone. Soon, the “Hey, Disney” Alexa service will be able to do even more than that.
• Luggage Storage & Transfer – If you’re staying at multiple hotels, Bell Services at your Walt Disney World resort hotel will transfer your bags. If your flight isn’t until late in the day on your day of departure, Bell Services will hold your bags. Tips are customary in both of these situations.
• Disney Vacation Club Member Perks – From “Welcome Home Wednesdays” to complimentary DVD rental, Disney Vacation Club members receive many unpublicized freebies, plus discounts and more. Check out our list of the Top 10 DVC Member Perks for the best benefits of being a DVC Member.

That wraps up our list of “free” things at Walt Disney World. In reality, much of this is likely built into the cost of a trip, so you’re technically paying for it one way or the other. However, these enhancements would normally cost money in other circumstances (even in some locations at Walt Disney World), so we’re considering them free–or “no added cost” offerings.

As mentioned above, depending upon your definition of free, there are many more (or far fewer?) things that are free at Walt Disney World. We’ve left off most of the regular park entertainment and standard hotel perks off the list as those are normal and to be expected. Ultimately, with all we spend on Walt Disney World vacations, it’s nice to see a list with so many things that are basically added bonuses. We think it really shows the way Disney goes above and beyond, and exemplifies one of the reasons we love traveling to Walt Disney World so much!

For where to eat, try out our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews page. If you want to save money on tickets or determine which type you should get, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at unconventional things you should take on your trip. Once you arrive at the parks, our Walt Disney World “Ride Guides” are great for determining what to do and when to do it. For overviews of all of these topics and so much more, the best place to start is our comprehensive Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide to make the most of your experience!

Your Thoughts

So that’s our list, what’s on YOUR list of the best free things at Walt Disney World? Any other tips or lost-cost options? Any questions about taking advantage of these Walt Disney World freebies? Hearing from you is half the fun–even when you disagree with us–so please share your thoughts in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

I was today years old when I learned that the word for all my scrapbook stuff is “ephemera”. 🙂 Thx DTB!

For fire work viewing outside the parks; are there any places the music is piped in?

There is a patio at the contemporary that is open to visitors and has excellent view of fireworks and music piped in – the last two times we went there we ate dinner first at the new steakhouse and then could also park for free but you can walk right over to the contemporary from bus stops at magic kingdom or hop on monorail –

Music is piped in through speakers near the Poly beach, though it can be crowded.

My kids and now my grandkids love when I “reuse “ the plastic bags you get at the stores for birthday gifts or for something special or to pack snacks in when we go to the park or the beach –

Ghirardelli at Disney Springs hasn’t offered free chocolate samples since the pandemic started.

The version of the Tri-Circle-D ranch that opened up at the Settlement in Fort Wilderness is really phenomenal. Beautiful grounds and facilities, georgous animals who don’t mind having friends over when they aren’t working elsewhere in the World, and even a few exhibits including the good thing to come out of the Disneyland Mickey Mouse Club Circus, a horse-drawn calliope that’s over 115 years old.

Unless you reserve a carriage ride or your kids are small enough to ride the ponies, the main Tri-Circle-D experience is free. (The trail rides leave from the Outpost at the Trail Blaze Corral, which used to be the Tri-Circle-D and still has the old sign on the check-in building.)

If you get Magic Bands mailed to you check the box. For our trip this past November we received luggage tags, and the coupon card for discounts at certain Disney Springs stores included a free round of miniature golf for four.

Over the holidays, they were still not delivering to the on-site resorts. If you purchase something, you have to carry it around all day with you.

Did they just bring back package delivery? Our August trip they weren’t doing it yet. Also the DVC tours right now are come and go for most locations because of their staffing.

“Magic Kingdom Fireworks — The absolute best free spot to watch the Happily Ever After fireworks (Magic Kingdom’s new show)…” Alas, Tom, if it were only still the case. Looking forward to the review of the new where I can appropriately comment. Also, are they allowed again to take pictures using your phone? When we were there last Christmas it was prohibited, and I don’t think we even tried on out most recent visit.

Missed that in the update–thanks for the heads up.

PhotoPass *is* allowed to take photos with your phone once again. I believe that changed sometime this spring.

If you’re a pass holder you can turn in your yellow card and get a free 50th Anniversary card.

@Holly, you can visit resort hotels at which you are not staying, but you will need a dining reservation if you want to park your car there.

Don’t know if they still do it, but Jungle cruise used to give out maps if you asked as you were exiting…we have some…our kids LOVED them! also not free but relatively inexpensive are the silhouettes on main street!

Your link to DVC membership perks brings you to sheets dated Jan -Dec 2013. not very current.

Great timely post when Disney has taken away so much. My first experience with the celebration buttons was automatic and the kids loved the buttons. The second time for the same event (first time guest) I had to ask for my daughter. My son and I love looking at the park maps on occasion. Great souvenirs and we can reminisce. I’m a little afraid they may dump the paper maps and say it’s on my Disney experience so you don’t need no stinking maps!

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Step-By-Step Guide to a (Nearly) Free Disney Vacation (2024)

• July 1, 2022
• Jonathan Mendonsa
• Tag: Enjoy Life , Spend Less , Travel Rewards

Walt Disney said, “It’s kind of fun to do the impossible.” And he’s right! It might seem difficult, but using credit card rewards points to earn Disney rewards for a free family vacation is absolutely possible!

A trip to Walt Disney World is the quintessential American family vacation. A typical family can expect to pay anywhere from $3,000-$5,000 combined for the ‘big three’ expenses of airfare, hotel, and park tickets to enjoy four days at the House of the Mouse.

You can turn your big Disney dreams into reality and book a trip to the Magic Kingdom for a fraction of the normal cost. All it takes is planning, and a little bit of pixie dust–all in the form of travel rewards!

(Nearly) Free Disney Vacation: Quick Steps

Using credit card rewards points for a disney vacation, how to get free airfare to disney, how to get a free hotel stay at disney, how to get free disney world tickets, the step-by-step path to disney on a dime, the bottom line.

• Each parent opens a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and earns the sign-up bonus—this will cover airfare .
• Both parents open a Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card and earn the sign-up bonus—this will cover hotels .
• Each parent opens a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and earns the early spend bonus—the reward points can be used to cover park tickets .

Stick with us and keep reading for the full details of each step below!

Let’s say you are shooting for a five-night Disney vacation. It will be four people (two adults and two children) on economy flights to Orlando with a five-night hotel stay and four, four-day passes to Disney World.

The 2 Basic Rules

• Earn the sign-up bonus by putting existing expenses on the new credit card. Avoid spending extra money to meet a minimum spend, just to earn the sign-up bonus.
• Pay off the balances on time and in full every month. Travel rewards only make sense if you avoid paying interest to the card issuer every month!

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card is one of our favorite cards. It has a sign-up bonus that allows you to earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.  The annual fee is $95.

Points are worth 1.25 cents through Chase Travel℠ (the easiest redemption method), so this bonus is worth $750.00 when redeemed this way.

Chase Ultimate Rewards® (UR) can be used just like cash to pay for travel. When using Chase Travel℠, there are no blackout dates, so rewards points can be used to book any available flight, making it ideal for family travel.

Flights from most major US cities to Orlando can be found for $400 or less. With this one credit card sign-up, two family members should be able to book flights to Orlando. However, both adults in a household are eligible to sign up for their own Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and earn the corresponding sign-up bonus. So that should cover all four family members.

Helpful Tip: Don’t worry if there’s only one adult in the family earning a paycheck. Use household income when applying for credit cards even if you aren’t the one earning it.

Important Note: The information for the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card has been collected independently by ChooseFI. The product details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the bank advertiser.

Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points) after spending $3,000 in the first 3 months from account opening with the Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card. The annual fee is $95

Orlando has more than 450 hotels to choose from, but when using credit card points to visit Disney World, we recommend focusing on Marriott for a few reasons.

• Marriott gives the fifth night free when redeeming points
• Two on-site Disney Resorts to choose from
• Shuttles to the parks

Staying on-site provides guests with a few extra perks that can make paying the premium worthwhile, such as Extra Magic Hours, FastPass+, package delivery, and on-site character dining.

On-site options:

• Walt Disney World Dolphin: Standard rate is 50,000 points
• Walt Disney World Swan: Standard rate is 50,000 points

Or choose to stay off-site and spend even fewer points. Some of these nearby off-site options include free breakfast, free shuttles to the parks, or kitchens/kitchenettes.

• Sheraton Orlando Buena Vista Resort
• Fairfield Inn and Suites Orlando Lake Buena Vista
• Delta Hotels Lake Buena Vista
• TownePlace Suites Orlando at Flamingo Crossings
• SpringHill Suites Orlando at Flamingo Crossings

Helpful Tip : To book with points and receive the fifth-night free perk, all the points need to be in one Marriott account. Marriott allows the transfer of 100,000 points per year to another member by calling Guest Services at 1-801-468-4000.

Yes, you can use credit card reward points for theme park tickets! Miles earned with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card can be redeemed toward travel purchases made with the card. Simply make the purchase with the card, log in to the account, and redeem the points for a statement credit against travel purchases. The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card will earn offer: For a limited time, earn 75,000 Miles once you spend $4,000 on purchases within the first 3 months of account opening, plus receive a one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit in your first cardholder year – that’s equal to $1,000 in travel.  The annual fee is $95.

Most Flexible Travel Card

The secret to making this work:.

Point redemptions can only be made against travel purchases. To qualify, the purchase must code as “travel.” Tickets purchased from the Disney website do NOT code as travel. Fortunately, theme park tickets purchased from the authorized seller, Undercovertourist.com , DO code as travel when you use your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card to pay for the tickets.

Bonus: Undercovertourist.com tickets are often cheaper than when buying through Disney!

The Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

Step 1: Parent 1 opens a Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and meets the minimum spending requirement for the sign-up bonus. Total earned: 60,000 sign-up bonus + 4,000 points from spending

Step 2: Parent 2 opens their own Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and meets the minimum spending requirement for the sign-up bonus. Total earned: 60,000 sign-up bonus + 4,000 points from spending

Step 3: Log in to the Chase Travel℠ to book airfare to Orlando. Fares are listed in both dollars and points. When booking through Chase Travel℠, the ENTIRE fare may be paid with points making it 100% free. No separate taxes or TSA fees!

Helpful Tip : For easier booking within the Chase Travel℠, Chase Ultimate Rewards® points may be combined between members of the same household.

New To Travel Rewards? This Card Is For You!

Ready to unlock a world of free travel? Start with the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card . Details: $95 annual fee | Earn 60,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

The Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card

Step 4: Parent 1 opens a Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card and meets the minimum spending requirement for the sign-up bonus. Total earned: 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points).

Step 5: Parent 2 opens their own Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card and meets the minimum spending requirement for the sign-up bonus. Total earned: 3 Free Night Awards (each night valued up to 50,000 points).

Helpful Tip : When additional points are required, Chase Ultimate Rewards® Points can be transferred to Marriott at a 1:1 ratio.

Step 6: Log in to Marriott and search for the Disney World area hotel you are interested in. Reserve with your award nights.

Helpful Tip : Marriott allows you to make points reservations before you’ve earned all the points. If you know your dates, you can make a reservation and lock it in while still working toward your Marriott Bonvoy Boundless® Credit Card sign-up bonus.

The Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Step 7: Parent 1 opens a Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and meets the minimum spending requirement for the early spend bonus. Total earned: Limited-time offer: For a limited time, earn 75,000 Miles + 8,000 miles from spending

Step 8: Parent 2 opens their own Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and meets the minimum spending requirement for the early spend bonus. Total earned: Limited-time offer: For a limited time, earn 75,000 Miles + 8,000 miles from spending

[ Note : The one-time $250 Capital One Travel credit in your first cardholder year is a great perk from this card, but it is distinct from what we’re talking about here since you’re purchasing through Undercover Tourist]

Learn how to apply for the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card here .

Undercover Tourist

Step 9: Purchase Disney World tickets at Undercovertourist.com with your Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Cards and then redeem your Venture Miles after the fact to offset part or all of the purchase.

With some planning, a free trip to Disney World is totally possible. It will take a little bit of effort and coordination to open and coordinate spending so that you can earn the sign-up bonuses but the memories you will make will be worth it.

If you want to learn more about travel rewards ChooseFI has a 6-part “ultimate guide” to getting started with travel rewards  that will teach you everything you’ll want to know about travel rewards.

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Disney World Crowd Calendar

Our Disney World Crowd Calendar helps you find the best times to visit Disney’s theme parks in 2024 and 2025. Lower crowd levels mean less time waiting in line and more time enjoying your vacation. Walt Disney World crowds fluctuate throughout the year, so it’s really important to choose your dates carefully.

We’ve designed our crowd calendar to show you just how crowded Disney’s theme parks will be each day of the calendar year.  We predict Disney’s theme park attendance for the next 12 months so that you’ll be able to narrow down the months, weeks, and days of your next vacation. Our Disney crowd calendar updates on a monthly basis and currently features the remainder of 2024 and portions of 2025. Check back frequently!

How do we forecast the crowds at Disney World? Our methodology tracks past attendance data in order to predict future crowds at Disney’s four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios. Hopefully, these estimates will help you focus on the dates that best suit your Disney vacation goals in the coming year. So let’s begin!

Want Free Help Deciding When To Travel? Get Personalized advice from Our Favorite Disney Travel Agency!

• Magic Kingdom » [3]
• Epcot » [3]
• Hollywood Studios » [3]
• Animal Kingdom » [3]
• Magic Kingdom » [4]

Calendar updated through July 2025

* Guests ages three and up with certain ticket types may be required to have a park reservation in addition to valid admission for the same park.

** Advance Dining Reservations become available to book starting at 6 AM on the date indicated.

***  COVID-19: Face coverings are optional for Guests, but are not allowed while Guests are in the water or on water slides.

The Disney World Crowd Calendar provides information on crowd sizes, updated information regarding the average daily temperature ranges for Orlando, and when you are eligible to make your Advance Dining Reservations. Let’s review some background information so that you understand how our crowd calendar is organized.

We trust the Travel Agents at  The Vacationeer  for all of our Disney travel planning needs. 

We hope you’ll consider working with them too, what is a crowd calendar.

The best time to go to Disney World depends on many factors, including the weather, which time period fits into your busy schedule, and, of course, how crowded the theme parks will be. After all, who likes waiting in long lines when you could be enjoying the rides?

Crowd calendars predict how busy a theme park will be on any given day of the year. By using data compiled from recent years, Disney crowd calendars help us determine which theme parks will have the shortest lines and which parks will have the longest lines.  While not every traveler has the flexibility to plan their trip around the least-crowded dates, this can still be a valuable tool. Knowing what to expect will allow you to plan accordingly and help you to maximize your Disney experience.

Rating System for the Disney World Crowd Calendar

Our Disney World Crowd Calendar uses a rating system from 1 to 5 for each of the Walt Disney World theme parks. We compile this information using historical data from the past several years. Our rating system also takes variable factors (like seasonal events and new in-park openings ) into account. While ride refurbishments and temporary closures don’t necessarily influence crowd levels, they are usually scheduled during slower times of the year.

Please note that past attendance figures are not always reflective of future attendance, and there may be slight differences between our prediction and the actual crowd sizes. We do our best to give you the most up-to-date and accurate predictions so that you may know what to expect when you arrive at Disney World.

Ratings based on Park Attendance:

1 = Light Crowds ( minimal lines ) 2 = Below Average Crowds 3 = Average Crowds 4 = Above Average Crowds 5 = Heavy Crowds (long lines)

How the Disney Crowd Calendar is Organized

Let’s look at how we’ve set up this valuable trip planning tool.

Crowds at each Disney Theme Park

Our Disney World Crowd Calendar predicts the crowds at Walt Disney World for every day in the next 12 months. Our estimates are broken down by Disney World theme park: Animal Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Magic Kingdom.

Weather at Disney World

Orlando, Florida is known for its nice weather . That said, there are some seasonal differences that you may want to take into consideration when booking your Disney vacation.  For example, August is historically the warmest month while January is the coldest. July is typically the wettest month and June has the most sunshine hours.

We list the average temperature range for each day of the calendar year. This will give you an idea of what to expect (and what clothes to pack) when you vacation at Walt Disney World.

Dining Reservations

Our Disney Crowd Calendar lists the specific date you will be eligible to make your Advance Disney Reservations.

Guests can book their dining reservations up to 60 days in advance (starting at 6 AM on the date indicated in the calendar).  The Disney Crowd Calendar lists the specific date you should start booking your Walt Disney World dining reservations.

Newbies are often surprised by the lack of dining availability once they get to Disney World. You shouldn’t expect to just walk into a full-service restaurant at Walt Disney World and get seated right away. It usually won’t happen.

It’s why it’s imperative to book your reservations well in advance to ensure your spot at some of Disney’s outstanding dining establishments. Certain restaurants are more difficult to book, and traveling at peak times means there will be more demand for full-dining options. We recommend that you book your Advance Dining Reservations as soon as you are able (60 days out).

The Disney Reservation Calculator is another tool you can use to find the dates you will be eligible to make your dining reservations.

Do you need help booking your Advance Dining Reservations? How about some advice on where to eat? Contact the Disney travel agents at The Vacationeer today.  There’s no charge to use their planning services!

Get Free One-On-One Help Planning Your Trip

When is Disney World Least Crowded ?

Walt Disney World’s parks are typically least crowded:

• January 2 nd until just prior to Presidents’ Day week (third Monday in February)
• The week after Labor Day until just prior to Thanksgiving week
• The week following Thanksgiving weekend until the week prior to Christmas .

The reasons for this are that parents typically plan Disney World vacations around two major factors, school schedules, and Summer heat.

Labor day is typically around the time U.S. schools get their year started, so the month or so after that is the least crowded time of year.

July and August can also be good times to go if you don’t mind the typically higher heat and humidity.

When is Disney World Most Crowded ?

Walt Disney World parks generally experience their highest attendance around:

• Presidents’ Day week (third week in February)
• the Spring Break period from mid-March through late April
• Memorial Day weekend, Summer (mid-June through Labor Day)
• Thanksgiving week
• Christmas week through January 1 st
• Weekends are typically more crowded than weekdays
• When it comes to weekdays, Mondays and Fridays tend to be slightly more crowded than Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

How bad are the crowds at Disney on a “most crowded” day versus a “least crowded” day?

The difference between a “least crowded” day and a “most crowded” day can be significant.

What are crowds like on Least Crowded days?

On the least crowded days at the parks, you might find that you’re able to walk straight through the line for at least a few of the rapidly-loading rides in the parks.  Many middle-tier rides will have waits around 10-15 minutes, with the most popular attractions like roller coasters having waits of around 30 minutes.  Dining is usually easy to obtain, with short waits for quick service dining and even the ability to get same-day reservations at some table service locations.

What are crowds like on Most Crowded days?

During the parks’ most crowded days, even quickly loading rides routinely show wait times of 15-45 minutes.  60+ minute waits for the most popular rides are not unheard of.  Fortunately, the implementation of theme park reservations and other entry restrictions has eliminated many of the nightmare scenarios we used to see, such as 3-5 hour waits on Christmas Day or New Years Eve.   Dining can also be a bit more challenging on crowded days, with longer waits (and occasionally having to “hover” to snag an empty table) at some quick service restaurants during peak lunch and dinner hours.  Same-day reservations at table service restaurants may not be available.

Should I avoid the parks on Most Crowded days?

All of the scenarios listed above are just representative samples.  Individual days have their own individual quirks; you might have shorter than expected waits on a “most crowded” day or longer than expected waits on a “least crowded” day.

It’s obviously best to plan your trips during less crowded times whenever possible, but we all know that it’s not necessarily possible due to work and school schedules.  If you do find yourself traveling during a more crowded time, you’ll still have a good time on vacation.   You’ll just want to plan ahead and take advantage of all the tools at your disposal – extended park hours, advance Park Pass reservations (when required), advance dining reservations, Lightning Lane , our Disney World Crowd Calendar, and the like – to make the most out of your time in the parks.

If you need help planning and booking your magical Walt Disney World vacation, then please contact the Disney Travel Agents at  The Vacationeer . Their services are always helpful and totally free of charge. Call 833-4MY-TRIP  (833-469-8747) or click the button below for a free, no-obligation price quote today!

When are the best days to visit Walt Disney World?

The best time to visit Disney World depends on many factors, including the weather, each traveler’s busy schedule, and, of course, how crowded the theme parks will be.

Our Disney travel planning experts regularly analyze past park attendance data, special events, attraction openings/closures, travel trends, weather, and many other elements in order to forecast and predict future crowds at Disney World’s four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Hollywood Studios.

We’ve taken some of this data and compared the average temperature predicted on each day to the predicted crowd level. Temperature range (F) and average crowd levels were converted to scores between 1-5. Temperature and crowd scores were then weighted and converted to a total score out of 100 to reveal the best days to visit each park. The best days to visit each park were determined based on the combined score.

According to the crowds-to-weather score, there are a few particular days to visit each park at Walt Disney World over a 12-month period which tend to offer the best balance. The data revealed that Magic Kingdom, for example, historically has three days to visit for the best crowds-to-weather ratio: October 26th, 31st, and November 1st. In comparison, Epcot has six perfect days (October 24-26 and 31, plus November 1 & 2).  Hollywood Studios has 5 (October 24-26 and 31, plus November 1). And Animal Kingdom has the most, with 12 (October 23-27, October 30 – November 3, and November 7-8). Interestingly, the dates are similar for each park, highlighting that the last week of October is the best week to visit Disney World.

Of course, crowd levels can vary from year to year, and weather can most certainly depart from averages.

So why pay attention to these scores? MagicGuides Editor Jaimie Michaels explains:

“By using data compiled from recent years, Disney crowd calendars help us determine which theme parks will have the shortest and longest lines, to discover the best times to visit the parks for fewer crowds and beautiful weather. While not every traveler has the flexibility to plan their trip around the least-crowded dates, this can still be a valuable tool for all, as knowing what to expect will allow you to plan accordingly and help you to maximize your Disney experience.”

Still concerned about crowds? Or maybe you have other questions? Fortunately, there’s a way to get expert help at no additional cost.

Connect With a Disney Super Fan Who’ll Plan Your Trip for Free

Planning a Disney World vacation can be overwhelming. You’re bombarded with confusing choices: dozens of hotels, hundreds of restaurants, and endless ticket options. It’s easy to feel helpless.

Now imagine getting personalized advice and help from an expert who’s visited the parks dozens of times and knows all the tips and tricks. And better yet, they’re willing to handle all of it for you, for free !

That’s exactly the idea behind  The Vacationeer — a group of 100+ Disney Super Fans who are also highly-trained travel professionals .

Why not let them take the stress out of your Disney vacation ?

Why Use The Vacationeer For Your Disney Trip?

No Planning Fees

The Vacationeer never charges you for their services. Your trip won’t cost a penny more than if you’d booked it yourself.

One-on-One Service

One dedicated agent handles everything from start to finish. No impersonal call centers and no waiting on hold.

Hassle-Free Booking

Don’t sweat the logistics. Your  Vacationeer arranges hotels, tickets, dining, and activities so you don’t have to.

The Best Price

They’ll find the best possible rate for your trip, and keep searching for new discounts to add as they’re announced.

What Their Clients Have to Say

“I can’t thank them enough”

“Emily did an AMAZING job planning my Disneymoon. The attention to detail is absolutely spot on! I can’t wait for her to plan our next vacation!”

“We had a wonderful vacation”

“Much of that had to do with the help we received from JoMarie! Disney can be a little overwhelming when you’re new to it, but she made it very enjoyable and low stress !”

“I could not be happier”

“Carla worked side by side with me to plan the perfect shows, rides, fireworks and places to stay with our group. We saved the most money possible .”

Here’s What To Expect

Step 1: Answer a few easy questions Just tell The Vacationeer who you are, how to reach you, and what your dream vacation looks like. They’ll assign a dedicated agent to handle your vacation from start to finish.

Step 2: Let them handle the details Your agent will help you pick the best options for your needs and budget. They’ll make your reservations and keep watching for better deals. And they’ll be there to answer any questions or concerns that arise.

Step 3: Pack your bags! Scream it out loud: “I’m going to Disney World!”  Thanks to your Vacationeer ‘s know-how, you’re off on an unforgettable adventure during the vacation of a lifetime!

The Vacationeer Advantage

Hotel Reservations: Your agent will help you pick the right place for the right price and arrange everything.

Dining: They’ll run the numbers on the Disney Dining Plan and secure tables at your choice of 100+ restaurants.

Theme Park Tickets: They’ll find the best ticket option for your family so you don’t waste money.

Recreation, Events, & More: You name it — golf, fishing, shows, backstage tours, ground transport — it’s all handled!

Virtual Queue and Lightning Lane: They’ll help demystify these line-skipping strategies so you save time during your trip.

Peace of Mind: You’re booking through an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner agency.

Unparalleled Expertise: As an Earmarked Diamond agency, they’ve booked more than 25,000 Disney vacations.

Personal Experience: They visit the theme parks often and can’t wait to share their insider tips with you!

Disney’s Lowest Prices: They’ll use their knowledge of discounts and deals to find the best rates.

New Discounts As They’re Announced: Your agent never stops looking for a better price, even after you’ve booked.

Ready To Do Disney The Stress-Free Way?

The MagicGuides Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar keeps you updated on all the special events happening at Disney. Check back often so you won’t miss out!

If you enjoyed our Walt Disney World Crowd Calendar page, be sure to check out our other articles like our Disney World Cost Calculator , Disney Dining Plan Calculator ,  Disney Dining Plans , Disney World Free Dining , Disney World Planning Timeline , Disney World Map ,  Tips and Tricks , Disney Travel Planners , How To Become a Disney Travel Agent , and our Secrets and Reviews pages. Also check out our in-depth article on the Best Days to Visit Magic Kingdom .

Thank you for reading our page, and we hope you have a magical Walt Disney World vacation!

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Disney World Itinerary: The Best Days to Visit Disney Parks

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Please click my disclosure policy to learn more.

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Now that you’ve picked the dates of your trip and hopefully have your hotel booked, it’s time to turn your attention towards picking the best days to visit Disney parks. This is a very important aspect of your Disney World itinerary!

What we are looking for here is how to fabricate a Disney touring plan that will best meet your needs, however many days you plan to be in the parks.

There really are certain tips and tricks to be aware of to try to stack all of the odds in your favor when creating the layout of your trip.

This step is necessary before you book your Disney park passes. And trust me, you want to book your park passes as soon as you can. Why risk the parks hitting capacity? Make sure to read my Disney park pass guide if you haven’t heard about the park pass system yet.

If you want to see an example of a solid Disney World itinerary, check out my ideal Disney World 7 day itinerary . It is full of additional tips for each of the days.

Towards the end of this post I have a sample 5 day Disney World itinerary to give you a peak at how all of this comes together.

Table of Contents

Choosing the Best Days to Visit Disney Parks

Let’s take a look at the general factors you should consider when planning your Disney World itinerary. Taking all of these things into consideration should give you a hand in picking your Disney World park days.

On the flip side, it’s important to note that you can choose to ignore all of these factors and simply pick the order of parks that seems best to you. If this is your first trip and you absolutely want to start everything off with a day at Magic Kingdom, then spend your first day at Magic Kingdom. 

Honestly, if you have the right attitude and plan you can make any Disney World itinerary work .

When are you going?

The time of year you go to Disney has an effect on various aspects of your Disney World itinerary. If you haven’t done so already, make sure you learn about the best time of year to go to Disney World . This will help give you an idea of pros and cons about different times of the year.

The main way the time of year impacts your Disney itinerary will be via crowds and park hours. Different times of year offer different park hours, and ultimately controls the amount of time you can spend in each park.

Special events that are unique to different times of the year will also impact your park experiences. But more on all of the below!

What Kind of Disney Park Ticket Do You Have?

The type of park ticket you purchased (or will purchase) has a pretty significant impact on your itinerary. Obviously, the length of the ticket has the most apparent impact on your Disney World itinerary. From the get go, the length of your ticket determines how many days you have to spend in the parks themselves.

The type of park ticket you choose impacts whether or not you can visit more than one park a day. Only people with Park Hopper tickets or Annual Passes can hop from one park to the next in a single day. Anyone with 1 park-1 day tickets are limited to visiting one park a day.

There is a pretty significant price difference between the ticket types, so you definitely pay extra for the added flexibility of a Park Hopper ticket.

Make sure you read my guide to the Disney World park tickets to make sure you understand your different options. Your choice will be important once you get to this stage of planning.

Park Crowd Levels

Now we get into the nitty gritty. Let’s face it, most of us are worried about the crowds. Maybe you chose your dates based on crowds in the first place, maybe not. Either way, taking a look at predicted crowds is a good way to choose your Disney World park days.

Undercover Tourist has a great crowd calendar you can use as you figure out your Disney World itinerary. They even recommend which park will be least crowded and most crowded on a given day.

However, even all of your careful planning to avoid crowds could be for naught. Disney World has been very crowded in general, even during historically “slow” times of the year. It’s best to just assume that crowd levels will be high and plan accordingly.

What Are the Busiest Days of the Week at Disney World?

In general, there are some days that are recognized as the busiest days of the week at Disney World. I’ve ranked them here in order, but really, they aren’t terribly surprising.

• Sunday and Saturday

Clearly, the least crowded days of the week will be Tuesday through Thursday. However, it’s not really ideal to jam all of your park days into those three days. Unless you are taking a trip with only 3 park days, then I would absolutely schedule the whole trip around this premise .

Special Events

There are certain special events throughout the year which impact the experience of a park during the day. This impact might be on crowds or on park hours.

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party

Any day that Magic Kingdom has one of it’s hallmark seasonal parties scheduled equals a 6:00pm closing time for that day. 

Both Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party have an official start time of 7:00p. At that point, all guests without party tickets must leave.

This is a double edged sword. On one hand, if you go to Magic Kingdom on that day you miss out on Magic Kingdom at night, which is a major downside. However, crowd levels on party days are notoriously some of the lowest crowds you’ll find at Magic Kingdom during your trip .

If you are okay with missing out on the evening at Magic Kingdom, party days are great days to go to Magic Kingdom. However, if you only have one day at Magic Kingdom on your first ever Disney trip, I wouldn’t go there on a party day . There is too much you would miss out on.

Epcot Festivals

Any of the Epcot Festivals are immensely popular with Orlando locals. Because of this, Friday nights and Saturdays tend to draw a big local crowd who want to enjoy themselves.

This leads to higher crowds during this time, and an increase in the odds of drunken revelry. The general rule of thumb is to avoid going to Epcot on Friday night and Saturday when there is a festival going on.

Epcot Festival Dates

As you can see below, there’s hardly a time of the year that DOES NOT have a special festival going on at Epcot. There used to be a break during the summer, but no more!

Now the gaps in festivals are really down to a week or two here and there throughout the year. To be safe, just assume that there is an Epcot festival going on during your trip.

• Epcot International Festival of the Arts : Mid January to late February
• Epcot International Flower and Garden Festival : Early March to early Julu
• Epcot International Food and Wine Festival : End of July to mid November
• Epcot International Festival of the Holidays: Day after Thanksgiving to end of December

Best Days of the Week for Each Disney Park

Ok, let’s get into some of the nitty gritty for each park, shall we? Remember, all of this is dynamic, but I’ll talk about basic trends that you can use to make an informed decision.

One thing you’ll notice is that there is a lot of overlap in which days are the best for each park. This means that inevitably you’ll need to go to at least one park on a higher crowd day. Please, don’t sweat this. You will be fine and still have a wonderful time!

Please know that no matter what days you choose to be where, you can make any of it work as long as you are smart.

If you know you’ll be at Disney during a busy time of year make sure you have a good strategy going into each day and you’ll be able to do fine.

Best Day to Visit Animal Kingdom

We start the discussion with the most forgiving of all the parks. Sadly, this is partly due to the fact that there aren’t as many attractions at Animal Kingdom. But, this does make it easier to successfully do everything that you want!

In general, the best days to go to Animal Kingdom are Monday through Friday. That’s right, you can go there on any weekday and be in a pretty good position.

But honestly, you can go to Animal Kingdom ANY day of the week, including weekends, and it’s fairly easy to have a successful day .

Because of this, I recommend that you plug Animal Kingdom into your schedule on whatever day you have left after you choose the days for the other parks. They are much more fiddly than Animal Kingdom.

In general, Animal Kingdom is the park with the earliest opening time on any given day. This is a huge advantage because people don’t like to get up early.

This allows you to get a head start on all of the rides. On the flip side, Animal Kingdom sees a good size drop off in crowds in the evenings for various reasons.

That makes the mornings and evenings wonderful times to be at Animal Kingdom on any day. That is why you don’t need to stress over which day to visit Animal Kingdom.

Just go in with a good touring plan for the day and you’ll be good to go. With that in mind, take a look at my Animal Kingdom 1 day itinerary for a solid strategy.

Best Day to Visit Epcot

Epcot is very much considered a local’s park. This is especially true during any of the Epcot festivals, which as I’ve pointed out, is pretty much most of the year.

Because of this, Friday evening, Saturday, and Sunday are bad days to visit Epcot . This is when all of the locals flock to Epcot to eat and drink their way around the world. It’s a popular date night location, or a hang out with friends nights. Or like a very expensive frat party.

I kid you not.

The drunken revelry can get high on the weekends at Epcot. Clearly, this is not necessarily the most family friendly atmosphere. So between the higher crowds and the frat party atmosphere, it’s best avoided.

Ride lines might not necessarily be longer on the weekends, which I suppose is one bonus. The locals aren’t necessarily there to get on the rides. They are there to eat and drink! But while the ride lines aren’t impacted, the crowd feel in World Showcase is huge.

This also means that the lines for any of the food booths are much longer. And really, that’s a huge part of going to Epcot in the first place!

On the plus side, of all of the parks, Epcot is the best for absorbing crowds. It is huge! This allows everyone to spread out a bit more so it at least doesn’t feel like you are in a can of sardines.

After all of that long windedness, I bet you’d like to actually know what the best days to visit Epcot are. In general, the best days at Epcot are Monday, Tuesday, or Wednesday .

Many families with small children avoid Epcot entirely because they think there isn’t enough to do at Epcot. This works in your favor as it just makes the crowds better for you.

Others view Epcot as only a half day park. I vehemently disagree with this. I never seem to be able to fit everything I want to do at Epcot in a single day!

Take a look at all of my thoughts about how to maximize your day at Epcot with this itinerary .

Best Day to Visit Hollywood Studios

With the addition of Toy Story Land and Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, Hollywood Studios has quickly become the second most popular park in Disney World.

Unfortunately, this isn’t backed up by having enough rides to absorb all of the crowds! In my opinion, Hollywood Studios is a park that has a very high crowd feel. There are pinch points all over the place and sometimes it just feels downright crowded. Add high wait times to the mix and it can make for a frustrating day.

With that in mind, make sure you have a solid plan for how to tour Hollywood Studios . It can really help with navigating the crowds and getting on all of the rides that you want.

In general, you want to avoid going to Hollywood Studios on Monday and Tuesday. After Magic Kingdom, this is the park that everyone wants to go to. Hence why Monday and Tuesday are more crowded.

Ironically, Hollywood Studios is a good park to go to on Saturday and Sunday , as long as you plan to arrive early and leave late. This allows you to take advantage of the two best times of the day in terms of crowd levels.

Wednesday and Thursday could be good alternate days to go to Hollywood Studios.

Best Day to Visit Magic Kingdom

Here we are at the main attraction. EVERYONE wants to go to Magic Kingdom, as they should. Magic Kingdom is the quintessential Disney World experience.

Because of this eagerness, there is a distinct trend that emerges when it comes to Magic Kingdom crowds. Most people make their vacation run from Sunday to Saturday/Sunday. Magic Kingdom is usually the first park they want to go to, making Monday a very crowded day at Magic Kingdom .

On the flipside, people like to also end their trip at Magic Kingdom, making Friday and Saturday higher crowd days . The Saturday crowds are compounded by locals and long park hours.

Locals tend to flock to Magic Kingdom on Saturdays and southerners taking a quick trip for a long weekend also go to Magic Kingdom on Saturday. Then in the evenings people park hop over to Magic Kingdom to take advantage of the long hours. So really, you have a major double whammy here.

In general, try to avoid going to Magic Kingdom on Saturday whenever possible .

So, what is left? This means that Wednesday and Thursday are the best days to visit Magic Kingdom .

Magic Kingdom is also a good park to buy Disney Genie+ to take advantage of the line cutting abilities. With the high volume of rides and the high popularity, Genie+ is a good splurge for Magic Kingdom to allow you to get on more rides with less fuss.

In addition to all of this, make sure you look at my 1 day Magic Kingdom itinerary to get an idea of how to structure your day.

Magic Kingdom and Party Days

And to throw a monkey wrench into all of this, we have the special parties that take place in Magic Kingdom from mid-August through late December.

As I mentioned above, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party are to huge events at Magic Kingdom. This results in Magic Kingdom closing early, by 6pm, a few days a week, every week, for months.

This takes up a massive part of the calendar.

In general, most people make the obvious choice of avoiding going to Magic Kingdom on a non-party days so they can experience Magic Kingdom at night. And believe me, Magic Kingdom at night is awesome.

However, this means that non-party days from mid-August through late December automatically become the busiest days of the week at Magic Kingdom.

This is where you could benefit by weaving when everyone else bobs. Wait times are significantly shorter on party days. On top of that, Magic Kingdom opens an hour earlier on party days. For those with early entry, this equals an extra hour and a half in the morning, which is the best time to go to Magic Kingdom.

This alone makes the party days at Magic Kingdom a good option. Not as many people want to get up early enough to make it to Magic Kingdom before 7:30a. That makes this your moment!

Since the park closes by 6p on party days, it’s a good idea to park hop from Magic Kingdom to one of the other parks around 4p so you can still enjoy the rest of the day at a park. Clearly, this strategy only works if you have park hopper tickets.

The number one downside of this strategy is missing the evening hours at Magic Kingdom. This is a major ding because the Magic Kingdom fireworks are a great experience. And I’m just a fan of being in any of the parks at night. They are just magical.

You can always choose to park hop over to Magic Kingdom on a non-party night to experience Magic Kingdom at night. Just be aware that tons of other people will have this idea as well.

Alternately, you can watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from outside of the park too. The beach at the Polynesian resort is a popular location, for example.

Disney Rest Days

With any Disney World touring plan that lasts for more than 5 nights, planning a rest day at Disney World is highly recommended. This is recommended for two reasons.

The first reason is because you will all simply need a slower paced day. Most people, my family included, tend to jam as much as they can into their park days. This is a lot of walking and long hours for little kids. Deliberately planning at least one rest day allows everyone to have a day that isn’t so hectic and exhausting.

The second reason to take a non-park day at Disney is simply because there is so much to do outside of the parks that shouldn’t be missed! From frolicking in the resort pools to checking out Disney Springs there is so much to do.

In fact, I have an entire post with over 70 things to do at Disney World besides the parks . Even better, quite a few of those things are free!

Disney Arrival and Departure Days

Depending on what time you arrive and depart from Disney World, your arrival and departure days are great opportunities to do some of these outside the park activities.

On shorter trips, or if you have unused park days on your ticket, these days can also be great opportunities to visit the parks for a few hours.

I almost always try to do this to eke out every possible second of my time at Disney World. Animal Kingdom is a good option for departure day because it tends to open earliest. Conversely, Magic Kingdom is often a great option for arrival day since it stays open until 11p on some days.

The Disney Journey’s Formula for a Good Disney World Itinerary

Now that we’ve looked at all of the different factors in play when picking your Disney World park days, what do we do with it? First off, I highly recommend that you have a visual tool to help you with this. Blocking things off visually can really help.

Also, while it’s not impossible to only pick your park days based on predicted low crowds, find a blend between doing that and what makes sense for the flow of your trip. Sometimes I choose the busier park on one day because it allows me to have a low crowd day at a different park another day.

It’s a fluid process that really has no right or wrong way to do it.

Basic Tips for Picking the Best Days to Visit Disney World Parks

• Fly in and out mid-week : Flights are typically cheaper on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays
• Check the Park Ticket Calendar for Crowd Levels: when going through the park ticket calendar on Disney’s website, the cheaper the starting price of the tickets, the lower crowd level time of year it is. Same goes for looking at 1 day ticket prices for individual parks. That means Disney expects lower crowds at that park on that day.
• Prioritize Park Order vs. Low Crowds : Hopefully the stars can align and you can get both, but figure out which is more important to you
• Magic Kingdom is #1 : Not that it needs to go first, but Magic Kingdom should never be on the chopping block. It’s too important to the overall experience
• Park Days with a Split Stay: If you have a split stay scheduled (staying in more than one resort) plan your park days based on which parks are easiest to get to from each resort you stay at
• Don’t skip any parks : Try your hardest to at least spend some time in all 4 parks during your trip, especially if it’s your first or only trip. Each park has its own flavor and amazing experiences.
• Take Advantage of Early Entry: If you are staying at a Disney resort you can enter the parks 30 minutes before park opening. This is prime time to get on rides with little to no line. DO NOT miss early entry.
• Avoid Major Holidays: This isn’t always possible, but if you can go during a time when there isn’t a major holiday, you’re already in a better position in terms of crowds. Even holidays such as Columbus Day or President’s Day can be insanely crowded because of school breaks

Sample 5-Day Disney World Itinerary

With a shorter trip like this, my priorities shift big time. I strategically chose these days of the week to take advantage of the fact that Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday are the least crowded days of the week.

Also, room rates tend to be a little cheaper during the week so why not take advantage of that as well?

With a 5-day Disney World itinerary I highly recommend either park hopper passes OR a flight time that allows you to go to a park on either arrival or departure day.

Day 1 (Monday) – Arrival Day (Pool and/or Disney Springs)

Day 2 (Tuesday) – Magic Kingdom

Day 3 (Wednesday) – Hollywood Studios

Day 4 (Thursday) – Animal Kingdom then Epcot

Day 5 (Friday) – Departure Day (Disney Springs if time)

Really, you will want to choose which parks to split on that last day. However, the main parts of Animal Kingdom can be reasonably done in one morning, especially if you follow my Animal Kingdom rope drop strategy .

By using that strategy you also start the day in the park that tends to open the earliest, helping you to stretch those days as much as humanly possible.

Do not spend only half a day in Magic Kingdom. Of all the parks, Magic Kingdom is easily a 2 full day park.

Final Thoughts

There you have it, my thoughts on how to choose the best days to visit Disney parks. Picking your Disney park days is such an important part of the trip.

In the end, pick the order that makes the most sense for you and your family. What works best for my family might not be what works best for yours. Though I think we can all agree that if we could manage lower crowds we’d do it in a heartbeat!

Your Thoughts

Do you have any other factors that go into choosing your Disney park days? What is your golden rule for picking your park days? Let me know in the comments below.

Don’t forget to follow The Disney Journey on Pinterest and Facebook to stay up to date with all the latest news and updates.

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How to visit disney world for free (or close to it).

Anyone with kids understands that Disney World is a vacation they need to take at least once. After all, it's the happiest place on earth. The only problem is, the place is expensive, and it's only getting more so. In February, Disney announced they were raising ticket prices.

Last year, Disney parks started implementing tiered admission prices based on the season. This was to help fight overcrowding at some of the busiest times of the year.

With the price increase, most Disney theme parks will see mid-tier tickets increase to $107, up from $102. Peak season tickets (think spring break, summer and Christmas break) will increase to $119 from $114. And one-day tickets for the low season will go up to $99 from $97.

Tickets for the Magic Kingdom will cost a bit more for mid-tier tickets, up from $110 to $115, but peak prices will remain unchanged at $124.

Obviously, it gets expensive for a family. Just visiting the Magic Kingdom would end up costing a family of four between $396 and $496 depending on the season. And that's for just one day at the park. Disney does offer special discount ticket packages , however, so be sure to check out what's on offer before booking. You might be able to get a really good deal, especially during the off-season.

Of course, there are other ways to reduce your costs for visiting the happiest place on earth. You can start by using the rewards you receive from credit cards , for starters. There are three different cards you will need to make your trip nearly free (excluding food costs).

The Flights

Southwest Airlines is a favorite for many people. They're inexpensive, they're friendly and the overall flying experience is considered quite pleasant. Frequently the airline runs sales with prices starting at $59 one-way, or approximately 4,130 Southwest Rapid Reward points. That means for a family of four, it's possible to get round-trip flights for as little as 33,040 points.

To cover this expense, you can sign up for the Southwest Rapid Rewards Plus credit card. You will receive 50,000 points after you spend $2,000 within the first three months. In addition to this signup bonus, you will also receive 2 points per dollar on Southwest Airlines flights and on Rapid Rewards hotel and car rental partner purchases. For all other purchases you will receive 1 points per dollar. There is a $69 annual fee, but you will receive 3,000 bonus points on every card member anniversary.

A couple of years ago, Wyndham Resorts changed how many points were needed for a free night at any property. Instead of using a tiered system like other hotel brands, they moved to a flat rate. It now costs 15,000 points per night at every hotel.

Located right outside the Disney Park is the Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek. This hotel is extremely kid-friendly with multiple pools, water slides and themed rooms. There is also a free shuttle that will take you to the Disney World gates.

To cover the expense, you could sign up for the Wyndham Rewards Visa card from Barclaycard . You will receive 30,000 points after your first purchase and another 15,000 points after spending $2,000 in the first 90 days. These 45,000 points would be good enough for three free nights. If you and your spouse both sign up for this card, you could earn up to six free nights.

In addition to the points you earn after signing up, you will also receive 5 points per dollar spent at any Wyndham property. Purchases made at gas stations, grocery stores and on any utility bill will receive 2 points per dollar. All other purchases will receive 1 points per dollar. There is a $75 annual fee, but you will receive 6,000 bonus points on each anniversary.

The Theme Park

We have already talked about how expensive it can be to purchase Disney World tickets. Luckily the cost can be mostly offset by the Barclaycard Arrival Plus World Elite MasterCard. With this card you will receive 50,000 miles after spending $3,000 in the first 90 days. You will also receive 2 miles per dollar on every purchase that you make.

The points you earn are worth statement credits on any travel expense. Each mile is worth one cent each. That means the 50,000 mile signup bonus is worth $500, enough to cover the costs of four Disney theme park tickets at peak season prices. However, it's important to understand that purchases at Disney won't be coded as a travel expense and you won't be able to use your miles. Instead, you would need to purchase your Disney tickets through either Expedia.com or UndercoverTourist.com.

Another perk of the Barclaycard Arrival Plus credit card is that you will receive 5% of your rewards back in your account upon redemption. That means if you redeem the 50,000 miles for Disney tickets, 2,500 miles will be put back into your account. There is an $89 annual fee with this card, but it's waived the first year.

Being Smart About Multiple Credit Cards

One of the big things to consider before applying for multiple credit cards, is that it's wise to space out your applications. Too many new credit requests all at once can ding your credit scores, meaning your application for your second, third or even fourth card could be declined. Plus, multiple credit cards aren't for everyone. They mean you'll have to keep track of multiple initial-spend requirements, plus multiple due dates for your monthly payments.

Also keep in mind that, while the rewards may be attractive, especially if you're trying to take a free vacation, you may not want (or be able) to spend the necessary amounts to reap those rewards. It's important to understand whether or not that kind of spending will fit within your household's budget. The last thing you want to do is end up coming home from Disney World with debt you'll struggle to pay off.

Whatever you decide, checking your credit scores before applying is an important step. It can help you understand whether you'll actually qualify for the particular rewards card you have your eye on (rewards credit cards tend to require higher credit scores). You can get your two credit scores absolutely free and updated every 14 days, on Credit.com.

Note: It's important to remember that interest rates, fees and terms for credit cards, loans and other financial products frequently change. As a result, rates, fees and terms for credit cards, loans and other financial products cited in these articles may have changed since the date of publication. Please be sure to verify current rates, fees and terms with credit card issuers, banks or other financial institutions directly.

More from Credit.com:

The Best Credit Cards for International Travel

How to Make a 401K Withdrawal

How to Get the Best Terms on a New Credit Card

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I’ve been to Disney theme parks more than 50 times – the free hack that can save you hundreds on holiday

• Hope Brotherton , Travel Reporter
• Published : 13:47, 16 Aug 2024
• Updated : 15:01, 16 Aug 2024
• Published : Invalid Date,

THE pressure to make a once-in-a-lifetime Disney theme park holiday the best experience can be overwhelming.

But learning how to save money while holidaying in one of the parks can help families enjoy their bucket list trip.

The travel money experts at  eurochange have teamed up with self-confessed Disney park expert, Ryan Ogilvie at Theme Park Trader, to reveal some money-saving tips.

Ryan said: "I’ve been to Walt Disney World 30-35 times and have been going since I was 3 years old.

"I’ve been to Disneyland Paris around 15-20 times, with plans to visit Disneyland next year and Tokyo Disneyland in 2026 or 2027."

This means Ryan has been to Disney theme parks around 50 times, which means he knows exactly how holidaymakers should save their cash.

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In a bid to save money at the Disney parks , Ryan recommends order ice water at restaurants because it's completely free.

He said: "I still see so many guests purchasing bottles of water when in the parks and it’s not needed.

"Take your own bottles (or use your Disney ones if staying on-site) and ask for ice water.

"It’s free and you can transfer it to your refillable cup. It sounds obvious, but if you’re buying multiple bottles of water at $4+ a day, you’re going to be spending into the hundreds by the end of a trip."

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While it may not seem like a lot, the cost of daily bottles of water will soon add up.

Ryan believes holidaymakers often forget these additional costs, he added: "When it comes to travelling to a Disney Park , many people are mistaken in thinking that once you book your hotel and tickets, you’re done.

"This is the biggest misstep I see people take and it results in a poorer experience. 

"Every detail of your Disney trip needs to be planned in advance to make the most of your trip.

"This includes planning on what days you’ll be at which parks, what table service restaurants you’ll be dining in and, of course, what attractions you’ll be experiencing and when (especially if you’ll be using Disney’s Lightning Lane Multi-Pass or Lightning Lane Singe Pass). Unless you’re visiting regularly, long-gone are the days when you could just ‘wing’ a day at Disney."

RYAN'S OTHER TIPS

Asking for ice water wasn't Ryan's only money-saving tip, he had plenty of others too, including bringing your own snacks into the parks.

He also recommended making the most of the free activities at the park like the parades, firework shows, character meet-and-greets .

Park-goers who are crunching the numbers should also consider whether it's more cost-effective to purchase a Disney Dining Pla n and staying off-site.

Other extra costs should also be factored into a holiday budget when planning a trip to one of the Disney parks, including money for tips and parking costs.

OTHER DISNEY TIPS

Meanwhile, here are some top tips for saving money while enjoying the resort as much as possible.

Order food to your hotel

One of the things guests spend most of their money on at  Disney World  is food, but there are ways around that.

Bringing food from supermarkets to the hotels , means guests can prepare their own lunches from their rooms.

Some resorts will charge to bring the food up to your room, but if you go down to collect it yourself, it won't cost any extra.

Split meals/order from the kids menu

Another food-related way to save money is to split a main course, or order from the children's menu.

Meals are often big enough for two, while the children's portions can also sustain most people.

Buy discounted gift cards

Discounted gift cards exist and can be used to pay for almost everything inside the park.

Kari Becker, a Disney travel planner, told Insider : "You can purchase  discounted Disney  gift cards in bulk at stores such as Target, Sam's Club , and BJ's.

"On our last trip,  we saved over $300  (£266) just by buying discounted Disney gift cards."

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Use these tips on your next theme park trip.

Next time you visit a theme park, you may want to use our top tips to make the most of your adrenaline-inducing day out.

• Go to the back of the theme park first. Rides at the front will have the longest queues as soon as it opens.
• Go on water rides in the middle of the day in the summer - this will cool you off when the sun is at its hottest.
• Download the park's app to track which rides have the shortest queues.
• Visit on your birthday, as some parks give out "birthday badges" that can get you freebies.
• If it rains, contact the park. Depending on how much it rained, you may get a free ticket to return.

Here are some of the  secret freebies  you can get at Disney  theme parks .

And a mum-of-two has revealed how to  save as much as £7k on a Disney holiday .

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Did Disney World just slash prices? What to know before booking your next trip

Has Disney World been quietly lowering its prices over the last few months? According to Bloomberg News and Quartz , it's highly possible.

Several outlets have been claiming that the theme parks have been discounting the cost of admission , introducing special deals for guests to wake of customer complaints of high prices.

According to Bloomberg, the company is listening and trying to make amends with guests. One manager told the outlet that "we hear about the complaints, and we’ve had many trainings on improving guest interaction and the guest experience overall."

One of the measures highlighted by many is one of Disney's new Florida resident tickets. Here's what to know about the deal and how long you have to take part in the offer.

What is the 'Florida Resident Discover Disney' ticket deal at Disney World?

The Florida Resident Discover Disney is a ticket deal that allows residents to experience three or more Disney World theme parks at a reduced rate for the entire summer.  

Proof of a residential Florida address will be required at the time of exchange, with guests providing one of the following as proof of address:

• a valid FL driver's license
• a valid FL state issued card (must have Florida address)
• Or a valid Florida-based military ID

The persons who will use the Florida Resident adult tickets must be present at the time of ticket pick up.

How much is the 'Florida Resident Discover Disney' offer? Where can I purchase the ticket.

Residents of the Sunshine State are can purchase either:

• 4-Day Discover Disney Ticket for $59 per day plus tax, which totals up to $235 plus tax.
• 3-day Discover Disney Ticket for $73 per day which totals up to $219 plus tax.

For an additional $40, you can add on the "park hopper" option to visit more than one theme park on the same day.

To compare, a regular single day ticket for guests and Florida resident starts at $109.99 plus tax. Another one of Disney's special offers, its "4-park magic ticket," is $99 per day for 4 days, totaling $396 plus tax.

To purchase the deal or learn more, you can find it on Disney World's website under " Tickets & Passes ."

Can I add a water park or mini golf to the 'Florida Resident Discover Disney' ticket deal?

Yes, you can.

You can add the "water and sports" option to the Florida Resident Discover Disney ticket for an additional $35. It allows guests to get a certain number of visits to a water park, golf course or miniature golf course based on the length of your ticket.

The "park hopper plus" combines the Park Hopper option and the Water Park and Sports option for $55.

Is parking included with the 'Florida Resident Discover Disney' offer?

No, you still have to purchase parking at the gate. According to its  website , the rates for Disney World's parks are:

• Standard parking: car or motorcycle  – $30 per day
• Preferred parking: car or motorcycle  – $45, $50 or $55 per day
• Oversized Vehicle Parking: Shuttle, Limo, Camper Trailer, RV, Bus or Tractor Trailer  - $35 per day

When does Walt Disney World's Florida resident deal expire?

The ticket deal expires on Saturday, Sept. 28, 2024.

Do you still need to make park reservations before heading to Walt Disney World theme parks?

Yes, the website states you still must make a theme park reservation for each date of your visit. According to the Undercover Tourist Blog , you must follow these steps before heading to the parks:

• Confirm Disney Park Pass availability on the official  Disney availability calendar .
• After purchase, link your ticket to  My Disney Experience .
• Make a Disney Park Pass Reservation  immediately after linking your tickets to My Disney Experience to guarantee park admission on your selected dates! 

I’ve been to Disney parks over 50 times — this is how to save money on your trip

F or many, Disney World in Florida is a once-in-a-lifetime trip — and given it costs over £5,300 to take a family of four, it’s easy to see why.

Ryan Ogilvie, however, has been to the brand’s resorts more than 50 times, with around 35 visits to Walt Disney World (where he’s been going since he was three) and 20 to Disneyland Paris .

The dad takes his role as Disney expert at Theme Park Trader seriously, and knows more than most about ‘The Happiest Place On Earth’.

Consequently, he also knows exactly how to keep costs down while keeping things magical.

‘When it comes to travelling to a Disney Park, many people are mistaken in thinking that once you book your hotel and tickets, you’re done,’ Ryan tells eurochange.

‘This is the biggest misstep I see people take and it results in a poorer experience.’

According to the Disney fanatic, ‘every detail needs to be planned in advance’ to get the most out of your trip, from the restaurants you want to eat at to the rides you don’t want to miss.

Start with an itinerary of your holiday based on the parks you’ll be at each day, then give these top tips a go to ensure you don’t blow your budget. We don’t all have Scrooge McDuck cash to splash, after all.

Before you go

Buy tickets in advance

This may seem obvious, but trying to ‘wing it’ at Disney will result in longer waiting times and a much larger spend.

Ryan recommends getting all your tickets in advance to take advantage of discounts, adding: ‘This is especially true in the UK, where you can purchase a two-week ticket that will save you a small fortune versus trying to source tickets when you land in Orlando.’

Don’t forget about the taxes

Before you announce the dream trip to the family, make sure you can actually afford it. Due to US taxes, you can expect to pay between 6% and 7% on top of displayed ticket prices and purchases, so it’s important to factor this in.

Get your travel money in advance 

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at  eurochange , highlights the added expense that comes when you leave getting your foreign currency to the last minute.

She says: ‘Buying them in the airport or inside the Disney parks themselves could result in you paying over hundreds of pounds more, and you’ll get a much worse rate than if you purchased them on the high street or online beforehand.’

Stay off-site

When you’re booking your stay, it’s worth looking into accommodation outside of Disney itself.

Although on-site hotels offer convenience (and perks like the ability to buy Lightning Lane passes before off-site guests), using Uber or Lyft to get to and from the parks and staying at a nice hotel nearby may still work out cheaper.

‘If you’re not staying on site, expect to pay at least $25 per day for parking at a Disney theme park,’ adds Ryan. ‘My advice… don’t drive.’

At the park

Take snacks with you or consider a Disney Dining Plan

Food is one of the biggest expenses you’ll face on a trip to Disney World or Disneyland.

Ryan suggests two options to limit spending, the first being to take your own food in with you.

‘As great as Disney restaurants can be , buying meals inside the parks every day can get incredibly expensive,’ he says. ‘When you arrive, either head to a supermarket or get a delivery sent straight to your hotel/villa with all the snacks you’ll need and use these to munch on during the day.’ 

Alternatively, a Disney Dining Plan (or DDP to those in the know) can work out cheaper than buying bits and bobs as you go – bear in mind though, they’re only available to those staying on-site, and don’t always include every eatery.

Ryan says: ‘We’ve found that the dining plans (free as part of a package or not) have been the best thing to suit our family, as all our food requirements have already been paid for before we arrive.

‘This means you know that any dollars you have can be spent on extras like souvenirs, and you also know (if going with the standard Disney Dining Plan) that you have a quick service, table service, and snack sorted every day.’

Don’t say yes to everything

This is a tough one for parents taking their little ones on a bucket list Disney break, but stay strong.

‘Despite how tempting it might be to purchase everything for your kids, they’re already in Disney!’ says Ryan.

‘On a recent trip with our children, we gave each $100 and allowed them to make decisions on what they wanted to buy. We made it very clear that once their money was spent, that was it.

‘Of course, there were additional treats throughout the trip, but these weren’t expected and we weren’t constantly being asked to buy something from the parks, as they were making their own minds up on what to get and when.’

Ask for ice water instead of buying bottled water

While you’re going to need water as you traverse the Magic Kingdom, a single bottle there can cost upwards of $4.

Instead, Ryan suggests taking your own bottle and asking for ice water to fill it up, which is totally free of charge.

He adds: ‘It sounds obvious, but if you’re buying multiple bottles of water a day, you’re going to be spending into the hundreds by the end of a trip.’

Factor in tips

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To avoid getting caught out, ensure you’re considering gratuities when ordering at restaurants or bars around Disney.

Ryan says: ‘Tips are not included in the price of meals at table-service restaurants – expect to add 18-20% for gratuity, which adds up. However, if you’re a party of six or more, this is automatically added to your bill.’

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NEWS... BUT NOT AS YOU KNOW IT

I’ve been to Disney parks over 50 times — this is how to save money on your trip

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For many, Disney World in Florida is a once-in-a-lifetime trip — and given it costs over £5,300 to take a family of four, it’s easy to see why.

Ryan Ogilvie, however, has been to the brand’s resorts more than 50 times, with around 35 visits to Walt Disney World (where he’s been going since he was three) and 20 to Disneyland Paris .

The dad takes his role as Disney expert at Theme Park Trader seriously, and knows more than most about ‘The Happiest Place On Earth’.

Consequently, he also knows exactly how to keep costs down while keeping things magical.

‘When it comes to travelling to a Disney Park, many people are mistaken in thinking that once you book your hotel and tickets, you’re done,’ Ryan tells eurochange.

‘This is the biggest misstep I see people take and it results in a poorer experience.’

According to the Disney fanatic, ‘every detail needs to be planned in advance’ to get the most out of your trip, from the restaurants you want to eat at to the rides you don’t want to miss.

Start with an itinerary of your holiday based on the parks you’ll be at each day, then give these top tips a go to ensure you don’t blow your budget. We don’t all have Scrooge McDuck cash to splash, after all.

Before you go

Buy tickets in advance

This may seem obvious, but trying to ‘wing it’ at Disney will result in longer waiting times and a much larger spend.

Ryan recommends getting all your tickets in advance to take advantage of discounts, adding: ‘This is especially true in the UK, where you can purchase a two-week ticket that will save you a small fortune versus trying to source tickets when you land in Orlando.’

Don’t forget about the taxes

Before you announce the dream trip to the family, make sure you can actually afford it. Due to US taxes, you can expect to pay between 6% and 7% on top of displayed ticket prices and purchases, so it’s important to factor this in.

Get your travel money in advance 

Laura Evans-Fisk, head of digital and engagement at  eurochange , highlights the added expense that comes when you leave getting your foreign currency to the last minute.

She says: ‘Buying them in the airport or inside the Disney parks themselves could result in you paying over hundreds of pounds more, and you’ll get a much worse rate than if you purchased them on the high street or online beforehand.’

Stay off-site

When you’re booking your stay, it’s worth looking into accommodation outside of Disney itself.

Although on-site hotels offer convenience (and perks like the ability to buy Lightning Lane passes before off-site guests), using Uber or Lyft to get to and from the parks and staying at a nice hotel nearby may still work out cheaper.

‘If you’re not staying on site, expect to pay at least $25 per day for parking at a Disney theme park,’ adds Ryan. ‘My advice… don’t drive.’

At the park

Take snacks with you or consider a Disney Dining Plan

Food is one of the biggest expenses you’ll face on a trip to Disney World or Disneyland.

Ryan suggests two options to limit spending, the first being to take your own food in with you.

‘As great as Disney restaurants can be , buying meals inside the parks every day can get incredibly expensive,’ he says. ‘When you arrive, either head to a supermarket or get a delivery sent straight to your hotel/villa with all the snacks you’ll need and use these to munch on during the day.’ 

Alternatively, a Disney Dining Plan (or DDP to those in the know) can work out cheaper than buying bits and bobs as you go – bear in mind though, they’re only available to those staying on-site, and don’t always include every eatery.

Ryan says: ‘We’ve found that the dining plans (free as part of a package or not) have been the best thing to suit our family, as all our food requirements have already been paid for before we arrive.

‘This means you know that any dollars you have can be spent on extras like souvenirs, and you also know (if going with the standard Disney Dining Plan) that you have a quick service, table service, and snack sorted every day.’

Don’t say yes to everything

This is a tough one for parents taking their little ones on a bucket list Disney break, but stay strong.

‘Despite how tempting it might be to purchase everything for your kids, they’re already in Disney!’ says Ryan.

‘On a recent trip with our children, we gave each $100 and allowed them to make decisions on what they wanted to buy. We made it very clear that once their money was spent, that was it.

‘Of course, there were additional treats throughout the trip, but these weren’t expected and we weren’t constantly being asked to buy something from the parks, as they were making their own minds up on what to get and when.’

Ask for ice water instead of buying bottled water

While you’re going to need water as you traverse the Magic Kingdom, a single bottle there can cost upwards of $4.

Instead, Ryan suggests taking your own bottle and asking for ice water to fill it up, which is totally free of charge.

He adds: ‘It sounds obvious, but if you’re buying multiple bottles of water a day, you’re going to be spending into the hundreds by the end of a trip.’

Factor in tips

To avoid getting caught out, ensure you’re considering gratuities when ordering at restaurants or bars around Disney.

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Ryan says: ‘Tips are not included in the price of meals at table-service restaurants – expect to add 18-20% for gratuity, which adds up. However, if you’re a party of six or more, this is automatically added to your bill.’

Do you have a story to share?

Get in touch by emailing [email protected] .

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Disney says man can't sue over wife's death because he agreed to Disney+ terms of service

Disney is trying to have a widower's wrongful death lawsuit dismissed and sent to arbitration because the man had signed up for a Disney+ account several years ago.

Jeffrey J. Piccolo sued Disney Parks and Resorts in February, months after his wife, Dr. Kanokporn Tangsuan, died after she consumed food containing allergens at a restaurant in Disney World.

Piccolo said in his complaint that he, his wife and his mother went to dinner at Raglan Road Irish Pub and Restaurant at the resort in Orlando, Florida, on Oct. 5. They asked several times whether Tangsuan's allergies could be accommodated, according to the complaint. Despite the server’s having assured them, Tangsuan had a severe allergic reaction and died at a local hospital, the complaint said.

Disney filed court documents in May saying the $50,000 lawsuit should be dismissed and resolved by individual arbitration because of terms Piccolo agreed to when he signed up for a free trial of the streaming service Disney+. The filing also says he accepted the same terms when he used the Walt Disney Parks website to buy tickets.

Lawyers for the company said that users have to select checkboxes that hyperlink to the terms of use, as well as another that says they agreed to the terms. Users cannot select "Agree & Continue" if the boxes are not checked, the filing says.

The filing included a copy of its terms and conditions. A section titled "Disney Terms of Use" says that "any dispute between you and us, except for small claims, is subject to a class action waiver and must be resolved by individual binding arbitration."

A spokesperson for Disney told NBC News: “We are deeply saddened by the family’s loss and understand their grief. Given that this restaurant is neither owned nor operated by Disney, we are merely defending ourselves against the plaintiff’s attorney’s attempt to include us in their lawsuit against the restaurant.”

The company said that its “position in no way affects any wrongful death or other claims the plaintiff may have against the restaurant.” Disney added that arbitration is commonly recognized as quicker and less costly than litigation.

An attorney for Piccolo did not immediately respond to a request for comment Wednesday.

Piccolo's lawyers filed a response early this month, slamming Disney's reasoning for seeking a dismissal as "preposterous." They said he signed up for the Disney+ account on his PlayStation but believe he canceled it during the free trial.

"There is simply no reading of the Disney+ Subscriber Agreement which would support the notion that Mr. Piccolo agreed to arbitrate claims arising from injuries sustained by his wife at a restaurant located on premises owned by a Disney theme park or resort which ultimately led to her death," the attorneys said.

They went on to say that the "notion that terms agreed to by a consumer when creating a Disney+ free trial account would forever bar that consumer’s right to a jury trial in any dispute ... is so outrageously unreasonable and unfair."

His lawyers asked the court not to enforce arbitration.

Piccolo accused the Florida resort and a restaurant of negligence in his wife's death. He said in his complaint that they told the server at Raglan Road that Tangsuan, who was a physician with NYU Langone Health, had severe allergies. The server told the family that the food would be made allergy-free, according to the complaint.

The family ordered their meals and asked again about the food when the dishes came out without "allergen free flags," the complaint says. They were once again assured by the server, it says.

Not long after having eaten, Tangsuan began having trouble breathing, went into a nearby restaurant and collapsed. The complaint says she was having a "severe acute allergic reaction to the food served at Raglan."

Tangsuan used her EpiPen to help stop her allergic reaction while a bystander called 911, the complaint says. Her husband, who had gone back to their hotel room, was unaware of what was happening, it says. When Piccolo called his wife's cellphone, a bystander answered and told him she had been taken to the hospital, according to the complaint. When he arrived, he was told she had died, it says.

A medical examiner’s autopsy report cited in the complaint said Tangsuan died from anaphylaxis and had elevated levels of nut and dairy in her system. Her death was ruled an accident.

The suit, which names the restaurant and Disney Parks and Resorts as defendants, seeks $50,000 in damages.

Minyvonne Burke is a senior breaking news reporter for NBC News.