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Let’s be real—visiting Disney World during the holidays is both magical and a little overwhelming. The decorations are stunning, the snacks are festive, and the vibe is pure holiday joy, but you’ve got to have a plan if you want to make the most of it. Crowds are no joke, especially in the week leading up to Thanksgiving.
So, here’s the deal: if you’re heading to Magic Kingdom, prepare for long waits at some of the big-ticket attractions. TRON Lightcycle Run? That one’s been sitting at 85 minutes most of the day. Peter Pan’s Flight is holding strong at 50 minutes, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train? You’re looking at around an hour, minimum. Over in EPCOT, Frozen Ever After and Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure both sit at around 50 to 55 minutes—so plan accordingly.
Credit: Brian McGowan, Unsplash
But don’t stress! You’ve got options. Rope-dropping is a tried-and-true strategy. Getting there first thing in the morning gives you a shot at hitting the headliners before the crowds swell. If mornings aren’t your thing, the last hour before the parks close is another sweet spot—rides like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad often drop to about 30 minutes by then.
Let’s talk about Genie+. If you’re spending the money to be at Disney during the holidays, it’s worth it. Long lines for rides like Slinky Dog Dash (hello, 110 minutes!) can eat up your whole day, but Genie+ gives you a chance to skip the standby line. And don’t sleep on mobile ordering for meals—it saves so much time.
Credit: Disney
The best part about Disney during the holidays? It’s not just about the rides. Take in the Christmas parade, grab a hot cocoa and check out the holiday decor, or catch a festive show. There are so many ways to enjoy the season without standing in line for hours.
Finally, here’s a tip that might save your sanity: don’t try to do it all. The crowds are part of the experience this time of year, so pack a little patience, go with the flow, and focus on making memories. It’s the holidays at Disney, and there’s nowhere more magical to celebrate!
