Our Top 20 Disney World Tips For Rookies

13. Schedule a Day at Your Walt Disney World Resort Hotel

While it’s tempting to want to spend as many hours in the parks as you can, you can’t forget about your hotel. If you’re staying on Disney property, chances are you paid a pretty penny to do so. Regardless of whether you’re staying at their economy hotels, like the All Stars Resorts, or Disney’s Contemporary Resort, there’s something there for guests to enjoy. Having a day at the resort and taking advantage of the view, pool, hot tub, restaurants, and even arcades can provide countless fun for hours for the whole family. The resorts are custom-built to inspire relaxation and tranquility for adults, while remaining fun and exciting for kids. On every vacation, we spend a day at the pool and it’s honestly, one of my favorite moments of the entire trip.

14. Go on a Tour (And Other Things)

Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom Tour is a 5-hour walking tour around Magic Kingdom and the elusive underground service tunnels.  This is just one example of the kind of perks that Disney offers (all for a separate rate) that can add a little bit of magic and excitement to your vacation. Signing up for a behind-the-scenes tour or getting a massage at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa  is a way for you to experience all the amazing perks that you ordinarily don’t realize Disney World offers. I love trying something new each time I visit the parks.

15. Create a Souvenir Tradition

Every time I visit Walt Disney World, I purchase three things: a coffee mug, a charm for my charm bracelet and a plush. Why? Because it’s tradition! When I was about 10 years old, I discovered their charm bracelets and bought one to commemorate the trip. Whether I’d buy an Ariel charm because I met my favorite Under the Sea princess, or Tinkerbell, which was my mom’s favorite character on my first trip back after she died, creating traditions is a way to cement the memories of your vacation. It transforms an ordinary vacation. It holds value. Creating that tradition is a fun little way to let the world know that this place isn’t just a vacation for you -it’s home.

16. Visit Other Resorts

While there’s so much that your own Disney World Resort hotel can offer, it’s fun to visit the other hotels across Disney property, too. This allows for unique dining experiences, such as Olivia’s Cafe in Disney’s Old Key West Resort, or Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, if you’ve always dreamt of visiting turn-of-the-century Atlantic City. Visiting the other resorts is an excellent way to soak up the sun, take a bike ride, and bite down into some tasty treats. Each hotel has a unique theme that will make guests a part of their story. Try out the different hotels, especially for the food. You won’t regret it!