DisneyDawgs

Category: Disney Springs

  • Disney Springs Entertainment Guide 2026: Real Attractions, Live Shows, and Experiences Worth Your Time

    Disney Springs Entertainment Guide 2026: Real Attractions, Live Shows, and Experiences Worth Your Time

    Disney Springs has become one of the most useful non-park destinations at Walt Disney World. It is not a fifth theme park, and it should not be described as one. There are no major roller coasters hiding behind the restaurants, and guests should not expect the same attraction lineup they would find at Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, or Animal Kingdom.

    What Disney Springs does offer is something different: a large, open-air district built around dining, shopping, live music, specialty entertainment, art, nightlife, and a few smaller family-friendly attractions. It is the kind of place that can fill a quiet afternoon, a dinner-focused evening, a rainy-day backup plan, or a full no-ticket Disney day for guests who want atmosphere without entering a park.

    That distinction matters. Disney Springs is not about racing from ride to ride. It is about slowing down, eating well, wandering through shops, catching live music, enjoying waterfront views, and choosing a few paid experiences if they fit your budget. For families, couples, adults, and Disney fans who want something less intense than a park day, Disney Springs can be one of the smartest places to build into a vacation.

    What Disney Springs Actually Is in 2026

    Disney Springs is best understood as Walt Disney World’s dining, shopping, entertainment, and nightlife district. Admission is free, and guests do not need a theme park ticket to visit. That alone makes it appealing for arrival days, departure days, rest days, and evenings when you want Disney atmosphere without paying for another park ticket.

    The district is divided into multiple areas, including Marketplace, The Landing, Town Center, and West Side. Each area has its own feel. Marketplace leans more family-friendly and traditional. Town Center feels more polished and retail-driven. The Landing has a strong dining and waterfront personality. West Side is where several of the larger entertainment offerings are located, including Drawn to Life, House of Blues, Splitsville, and the upcoming LEVEL99 experience.

    The biggest mistake guests make is assuming Disney Springs is “just a mall.” It does have plenty of retail, but that description undersells it. Disney Springs works because it layers food, music, water views, art, themed architecture, and small surprises into one walkable district.

    Aerophile: The Balloon Ride That Still Defines the Skyline

    One of the most recognizable Disney Springs attractions is Aerophile — The World Leader in Balloon Flight. This is not a traditional ride, but it is one of the few experiences at Disney Springs that gives guests a literal aerial view of the area.

    Aerophile is a tethered helium balloon that rises above Disney Springs and offers panoramic views of Walt Disney World and Central Florida. Disney describes it as a balloon experience that can take guests up to 400 feet in the air, with a flight lasting approximately eight minutes. Because it is weather-dependent, wind and storms can affect operations.  

    This is the kind of experience that appeals to guests who want something memorable without entering a park. It is gentle, scenic, and highly photo-friendly. It also gives Disney Springs a visual icon. Even if you do not ride it, the balloon floating above the district helps define the atmosphere.

    The best way to approach Aerophile is with flexibility. Do not build your entire evening around it unless the weather looks favorable. Treat it as a bonus experience: if it is operating and the line is reasonable, it can be a fun way to see the resort from a different perspective.

    Marketplace Carousel: A Simple Classic for Younger Kids

    The Marketplace Carousel is one of the smaller family-friendly attractions at Disney Springs. It is exactly what it sounds like: a traditional carousel experience in the Marketplace area. Disney lists it as an all-ages, any-height attraction, making it especially useful for families with younger children who need a break from shopping and walking.  

    This is not a headline attraction, and it should not be oversold as something revolutionary. Its value is practical. If you have small kids, a carousel ride can reset the mood of an afternoon. It gives children something that feels like an attraction while parents get a few minutes to regroup.

    That is one of the keys to understanding Disney Springs. Not everything has to be spectacular to be useful. Sometimes a small ride in the middle of a shopping district is exactly what a family needs.

    Marketplace Train Express: Another Small Win for Families

    The Marketplace Train Express is another child-friendly attraction at Disney Springs. Disney lists it as an all-ages, any-height slow ride in the Marketplace area. The official Disney Springs listing notes pricing options including one ride for $5, two rides for $10, and six rides for $20, with one adult able to ride free per child under 36 inches tall.  

    Like the carousel, this is not something that will define an entire vacation. It is a small-scale experience aimed primarily at younger guests. But for families spending several hours at Disney Springs, that matters. Kids often do not care how impressive a restaurant is or how carefully themed a retail district may be. They want something to do. The train gives them that.

    For parents, the best strategy is to use these smaller attractions as pacing tools. Instead of dragging kids through shop after shop, build in a carousel or train ride as a reward, break, or mood reset.

    Vintage Amphicar Tours: Disney Springs’ Most Unusual Water Experience

    Vintage Amphicar Tours remain one of the most distinctive experiences at Disney Springs. These are guided tours in amphibious vehicles that can drive on land and operate on the water. The official Disney Springs description calls it a 20-minute guided tour on the waters of Lake Buena Vista in a vintage Amphicar.  

    This is not a cheap filler activity, and it is not a ride in the theme park sense. It is a specialty experience. For the right guest, however, it can be one of the most memorable things to do at Disney Springs. The appeal comes from the novelty: very few people can say they rode in a vintage-style car that drove into the water and became a boat.

    It is especially good for couples, adults, older kids, and anyone who enjoys quirky transportation experiences. It also fits well into a dinner plan near The BOATHOUSE, since that area is already closely associated with the amphicars.

    Drawn to Life: The Major Ticketed Show at Disney Springs

    If Disney Springs has one true marquee entertainment experience, it is Drawn to Life Presented by Cirque du Soleil and Disney. Located on the West Side, this ticketed show combines Cirque du Soleil acrobatics with Disney animation and storytelling. Disney describes it as the first collaboration between Cirque du Soleil, Walt Disney Animation Studios, and Walt Disney Imagineering.  

    Cirque du Soleil lists the show duration at approximately 90 minutes with no intermission, and describes it as a family-friendly live performance that can only be seen in Orlando.  

    Drawn to Life is important because it gives Disney Springs something that feels more substantial than background entertainment. It is a planned evening event. You buy tickets, choose a showtime, and build part of your night around it. For guests who do not want another park day but still want a major Disney-related experience, this is one of the strongest options.

    It is also useful for arrival or rest days. Instead of using a park ticket for a partial day, a family can spend the afternoon at Disney Springs, have dinner, and see Drawn to Life at night.

    Live Music and Outdoor Entertainment

    Disney Springs is strongest when it feels alive, and live entertainment plays a major role in that. The district regularly features performances across different venues and outdoor spaces. The AdventHealth Waterside Stage is one of the key locations, with Disney Springs describing it as an open-air venue along Lake Buena Vista where live performances and special events take place.  

    Disney Springs also lists live entertainment locations such as Dockside Margaritas, The Edison, House of Blues, Splitsville Luxury Lanes, and other venues.  

    This is where Disney Springs often feels more spontaneous than the theme parks. You may not plan your night around a specific singer or band, but you might pass a stage and stop for ten minutes because the atmosphere pulls you in. That kind of entertainment matters because it turns walking from dinner to dessert into part of the experience.

    The best advice is simple: do not rush through Disney Springs. If you treat it only as a place to eat and leave, you will miss much of what gives it personality.

    Disney Springs Art Walk: A More Creative Side of the District

    Disney Springs Art Walk is one of the district’s more interesting low-pressure experiences. Located in Town Center, it features murals and artwork from local, national, and international artists. Disney describes it as a walk through displays that celebrate artistic expression in an outdoor setting.  

    This is not a formal museum, and it is not a scheduled show. That is part of its appeal. The Art Walk gives guests something to notice while moving through the district. It makes Disney Springs feel less like a retail corridor and more like a designed public space.

    For bloggers, photographers, and guests who enjoy visual details, the Art Walk is worth seeking out. It also provides a good break from stores and restaurants, especially for visitors who want something free and less commercial.

    LEVEL99: The Big 2026 Addition to Watch

    One of the most important confirmed additions coming to Disney Springs is LEVEL99. Disney lists LEVEL99 as opening in 2026 and describes it as an experience for adults and teens. The Disney Springs listing says it will offer more than 60 themed challenge rooms, duels, and art hunts that test mental and physical skill.  

    This is significant because LEVEL99 gives Disney Springs a different kind of entertainment identity. Rather than a passive show or a small children’s ride, LEVEL99 appears designed around active participation. It should appeal especially to adults, teens, groups, date nights, corporate outings, and visitors who want something more interactive than dinner and shopping.

    It is also a smart fit for Disney Springs because the district already attracts adults in the evening. With restaurants, bars, music, bowling, movies, and Cirque du Soleil nearby, LEVEL99 can help strengthen the West Side as a more complete entertainment zone.

    Until it opens, guests should avoid assuming exact pricing, operating details, or reservation systems. The confirmed takeaway is simple: LEVEL99 is one of the major new entertainment experiences to watch at Disney Springs in 2026.

    Splitsville, House of Blues, and Other Nightlife Options

    Disney Springs also works well because it has entertainment that does not rely exclusively on Disney branding. Splitsville Luxury Lanes offers bowling, food, drinks, and a lively indoor setting. House of Blues brings concerts, dining, and live music. The Edison offers a more adult-oriented dining and entertainment atmosphere.

    These venues matter because Disney Springs has to serve a wide audience. Families with small children may be focused on the carousel, train, and snacks. Adults may be looking for cocktails, music, dinner, or a late-night atmosphere. Teens may want something more active or social. Disney Springs succeeds when it gives each group a reason to stay.

    This is where the district has matured. It is no longer just a place to buy souvenirs after a park day. It is a flexible destination that can work for different kinds of travelers.

    Seasonal Events and Limited-Time Entertainment

    Disney Springs also changes throughout the year with seasonal entertainment, special events, food offerings, holiday decor, and limited-time programming. The official Disney Springs calendar lists events and entertainment offerings, including live performances and special activities across the district.  

    This matters because Disney Springs benefits from repeatability. A theme park attraction may remain mostly the same from trip to trip, but Disney Springs can feel different depending on when you visit. Holidays, summer programming, culinary events, and live entertainment schedules can all change the mood of the district.

    For visitors, the best strategy is to check the calendar before going. You may discover a live performance, seasonal offering, or limited-time event that makes the visit more worthwhile.

    How Long Should You Spend at Disney Springs?

    The right amount of time depends on your goal.

    If you only want dinner and a quick walk, two to three hours may be enough. If you plan to shop, eat, catch live entertainment, ride Aerophile, explore the Art Walk, and have dessert, you can easily spend half a day. If you add Drawn to Life, bowling, movies, or a future LEVEL99 visit, Disney Springs can become a full-day or full-evening plan.

    For families, the best use may be as a rest-day anchor. Sleep in, swim at the resort, head to Disney Springs in the afternoon, eat dinner, enjoy entertainment, and avoid burning a park ticket. For adults, Disney Springs can be a strong date-night or group-night option. For first-time visitors, it is worth seeing, but it should not replace a theme park day unless your schedule or budget requires it.

    Final Thoughts: Disney Springs Is Not a Theme Park, and That Is the Point

    Disney Springs is at its best when guests understand what it is. It is not Magic Kingdom without admission. It is not EPCOT with more stores. It is not a thrill-ride destination. It is a dining, shopping, entertainment, art, and nightlife district with a handful of small attractions and several larger paid experiences.

    That does not make it less valuable. In some ways, it makes Disney Springs more practical. It gives visitors a way to experience Disney atmosphere without entering a park. It gives families a place to reset. It gives adults a reason to stay out later. It gives guests something to do on arrival days, departure days, rainy days, and off days.

    For visitors willing to slow down and treat Disney Springs as its own experience—not just a shopping stop—it can absolutely be worth the time.

  • The Foodie: CrazyShake by Black Tap Opens at Disney Springs

    The Foodie: CrazyShake by Black Tap Opens at Disney Springs

    Disney Springs just got a sugar-fueled glow-up, and your sweet tooth may never forgive you—or thank you, depending on how you look at it. CrazyShake by Black Tap, the legendary creator of milkshakes so outrageous they should come with a warning label, has officially opened its doors today, March 2, 2026, for what promises to be ninety days of dessert-induced euphoria. If you’ve ever wished your milkshake could double as a centerpiece for a small wedding, your happily-ever-after has arrived. And yes, this one has Mickey ears.

    What Is CrazyShake by Black Tap?

    For the uninitiated, CrazyShake by Black Tap is not your run-of-the-mill milkshake stand. This is the dessert equivalent of a Vegas headliner—loud, glittering, and impossible to ignore. Founded by the world-famous Black Tap Craft Burgers & Beer, the CrazyShake concept elevates the humble milkshake into a gravity-defying sculpture of sugar, frosting, and toppings. These creations are so photogenic that social media practically drinks them before you do. If you’ve ever scrolled past a milkshake balanced with slices of cake, candy bars, and enough whipped cream to make a dairy farmer weep, odds are good it was a CrazyShake.

    Disney Springs is now the proud host of a limited-time CrazyShake pop-up, giving visitors the rare chance to pair their retail therapy with a drinkable dessert that could probably be classified as a workout if you count the calories lifted. This pop-up is scheduled to run for 90 days, but, like most Disney magic, it may extend if the crowds demand more. Judging by the opening-day chatter, the chances of that happening are somewhere between “highly likely” and “of course it will.”

    Why the Mickey Mouse Shake Is Stealing the Spotlight

    Among the lineup of over-the-top desserts, the Mickey Mouse Shake reigns supreme. This isn’t just a milkshake; it’s practically a parade float in a cup. The Mickey Mouse Shake begins with a classic vanilla shake, but then things escalate quickly. Imagine swirling vanilla frosting around the rim, showering it with Mickey-shaped sprinkles, and then crowning it with a crisped rice Mickey treat, a stick of rock candy, a mountain of whipped cream, and the obligatory cherry on top. It’s less a beverage and more an edible work of art that doubles as a love letter to Disney fandom.

    Part of the appeal is the nostalgia factor. The Mickey Mouse Shake triggers the same joy as spotting Mickey-shaped waffles at breakfast or hunting down hidden Mickeys in the park. It’s that familiar thrill of Disney magic, except this time it comes with a sugar rush that could carry you through at least three rides on Big Thunder Mountain. It’s also tailor-made for Instagram, TikTok, and any platform where food influencers reign supreme. The moment you hold that shake up for a photo, you’ve essentially secured 200 likes and a handful of DMs asking, “Where is that?!”

    The Science of an Over-the-Top Milkshake

    While CrazyShake may seem like pure whimsy, there is an art—and a bit of science—to engineering a milkshake that doesn’t collapse under the weight of its own ambition. Black Tap has mastered the physics of dessert architecture. The frosting along the rim acts like edible glue, securing layers of sprinkles and holding toppings in place. Heavy elements like Mickey crispy treats are carefully anchored to straws or skewers, creating visual drama without toppling the glass. Even the whipped cream spiral serves as a stabilizing pillow for candies and cherries, all while giving you the illusion that this is still technically a drink.

    And let’s be honest: there’s a psychological satisfaction in holding something that feels a little impossible. Human beings have always gravitated toward playful excess—whether it’s giant turkey legs at the Renaissance Faire or a milkshake so tall that you need to sign a waiver (okay, maybe not, but it feels that way). CrazyShake taps into that primal delight and delivers it in a theme-park-friendly format.

    Why CrazyShake by Black Tap Is Trending Now

    There are a few reasons this pop-up has instantly captured the attention of Disney fans and dessert enthusiasts alike. First, timing is everything. Opening on March 2, 2026, CrazyShake enters a sweet spot in the Disney Springs calendar—post-holiday, pre-spring-break—when visitors are looking for something new and shareable. Second, the rise of experiential dining has created an environment where food is no longer just food; it’s a performance, an Instagram post, and a bragging right all in one. CrazyShake checks every box.

    Furthermore, Disney has become a playground for limited-time treats. Fans know that if they don’t act fast, they could miss out on the next Dole Whip flavor or seasonal cupcake. The 90-day window for CrazyShake adds a sense of urgency, and nothing drives trends faster than the fear of missing out. Combine that with the magnetic power of Mickey branding and you have a recipe for lines stretching well past the fountain at World of Disney.

    Actionable Tips: How to Experience CrazyShake Before It’s Gone

    If your heart just whispered, “I need that milkshake,” here are some strategies to make it happen without turning your Disney Springs day into a sugar-fueled odyssey of frustration:

    • Arrive early in the day to beat peak crowds and ensure the shakes haven’t sold out.
    • Bring a friend or two—CrazyShakes are shareable, and moral support is helpful when tackling a dessert of this magnitude.
    • Take your photos quickly. Whipped cream waits for no one, and melting is a real threat in the Florida sun.
    • Pair your shake with a light meal, or better yet, skip lunch. This is dinner now.

    Finally, keep an eye on Disney Springs social media channels. If the pop-up proves as popular as expected, they might extend its run—or introduce new limited-edition flavors. Given Black Tap’s history with wild seasonal shakes, betting against that would be like betting against fireworks at Magic Kingdom.

    The Cultural Impact of Dessert Spectacle

    Beyond the sugar high, CrazyShake exemplifies a larger trend in contemporary dining: the rise of the spectacle. We live in a world where food is increasingly performative. It’s not enough for a milkshake to taste good; it must also look good, spark joy, and ideally convince you to post it on six different platforms. This pop-up is a microcosm of that cultural shift, where culinary creativity intersects with marketing genius. Disney understands this better than anyone, turning every bite into a memory—and, by extension, a shareable moment.

    There’s also an element of humor in these creations. A milkshake that requires two hands and a plan of attack to consume is inherently funny. It disarms the adult cynic in all of us, returning us to that childlike awe where dessert feels like both a reward and an adventure. In this sense, CrazyShake is more than a trend; it’s a reminder that sometimes the most meaningful experiences are unapologetically silly—and sometimes deliciously sticky.

    Conclusion: A Limited-Time Must-Do

    CrazyShake by Black Tap is more than a dessert pop-up; it’s a whimsical spectacle that perfectly complements the Disney Springs experience. Whether you’re a hardcore foodie, a casual visitor, or just someone who has never met a milkshake they didn’t like, the Mickey Mouse Shake is a must-try. With its 90-day run, the clock is already ticking—so grab a friend, grab a camera, and prepare to embrace the most over-the-top milkshake Disney World has ever seen. Your taste buds (and your Instagram followers) will thank you.

  • BOOKING A TRIP TO DISNEY WORLD IN FLORIDA – THE COMPLETE 2025-2026 PLANNING GUIDE

    BOOKING A TRIP TO DISNEY WORLD IN FLORIDA – THE COMPLETE 2025-2026 PLANNING GUIDE

    Planning a magical vacation to Walt Disney World is exciting, but it also requires careful attention and early preparation. Booking a trip to Disney World in Florida isn’t something you want to leave to the last minute — availability fills fast, prices rise closer to travel dates, and many of the best experiences are locked in weeks or even months ahead.

    This guide breaks down everything you need to know: when to book, what to book early, how to plan your days, and how to avoid surprises on arrival.

    Why Careful Planning Matters for a Disney World Vacation

    Disney World isn’t just a theme park — it’s a destination the size of a city. With four theme parks, two water parks, over 25 resorts, and countless dining options, early planning ensures you get the experiences you want.

    Understanding Disney World’s Seasonal Calendar

    Crowds and prices vary dramatically throughout the year:

    • Peak seasons: Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break, summer months
    • Moderate seasons: Mid-October to Thanksgiving, early December
    • Low seasons: Late January–February, late August–September

    These patterns help determine when hotels fill up and when to book flights.

    The Best Time to Start Booking Your Disney Trip

    For most families, the ideal booking window is:

    • 6–12 months in advance for best resort availability
    • 9–14 months for holidays or runDisney event weekends
    • 3–6 months for off-peak travel

    If you want a specific resort, a club-level room, or a suite, book as early as possible.

    Step-by-Step Guide to Booking a Disney World Vacation Package

    Booking directly through Disney or a trusted travel planner allows you to package:

    • Resort hotel
    • Park tickets
    • Dining plans
    • Memory Maker
    • Special add-ons

    Choosing the Right Disney Resort Hotel

    Disney resorts are divided into three categories:

    • Value Resorts: Cheapest, great for kids (Pop Century, All-Star Movies)
    • Moderate Resorts: More space, better theming (Port Orleans, Caribbean Beach)
    • Deluxe Resorts: Best dining, transportation, and luxury (Grand Floridian, Contemporary)

    How Far in Advance Should You Book a Resort?

    • Deluxe resorts: 8–12 months ahead
    • Moderate resorts: 4–9 months ahead
    • Value resorts: 3–6 months ahead
    • Holiday weeks: Book immediately

    What You Should Book WELL Before Your Arrival

    These reservations are time-sensitive and competitive.

    Park Reservations (Park Pass System)

    Although Disney occasionally updates its reservation rules, if required:

    • Book immediately after buying tickets
    • Some parks fill weeks ahead on holidays

    Dining Reservations (ADR – Advance Dining Reservations)

    • Reservations release 60 days before your check-in date
    • Popular picks like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Ohana, and Space 220 fill in minutes
    • Strategy: Book your trip’s hardest-to-get meals near the end of your vacation (more availability)

    Lightning Lane / Genie+ and Individual Attraction Selections

    While Genie+ is purchased day-of, it’s smart to:

    • Plan which rides you want to prioritize
    • Be ready at 7:00 a.m. sharp for individual Lightning Lane purchases

    Special Experiences to Book Early

    Many magical extras fill fast:

    • Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
    • Savi’s Workshop (lightsabers)
    • Dessert parties and fireworks dining packages
    • VIP tours
    • After Hours events

    Book these as soon as booking windows open, especially during holidays.

    Flight and Transportation Planning for Disney World

    Flights to Orlando (MCO) can fluctuate dramatically.

    Best Time to Book Flights

    • 1–5 months in advance for domestic travelers
    • 2–7 months for international travelers
    • Book earlier for: Christmas, Spring Break, major holidays

    Transportation Options to Disney World

    • Uber/Lyft (most flexible)
    • Mears Connect shuttles
    • Car rentals
    • Minnie Vans (premium option)

    Each has different pricing and availability, so booking early saves money.

    Budget Planning When Booking a Disney World Trip

    Disney trips can get expensive fast. Plan the major cost categories early:

    • Resort
    • Tickets
    • Food
    • Transportation
    • Extras (Genie+, parties, tours)

    When to Take Advantage of Disney Promotions

    Disney releases several annual discounts:

    • Spring room discounts
    • Fall promotions
    • Free Dining (when available)
    • Florida resident deals

    Booking early lets you apply new discounts later to an existing reservation.

    Hidden Costs to Plan Ahead For

    • Parking fees
    • Tipping
    • Genie+ daily charges
    • Souvenirs
    • Festival food booths (EPCOT)

    Being aware of these expenses prevents sticker shock.

    Creating the Perfect Park Itinerary Before You Arrive

    Your itinerary should balance:

    • Thrill rides
    • Dining
    • Character meets
    • Parades and shows
    • Breaks and downtime

    Planning Park Days

    • Magic Kingdom: Needs the most time (1½–2 days)
    • EPCOT: Festivals, dining, and attractions
    • Hollywood Studios: Most competitive rides
    • Animal Kingdom: Full-day experience or ¾ day depending on plans

    Rest Days and Non-Park Activities

    Many families add:

    • Disney Springs
    • Resort pool days
    • Mini golfing
    • Hotel dining exploration

    These slow days keep your vacation from feeling rushed.

    FAQs – Booking a Trip to Disney World in Florida

    1. How early should I book a Disney World vacation?
    Ideally 6–12 months in advance, earlier for holidays or Deluxe resorts.

    2. When can I make dining reservations?
    Disney allows 60 days before arrival, and hotel guests can book for their entire stay.

    3. Is Genie+ worth buying?
    It saves significant time in peak seasons, especially at Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios.

    4. Do I still need park reservations?
    Rules vary by ticket type and date — check Disney’s current policy before purchasing.

    5. What sells out fastest at Disney?
    Cinderella’s Royal Table, certain Lightning Lanes, special events, and boutique reservations.

    6. Can I change my reservation later?
    Yes — Disney often allows modifications, and new discounts can be applied.

    Final Thoughts – Why Early Booking Makes a Disney Vacation Stress-Free

    Booking a trip to Disney World in Florida early is the key to an unforgettable, low-stress vacation. With smart planning, timely reservations, and a clear strategy, you’ll enjoy the parks exactly how you imagine them — magical, memorable, and smooth from start to finish.

  • Navigating Disney World’s Summer Heat: Tips and Essentials for a Cool Experience

    Navigating Disney World’s Summer Heat: Tips and Essentials for a Cool Experience

    Navigating Disney World’s Summer Heat

    Are you ready to brave the sizzling Florida sun and humidity for a magical Disney World adventure? Visiting Disney World during the Summer months promises excitement and thrills, but it also requires careful planning to beat the heat and handle the occasional rain showers. Here’s everything you need to know to make your Summer trip to Disney World a breeze.

    Embracing the Florida Summer

    1. Heat and Humidity: Prepare for hot and humid weather typical of Florida summers. Temperatures can soar, especially in July and August, reaching into the 90s (°F) with high humidity levels.
    2. Rainy Season: Florida’s Summer is also its rainy season. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, bringing brief but intense rain showers. However, these showers often pass quickly, allowing you to continue your park adventures.

    Surviving the Heat

    1. Stay Hydrated: Hydration is key in combating the heat. Carry a refillable water bottle and take advantage of water fountains and hydration stations throughout the parks.
    2. Dress Appropriately: Wear lightweight, breathable clothing in light colors to reflect the sun’s rays. Consider moisture-wicking fabrics to stay cool and dry.
    3. Sun Protection: Protect yourself from sunburn by wearing sunscreen with a high SPF, sunglasses, and a wide-brimmed hat. Seek shade or indoor attractions during peak sun hours.
    4. Cooling Accessories: Bring a portable fan, misting fan, or cooling towel to stay refreshed. These items are lifesavers in the sweltering Florida heat.

    Preparing for Rain

    Preparing for Rain

    1. Rain Gear: Pack a compact umbrella, poncho, or rain jacket to stay dry during sudden downpours. Waterproof bags or pouches for electronics are also handy.
    2. Plan Indoor Activities: Have a list of indoor attractions, shows, and dining options ready for rainy days. Popular indoor spots include attractions like Pirates of the Caribbean and indoor restaurants.

    Essential Items for Your Disney Adventure

    1. Park Tickets and Reservations: Don’t forget your park tickets, MagicBands or admission cards, and any reservations for dining or FastPass+ experiences.
    2. Electronics: Bring a waterproof or water-resistant camera or smartphone for photos. Portable chargers keep your devices powered throughout the day.
    3. Snacks and Hydration: Pack snacks like granola bars, fruits, and trail mix for energy boosts. Stay hydrated with water and electrolyte-rich drinks.
    4. Comfort Items: Carry hand sanitizer, wet wipes, bandages, and any medications you may need for a comfortable day in the parks.

    By preparing for the heat, humidity, and occasional rain showers, you’ll ensure a smoother and more enjoyable Disney World experience during the Summer months. Embrace the magic, stay cool, and create unforgettable memories amidst the enchanting world of Disney!

  • Tips for First-time Disney World Visitors: Pre-Trip Planning.

    So you’ve decided to visit the Disney World Resorts in Orlando, FL for the first time.  Quite intimidating isn’t it?

    Hopefully we will be able to give you some hints and tips to make your first visit to the “Most Magical Place on Earth” go a little more smoothly and keep you and your family from running in circles (as my family did the first time we visited.).

    Let’s face it, the first thing that everyone asks is “where do we start?”.  Assuming that nothing has been booked or reserved, here is a list of things to do before you leave for your trip.

    Travel Planning

    Which Airport?

    How are you going to get there?  If you live close enough to Orlando, then you are most likely driving.  For the rest of us, this will most likely involve flying.  Taking a plane into Orlando is not that difficult.  Orlando International Airport (MCO) is one of the busiest airports in the United States serving all major US Airlines and those from around the world.  If the size of MCO is intimating to your family, there is nearby Sanford International Airport (SFB).  Sanford is a much smaller airport than MCO, but airfare and car rental may be much more expensive.  Some also find flying into Tampa International Airport (TAM) to be less expensive.  But, keep in mind, Tampa is approximately 2hrs away from Orlando depending on traffic and construction (and yes, there is always construction.).

    Which Airline?

    As for which airline…  That depends on your preferences.  The best advice that I could give is to book as early as you can.  For our family’s trip this year, we booked our flights as soon as Southwest Airlines made them available (that was 3 weeks ago).  As of the time that I am writing this post, if I were to purchase those same tickets, it would be almost $900.00 more for four travelers.  For more information, visit our “Trip Planning – Booking and Airline” post.

    Should I Rent a Car?

    Again, that depends.  If you are planning to do only Disney and do not plan on visiting any on the other parks, I would say no.  Although, keep in mind, Disney transportation can be inconsistent and very crowded.  If you plan on staying until after nighttime shows or when parks close, depending on the crowds, it may take up to 2 hours to get back to your hotel via the buses.

    If you plan on going to other parks or exploring everything that Orlando has to offer, most definitely rent a car. Uber and taxis will eventually cost you as much as a week-long rental.  Remember though, Disney World Resort Hotels do charge you for parking in their lots.  Even though you are charged for parking, the freedom of being able to go off-site for meals or other attractions out weighs the $15/day cost.  Also, keep in mind that most Disney area hotels also charge for parking and the fee is usually hidden on websites.

    What Hotels?

    Again, this is a matter of preference. But if this is the first time that you are visiting Disney World, I would suggest staying at one of the on-site Disney World Resort Hotels.  When staying on-site, you have access to Disney Transportation to and from the parks, Extra Magic Hours and other amenities that guest staying at other hotels are not able to use.  The advantage to staying at an off-site hotel is the cost.  As you may already know, Disney is VERY expensive. A hotel or motel in Kissimee, FL can cost 25% of what a “Value Resort” room would cost.

    If you do plan on staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel, there are four tiers of Disney Hotels

    • Value Resort – Just as the name suggests, this is the least expensive hotels on property.  They offer a swimming pool, Cafeteria style Dinning Hall and sleeps up to four guests.
    • Moderate Resort – These rooms are a little larger than Value Resorts.  Each hotel has a themed pool, most with a water-slide.  Cafeteria and Sit Down Restaurants.  Some Moderate Resort Hotels have Suites that accommodate up to six guests.
    • Deluxe Resorts – Deluxe Resorts are some of the most expensive rooms on property.  They include The Grand Floridian, Contemporary, Polynesian, and more.  Rooms at these resorts are usually $400+ per night.  They do offer day spas, room service, concierge service and more. Deluxe Resorts offer several of the finest restaurants on Disney Property and are quite, quite expensive.
    • Villa Resorts – Villa Resorts are basically 1 – 3 bedroom apartments with full kitchens.  One bedroom villas can sleep up to 4 guests where 3 bedroom villas can sleep up to 12 guests.  Most Villa Resorts are also DVC (Disney Vacation Club) Resorts.  I would recommend this type of room for those that may have large families or if you are staying at the resort for two or more weeks.  Keep in mind, this tier of room is very expensive.

    Travel Preparation

    Personal Items

    So now you have a way to get to the Orlando area.  There is still a lot to get done.  Remember, Orlando is one of the largest Tourist Destination sites in the World.  An estimated 68.5 million people from around the world come to Orlando each year.  As a tourist destination, it will cost you much more to purchase personal items in the Orlando area than if you were to purchase them at home.  Please make sure that you view FAA/TSA guidelines on what and how much of a product that you are able to take on the plane.  If you do not follow the FAA guidelines, you will need to throw that product out, or you will not be allowed to fly.

    With that being said, remember, Orlando is three things weather-wise… HOT, MUGGY and RAINY.  That’s it.  The sun in Florida is brutal for most of the year with heat and humidity for about 10 months out of the year.  The only exception is if you are traveling in January or early February.  It is possible for it to be around 40°F (4°C) one day and 80°F (27°C) the next.

    Generally, I would recommend packing the following items for a trip to Disney World

    • Sunscreen – Even on chilly days, the sun in Florida is very strong.  Getting a bad sunburn on the first day of your vacation would really not make for a fun time for everyone in you family.  Due to the strength of the sun in Florida, I would also suggest that you pack a hat.  Those of us that are follicly challenged as I am will tell you that a sunburn on your back and shoulders is very uncomfortable, but one on the top of your head is miserable.
    • Comfortable Shoes – When visiting the parks, you will easily walk 10-12 miles (16-20Km) a day.  The second worse thing that you can do, besides getting a sunburn, is to develop a blister on your foot early in your visit.  Do not where flip flops, it rains quite often in Florida and when flip flops get wet, you can slide in them and really hurt yourself.  It is actually a good idea to have at least two pairs of comfortable shoes, just it the case your first pair are damaged or get wet in the park.
    • Ponchos/Rain Gear – Disney does sell rain-gear inside the parks, but, as with anything that is sold in the parks, it is obscenely expensive.  The same poncho that you can purchase at your local Walmart for $1, sells for $25 in the parks.  Purchasing 2-3 for each member of your family may be a good idea.  They are small and fit nicely into checked luggage.
    • Clothes – My rule of thumb when packing for Disney is to pack for 1-2 days more than I am staying.  This is for the chance that I am forced to stay extra due to weather or cancelled flights.  Disney does have washers and dryers at most of the resorts if you are staying an extended period of time and are not able to travel with that much clothing.
    • Medicines/Health Care – As with clothing, I always make sure that I have enough prescription medication with me, just as I mentioned above if my flight were cancelled or some other reason forced me to stay in Orlando a few extra days.  Disney does have First Aid stations in the parks and they do sell brand name over the counter medicines in the gift shops at each resort.  But as I mentioned before, it would be much less expensive if you purchased these items before you left for your trip.

    Theme Park Tickets

    Believe it or not, this will most-likely be the biggest expense of your trip.  Tickets to any of the Orlando-area theme parks are not cheap.  Most of the parks usually run anywhere from $85 – $150 per day.  All of the parks use a Marketing plan where the more days that you purchase at a park the cheaper the tickets become per day.  This is to have you stay at that park longer and spend more money with them (Disney, Universal, Sea World and Busch Gardens all use this tactic.). Last year, Disney started using a tier-based ticketing system for their theme park tickets.  This means that tickets will be a different price based on the time of the year that you visit the parks.  Basically, a ticket to Magic Kingdom in January is much cheaper than one for July.  With this, the most expensive time of the year is Christmas time.  Tickets during Christmas week can be as much as 75% more than a ticket for the same park in late January.

    There are ways to save some money purchasing theme park tickets.  There are legitimate business that are authorized by Disney, Sea World, Universal, etc. to sell park tickets.  Also keep in mind, there are quite a few businesses in the Disney World area that are NOT authorized to sell tickets.  Quite a few businesses along US-192 (the main drag outside Disney World) offer to buy your unused tickets.  NEVER BUY TICKETS FROM THESE BUSINESSES!!! The first time that you use a multi-day ticket, you have to scan your fingerprint.  Those tickets are now assigned to that fingerprint!!!  This means that nobody else would be able to use those tickets.  Also, most tickets must be used within 14 days of the first use.  Nothing would be worse than dishing out $1,000.00 to one of these businesses, getting to the gate and your family not being able to get in because the tickets you purchased were invalid and now you have to pay another $1,600.00 for actual tickets.

    Like I said, there are legitimate businesses that are authorized to sell theme park tickets.  Below are some that I have used myself.

    • Disney – Beleive it or not, sometimes purchasing park tickets as a package with a room is cheaper than going through a third-party vendor.
    • AAA/CAAA – AAA will sometimes offer discounted prices to it’s members.  You can also checkout hotel and car rental prices with their Travel Advisors.
    • Undercover Tourist – Undercover Tourist offers some of the best prices for all theme park tickets.  The also offer ticket packages that include free days.  Undercover Tourist also offers Car Rental and Hotel reservations.  I have used Undercover Tourist many times and have never been disappointed.  You can visit them at https://www.undercovertourist.com/  and let them know that DisneyDawgs recommended them.
    • Costco – Costco is suposed to offer good prices for tickets. Since there are no Costco locations in my area and I am not a member, I cannot say whether this is true or not.

    These are some of the businesses that I know and some that I have used.  Please make sure that you purchase your tickets ONLY FROM DISNEY AUTHORIZED RESELLERS!!!

    Scheduling

    So we now have the Airline, Car Rental, Hotel and Theme Park tickets, now comes the most fun and nerve-wracking part of the planning state of the trip.  Setting up an itinerary is important.  The itinerary will setup some guidance for what you are planning to do and see during your vacation.

    If you are staying at a Disney Hotel you will be receiving Disney Magic Bands.  Magic Bands are used to open your hotel room, you are able to set up a credit card and purchase merchandise using the Magic Band and a PIN number.  The FastPass+ system is done through your Magic Bands.  So needless to say, your Magic Bands are quite important.

    Once you receive your tickets to the Disney World Theme Parks, you can add them to your Magic Bands too.  Once you have done this, there are some amazing things that you can now do.

    Making Reservations

    • Dining Reservations – You are able to make reservations up to 6 months before you visit the parks.  Depending on which restaurant or Character Dining Experience you wish to book, you may want to do this right away.  Experiences like “Cinderella’s Magic Table” and the “Be Our Guest” restaurant are very, very difficult to get, yes, even six months out!
    • FastPass+ – If you are staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel you are able to make FastPass selections upto 60 days before your visit (30 days if you are staying at an off-site hotel).  A FastPass allows you to pick a time window where you do not have to wait in the stand-by line to go on an attraction.

    If you are staying at a Disney World Resort Hotel, now is the time to check to see when Disney World has scheduled “Extra Magic Hours” for the four parks.  Extra Magic Hours are for those guests staying on Disney property to enter a specific park at pre-scheduled hours.  Ideally this offers less crowds and shorter ride lines.

    Extra Magic hours are either early morning (7am – 9am) or late night (park close – ???)…  I’ve seen the late night EMH go as late as 3am.

    At this point, you should be ready for your trip.  In our next blog post, we will give you tips on what to do once you are in Orlando.  We really hope that these tips help.  Our family’s first trip would have been so much easier had we known this information.

    After fifteen years of visiting Disney World, we have picked up these tips and tricks to help us have a fun, stress-free vacation.