Must Do Disney: A Guide to Creating Unforgettable Family Vacations
Disneyland and Disney World are the ultimate destinations for families, offering a wide range of attractions, shows, and experiences that cater to all ages. But how do you make the most of your Disney vacation? In this article, we’ll guide you through the Must Do Disney checklist, highlighting the most essential experiences and activities to create lifelong memories.
Before You Go
Before embarking on your Disney adventure, it’s essential to plan ahead. Here are a few things to consider:
- Determine your age range: Disney World is geared towards children aged 3-14, while Disneyland is more geared towards families with younger children.
- Choose your travel dates: Check the Disney website for peak season prices and availability.
- Plan your budget: Set a budget and consider booking a Disney resort or package deal to save money.
Must Do Disney Experiences
Here are the top experiences you won’t want to miss:
1. Classic Disney Attractions
- Space Mountain (Disneyland)
- Seven Dwarfs Mine Train (Disneyland)
- Splash Mountain (Disneyland)
- Soarin’ (Epcot, Disney World)
- Pirates of the Caribbean (Disneyland, Disney World)
2. Live Shows and Parades
- Mickey’s PhilharMagic (Disneyland)
- Mickey’s Soundsational Parade (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Happily Ever After (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Star Wars: Galactic Spectacular (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Country Bear Jamboree (Disneyland)
3. Character Meet-and-Greets
- Character Dining (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Character Breakfasts (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Character Meet-and-Greets (Various locations)
- Parades and Processions (Various locations)
4. Fantastical Dining Experiences
- Be Our Guest Restaurant (Disneyland, Disney World)
- 1917 Steakhouse (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Cinderella’s Royal Table (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Akershus Royal Banquet Hall (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Blue Bay Lagoon (Disney World)
5. Thrill Rides and Experiences
- Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (Disneyland)
- Slinky Dog Dash (Disneyland)
- Avatar Flight of Passage (Disneyland)
- Tower of Terror (Disneyland, Disney World)
- Star Tours: The Adventures Continue (Disneyland, Disney World)
Tips and Tricks
Here are some insider tips to make the most of your Disney vacation:
- Arrive early: Get to the park before opening time to beat the crowds.
- Use the MaxPass app: Make wait times easier and more accurate using the MaxPass app.
- Take advantage of dining plans: Try new restaurants and enjoy faster service with a dining plan.
- Consider a park hopper ticket: Visit multiple parks in one day and enjoy the convenience of traveling between them.
- Pack smart: Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day.
Disney World vs. Disneyland
When it comes to choosing between Disney World and Disneyland, consider the following:
- Size: Disney World is significantly larger than Disneyland, with four separate theme parks and two water parks.
- Attractions: Disneyland has a more limited selection of attractions, while Disney World has more thrill rides and shows.
- Location: Disney World is located in Orlando, Florida, while Disneyland is located in Anaheim, California.
Ultimate Disney Checklist
To create the ultimate Disney experience, consider the following checklist:
| Activity | Location | Experience |
|---|---|---|
| Arrive early | Any park | Arrive before opening time to beat the crowds |
| Get a FastPass | Any park | Use the MaxPass app to make wait times easier |
| Choose a dining plan | Any park | Try new restaurants and enjoy faster service |
| Consider a park hopper ticket | Any park | Visit multiple parks in one day and enjoy the convenience |
| Pack smart | Any park | Bring sunscreen, water, and snacks to keep you energized |
| Take advantage of character meet-and-greets | Any park | Meet your favorite Disney characters |
Conclusion
Disneyland and Disney World are the ultimate destinations for families, offering a wide range of attractions, shows, and experiences that cater to all ages. By following this Must Do Disney checklist, you’ll be well on your way to creating unforgettable memories that will last a lifetime.
Remember to plan ahead, pack smart, and take advantage of the Disney perks to make the most of your Disney vacation. With these insider tips and tricks, you’ll be ready to enjoy the magic of Disney in no time!