Mom And Daughter Magic Kingdom Cinderella's Castle
  • On Feb 22, 2022
    Elizabeth from MA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hi Ashley, Haley wants to go to Disney next May for her 16th birthday. I was thinking long weekend. How can we save some money and maximize our time? When should/can I start booking stuff?

    Hi Elizabeth! Welcome to planDisney! 

    I am so excited that you took some time out of your day to visit us, and I hope I can send you both on your way with some great ideas for your vacation next spring!  A 16th birthday is a BIG deal, and I can't think of a better way to spend it than in The Most Magical Place on Earth!  If you ask me, May is an absolutely perfect time to visit Walt Disney World Resort because the weather is gorgeous, the days are getting longer, and usually, the EPCOT International Flower and Garden Festival is at its peak. I love checking out all the topiaries and gardens, and the special snacks just can't be beat.  Just today, the Disney Parks Blog published the "Foodie Guide" for this year's festival and I am so sad I won't be there to try some of the new bites!

    While the online reservation system is currently only booking reservations until December 2022, you're still able to book a "room-only" reservation right now!  Instead of reserving online, you'll need to speak with a friendly Cast Member who can start the planning process for you at (407)-939-1936.  As your vacation inches closer you can add on Theme Park Tickets.  Usually, package deals for the following calendar year are posted in June or July of this year.  I would keep an eye on the Disney Parks Blog for any and all of the latest information revolving around new vacation packages.  

    Another reason this time of year is perfect to visit is that there are often Special Offers, Deals & Discounts available.  While these are currently only posted for this year, special offers have been running for many years and you will probably be able to find similar deals for your trip next spring. With these special offers, you might find that the savings allow you to plan to stay an extra day and really enjoy the celebration!  

    When you arrive, make sure to stop by your Disney Resorts Collection hotel's Front Desk and grab a "Happy Birthday" button for your birthday girl!  You can even get an "I'm Celebrating" button to wear yourself.  If you're planning on a birthday dinner, did you know you can get a Mickey Mouse Celebration Cake at some participating restaurants? Just tell the host when you arrive at the Park, or even for your reservation, and hopefully they'll be able to accommodate your flavor choice and the message on the top.  It's a great way to add a little more pixie dust to an already magical weekend.  If you're only staying for two or three days, I'd highly suggest purchasing Park Hopper Option Theme Park tickets so that you're able to visit each and every one of the four Theme Parks. With this option, you can begin your day by "rope dropping" at one park, (meaning you'll be there at opening) and then taking Disney's complimentary transportation to another Park for the evening and nighttime fireworks.  It's a great way to squeeze in extra fun on a tight schedule! 

    No matter how you plan your long weekend it's sure to be a practically perfect birthday celebration for your practically perfect girl!  Enjoy!
    Ashley M


thumbnail image for Ashley

Meet the Panelist: Ashley, Massachusetts

Hi All, I'm Ashley! From the very beginning Walt Disney World Resort has always been a part of my life. As a child I excitedly helped to plan family trips, as a young adult I planned our "happily ever after" right on Disney property, and now I'm lucky enough to plan magical vacations for my three incredible children. When we're not taking in the enchanting experiences of the parks, we're home in Massachusetts, probably planning our next trip! Learn More About Ashley

Related Video

  • thumbnail image for planDisney Overview

Didn't find what you were looking for? Click the Ask a Question button to open the Ask a Question dialogue box. If you are not logged in a dialogue box will appear to signin in order to ask a question.

To submit your question, please sign in now if you have not already done so.

Ask a QuestionOpens the Ask a Question dialog box.
x

Update Browser

For a better experience browsing this website, please download an updated version of Internet Explorer.


Or you can continue browsing without updating.