• On Dec 18, 2020
    Robert from AL Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    first timer, overwhelmed, how do i go about planning a day? Ways to avoid long waits for rides

    Welcome to planDisney, Robert! I know planning a Walt Disney World Resort vacation can seem overwhelming, but we've all been in your shoes before -- you've come to the right place!

    There is no right or wrong way to plan out your Disney days -- however you choose to do your vacation will be the right way for you!  Since you specifically asked about avoiding long waits for rides, I'll give you my family's strategy.  We try to experience the more popular attractions first thing in the morning or in the hour or so prior to park close -- you'll find that's when lines are usually shortest.  We take a more relaxed approach in the middle of the day, which tends to be busier.  We'll visit attractions with shorter wait times, and often take a break for a leisurely meal, a dip in the pool, or even a nap back in our Disney Resort Hotel room.  A great planning tool is the My Disney Experience mobile app.  You can use the app to view wait times for attractions to help you decide what to do next.

    With health and safety protocols in place, lines may seem long due to physical distancing measures.  My experience has been that the lines tend to move fairly quickly.  If you find yourself with a longer wait, use the time to browse menus and place a Mobile Food and Beverage order -- and don't miss all those yummy holiday treats on your visit next week!  Also, download the Play Disney Parks app.  You'll find trivia games, ways to interact with elements in the parks, and more to help while away your time in line.

    If you haven't already, be sure to make your Disney Park Pass reservations.  Due to limited capacity, theme park attendance is being managed with the Disney Park Pass reservation system.  All Guests will need a reservation as well as valid admission for theme park entry.

    I recommend planning to arrive at your selected theme park at least 30 to 45 minutes prior to the scheduled park opening, so you can be among the first Guests to enter the park.  You'll find shorter wait times at most attractions during the first hour or so.

    Robert, if you have additional questions or would like more tips for your upcoming visit, please stop by planDisney again.  We are always happy to help.

    Have a magical vacation!

    Anne Marie
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Meet the Panelist: Anne Marie, Illinois

Hi everyone!  I'm Anne Marie from Illinois.  I love escaping our long Midwest winters with some fun in the sun at beautiful Walt Disney World Resort!  It seems our family of six is always on the go, and that is one reason why our Disney vacation memories are so special.  We get the opportunity to have fun while spending precious time together.  I enjoy helping family and friends plan their Disney vacations, and I'd love to help you plan yours too! Learn More About Anne Marie

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