Hi Andrea!
Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel. I'm glad you stopped by with your very thoughtful question about the value of
Annual Passes at Walt Disney World Resort.
Like you, I do not life close enough to the Disney theme parks in Florida to make impromptu visits. As much as I'd like to do so, I can't just pop by on a whim, although heaven knows I wish I could! Nonetheless, I have found that my Annual Pass is well worth what I have spent on it. The break-even point for me, without considering any of the associated discounts and perks, is ten days. If I know I'll be visiting the Disney theme parks for ten days over the course of an entire year, then purchasing an Annual Pass is going to save me money. Actually, since Disney Vacation Club Members currently get a substantial discount on Annual Passes, their break-even point is more like six days.)
However, if you like to shop at Walt Disney World Resort (and who doesn't?), then you'll break even well before ten days. You also save 15% percent on eligible tours. I just saved $100 with my Annual Pass on my family's registration fee for the Ultimate Night of Adventure VIP Tour at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Annual Passholders also have the option to purchase a Tables in Wonderland card that gives you 20% off food and beverages at more than 100 restaurants on property.
Annual Passholders often enjoy deeply discounted rooms at Walt Disney World Resort hotels. The current promotion covers hotel rooms through April 14, 2018. Savings on hotel rooms is probably the area where you'll see the biggest opportunity to justify the cost of your Annual Pass.
For me, the intangible value of an Annual Pass is most important. It makes me feel great knowing I can walk into any of the Disney theme parks for an entire year. If a friends invites me to tag along for a last minute trip, I'm ready!
Best wishes,
Jill