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  • On Jun 22, 2023
    Martin from GA Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    The last time I was at Disney World was on this day, of 2002, which was 20 years ago. I feel as if everything with bookings has changed 20 years later and I don’t know what to expect. What do I have to do in order to book a visit? Or make a reservation?

    Welcome to planDisney, Martin! I’m thrilled you’re here planning a visit after 20 years. 

    Martin, one of the reasons my family keeps coming back to the Walt Disney World Resort year after year is that while the parks continually change and adapt, there is nostalgia and tradition. When you return you’ll likely recognize some favorites from your last visit and be equally excited by the new additions

    Now, as you’re in the beginning stages of planning, I would encourage you to start your journey by creating a My Disney Experience account if you don’t have one (or yours is inactive). Through this (complimentary) account you can book all aspects of your visit including making dining reservations and downloading photos.

    Next, I’ll encourage you to check out the vacation packages (this bundles a Disney Resort Hotel stay with your theme park tickets). My family and I love to stay on property at a Disney Resort Hotel because we’re in the middle of the Magic for our entire trip. With complimentary transportation to and from the parks for resort guests and amenities like Early Theme Park Entry, there is an extra sprinkling of pixie dust when you stay onsite! 

    Another option (in case you already have lodging secured) is to purchase tickets separately. You can easily do this through your My Disney Experience account as well. Tickets are date-based, so you'll just need to know when you're planning to visit and how many days you'll be enjoying the parks. You can purchase standard 1 park per day tickets or Park Hopper tickets that allow you to visit more than 1 park on the same day. Both types of tickets are also available as part of a vacation package. Since it's your first time in 20 years, I would recommend the standard 1 park per day ticket so that you have time to enjoy all there is to see and do in each location.

         planDisney tip: For visits through the remainder of 2023 and until January 9, 2024, complimentary theme park reservations are required in addition to a valid theme park ticket. Prior to purchasing tickets, please make sure to check Disney Park Pass reservation availability and then reserve your park of choice after your theme park tickets have been purchased. 

    Marin, once you have an account created, selected a date to visit, and purchased either a vacation package or tickets, please come on back to planDisney for additional vacation planning support and recommendations. We are happy to chat about Disney Genie+, dining around the Walt Disney World Resort, how to join a Virtual Queue, and more! You can also check out the Panel Extras section of the planDisney website for more helpful tips. 

    Wishing you a Magical return to my favorite vacation destination, 
    Laruen
thumbnail image for Lauren

Meet the Panelist: Lauren, Pennsylvania

Greetings from central Pennsylvania! Hi, I’m Lauren and I can’t wait to answer all of your Walt Disney World Resort and Disney Vacation Club questions. My husband and I became Disney Vacation Club Members because we love visiting the Disney Parks and with hectic day-to-day schedules, wanted to prioritize time away for our family. The options at the Walt Disney World Resort make each trip unique and I am excited to help other families build vacations with those unforgettable moments.

Learn More About Lauren

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