Hi there, Andrew!
Welcome to planDisney, the home of dozens of Disney vacation super planners! We’re just ordinary people from around the globe, but we know a thing or two about planning the best vacation ever for our families and friends. I’m sorry to hear that you’re having trouble finding Authorized Disney Vacation Planners (travel agencies who are recognized as meeting Disney Destinations’ planning standards and other specified criteria). Hakuna Matata, Andrew! I’d be happy to point you in the right direction.
If you’re up to DIYing (doing-it-yourself), there are so many resources that you can check out between the Walt Disney World Resort website and here at planDisney. First, peruse the Walt Disney World Resort
“Vacation Planning” webpage. This will give you a good idea about what magical paths you can take on your vacation. Keep in mind that there are endless possibilities around property, and even as a Florida local, I haven’t seen and done everything at the Resort. Because you’ve already secured accommodations, I recommend scrolling past the “Get Started” button and view what each theme park offers.
Once you’ve narrowed down which theme parks you want to visit, then you’ll want to purchase theme park tickets. On the website, select the “Parks & Tickets” tab and then
“Theme Park Tickets.” There, you can select your ticket type, theme parks, and other additions like the Park Hopper Option. Park hopping comes in handy if there are multiple theme parks that you want to visit in one day.
You’ll also want to download the
My Disney Experience App. This app will be your go-to tool before, during, and after your vacation. Get familiar with the theme park maps, transportation options, character meet-and-greet locations, and other experiences like dining. (By the way, you can also make advance dining reservations up to 60 days before your vacation. You can make those reservations online or right in the app!)
You can also find fantastic planDisney resources in the planDisney
Video Library like a planDisney Podcast episode all about experiencing Walt Disney World for the first time (I’ve also linked that particular video below). The
“Panel Extras” webpage is full of Pocket Guides and Trip Reports that you may find helpful as you iron out the details of your vacation.
AN EXTRA GEM: Your dates perfectly align with one of the best events on property: the
EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival. You simply cannot miss exploring the intricate character-inspired topiaries and the various flavor-packed food items at the Outdoor Kitchens around the theme park. As you hop from attraction to attraction, you’ll also want to stop and (literally) smell the roses.
As you can see, there is no Disney planning service akin to a travel agency. However, there are several online resources (like here at planDisney!) to help you have the best vacation ever. If you have any specific questions about your upcoming vacation, don’t hesitate to
revisit us. Andrew, any one of the panelists would be more than happy to share tips and tricks!
Magic always,
LeAndra