Hey there, Sarah!
It's so nice to have you visit us at planDisney! I am so excited for you and your upcoming trip to
Walt Disney World Resort.First, a full disclosure: I write this as someone who is very much a tech geek who loves using mobile technology tools every day. I especially love using the
My Disney Experience mobile app when I vacation at Walt Disney World Resort. Personally, I am so very impressed with the continuous improvement efforts to add new features to the mobile app. Just as one example, the new
Disney MagicMobile Service enables you to use your mobile device much like you would use a MagicBand for theme park entry. How cool!
Here's my second full disclosure: I'm also a mobile tech user who doesn't always immediately upgrade to the latest and greatest mobile device. I'm more of a tech minimalist who tries to use what tech I have for as long as I can.
So, the question is: can you enjoy all the magic of a Walt Disney World Resort vacation without using the mobile app? I would offer that the answer is "yes!"
Let me quickly touch on a few big conveniences the app would offer you and suggest some alternatives. Please know that this is not a complete and all-inclusive list of every feature the mobile app provides.
- The mobile app lets you unlock your door if you are staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel. You can use the key card provided to you, or a MagicBand, as an alternative.
- The mobile app provides really great maps and step-by-step directions to guide you all around Walt Disney World Resort. Personally, I believe there will always be someone nearby -- a friendly Cast Member or a friendly fellow Guest -- who can point you in the right direction to where you want to go.
- The mobile app allows for convenient and time-saving mobile food ordering. I think you can go "old school" if you choose and order when you arrive at your food service spot of choice. It might mean you spend a bit more time on the whole ordering and pickup process, but you can do it.
- The mobile app will show you wait times for attractions in the theme parks. You can typically find the wait time information at the attraction entrances as well.
- The mobile app will let you find dining locations and join walk-up lists. If you can make your dining reservations in advance, or be flexible and enjoy the dining choices available to you "in the moment," then you can have options to enjoy.
Sarah, I would like to believe that you can enjoy all the magic of Walt Disney World Resort and not feel that you're missing out by not making use of the mobile app. I do think you'll need to plan ahead just a bit more, and be more open to spontaneity. Personally, I always encourage Guests to be spontaneous. I sometimes say "the magic is in the moment." I also think you'll want to ask more questions of all the friendly Cast Members you encounter -- both those at your Resort hotel and those in the theme parks.
Here's to your tech-free, totally magical Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
Enjoy every magical moment!
Jerry