Things to do at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort
A unique vacation experience awaits at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
For too long I overlooked this resort opting for places like Pop Century, Port Orleans, and the Polynesian but Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a classic Disney World vacation experience and I’m so glad I finally gave it a try. Actually, it’s one of the best Disney World vacations I’ve planned and I am not an outdoorsman or a camper.
Even if you’re a hotel buff like me, I say that’s all the more reason to try Fort Wilderness. I promise that you’ll have a uniquely Disney World experience here.
In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do while at “Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.”
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort - Wilderness Cabins
If you are like me and don’t have an RV it’s no problem, there are a number of places that rent them, even here in Orlando. A quick Google search will bring up quite a few. They can even deliver them to Fort Wilderness for you and set them up.
Or you can do what I did and book a Wilderness Cabin.
First of all, these cabins are very cozy inside but also spacious, and have the ability to accommodate up to 6 guests.
They have a living room, a kitchen with full-size appliances, a separate bedroom with a queen bed, and bunk beds.
But my favorite feature is the BBQ grill on the deck and the picnic table.
There’s something about being able to relax in your own vacation home right on Disney property, it’s absolutely wonderful.
Sure Disney’s hotels are wonderful, but you’re limited to 2 queen beds and maybe a balcony. But in a cabin, you have your piece of land to call home.
While the theme parks are a blast, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking a little time off and having a BBQ and maybe moseying over to the evening sing-a-long with Chip ‘n’ Dale. You’ll definitely want to plan an evening or two where you can just relax in the wilderness - the way Disney intended.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort isn’t about the parks. It’s about being on vacation. Theme parks can be secondary because there are so many fun things to do here.
Cost of Wilderness Cabins
Now the big question everybody asks is, “How much do the Fort Wilderness Cabins cost per night?”
Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. It has to do with things like the time of year or if you want a room and ticket package. Generally speaking, Wilderness Cabins range in price from about $450 - $650 per night.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
One of the best-kept secrets here at Walt Disney World is the Tri-Circle-D Ranch. It’s part attraction and part working horse stable.
The name is a reference to an old Mickey Mouse Club spin-off called The Adventures of Spin and Marty where the boys camped at the Triple R Ranch.
You can stroll through the stables to visit Cinderella’s ponies and the working horses of Walt Disney World - there are about 90 in all.
Don’t miss the antique calliope, it was purchased by Walt Disney himself for the opening of Disneyland in the 1950s. There’s also a little museum dedicated to Walt Disney’s love of horses. There are some great memorabilia pieces and photos inside.
The Tri-Circle-D Ranch also offers horseback riding and pony rides for little ones. Horseback riding requires advance reservations and is actually located in a separate barn at Fort Wilderness located at the Outpost.
Horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides
There are horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides offered at the resort. Advance reservations are recommended by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. These tours can be booked starting 60 days in advance. As your travel advisor, I’m also happy to make the reservation for you.
These horse-drawn rides take you on a tour through Ft Wilderness. This is a great way to see the Fort, especially during the fall when many of the campers set up elaborate Halloween and Christmas displays at their campsites.
Campers at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort started an unofficial tradition of setting up magical Halloween and Christmas displays around their campsites.
During the Christmas season, there’s even a horse-drawn sleigh ride available - but since this is Florida, the sleigh is on wheels! So, just use your Disney imagination there.
Onsite General Stores
There are two general stores at the Fort: The Settlement Trading Post and The Meadow Trading Post.
Both offer select grocery items, mostly essentials like milk, eggs, bread, and other necessities that you might need to set up your vacation cabin.
If you’re a Disney nerd, you might consider Disney merchandise to be an essential part of your shopping list, and don’t worry, there’s plenty of that too.
I like they have a number of Ft. Wilderness logo gear as well. These items can’t be purchased anywhere else at Walt Disney World.
Now, if you’re wondering about how you can have a BBQ, at your cabin, the Meadow Trading Post and Settlement Trading Post carry charcoal, firewood, and even smores kits.
Golf cart rentals at Disne’s Fort Wilderness Resort
How to Rent a Golf Cart at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
I saved the best for last. The one that you must do at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is to rent a golf cart. Even if you have your own vehicle, I say ditch the family car and spring for a golf cart. You really can’t drive your car around the resort anyway because there isn’t any place to park other than your cabin or campsite.
Golf carts cost about $80 per night for a 24-hour rental period. I recommend reserving a golf cart in advance by calling 407-824-2742.
They do sell out. Now, if you forgot to make your reservation, you can join a waitlist at the check-in desk. You’ll receive a text if one has been made available for you.
As your travel advisor, I can arrange a golf cart rental for you as well.
You must have a driver’s license and be a guest at Ft Wilderness to rent a golf cart because it is billed to your campsite or cabin.
You’ll see golf carts everywhere at the Fort. I think driving around in our golf cart was the most fun we had during our entire stay.
We, meandered around each night just to enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. We even spotted some wildlife like deer and wild turkeys.
I recommend taking a drive around to explore the resort and check out some of the RVs - some are quite impressive.
But you can also drive it to the pool, the general stores, and even to the Magic Kingdom boat launch at the Settlement and the bus depot at the Outpost.
Transportation at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Fort Wilderness has internal buses just like Port Orleans and Caribbean Beach. There are two main transportation hubs at Fort Wilderness: the Outpost and the Settlement. They are on polar opposite sides of the resort.
Boat to Magic Kingdom from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
The Outpost is the main bus stop for the theme parks (except for Magic Kingdom). You’ll need to walk, drive your golf cart, or take the internal shuttle to the Outpost if you want to visit EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, or the water parks.
The Settlement is all the way in the back of the resort complex and it’s where you’ll find the restaurants, the Hoop Dee Doo dinner show, a general store, and a boat dock for Magic Kingdom transportation.
Magic Kingdom can be accessed by boat or you can take a bus from the Settlement depot.
Map of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (click or tap to enlarge).
Just make sure a Magic Kingdom bus is running, sometimes it isn’t which means you’ll need to take a boat or take a bus to the nearby Wilderness Lodge Resort and transfer there.
You can call the front desk for current transportation availability.
When going to Magic Kingdom, I recommend taking the boat. It’s a scenic ride that passes by Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
The boat ride is about 10 -20 minutes depending on whether or not goes express.
Some boats will stop at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and/or Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
Whether or not the boat runs express varies by time or day and even by season.
If the boat is making stops at other resorts, add about 8 minutes per stop to the time it takes to reach Magic Kingdom.
Other tips for Fort Wilderness Resort
Now of course this isn’t everything there is do to at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
You’ll also want to check out
Hoop-Dee-Doo-Musical Review is the longest-running show in America. Reservations are recommended and can be booked starting 60 days in advance.
Rent canoes and kayaks
Go on an off-road segway tour (to book call 407-WDW-PLAY)
Spend an afternoon at the pool and water slide
Watch Disney movies and under the stars
Join the fun at Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long - no reservation required.
Nestled on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground evokes the timeless beauty of the American frontier and its totally unique way to enhance your Walt Disney World vacation.
Every day I help people plan magical vacations to Walt Disney World Resort. I’d be happy to help you too.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Easy Guide to Memory Maker and PhotoPass at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World photo packages explained
Walt Disney World offers a myriad of photo products to help capture your memories while on vacation. In this guide, I’ll explain the difference between Disney Memory Maker and PhotoPass plus share the different options that are available such as Capture Your Moment sessions and Magic Shots.
What is the difference between PhotoPass and Memory Maker? Great question!
PhotoPass refers to all photo and video-related products and services offered throughout Walt Disney World.
Memory Maker is the product you purchase that allows you to download your photos and videos.
Memory Maker at Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World PhotoPass
You’ll find Disney PhotoPass photographers throughout the Walt Disney World Resort. At select attractions and iconic park locations, Disney’s professional photographers are on hand to capture your unforgettable vacation moments with one-of-a-kind photo opportunities.
Minutes later, your pictures are ready to view in your gallery—online or on the My Disney Experience app.
To enjoy the value and convenience of downloading all your vacation photos for one price, purchase Memory Maker.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Walt Disney World Memory Maker
Enjoy all the Disney PhotoPass photos and videos from your vacation—plus special extras—for one price.
How much is Memory Maker?
Currently, the advance purchase price is $185. You can purchase Memory Maker for $210 once you arrive at Walt Disney World.
If you would like to include Memory Maker as part of your vacation package, let me know so you can get the advance purchase price.
Memory Maker Tip: If you’re traveling with friends or family who have their own reservations, you can both share one Memory Maker account. Just link your Disney accounts together using the Family and Friends tool.
Memory Maker includes unique photos taken at iconic park locations (like in front of Cinderella Castle), Magic Shots and attraction photos.
Magic Shots – A Disney World PhotoPass Exclusive
Tiny World Magic Shots - Take photos to a new dimension with this 360-degree capture experience. You can find this right in front of Spaceship Earth at Epcot.
Super Zoom Magic Shots - A burst of photos comes together as a dynamic video of you and your family in iconic locations. My favorite location is at Magic Kingdom - go to the end of Main Street USA, to the hub in front of the Castle. Turn right, heading towards Tomorrowland, and look for the photographer.
Classic & Animated Magic Shots - Enhance your photos with whimsical effects to create a magical memento.
Classic and Animated Magic Shots
Walt Disney World Capture your Moment Photo Sessions
This personalized 20-minute private photo session was so popular at Magic Kingdom Park and Disney's Animal Kingdom, that Capture Your Moment is now offered at EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios!
Disney’s Capture Your Moment is a great way to remember your:
Engagement
Honeymoon
Anniversary
Child’s Birth or Adoption
Birthday
First Walt Disney World Visit
Family Reunion
Family Portraits
Graduation
And more!
See more on Disney World’s Capture Your Moment professional photography sessions in my guide here.
Disney World Memory Maker One Day
Memory Maker One Day is available for $69 in the My Disney Experience mobile app once you’ve linked at least one Disney PhotoPass photo to your account from the day to which you plan to apply the entitlement.
You’ll also find Memory Maker One Day at Walt Disney World Resort theme park ticket windows and Disney PhotoPass Centers.
Trying to decide between Memory Maker and Memory Maker One Day?
Memory Maker is a good option if you’re visiting Walt Disney World Resort for three or more days. If you’ll be visiting for one or two days (or only attending a special event such as Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party), purchasing Memory Maker One Day for each day of your visit is the better option for you.
Memory Maker One Day costs $69 per day.
Related to Memory Maker
Guide to Capture Your Moment Photo Package
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Winter Discount Available for Select Walt Disney World Hotels 2023-2024
Another Walt Disney World room offer has been released for winter travel dates. Starting today you can save up to 35% on hotel rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
Another Walt Disney World room offer has been released for winter travel dates. Starting today you can save up to 35% on hotel rooms at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels. Recently Disney released a Disney Dining Card offer and a room discount for Disney Visa cardmembers.
January 9, 2024 through March 24, 2024
Save up to 25% on stays most Sunday to Thursday nights.
Discounts are greater when you book by December 15, 2023. If you book on December 16th or later, the discount will be less.
This offer is valid for nearly every Disney World resort however here is a list of hotels where the discounts seem to be better.
Maximize your savings at these hotels:
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort – Little Mermaid Standard Rooms
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s
Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa – Deluxe Studios
Offer excludes the following room types:
3-bedroom villas
Tower Studios at Disney’s Riviera Resort
Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Bungalows at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Walkthrough Journey of Water Inspired by Moana at EPCOT
I recently had a preview of Journey of Water Inspired by Moana. The attraction officially opens on October 16, 2023, but here are some highlights and important tips for when you visit.
I recently had a preview of Journey of Water Inspired by Moana. The attraction officially opens on October 16, 2023, but here are some highlights and important tips for when you visit.
What is Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana at Epcot? I’ll take you on a tour, show you the highlights and I’ll show you my favorite hidden Moana Easter Egg in the video below.
Take a video tour of Journey of Water
Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana is a new, interactive experience opening at Epcot on October 16, 2023. It’s located in the World Nature neighborhood at Epcot, right next to The Seas Pavilion and The Land Pavilion, directly behind Spaceship Earth.
You’ll be able to explore a beautifully landscaped walking trail that feels like a tropical oasis with fun and surprises around each turn, as you engage with water in magical ways like Moana did with the ocean – from a simple greeting to a high five or even using your arms to create waves.
The attraction is designed to be a relaxing and educational experience. It will teach guests about the water cycle and the importance of water on our planet.
Journey of Water is a great way for families to learn about water conservation and sustainability.
But it’s not preachy, or trying to alarm you in any way.
But if you would like to learn more about water and water conservation, there are opportunities for that.
The theme throughout Journey of Water is to show how water connects us all and gives life to the world.
But you may also discover that the interactions work better when you have help from other guests - working as a team or even in unison to make music.
As you make your way through Journey of Water, you’ll experience water in its various forms throughout the water cycle and have the chance to interact with it in a truly Disney way. It is one of those things that will have you saying, “Only Disney could make something like this.”
Disney shows us that water has a playful personality of its own, and you can join in the fun by playing music with “rain harps,” waving to jumping streams, and creating a roaring ocean wave.
Designed with the whole family in mind, there’s something for everyone, even interactions that are set low for children.
Will you get wet in Epcot’s Journey of Water?
Well, the experience can be personalized for each guest’s preferences. As you move through the trail, you’ll find wet and dry path options but even the wet path options won’t leave you soaked.
You can get soaked if you want to, but you can customize your experience here.
As you walk along the trail, you’ll come across Te Fiti, who is seen protecting water as it travels through the water cycle.
And see if you can discover a few easter egg references.
Some Guests with a keen eye for detail might notice characters carved in the rock formations like Hei Hei and friends.
Journey of Water opens on October 16, 2023 at Epcot. It joins a list of new attractions and experiences such as Guardians of the Galaxy Cosmic Rewind, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and Tron Lightcycle Run at Magic Kingdom,
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Unlock the Magic: Disney World Vacation Packages Explained
At its core, the Walt Disney World family vacation package consists of 2 main components: Hotel room and theme park tickets. But there are a re number of options that allow you to customize your package.
Disney World Packages are designed to help you make sense of seemingly countless options and add-ons. But the packages themselves are a little confusing. And then we have questions like how much do Disney World vacation packages cost? And How can Disney travel agents help?
At its core, the Walt Disney World vacation package consists of 2 main components
Hotel room
Theme park tickets.
But there’s a little more to it than that.
Things like travel dates, party mix, ticket type, and even dining plans all contribute to the cost of your vacation.
Let's break it down into smaller pieces and start with deciding when to go and for how long.
When to go to Walt Disney World
Walt Disney World hotel rates and ticket prices vary by the day. T
his means that hotel prices are different each night and ticket prices are different each and every day.
But we can simplify this. First, ticket prices do not vary too much, so don’t get too concerned with that right now. The variations are minimal in the big picture.
Nightly hotel rates for Disney World hotels can vary greatly.
Rates are higher during holidays like Christmas, Easter, and President’s Day.
Rates are also higher during spring break season - so February, March, and April.
Rates are lower in late spring, summer, and fall.
Some of the best months to visit Disney are May, September, October, and November for lower crowds, lower prices and lower temperatures - well September is still pretty hot but you will literally have the parks to yourself.
Party Mix
Your party size is another major factor in determining your Walt Disney World package price.
Everyone staying in the same room must have the same package type.
So, everyone must have the same type of ticket and stay the same number of nights. If you purchase a dining plan, everyone must have the same dining plan too.
Disney World Hotels
Disney World Packages provide a variety of on-site and off-site hotels to suit different budgets and preferences.
There are 30 Disney-owned hotels by the way, which not only provide convenient access to the parks but also immerse you in Disney's atmosphere 24/7.
And Disney hotels provide free theme park transportation and free parking.
Prices for the most common room types range from about $150 per night up to about $1,500 per night.
There are 6 Hotel categories to choose from so this is where using a travel agent is especially helpful.
Value hotels
Moderately priced hotels
Deluxe hotels
Deluxe Villa hotels
Disney Springs hotels
Flamingo Crossings hotels
Let’s face it, the reason you would stay at a value resort is to save money.
These are economy rooms that are safe, clean, and have a whimsical theme.
The rooms are tiny, that’s to be expected, but perfect if you just need a comfortable place to sleep and shower.
The issue with the value hotels is the long lines that form in the food court and at the bus stop.
Moderate resorts cost slightly more but with that additional cost, you get a larger room, water slides at the hotel pool, and possibly more onsite dining options depending on the resort. Some rooms sleep up to 5.
Deluxe hotels offer the largest rooms, most can sleep up to 5, offer a high level of theming throughout, have multiple onsite dining options, usually a character meal, and of course, luxury accommodations like upgraded softgoods, fitness centers, and some even have spa services.
Deluxe hotels also come with special perks like extended park hours in the evening on select nights and at select theme parks.
Deluxe Villas hotels primarily exist for those who are Disney Vacation Club Members, but a select number of villas are held for general bookings.
These rooms come in a variety of styles ranging from studios to 1, 2, and 3-bedroom apartments with kitchens and living rooms.
The Disney Springs Hotels and Flamingo Crossings Hotels are third-party but located on Disney property.
Look for hotels that offer complimentary theme park shuttles and complimentary breakfasts.
Again a travel agent is very helpful with this. I have a Top 3 list of best 3rd party hotels that I use when working with my clients.
The Flamingo Crossings hotels specialize in family suites while most of the Disney Springs hotels offer more traditional hotel rooms.
These Good Neighbor hotels are priced comparably with the Disney Value Hotels and in my opinion much better.
They are on par with Deluxe hotels because they have upscale lobby areas, spacious rooms, fitness centers, resort-style pools, and even onsite restaurants. And the Disney World hotels don’t offer free breakfast.
Here’s a tip, When you book one of these hotels as a Disney World package, there are no mysterious resort fees.
Disney World Package Tickets
Disney World packages include theme park tickets for 2-10 days.
With tickets, the longer you stay, the cheaper the tickets get. For example, a 7-day ticket costs less per day than a 4-day ticket.
If you want just a 1-day ticket, you can’t book a package.
Packages include admission to the 4 Walt Disney World theme parks including
Magic Kingdom
Epcot
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
You can choose the number of days and whether you want to add options like the Park Hopper and Water Parks and Sports option.
Base tickets allow you to enter one theme park per day.
You can of course leave and re-enter the same park on that day if you would like to take a break and head back to your hotel.
The most common add-on is the Park Hopper.
This feature allows you to visit multiple Disney theme parks on the same day.
For example, you can start your day at Magic Kingdom, and then head over to Epcot for dinner later in the evening.
The park hopper option is a one-time cost and is valid for all days. You cannot purchase Park Hopper for just some of your days.
The cost can vary depending on the day.
If I had to ballpark it, I’d say Park Hopper costs about $100 per ticket but this is just an estimate.
The Park Hopper option is especially useful for those who are coming to Disney for a quick visit and need to get a lot done in a short amount of time.
You can also add the Disney Water Parks to your package. Even if you plan on visiting a Disney Water Park only once - it’s cheaper to add it to your package rather than buy a single-day admission ticket.
You can also visit Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course and the 2 mini-golf courses as well.
Disney Dining Plans
Disney offers 2 types of dining plans as a way to help make your vacation package feel more inclusive.
Over the years other theme parks copied Disney and began offer dining plans of their own, but most are a poor value because they include food that you would not have otherwise purchased.
And they tell you how much money you’re saving.
Well yeah, you might be saving money but if you wouldn’t have purchased all the food to begin with, it’s not really a value.
See the thing they’re missing is that Disney isn’t offering the dining plan as an upsell.
Disney offers dining plans to compete with all-inclusive resorts in the Caribbean and cruises.
Now you can really save a ton of money with the Disney Disney Plans if you book a character meal or two but otherwise, you’ll probably break even compared to paying out of pocket.
Choose from either the Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan or the Disney Dining Plan as part of your Walt Disney World Package.
Both plans provide everyone in the party (ages 3 and over) with a specific number of meals and snacks based on the number of nights of your Disney Resort stay.
You get to pick the plan that works best with your vacation style and dining needs!
The Regular Disney Dining Plan includes (based on the number of package nights)
1 Quick-Service Meal
1 Table-Service Meal
1 Snack/Nonalcoholic Drink
1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug
For example, if you book a 4-night package with a Disney Dining Plan, each Guest in your party would receive 4 Table-Service meals, 4 Quick-Service meals, and 4 snacks or beverages—which can be used at any time during your 4-night stay.
The Quick Service Dining Plan
2 Quick-Service Meals (per night of stay)
1 Snack/beverage (per night of stay)
1 Resort-Refillable Drink Mug
For example, if you book a 4-night package with a Disney Quick-Service Dining Plan, each Guest in your party would receive 8 Quick-Service meals and 4 Snacks or Beverages—which can be used at any time during your 4-night stay.
Memory Maker and Travel Protection
Two more options you can add on to your package are the Memory Maker and Travel Protection.
Memory Maker is a photo package that includes professional and on-ride photos throughout the theme parks.
The cost is $169. Be sure to add this on prior to checking in. Once you check in the price goes up to $200.
Travel Protection is a great value because it protects you from weather delays, mysteriously canceled flights, and illness. Kids age 17 and under are included for free.
Travel protection may not feel like a good investment unless you need it. Then you’ll say it’s the best thing you ever bought.
The cost is $95 per adult. Seriously, Disney isn’t cheap, you should protect your vacation especially if you’re flying to Orlando.
So let's review the key components we covered today:
Packages start at 2 nights or more at a Disney hotel or Good Neighbor hotel
Must include at least 2-days of theme park tickets
Ticket add-ons include Park hopping and or water parks
Dining Plans offer flexibility and convenience and help make your vacation feel all-inclusive.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Insiders Look at the Disney World 4-Park Magic Ticket
Is the Disney World 4-Day Magic Ticket right for you?
There’s no better way to spend quality time with family and friends than a summer vacation at Walt Disney World Resort!
The 4-Park Magic Discount Ticket at Disney World
You can purchase the 4-Park Magic Ticket which includes one day of admission to each of the four theme parks for a total of 4 admissions, on 4 separate days for $99 per day (plus tax).
No theme park reservations are needed. In this article, I’ll show you how you can combine this ticket with a Disney World hotel stay and how to save on the nightly room rate.
How the 4-Park Magic Ticket Compares to a Standard Disney World Ticket
$99 Per Day
Purchase the 4-Park Magic Ticket for $99 per day plus tax ($396 total plus tax). Tickets expire seven days from first use, or Sept. 29, 2023, whichever comes first.
This special promo ticket costs slightly more than a 3-Day Standard Disney World Ticket, but less than a Standard 4-Day ticket.
Flexible Disney World Touring
Standard Disney World Ticket
With a Standard Disney World Ticket, you can choose the parks you would like to visit in any combination.
For example, you may decide to visit Magic Kingdom on two separate days.
Theme Park reservations are required and ticket prices vary by day.
Standard tickets can be included in Disney World Resort Packages and are refundable according to the package terms. In short: cancel by 30 days prior to arrival for a full refund.
4-Park Magic Ticket
The 4-Day Magic Ticket gives you one admission to each of the 4 Disney World theme parks (Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom) but you cannot repeat a park visit.
Of course, you will be able to leave and return to the same park on the same day.
Theme Park reservations are not required with a 4-Park Magic Ticket and ticket prices do not vary by day.
Disney World Packages: 4-Park Magic cannot be included in a Disney World Resort Package and it is non-refundable once purchased. However, it can be combined with a resort stay so that it resembles a package, but with different terms and conditions.
Plan a Summer Vacation at Walt Disney World
I can help you plan a Walt Disney World Resort stay with the Four Park Magic Ticket with an easy-to-understand price quote and booking process.
When you combine the 4-Day Magic Ticket discount with one of the summer room offers available on select Walt Disney World hotels, you can save big this summer.
Right now you can save up to 25% off the nightly room rate at most Disney World hotels. Disney Visa offers are also available for card members. View all Disney World offers here.
Let’s get started now - click here.
When you can use the 4-Park Magic Ticket
This discounted Walt Disney World Ticket is valid for admission from June 1, 2023, through September 29, 2023.
It is blocked out from July 1 to July 4 and September 1 to September 4, 2023.
Ticket excludes activities/events separately priced.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
From experiencing the rush of the new TRON Lightcycle / Run at Magic Kingdom Park and delighting in the spectacle of Fantasmic! at Disney’s Hollywood Studios, to setting out on a thrilling whitewater adventure on Kali River Rapids at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park, and putting your very own concept car through its paces on Test Track at EPCOT it’s time to take advantage of this Disney World ticket discount.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.
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Walt Disney World Hotel Discounts 2023
Save up to 30% on select Disney World hotels when you travel between July 11 and September 28, 2023.
Disney World has released new hotel discounts for select on-property resorts. Travel must take place between July 11 and September 28, 2023. The amount of the discount varies by date and by hotel category. Theme park tickets can be included in this offer to make a vacation package.
Tron LightCycle Run at Magic Kingdom | Walt Disney World Resort
When you book your stay at a Disney Resort hotel, you’ll enjoy:
Complimentary early entry to every theme park—every day!
Complimentary Extended Evening Hours on select nights when you stay at Disney World Deluxe Resort.
Exclusive early access to select Disney Genie+ features.
Disney World Resorts with the biggest savings
While there are a number of participating resorts, I pulled out the hotels that have the biggest discounts (and simplified a confusing spreadsheet of dates and resorts).
Save 25-30% off the nightly rate
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Save 20-25% off the nightly rate
Save 15-20% off the nightly rate
Save 10% off the nightly rate
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Disney World Travel Protection Rate Change
There’s good news and bad news about travel protection from Walt Disney World this week.
I have good news and bad news about the travel protection offered through the Walt Disney Travel Company.
The bad news is that the price of travel protection just increased by $12.50.
You’ll now pay $95 per adult for Disney World Travel Protection.
The good news however is that children age 17 and under are now free, and automatically covered when adults purchase the travel protection plan.
Prior to this change, children’s policies were $6 each.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Is travel protection necessary? In my article Is Disney Travel Protection Worth it? I discuss how it gives you peace of mind and share a few good examples.
You can also read more about what the travel protection plan covers in my Guide to Disney Travel Protection here.
As a travel advisor, it is my honest and personal recommendation to purchase travel protection.
Full disclosure, Disney pays me a commission if you purchase travel protection, but the amount will just about buy a small coffee.
My point is, there is no upsell bonus or anything like that if you buy the plan.
I recommend travel protection based on my experiences with clients who purchased it - and even those who didn’t.
Recently one of my clients contracted Covid while at Disney. It spread to the entire family. While symptoms were all very mild thankfully, they spent over $1,000 on virtual doctor visits, having covid tests delivered to the hotel, and they were unable to fly home for 3 days.
This was all covered by their travel protection policy.
While Disney will work with you to some degree, if you have travel protection, it’s much easier to get a refund and reimbursements for medical expenses, extended stays and flight changes if you have it.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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How much does it cost to get into Disney World?
2023 Walt Disney World ticket prices and ticket FAQ
As a travel advisor, I get a lot of questions when it comes to Disney World ticket prices. Here’s a quick guide I created on how to figure out Disney World tickets. Have questions about booking your Walt Disney World vacation? I have answers! Contact me today for a no-obligation Disney World package quote ▸
How much does it cost to get into Disney World?
Disney World tickets vary in price by day. Yep, Disney has priced out all 365 calendar days. However, when you book a Disney World room and ticket package that includes a stay at a Walt Disney World hotel (including some off-site hotels) and theme park tickets, you get one package price and a number of benefits. Want to see what a package price looks like? Contact me here to get started ▸
What is the cheapest month to go to Disney?
Going off-peak, anytime grade schools are in session, will save you money. January, May, and late August through October are among the cheapest months to visit Walt Disney World.
These times are also among the least crowded times to visit.
How many days do you need at Walt Disney World?
On my Disney World Package page, I provide sample itineraries for common package options from long weekends to see and do it all.
At the bare minimum, I recommend a 3-Day Park Hopper ticket.
This allows you to visit multiple theme parks on the same day, ideal for short stays like long weekends.
If you have more time, I recommended at least a 4-Day Base Ticket so you can visit each of the 4 Disney theme parks at a comfortable pace.
The longer you stay, the cheaper it is to play
Did you know that Disney tickets get cheaper by the day? For example, a 6-Day ticket costs less than a 3-Day ticket when you break down the cost per day.
Let’s use the chart below for Base Tickets to see an example:
A 3-Day Base ticket starts at $362.13, or $120.71 per day
A 6-Day Base ticket starts at $539.88, or $89.98 per day
Another tip I have is to pay attention to the difference in price as you add more days to your tickets. From 6 days on, there is a minimal ticket price increase for additional days.
For example, the difference in price between a 6-Day ticket and a 7-Day ticket is only $16.
Disney World Base Ticket Prices
Visit one Disney World theme park per day.
| Days | Adult | Child (age 3-10) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $116.09-$201.29 | $110.76-$195.96 |
| 2 | $236.49-$358.53 | $226.54-$348.40 |
| 3 | $362.13-$528.20 | $347.43-$513.27 |
| 4 | $484.67-$673.34 | $465.91-$654.31 |
| 5 | $523.81-$754.96 | $503.38-$733.64 |
| 6 | $539.88-$799.63 | $518.57-$777.05 |
| 7 | $555.96-$820.21 | $533.97-$796.99 |
| 8 | $593.13-$841.45 | $570.13-$817.46 |
| 9 | $617.02-$854.64 | $593.34-$830.10 |
| 10 | $637.94-$869.99 | $613.65-$844.85 |
Disney World Park Hopper Ticket Prices
Visit multiple Disney World theme parks on the same day.
| Days | Adult | Child (age 3-9) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $194.90 - $268.38 | $189.57 - $263.06 |
| 2 | $316.37 - $449.06 | $306.41 - $438.93 |
| 3 | $442.01 - $618.71 | $427.31 - $603.79 |
| 4 | $575.20 - $774.51 | $556.43 - $755.49 |
| 5 | $614.33 - $856.13 | $593.91 - $834.81 |
| 6 | $630.31 - $900.81 | $609.09 - $878.22 |
| 7 | $646.49 - $921.38 | $624.49 - $898.17 |
| 8 | $683.66 - $942.62 | $660.65 - $918.64 |
| 9 | $707.54 - $955.82 | $683.87 - $931.28 |
| 10 | $728.46 - $971.16 | $704.18 - $946.03 |
Disney World Water Park & Sports Ticket Prices
Visit one Disney World theme park per day, plus a certain number of visits to Blizzard Beach water park, Typhoon Lagoon water park, mini golf (before 4:00 pm), a round of golf at Oak Trail family walking course.
| Days | Adult | Child (3-9) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | - | - |
| 2 | $311.04 - $433.08 | $301.09 - $422.95 |
| 3 | $436.68 - $602.74 | $421.98 - $587.82 |
| 4 | $559.22 - $747.89 | $540.46 - $728.88 |
| 5 | $598.36 - $829.51 | $577.93 - $808.19 |
| 6 | $614.33 - $874.18 | $593.12 - $851.60 |
| 7 | $630.51 - $894.75 | $608.52 - $871.54 |
| 8 | $667.68 - $916.00 | $644.68 - $892.01 |
| 9 | $691.57 - $929.19 | $667.89 - $904.65 |
| 10 | $712.49 - $944.54 | $688.20 - $919.40 |
Disney World Park Hopper Plus Tickets
Visit multiple Disney World theme parks on the same day plus Disney water parks, mini-golf, and golf at Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course.
| Days | Adult (10+) | Child (3-9) |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | $216.20 - $289.68 | $210.87 - $284.36 |
| 2 | $337.67 - $470.36 | $327.71 - $460.23 |
| 3 | $463.31 - $640.01 | $448.61 - $625.09 |
| 4 | $596.50 - $795.81 | $577.73 - $776.79 |
| 5 | $635.68 - $877.43 | $615.21 - $856.11 |
| 6 | $651.61 - $922.22 | $630.40 - $899.55 |
| 7 | $667.79 - $942.68 | $645.79 - $919.47 |
| 8 | $704.96 - $963.92 | $681.95 - $939.94 |
| 9 | $728.84 - $977.12 | $705.17 - $952.58 |
| 10 | $749.76 - $992.46 | $725.48 - $967.33 |
Is it better to buy Disney World tickets separately or through a package?
When you include 2 or more day tickets as part of your Disney World hotel stay, your reservation becomes a Disney Resort Package. Packages allow you more flexibility such as the ability to cancel your tickets without penalty.
You won’t have to pay for tickets in full upfront, and you can modify or downgrade your tickets up to 30 days before arrival.
If you purchase tickets outside of a package, they are non-refunable, non-transferable, and they must be paid for in full at the time of order.
OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises
Even More Walt Disney World Tickets - FAQ
Is it cheaper to buy Walt Disney World tickets online or at the gate?
1 and 2-Day Disney World tickets cost the same whether you buy them at the gate or online, however, you’ll save money when your purchase a 3-day ticket or longer online.
Are there Florida Resident discounts on Disney World Tickets?
Yes! Florida Residents can save big with discounted tickets. They are usually offered as a 1-day, 3-day or 4-day ticket but this changes often. Some Florida Resident multi-day tickets have blockout dates so be sure to check the dates prior to purchasing.
All adults will need to show proof of Florida residency at the park entrance. Florida residents may purchase discounted tickets for children age 17 and under, even if they do not reside in Florida. View Florida Resident Discount Tickets on the Walt Disney World website.
I found some old Disney World Tickets that we never used. Can they still be used?
Disney will give you a credit from your unused tickets (typically sold in the 1980s and 1990s) toward the purchase of a new ticket. The credit is going to be minimal. You cannot exchange these older tickets if you are booking a package.
Honestly, they probably make better souvenirs. I would just hang on to them as a collectible rather than trying to exchange them.
Free Disney World tickets in exchange for a timeshare presentation. Is this legit?
Be sure you know the company offering the deal. Brands like Hilton, RCI, Westgate etc. are probably fine. Just do your homework on the company before agreeing to anything, search them online, look for reviews and see what others have said. So no to phone calls where the agent makes you decide before you hang up. Scammers and shady businesses like to use a sense of urgency as a high-pressure sales tactic.
Even if you find a legit program offering free or discounted Disney tickets, just know they are usually very high pressure and always take much longer than expected. They are more than prepared to deal with those who are there just for the cheap tickets and they have ways of wearing you down.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Sneak Peek at the Newly Rethemed Rooms at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort
New Under the Sea rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort replace pirate rooms. Here’s a sneak peek.
Today I have a sneak peek at the new “under the sea” themed rooms, possibly inspired by “The Little Mermaid” at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort at Walt Disney World.
“Under the Sea” Themed Room at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Walt Disney world
Disney World leadership previously shared that the pirate-themed rooms in the Trinidad section of the resort would be refurbished and that subtle references to various Disney “under the sea” moments would be included in the new decor.
Disney posted photos of the new rooms on a Cast Member social media channel today.
The newly themed rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort have:
laminate flooring
a tropical color pallet
queen size pull down (murphy) bed
traditional queen size bed
child-size pull-down bed (suitable for most children up to age 9)
These rooms are not yet available to book. More on that soon. As of right now, it appears that at least some, if not all, of these rooms, will sleep 5 guests.
The former pirate rooms had two double size beds and had a capacity of 4 guests per room.
See more about the Best Rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort here
The former Pirate Rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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Walt Disney World Cyber Deal
Cyber savings for Walt Disney World Resort
I’m excited to share with you a new Walt Disney World offer from Magical Vacations Travel to help you celebrate Cyber Week!
Now is the time, now is the best time to book your vacation during our Disney World Cyber Week Savings Event. Plus, you’ll be enrolled in our Price Watch Program, and you will also receive the following CYBER BONUS SAVINGS.
New bookings only. Must book by December 2, 2022. Offer void if the reservation is canceled. Offer may be combined with Disney offers.
Even more Walt Disney World offers
Combine our gift card offer with one of these special deals
Disney+ Subscribers: Save Up to 20% on Rooms This Holiday Season
Stays most nights December 11 - December 25, 2022. Start Planning ▸
Save up to $400 on a 4-Night, 4-Day Room and Ticket Package at Select Disney World Resort Hotels
Stays most nights December 11 - March 30, 2023 Start Planning ▸
Disney Visa Cardmembers Save up to 20% on Rooms at Select Disney World Resort Hotels
Stays select nights January 2, 2023 - April 30, 2023 Start Planning ▸
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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2023 Disney World Packages Now Available
You can now book a 2023 Walt Disney World vacation package, room-only reservation and order theme park tickets. Here are the updates for Walt Disney World in 2023
Starting today you can now book a 2023 Walt Disney World vacation package, room-only reservation and order theme park tickets.
While not much has changed in terms of offerings, there are a few updates to share.
Packages 500 Days Out
Packages can be booked 500 days out. For example, on June 8, you can book a Disney World package through October 21, 2023.
Pirate Rooms Will Walk the Plank in 2023
Pirate themed room at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Pirate rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort are not being offered in 2023. No word yet on what will be happening with these rooms.
Pirate themed rooms are located in the remote Trinidad section of the resort. The idea was to give the least desirable rooms at the resort a pirate makeover, and hope that guests wouldn’t mind how far these rooms were from the lobby, pool, and dining.
While they were pretty neat, the beds were small - most rooms had 2 double size beds while standard rooms at the resort had 2 queen beds).
Pirate rooms also cost more than a standard room.
Things changed however when Disney Skyliner opened. The rooms in the Trinidad section suddenly became more desirable, because they are a short walk away.
Disney will likely re-theme the pirate rooms and likely charge a premium for them due their proximity to Disney Skyliner.
No Dining Plans in 2023
Last August I received an email from Disney with updates about Walt Disney World. It mentioned that the Disney Dining Plans would be returning “soon.”
The dining plans could return at any time, but I am surprised that they are not being offered in 2023 packages as of today.
King Bed Rooms at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
King bed room at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
In 2023 you can now book a room with a king bed at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resort. Previously rooms with kind beds were assigned based on the number of occupants and by making a room request.
Rooms with king beds are now an option in the Disney World booking engine.
Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.
Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.
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