How many days should I plan to visit Walt Disney World Resort for the first time?

The length of your Resort visit depends on many factors, including the size of your travel party, the time of year you plan on visiting and your overall budget. It is generally recommended that a stay of 5 to 7 days is ideal for first-time visitors. This makes it easier to experience all 4 theme parks as well as a Disney water park and Disney Springs. It also allows for some relaxation time which is important when traveling with young children.

How much do theme park tickets cost?

Ticket prices are based on the number of days you will spend in the theme parks, which can be from 1 to 10 days. The more you play the less you pay per day on multi-day tickets. The types of tickets you purchase will also be a factor in the price. When purchasing your tickets, you will see an interactive calendar that shows park ticket prices for the time of your visit. You will also see additional options, such as tickets for special events and Park Hopper options. Explore theme park ticket details and prices.

What value does a Lightning Lane pass add to my visit?

Lightning Lane passes let you skip the standby line and instead join a shorter line for select attractions and experiences. There is an additional cost for Lightning Lane passes, which can be purchased ahead of your visit. There are 3 Lightning Lane passes to choose from depending on your needs: Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass and Lightning Lane Premier Pass. Learn more about Lightning Lane pass options.

When is the cheapest time to visit Walt Disney World Resort?

Planning your trip during less crowded times allows you to save on both ticket prices and overall trip costs (Resort hotels, flights, etc.). Least expensive, less crowded times tend to be: Mid-January through early February – Crowds are generally lower following the more popular holiday times. July through early September — Summer months offer some of the lowest-priced dates, especially in August and September. Early December – Dates after Thanksgiving and before mid-December usually see smaller crowds in the parks. This is a great time to visit as the parks are decorated for the holidays, but prices are generally lower.

How can I find the cost of my Walt Disney World Resort vacation?

Costs of a Walt Disney World vacation involve several factors including tickets, accommodations and dining options. For an estimate of what your visit will cost, follow the link below, enter the Resorts & Packages and Tickets & Passes details for your trip, then follow the instructions to see your total cost. Find the cost of your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.

What payment options are available?

There are several flexible ways to pay for your dream Walt Disney World vacation, including PayPal Pay Later, Disney® Visa® Card, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Rewards Redemption Cards, as well as additional customizable payments for select vacation packages. Learn more about Disney vacation payment options.

How far in advance should I start booking my Walt Disney World vacation?

Timing for booking your Walt Disney World trip can affect both availability and price. Resort hotel reservations and special event tickets can sell out, especially during peak travel times. Here is a general guideline for when to begin booking your Walt Disney World Resort vacation. Resort Hotel Reservations: Book your Resort hotel 6 to 12 months in advance. Many Resort hotels book up quickly during peak season and can sell out months ahead, especially around holidays. Theme Park Tickets: Tickets can be purchased up to the day of your visit. You will also want to secure your tickets prior to purchasing Lightning Lane passes. Dining Reservations: As a Disney Resorts Collection Guest, you can book Walt Disney World dining reservations up to 60 days in advance of your visit, for the length of your stay (for up to a 10-night stay). For all other Guests, you can book 60 days out from your visit, one day at a time.

When are payments due?

Payment schedules will vary based on the payment plan you have selected. Get information about payment schedules.

I booked my Disney Resorts Collection hotel and theme park tickets! What’s next?

Congratulations! You’ve booked your trip, so now it’s time to get ready for your Walt Disney World vacation ! Now, if you haven’t already, download the My Disney Experience app so you can make dining reservations, purchase Lightning Lane passes, see event schedules and more to make your visit truly magical. Plus, enjoy additional tips and tricks for your upcoming trip!

Un jeune garçon portant un chapeau à oreilles de Mickey Mouse

How to Plan a Walt Disney World Vacation: Your 3-Step Guide

Looking for where to begin planning your Walt Disney World Resort visit? Start here!

A family of 4 posing with the Princess Tiana Topiary during the Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival

When is the best time to visit?

Anytime is the "best" time to visit Walt Disney World Resort, depending on the dates and budget that fit your needs.

Anytime is the “best” time to visit Walt Disney World Resort, depending on the dates and budget that fit your needs. There are great options to visit the Resort no matter what time of year you plan on visiting.

Here are some general tips about when to visit Walt Disney World Resort:

Late January through early February is a good time to visit. Post-holiday crowds tend to be lighter and the weather is usually comfortable.
Summer months offer some of the lowest-priced dates, especially in August and September.
Early-to-mid November is also a great time to plan your visit since the pre-Thanksgiving crowds tend to be more moderate, the weather is usually pleasant and the holiday decorations throughout the Resort start going up.
Check the schedule of events for each of the parks to see when popular festivals and special events are scheduled.

Each season at Walt Disney World Resort offers its own special events that are very popular with Guests. Some annual festivals and special events that many Guests plan their trips around include:

Many special events require a separate admission ticket and may sell out, so check for dates, availability and when tickets go on sale before you plan around them.

Visit the Disney Parks Blog for tips on when to visit Walt Disney World Resort.

How long should I stay?

The length of your Walt Disney World Resort stay depends on what you want to do and who will be traveling with you.

Things to consider as you plan your visit:

Have you been to Walt Disney World Resort before or will this be your first visit?
Will you be traveling with young kids?
Do you plan on visiting the Disney Water Parks and Disney Springs?
How much time do you need to rest and recover from a day at the parks?
Have you checked the Walt Disney World Resort website for any available special offers such as savings for a longer length of stay?

You should also consider planning your length of stay around what you want to see and how many theme parks you want to visit. Walt Disney World Resort is home to 4 unique theme parks that offer an array of attractions, shows, dining and entertainment for the whole family.

Magic Kingdom park features 6 themed lands, each filled with attractions, parades and entertainment. You’ll also find beloved classic attractions such as Haunted Mansion, Pirates of the Caribbean, Peter Pan’s Flight and “it’s a small world”.

EPCOT connects you to a global community through World Nature, World Celebration, World Discovery and World Showcase, each celebrating the cultures, innovations, cuisines, nature and traditions around the world.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park celebrates the world through real-life encounters with exotic animals and richly themed lands like Pandora – The World of Avatar, Africa, Asia and Discovery Island, as well as attractions and entertainment that includes Bluey’s Wild World at Conservation Station, Finding Nemo: The Big Blue… and Beyond!, and Kilimanjaro Safaris.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios puts you in the story with immersive worlds that include Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and Toy Story Land, as well as spectacular entertainment featuring sing-alongs to classic Disney films.

The following is a general guide for planning the duration of your Walt Disney World Resort vacation:

3 to 4 days allows you to visit all 4 theme parks with approximately one day at each park. This timeframe can feel rushed and you may not get much rest or be able to ride all the attractions or see the shows you love.
5 to 6 days is the most commonly recommended trip length, especially for first-time visitors. It allows for a comfortable pace to see one park per day, plus a bonus day for returning to a theme park, visiting Disney water parks, shopping and dining at Disney Springs or simply enjoying some time to relax at your Disney Resorts Collection hotel.
7 to 9 days gives you time to explore each park without feeling rushed. It also lets you go back to theme parks, visit Disney Springs or enjoy a day at the pool.
10 or more days is ideal for people who want to take advantage of all Walt Disney World Resort has to offer—4 theme parks, Disney water parks, Disney Springs, mini-golf and much more. This is a great option for large families who want a truly immersive vacation.

3 to 4Theme Parks

Exterior of The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror at night

15 to 27Attractions

A mother and son experiencing Alien Swirling Saucers in Toy Story Land at Walt Disney World Resort

6 to 9Shows

Belle arguing with the Beast during a performance of Beauty and the Beast Live on Stage

*These estimates are based on the views of members of the planDisney Panel. Individual experiences may vary.

Aerial gondolas of Disney Skyliner above Hourglass Lake

What are the benefits of staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel?

Disney Resorts Collection hotels offer the storytelling, attention to detail and Guest service you expect from Disney.

Discover the perks you can experience when you stay with the Disney Resorts Collection.

First-Access Benefits

More Time in the Parks: Enjoy 30 minutes of early entry to any of the 4 theme parks each day of your stay. Plus, Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels or Disney Deluxe Villas can enjoy extended evening hours in select theme parks on select nights.
Dining Reservations: As a Disney Resorts Collection Guest, you can book Walt Disney World dining reservations starting 60 days in advance of your visit, for your entire length of your stay (up to a 10-night stay), including popular Character dining and in-park favorites.
Lightning Lane Passes: Get an early jump on purchasing Lightning Lane passes for select theme park attractions up to 7 days ahead as opposed to 3 days in advance for other park Guests.
Enchanting Extras Collection: As a Guest, you have the opportunity to book Enchanting Extras Collection experiences starting 60 days in advance of your arrival for the entire length of stay (for up to a 10-night stay). Discover one-of-a-kind experiences, from tranquil fishing excursions to exhilarating animal encounters to delightful dessert parties and beyond.
Purchase Special Event Tickets Early: This is a great way to secure your tickets for separately ticketed and special after-hours theme park events, giving you time for Character interactions, riding popular attractions and enjoying incredible experiences. As a Disney Resorts Collection Guest, you can enjoy early access to purchase tickets before they go on sale to the general public.

Get Around with Ease

In addition, staying at a Disney Resorts Collection hotel offers access to complimentary bus, boat and monorail services that are available to take you to popular destinations throughout Walt Disney World Resort. Or the Disney Skyliner lets you glide across the sky while traveling between select Resort hotels and theme parks.

Dining Plans

Take advantage of convenient and flexible dining plans during your stay at Walt Disney World Resort when you book a room-and-ticket package.

Discover all Disney Resorts Collection benefits.

Explore All Resort Hotels

A family gathering at a dining table next to a wall with stingray-themed artwork at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

How do I choose which Disney Resorts Collection hotel is right for me?

Selecting the Disney Resorts Collection hotel that best fits your vacation needs depends on several factors.

Here is some information to help you choose the right Walt Disney World Resort hotel:

Budget

Disney Value Resorts typically offer the lowest rates and vibrant Disney theming. Some also offer Disney Skyliner access in addition to bus transportation.
Disney Moderate Resorts provide distinctive theming and enhanced amenities. Some offer Disney Skyliner, boat and bus access.
Disney Deluxe Resorts offer premium amenities, signature dining and close proximity to the parks via bus and some include monorail and boat access.
Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts and Disney Vacation Club Resorts feature home-like amenities, including a kitchen and living rooms. This option is good for longer stays and larger groups.

Location & Transportation

Disney Resorts Collection hotels offer close proximity to the theme parks.
Enjoy easy access to complimentary Resort transportation, including monorail, Disney Skyliner, boats and buses.

Theming & Atmosphere

All Disney Resorts Collection hotels cater to families, especially those with kids, while some may appeal more to adults.

Room Size & Group Needs

Family Suites sleep more people in one room, plus enjoy additional space to spread out.
Villa Rooms and Disney Vacation Club Villas offer more home-like amenities and feature a kitchen, in-room laundry machines and separate living spaces.

Dining & Amenities

Signature dining is available at some Disney Resorts Collection hotels while others offer a wide selection of cuisine and dining types.
Disney Resorts Collection hotels have multiple pools, some of which include theming, waterslides and waterplay areas, while others are leisure pools and offer a quieter experience.
Amenities such as spas, recreation options and others differ by Disney Resorts Collection hotel.

Extra Perks

Guests at all Disney Resorts Collection hotels enjoy early theme park entry. Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels can enjoy extended park evening hours in select theme parks on select nights.
Disney Resorts Collection hotels offer Guests complimentary self-parking.

Length of Stay & Trip Purpose

Shorter trips—prioritize proximity and convenient transportation options.
Longer trips with kids—prioritize theming, pools and leisurely activities.

Once you know the dates of your visit and have chosen a Disney Resorts Collection hotel, it’s time to book your room and theme park tickets.

Room & Ticket Packages

Find the package option that best fits your budget and group needs.

Family dancing outdoors in the Pride Lands courtyard area at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Park Tickets & Annual Passes

Select the ticket option that best suits your Walt Disney World vacation needs.

A family posing near aerial fireworks at Walt Disney World Resort

Save With Special Offers

View All Offers

How many days should I plan to visit Walt Disney World Resort for the first time?
How many days should I plan to visit Walt Disney World Resort for the first time?The length of your Resort visit depends on many factors, including the size of your travel party, the time of year you plan on visiting and your overall budget. It is generally recommended that a stay of 5 to 7 days is ideal for first-time visitors. This makes it easier to experience all 4 theme parks as well as a Disney water park and Disney Springs. It also allows for some relaxation time which is important when traveling with young children.
How much do theme park tickets cost?
How much do theme park tickets cost?Ticket prices are based on the number of days you will spend in the theme parks, which can be from 1 to 10 days. The more you play the less you pay per day on multi-day tickets. The types of tickets you purchase will also be a factor in the price.When purchasing your tickets, you will see an interactive calendar that shows park ticket prices for the time of your visit. You will also see additional options, such as tickets for special events and Park Hopper options.<a href="/fr-ca/admission/">Explore theme park ticket details and prices.</a>
What value does a Lightning Lane pass add to my visit?
What value does a Lightning Lane pass add to my visit?Lightning Lane passes let you skip the standby line and instead join a shorter line for select attractions and experiences. There is an additional cost for Lightning Lane passes, which can be purchased ahead of your visit.There are 3 Lightning Lane passes to choose from depending on your needs: Lightning Lane Multi Pass, Lightning Lane Single Pass and Lightning Lane Premier Pass.<a href="/fr-ca/lightning-lane-passes/">Learn more about Lightning Lane pass options.</a>

When is the cheapest time to visit Walt Disney World Resort?
When is the cheapest time to visit Walt Disney World Resort?Planning your trip during less crowded times allows you to save on both ticket prices and overall trip costs (Resort hotels, flights, etc.).Least expensive, less crowded times tend to be:<ul><li>Mid-January through early February – Crowds are generally lower following the more popular holiday times.</li><li>July through early September — Summer months offer some of the lowest-priced dates, especially in August and September.</li><li>Early December – Dates after Thanksgiving and before mid-December usually see smaller crowds in the parks. This is a great time to visit as the parks are decorated for the holidays, but prices are generally lower.</li></ul>
How can I find the cost of my Walt Disney World Resort vacation?
How can I find the cost of my Walt Disney World Resort vacation?Costs of a Walt Disney World vacation involve several factors including tickets, accommodations and dining options. For an estimate of what your visit will cost, follow the link below, enter the Resorts & Packages and Tickets & Passes details for your trip, then follow the instructions to see your total cost.<a href="/">Find the cost of your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.</a>
What payment options are available?
What payment options are available?There are several flexible ways to pay for your dream Walt Disney World vacation, including PayPal Pay Later, Disney® Visa® Card, Disney Gift Cards, Disney Rewards Redemption Cards, as well as additional customizable payments for select vacation packages.<a href="/fr-ca/guest-services/payment-methods/">Learn more about Disney vacation payment options.</a>

How far in advance should I start booking my Walt Disney World vacation?
How far in advance should I start booking my Walt Disney World vacation?Timing for booking your Walt Disney World trip can affect both availability and price. Resort hotel reservations and special event tickets can sell out, especially during peak travel times.Here is a general guideline for when to begin booking your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.<ul><li>Resort Hotel Reservations: Book your Resort hotel 6 to 12 months in advance. Many Resort hotels book up quickly during peak season and can sell out months ahead, especially around holidays.</li><li>Theme Park Tickets: Tickets can be purchased up to the day of your visit. You will also want to secure your tickets prior to purchasing Lightning Lane passes.</li><li>Dining Reservations: As a Disney Resorts Collection Guest, you can book <a href="/fr-ca/dining/snack-dine-enjoy/">Walt Disney World dining reservations</a> up to 60 days in advance of your visit, for the length of your stay (for up to a 10-night stay). For all other Guests, you can book 60 days out from your visit, one day at a time.</li></ul>
When are payments due?
When are payments due?Payment schedules will vary based on the payment plan you have selected.<a href="/fr-ca/guest-services/payment-methods/">Get information about payment schedules.</a>
I booked my Disney Resorts Collection hotel and theme park tickets! What’s next?
I booked my Disney Resorts Collection hotel and theme park tickets! What’s next?Congratulations! You’ve booked your trip, so now it’s time to <a href="/fr-ca/guest-services/manage-plans/?CMP=VAN-WDWFY24Q1_Get_Ready">get ready for your Walt Disney World vacation</a>!Now, if you haven’t already, download the <a href="/fr-ca/guest-services/my-disney-experience/mobile-apps/">My Disney Experience app</a> so you can make dining reservations, purchase Lightning Lane passes, see event schedules and more to make your visit truly magical. Plus, enjoy additional tips and tricks for your upcoming trip!