Disney 101 Planning Tips

When is the BEST Time to Go to Disney?

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So when IS the BEST time of year to visit Walt Disney World? 

I get this question so frequently from friends and clients. The truth is, it’s different for everyone because there are so many factors that go into it! Crowds, price and weather are the three biggest factors for people, so I’ve provided a chart below to give you an idea of what each month of the year looks like at Disney. 

Here are my recommended steps to follow to help you determine when to go with your group. Ideally, it’s good to book your trip about 9-12 months out, so keep this in mind! 

1. Ask yourself, what factor is the MOST important? 

Is it crowds, price or weather? Or something else completely? Take a look at the chart below to help you out!

2. Think through the travel logistics. 

What else is going on in your lives then? Is it the kids’ break, or will you need to take them out of school? What activities are in session then? Will the kids be tall enough to ride certain attractions, or should we wait six more months?

3. Start to check availability and pricing.

This is where a travel agent comes in – they can start to check resort availability and pricing for locations on and off Disney property. 

Crowd, Price & Weather Calendar Snapshot

*Keep in mind, any holiday weekends will typically see higher crowds, even if it’s a “low” month. ALSO, Disney is never “quiet” anymore – there will always be crowds, it’s just that the level of crowds will just vary.

This calendar is meant to be a high level snapshot to help you determine broadly which month makes the most sense based on your priorities. Once this gives you an idea, more research should be done (or call me!).

Once you’ve booked your trip, reach out to WDW Park Planners to help plan the day-to-day of your magical vacation! 

Question? Contact me today!

Planning Tips

Ideal Disney Vacation Planning Timeline

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How far out should you actually book your Walt Disney World vacation? With all of the advance work that is now required to go to Disney, the further out you book your trip, the better.

Here are the key planning dates to keep in mind when thinking about going to the Happiest Place on Earth:

499 Days Out: You Can Start Booking Your Disney Resort

The official window for making Disney resort reservations opens 499 days out from your arrival date. This is about a year and four months, so pretty far in advance. It is not necessary to book this far out, but it can be beneficial if you plan on going during a peak season like the holidays or Spring break.

7 Months Out: Contact WDW Park Planners for planning help!

If you’re using my Park Planning Service, you’ll ideally want to have your resort booked by the seven month marker. This gives time for us to confirm your trip logistics (who’s traveling, your Disney “must dos,” etc.) and for me to map out a recommended trip outline for your group (which parks you’ll visit on which days).

180 Days Out: Your Advance Dining Reservation Window Opens

It’s important to have your vacation outline determined before this window opens. That way you’ll know which parks or resorts you’ll be dining at on which days. The window opens at 7am ET, so I get up extra early for my clients to make sure they get all their top restaurant choices for their vacation!

60 Days Out: If Staying On-Property at Disney, Your Fast Pass+ Window Opens

One huge perk of staying on-property for your Disney vacation is that your window for booking Fast Passes opens 60 days out from your trip, instead of the typical 30 days for non-property guests. That means you have a better chance at getting the popular rides and good time slots. Disney has affiliate resorts that they extend this perk to, so be sure to check out the full list of resorts HERE.

Park tickets need to purchased and linked to your account in order to book your Fast Passes. This booking window also opens at 7am ET, so I get up early for my clients to ensure they have the best chance at getting the best Fast Pass+ selections possible (I’m a pro at this!). Fast Passes are available for the full duration of your trip when the window opens.

30 Days Out: If Staying Off-Property, Your Fast Pass+ Window Opens

Same goes here if you’re staying off-property – the window opens at 7am ET to make your selections. Make sure your tickets are purchased and linked to your account before this date hits!

Before you know it, you’ll be saying, “I’m going to Disney World!” Any questions about these dates or the best time to go, just send me a message below and I’d be happy to help!

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Reviews

Restaurant Review: San Angel Inn

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Rating:

Location: Epcot

The San Angel Inn located in World Showcase’s Mexico pavilion is a set inside a Mayan pyramid. This restaurant is good for all ages and has a boat ride inside the pyramid – the Gran Fiesta Tour featuring Donald Duck!

Our family has been going here for years, and it’s still a must-do for everyone in our group! From the food to the atmosphere – we love everything about the dining experience.

What we like:

The food at San Angel Inn is delicious – they serve higher end Mexican food. Don’t worry, there’s a kids’ menu for the pickiest of eaters. Make time to enjoy the plaza inside the pyramid. They sell authentic Mexican items and gifts – be sure to try on the giant sombreros!

Things to note:

Since the vibe is dining at twilight (no matter what time of day you’re dining), it’s very dark in the pyramid and in the restaurant. If that bothers anyone in your group, either have your phone flashlights ready to go or maybe reconsider this spot.

WDW Park Planners Tip:

Don’t miss the Gran Fiesta Tour boat ride through the pyramid. If you have a later dinner reservation, plan to ride it before you eat since it likely won’t be open by the time you’re done with your meal. We’ve missed it before and were so bummed!