most expensive disney world trip

Most Expensive Disney World Experiences & Their Prices 2023

Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Disney pro, you can always count on the ever-ready and enthusiastic Disney cast members to sprinkle some pixie dust and make your vacation a memorable one.

For those of you looking to take your Disney experience to the next level, Disney World has got you covered with a plethora of top-of-the-line expensive offerings that will make you feel like royalty. So, get ready to be impressed and splurge on some extra magic, because at Disney, the possibilities are endless!

Get ready to break open that piggy bank, because we've rounded up a list of the most expensive experiences at Disney World.

In this article:

Private VIP Tours

Planning the ultimate Disney day can sometimes feel like a full-time job! Sure, snagging those coveted Genie+ ride reservations can be a little stressful with those early morning wake-up calls, but let's face it—they're totally worth it for the best attraction selections.

But let's say you're the type of Disney-goer who just wants to kick back, relax, and not have to worry about any of the planning. Here is the magical solution: Disney VIP Tour services! These folks will take care of all the heavy lifting for you, from getting you and your guests into the attractions of your choice to customizing your entire day at the Happiest Place on Earth.

But the Disney magic doesn't stop there! Not only do you get to experience all the wonders of Disney World, but you'll also be picked up from your Disney resort in a private vehicle. Talk about feeling like a celebrity!

Disney VIP Tour services will by your side during the day, ready to share all the most fascinating and fun Disney facts as you breeze through the park and skip the lines to your favorite attractions. It's like having your own personal fairy godmother making all your Disney dreams come true!

Of course, this level of luxury does come at a cost. The private VIP tours typically range from $450 to $900 per hour, depending on the season. Keep in mind that park tickets are not included in the tour. But for the ultimate stress-free Disney day, it's a price guests may be willing to pay for a truly unforgettable experience.

Fireworks Cruise

Watching the fireworks show at Magic Kingdom's Cinderella Castle is an iconic Disney World experience, but what if we told you it could get even better? With Disney Firework Cruises, you'll never have to worry about snagging a good spot or battling the crowds. Instead, you get to enjoy Happily Ever After or EPCOT Forever from the water, like a true VIP.

And let's be real: seeing the fireworks show from a 25-foot boat is next-level magical. You'll feel like you're in your own private world of wonder, with a front-row seat to all the action. Plus, the cruise includes assorted snacks and soft drinks, so you won't have to worry about going hungry during the show.

All this luxury doesn't come cheap: prices start at $399 plus tax, so it's definitely a splurge but actually is not so pricey if you fill-up the full boat. But for a once-in-a-lifetime Disney experience, it's worth it. If you're ready to take your Disney vacation to the next level, hop aboard a Disney Firework Cruise and get ready to be amazed!

Chef's Table at Victoria and Albert's

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog.

When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Disney World is the place to be. And we're not just talking about the Instagram-worthy cupcakes and drinks (although they are pretty amazing) but about Victoria & Alberts, the epitome of elegance and culinary excellence.

This place has some serious bragging rights, including the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award. And let's be real: any meal here with Chef de Cuisine Matthew Sowers is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

But if you really want to take things up a notch, go for the Chef's Table. You'll get an up-close and personal look into the heart of the kitchen and see all the culinary magic happening right before your eyes.

The prix-fixe menu starts at $425 per guest, and if you're feeling fancy, you can even add wine pairings for an extra $200 per guest. So if you're ready to indulge in some of the finest cuisine Disney World has to offer, book the Chef's Table at Victoria & Alberts and prepare to have your taste buds blown away.

Disney World Senses Spa

Let's face it: a Disney vacation can be brutal on your feet. All that walking in the Florida sun can really take its toll, no matter how much fun you're having. And while finding the right shoes can definitely help, there's another way to give your tired soles some much-needed pampering.

You can head over to the Senses Spa, located inside the Grand Floridian Resort, and treat yourself to a refreshing facial, a soothing massage, a body wrap, or even some aromatherapy. Trust us, your feet will thank you for it.

If you're looking to indulge in some serious relaxation, you can splurge on these luxurious treatments. Massages, body treatments, and facials at the Senses Spa range between $180 and $295, but can you really put a price on pure bliss?

Wild Africa Trek

There is no better experience for animal lovers than Walt Disney World's Kilimanjaro Safaris. Yet, Disney's Wild Africa Trek offers an even more thrilling adventure, where you can explore the breathtaking lands of Africa and get up close and personal with its majestic inhabitants.

The best part? This private 3-hour long tour will take you deep into the Safi River Valley, where you'll feel like you're one with the wildlife. But before you hop on board, you'll get to immerse yourself in the safari experience by walking through a grassy path and even crossing a rope bridge. Talk about an adventure!

When hunger strikes, you won't have to settle for just any theme park fare. You'll get to indulge in some delicious African-inspired eats, like marinated tandoori shrimp, garlic and leek hummus with pita, a tasty chicken wrap, fresh fruit, and more.

Plus, you won't have to worry about capturing every moment on your camera—a trained photographer will be on hand to snap all the exciting moments for you.

All of this costs $199 per person. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Disney's Wild Africa Trek! This might be the expensive Disney World experience I would want to try most.

Fairy Tale Weddings

Photo Credit: Disney Dose.

Are you ready for a fairy tale wedding that would make Cinderella herself jealous? Well, hold onto your glass slippers, because Disney World has got you covered.

For a cool $40,000 ceremony fee, you can say “I do” in the most magical setting imaginable—right in front of Cinderella's Castle in the heart of the Magic Kingdom. And who wouldn't want to get hitched with a castle as their backdrop?

But that's not all: Disney has got all the bells and whistles to make your big day truly unforgettable. Choose from a grand entrance in a Cinderella coach, a romantic horse-drawn carriage, or even a vintage car down Main Street, U.S.A. Whatever your dream wedding looks like, Disney will make it happen. So if you're ready to start your happily ever after in the most enchanting way possible, head to Disney World and let the magic unfold.

Beachcomber Shacks

Picture this: you're lounging poolside, drink in hand, soaking up the sun and feeling all your worries melt away. Sounds like paradise, right? Well, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park takes this level of luxury and relaxation to a whole new level with their Beachcomber Shacks. The standard Beachcomber Shack has everything you need for a day of uninterrupted bliss: towels, lockers, cushioned loungers, attendants, and ice-cold water all day long.

But if you're looking to kick things up a notch, opt for the Premium shacks. These come equipped with a dining table, fans to keep you cool, a mini fridge to chill your drinks, a flat-screen TV to keep you entertained, and even outlets to keep your electronics charged up. Talk about living the dream! It will set you back $375 to $500, depending on the season.

So if you're ready to indulge in some serious poolside pampering, book a Premium Beachcomber Shack at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park and get ready to live your best life.

Ferrytale Fireworks: Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties

Magic Kingdom's firework show is definitely on another level. While there are no bad seats in the house for this jaw-dropping event, if you wanna kick it up a notch and indulge in some sweet treats while beating the crowds, the Ferrytale Fireworks Dessert Cruise is the way to go.

This will cost about $99 per adult and $69 per child, but think about it: you get to kick back, relax, and savor some delicious sweets after a long day of trekking through the parks. It's a little slice of heaven! Plus, you'll collect dessert pics that will leave your friends drooling.

Be sure to read our guide on everything you need to know about Walt Disney World's Fireworks !

Private Surf Party at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon

Surf's up! If you're looking for a seriously epic party, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon has got you covered. You can host a private surf party with a base price ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 depending on the time of day. You'll have access to their state-of-the-art wave pool for a whopping three hours and 100 waves! You can invite up to 25 surfers and spectators at an additional price, and adding on waves costs extra.

If you want to capture every epic moment, Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Gameday Photographer can hook you up with photography add-ons. All that surfing is going to work up an appetite, so you have the option to add on a dining package, including beverages, snacks, finger foods, and platters. Be sure to read our guide on Disney's Typhoon Lagoon for everything you need to know about the water park, including attractions, dining, and pool options.

If you're searching for a way to take your Walt Disney World vacation to the next level, these splurge-worthy experiences are sure to deliver that extra bit of magic you're looking for. While they may come with a higher price tag, the Disney memories you'll create will be priceless.

Everything You Need to Bring to Walt Disney World

During your Disney trip, you want to make sure you have everything you need for the day so you can focus on the magic. Read our guide to everything you need to pack for Disney World to make sure you are well-prepared!

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Disney World?

Between ticket prices, hotels, dining, and more, there are several factors that determine how much your Disney World vacation will cost. In our guide to how much it costs to go to Disney World , we'll break down everything you need to consider when planning your trip.

Is It Worth It to Park Hop at Disney World? Everything You Need to Know!

In our guide to park hopping at Disney World , we'll walk you through what park hopping is, how much it costs, transportation between parks, and more. We'll also discuss some tips for making the most out of this offering!

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How Much Does It Cost to Go to Disney World?

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Disney World is one of the most popular tourist destinations, but it can also be very expensive. If you’re paying the standard prices, how much should you expect to pay to visit Disney World?

A NerdWallet analysis sought to find out how much a trip to Disney World costs, accounting for line items across these four categories:

Park tickets (and add-ons, like Genie+ ).

On-property hotel room rates.

Food at park restaurants.

Add-on activities, like spa treatments and tours.

Since you can experience Disney World on a range of budgets, NerdWallet categorized trips into three price tiers: Value, Moderate and Deluxe (the same classification that Disney World uses for its hotels).

Those variations are accounted for in NerdWallet’s price breakdown below (and you can read more about NerdWallet’s methodology at the end of this piece ).

But in general, here’s what you can expect to spend on a Disney World trip per day, per person, based on travel style:

Assuming you had three meals per day and shared a hotel room with one other person, here’s how much you should expect to spend in total per day, per person across those three line items:

Value-style traveler: $360.

Moderate-style traveler: $455.

Deluxe-style traveler: $785.

If those figures seem eye-popping, well, they are. But a frugal traveler shouldn’t necessarily look at the $360 daily price tag and multiply it by five to assume they need $1,800 to spend five days at Disney for one person. Seriously, check out this 5-day Disney trip for two people for just $1,600 .

For starters, bulk pricing applies to many facets of your vacation budget — namely hotels and park tickets — as the average price per day drops the longer you stay. Lately, there’s a steady stream of available discounts to make your trip more affordable (particularly if you’re willing to travel during shoulder season ). And if you’re willing to stay at a non-Disney-owned hotel (many are within walking distance of Disney World and can be booked on points ), your overall trip cost might end up being a fraction of what’s quoted above.

Here’s a deep dive into Disney World trip costs — and how you might save in each category.

Disney World ticket prices

The entrance to Remy's Ratatouille Adventure at Epcot. (Photo by Sally French)

Disney World ticket prices vary by park and date, but one-day tickets for the Magic Kingdom (typically the most expensive of Disney’s four parks) average $160.

Prices drop the longer you stay — for example, five-day, one-park-per-day tickets average $643 (that’s $129 per day).

Some travelers might opt for upgrades like Park Hopper tickets , which let you visit multiple parks each day, or Lightning Lanes , which are priority queues for certain attractions.

Disney World hotel costs

The lobby of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. (Photo by Sally French)

Typically, the most affordable hotel rooms can be booked at Disney’s All-Star properties, (which are considered Value hotels). Rooms start at $168 per night, according to Disney trip planning website Touring Plans.

On the high end are the Deluxe hotels. Among the most iconic of them is Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, where room rates start at $904.

Exact prices vary based on when you visit and the individual property and room, but here are average prices broken down by type and trip length, according to NerdWallet’s analysis:

Average Disney World hotel room costs

The $286 average rate for Disney’s cheapest rooms still exceeds the average hotel room off-property. According to Visit Orlando’s 2022 Travel Industry Indicators, Orlando’s average daily room rate is just $186.49, about 35% less than the cheapest Disney resort.

But a higher sticker price than average doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a bad deal. Among the best perks of staying at a Disney resort include complimentary parking at Disney theme parks (which costs everyone else $30).

Disney hotel guests are also allowed to enter the parks earlier, which is a prime opportunity to get in line for the most popular rides before the queues get too long. For the time-is-money crowd, that could be an especially valuable benefit.

Disney World food costs

The Epcot Food and Wine Festival sells small plates — with lower prices than your normal entree. This dish, dubbed Spam Sushi, went for $6 at the 2023 edition of the festival. (Photo by Sally French)

Like the hotels, Disney World food varies widely in price and quality. You could order a turkey leg for less than $15 from a food cart or pay more than $30 for a salad at one of Disney World’s most expensive restaurants, The Hollywood Brown Derby.

To better understand Disney World food costs, NerdWallet also priced out average meals depending on restaurant type. Meals consisted of an entree and drink and — at waiter service restaurants — an appetizer or dessert.

Average Disney World food costs

How much should i budget for activities and expenses at disney world.

The three costs cited above — food, tickets and hotels — are hardly the only Disney World trip costs. Because other line items like sundries and souvenirs can be highly personal, NerdWallet’s calculations did not factor those in.

You might want to consider other potential expenses, like transportation. While Disney’s transportation within the resort is free, you might end up paying if you don’t want to wait or share a bus with others.

There are other activities and entertainment that aren’t imperative, and Disney officially refers to them as part of its Enchanting Extras Collection. These tend to be more personalized, unique experiences such as animal encounters, educational classes and recreational activities.

You could pay as little as $35 per person for a 60-minute Caring for Giants tour at Animal Kingdom, or choose a three-hour, private Wild Africa Trek tour, which costs $199 per person and involves hiking, off-roading in a safari vehicle and traversing a rope bridge.

Some families with very young children might head to the Magic Kingdom’s Harmony Barber Shop. For $28, you get a haircut plus commemorative Mickey Ears, a certificate and keepsake lock of hair — ideal for a first haircut.

At the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, expect to pay at least $100 for your kid to get a fresh hairdo plus makeup, nail polish and a princess sash. The $200 package includes a full princess gown.

Methodology

To better understand how much it costs to go to Disney World, NerdWallet analyzed more than 200 ticket prices, 550 Disney-owned hotel room rates and more than 100 additional activities and restaurant prices between April 2023 and April 2024. From there, NerdWallet used average costs to build sample trip budgets.

NerdWallet’s trip costs start once you’re on property, thus don’t account for parking, airfare or driving costs. Here’s what’s included in each price tier:

Additional notes:

Because Walt Disney World ticket prices vary by park, one-day ticket prices were based on Magic Kingdom admission. Two-day ticket prices were based on Magic Kingdom and Epcot. 

NerdWallet’s analysis did not account for Park Hopper tickets , which allow access to multiple theme parks per day.

Meals are based on standard menus. Families ordering from the kids menu will likely save on Disney World food costs.

These budgets should be used to estimate rather than determine your Disney trip costs. For instance, you might spend less if you pack your own snacks, or you might spend more if you spring for miscellaneous costs (e.g., taxis, Mickey-shaped balloons or PhotoPass).

Sam Kemmis and Carissa Rawson contributed to this report.

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There's an Ultra-luxurious Side to Disney World That's Been Hiding in Plain Sight (Video)

There's caviar behind the Dole Whip stand.

Most Disney World vacations are marked by Mickey Waffles, princess hugs and colorful parades, but not for long. With molecular gastronomy dinners deep within hotel wine cellars and members-only access to Magic Kingdom’s secretive club, Walt Disney World is rapidly becoming a destination for the kinds of high-end, cuisine-focused vacations you’d often think to take elsewhere. From touring Cinderella Castle to renting a yacht for evening fireworks, all your lofty Disney dreams can come true — if you have the means.

What exactly is Disney luxury? Top-tier properties , chef’s table meals and elegant experiences, but in reality, it’s cutting a swath of ease across the entire complication of visiting here. Most Walt Disney World vacations require stealthy planning around 180-day booking windows and Fastpass+ reservations and early morning rope-drops, but things are different for guests who’ve decided to make a luxurious go of it. Upgrade your vacation and Disney World becomes a place where cold water bottles magically appear, ponchos are on-hand and your Magic Band whisks you up to a private concierge lounge just beyond your hotel room door. Slide into the backseat of a perfectly air-conditioned SUV and hop out as you’re offered a choice of snacks, waltzing inside Disney’s Hollywood Studios without hesitation for instantaneous fun, having utilized exclusive Disney roadways to travel between parks more quickly.

And for the crème de la crème guest for whom unfettered access to the Happiest Place On Earth is old hat, Disney has begun offering, well, whatever they’d like. A one-night-only celebration themed to their favorite Epcot attraction? No problem. A private in-park club for watching Magic Kingdom fireworks or chomping on truffle popcorn? All set. They’ve even found the cure for that “never want to leave” feeling at the end of any Disney vacation: not having to. Golden Oak offers magnificent custom homes in the vicinity of the Magic Kingdom — with select private residences built in tandem with the AAA Five Diamond Award-winning Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort , a luxury hotel with incomparable pools.

From private residences and personal celebrations to princess weddings, it all falls within Disney’s Crown Collection , a gathering of experiences ranging from manageable — treatments at Senses Spa, club-level rooms at Disney hotels — to out of this world, putting Walt Disney World on the map as a place luxury vacations can and, in fact, do happen.

The most quintessential form of cushy Disney travel comes from hiring one of Walt Disney World’s renowned VIP Tour Guides . Often spotted touring small groups throughout the parks in signature red-and-green tartan, they’re perhaps best known for providing unfettered access through FastPass queues — regular guests are limited to three-or-so per day — but that’s not all. Hire a private guide and you’ll never see the bus waiting zone, automatically secure perfect parade seating and hear every insider-y factoid about the parks while zooming from ride to ride. (I write about Disney parks for a living and still learned a half-dozen new details about Haunted Mansion.)

Services start at $3,000 per day — gratuity and admission not included — and most who hire a guide for the day or week would attest it’s worth every penny. Making a complicated place to visit nothing short of seamless isn’t the division’s only specialty. Our guide Julia was but one of Disney’s high-caliber professionals familiar with embedding themselves within a stranger’s kooky family. Having someone there with a joke to lighten the mood or a trick to “fix the situation” — from a shortcut to reach Avatar: Flight of Passage more quickly or a hand-delivered coffee during evening fireworks once you start to fade — alleviates any worry.

All guests booking a VIP Tour, club-level room or suite at one of Disney’s eight Deluxe resort hotels are given access to Disney Signature Services , an elite-level planning resource worth leaning into. But for those seeking to elevate their relationship with the mouse house to an entirely new level, Disney World offers higher-tier touches that require Scrooge McDuck-style disposable income.

Most guests don’t even know about the Art Deco lounge hidden above Epcot’s American Adventure or the Adventureland hideaway where a choice few can enjoying Beluga caviar just steps beyond a Dole Whip stand. Behind gilded MagicBand scanners exists Walt Disney World’s private Club 33, a concept spun off from Disneyland’s aged members-only hideaway offering refined dining and the only bar at Disney’s original theme parks. (The two operate independently.)

A high-end retreat hidden in plain sight with the refinement and service of the world’s best hotels, Club 33’s trio of ornately detailed escapes are the perfect thing for well-heeled visitors with a soft spot for Mickey Mouse. Beyond its thematic ode to Walt Disney’s worldwide travels and an inspired small plates menus, the dedicated staff has also been known to arrange once-in-a-lifetime experiences for members upon request — a perk for which the sky’s the limit. Only the well-to-do need apply; initiation is rumored to cost around $30,000 , with dues totaling $15,000 per year.

And then there’s Golden Oak, where lucky enthusiasts can live like Disney insiders year-round. Free transportation to the parks, ticket packages and access to Extra Magic Hours comes standard with the custom-designed mini-mansions, which start at $2 million. (You’ll never find them listed on AirBnb for a night or two, either — nearly all of the 300-or-so homes have been sold to residents who live year-round or visit frequently.) Buying here makes a quick trip to Space Mountain or Epcot festivals a breeze, if homeowners aren’t instead relaxing by their private pools flanked by a woodsy nature preserve or dining at Markham’s, the resident-exclusive restaurant featuring film props curated by Walt Disney Archives and an on-site garden in partnership with Epcot’s The Land.

Non-residents can get a peek inside Markham’s twelve times each year during Delicious Disney , a monthly dinner series in partnership with Walt Disney World’s best chefs that’s themed to a rotating facet of Disney lore. Our utterly delightful Ratatouille -themed dinner began with amuse-bouche under a smoky glass dome (reminiscent of the film’s opening shotgun-wielding scene) and ended with a chocolate-sculpted Remy emerging from beneath a chef’s hat. An added surprise: each was packaged up and given to guests as a keepsake.

Delicious Disney remains a bit of a secret, but at $349 per person, it’s a taste of grandeur that can feasibly be added onto a vacation — just one of many “enchanted extras”, as Disney calls it. Fine dining, like the award-winning Victoria & Alberts or chef’s table meals at top-rated eateries like Citricos and California Grill, elevate a celebratory Orlando vacation to something special. You can also feel the breeze through your hair on a $350-per-hour chartered Grand 1 Yacht, which sails past the Magic Kingdom and its surrounding hotels. With an 18-passenger capacity, it’s the ultimate evening event on a group trip.

You can eat Mickey ice cream bars for lunch before a Frozen sing along on your next trip to Orlando, dine on award-winning cuisine after meeting Elsa & Anna without waiting, or do a little bit of both. And if that isn’t magic, nothing is.

Disney World Cost Calculator

It’s no secret that one of the biggest considerations when planning your Disney World vacation is how much it will cost.  With so many things contributing to the price of the trip , it’s easy to get overwhelmed or forget to account for something.  With that in mind, we offer our Disney World Cost Calculator to help simplify the process for you.

Our Disney Cost Calculator automatically figures in the costs of items directly under Disney’s control, such as tickets and hotel rooms.  But there are some prices we’ll have to ask you directly for, such as what you expect to pay for flights, or how much you’ll be spending on lodging if you’re staying somewhere other than Disney’s hotels.

Our tool is a great way to get a general estimate on the cost of your Disney vacation.  But for the most accurate price based on your exact travel plans, you’ll want to get in touch with a travel agent who specializes in the Walt Disney World Resort, such as The Vacationeer .

Note: the calculator assumes everyone is staying in the same hotel room; if your group is large enough to need multiple rooms, you’ll want to separate the group and run the calculator once for each of the rooms.

Want to see your exact price?

Our calculator is a great first step towards figuring out how much your Disney World vacation will cost.  If you like the numbers you’ve seen so far, it’s time to take the next step in planning your trip by getting an exact quote.

Contact the Disney World experts at The Vacationeer .  Their team of 90+ Authorized Disney Vacation Planners can provide you with an exact price quote for your vacation and discuss payment plan options .

It won’t cost you anything extra to use their services, and there’s never any obligation to book.

What does the trip cost calculator’s estimate include?

Our Disney World Cost calculator factors in these items when providing you with an estimated Disney vacation cost:

Time of year

We factor seasonal pricing into your estimated costs, based on the general time of year you expect to travel to Disney World.  This primarily affects the cost of hotel rooms and Disney theme park tickets.

Theme park ticket prices

We calculate estimated prices of Walt Disney World theme park tickets, based on how many days you’ll go to the Disney World parks, whether you’re upgrading your tickets to include the Park Hopper option, how many Adult and Child theme park tickets are needed, and seasonal pricing for the general time of year you expect to travel to Disney.

Hotel costs

For Disney World Hotels , our calculator factors in an estimated cost based on the general time of year you expect to visit, how long you’re staying, and whether you’ll be staying in a Value, Moderate or Deluxe Resort, or in one of the Disney Deluxe Villas.

For offsite hotels (those not located on Disney World property), we ask you to directly enter the nightly cost of your hotel so we can include that amount in the estimated final total expenses.

Transportation to and from Disney World

For those traveling b y plane , we ask you to directly enter the cost of your flight to Orlando so we can include it in the final total.  We also factor in the estimated cost of ground transportation from the Orlando International Airport to Disney World based on your input.

For those who are traveling by car , we ask you to directly enter the driving distance between your home and Disney World.  That allows our calculator to factor in an estimated travel cost (based on average gas mileage and average fuel cost) when calculating your total vacation cost estimate.

Parking fees

If you indicate you’ll be driving, we’ll factor in the cost of Disney’s parking fees .

Disney Dining Plans are currently suspended ( returning 2024 ).  In the meantime, we ask you to tell us your general plans for Disney World dining (such as if you expect to have a table service meal on most days, or if you’ll bring your own food ); we use that information to factor an estimated cost of food and drink into your overall estimated trip price.

Possible discounts

For those who indicate they qualify for some of the most common Disney discounts, we factor those savings into the overall total estimated vacation costs.

What is not included in the Disney World cost calculation?

There are a few things that we don’t try to account for in our calculator when providing an estimated cost of your Disney World trip.  Some of these are simply impractical to provide in the calculator, and others are left out because they don’t apply to everyone (so be sure to budget for them separately if you plan to include them in your vacation).

Exact costs based on your exact dates of travel and room/ticket type

Our tool provides a range of estimated average costs based on some general information you provide.  For an exact quote, you’ll need to do some further research or contact a travel agent specializing in Disney.

• Hotel rates vary on a nightly basis. Different hotels within the same category of resort can have different prices for the same night.  Some rooms charge a premium based on view. Prices for the exact same room on the exact same night can vary depending on how soon or how late you book. With that in mind, our calculator factors in an estimated average cost, but cannot produce an exact cost.
• Theme park tickets are priced based on a demand calendar, so different days have different pricing. Also, each park is priced differently; February 13 at EPCOT is priced differently than February 13 at Magic Kingdom.  Our calculator uses an estimated average cost based on the time of year and price range among the parks, but does not produce an exact cost.

Multiple hotel rooms

Our Disney calculator presumes that everyone will be staying in a single hotel room.  If you have a larger travel party, this may not be possible.  While Disney World does have some Disney Deluxe Villa accommodations that hold a large number of people, most regular rooms hold 4-5 people.  If you need more than one hotel room, you should divide your party up and run the calculator once for each hotel room.

Discretionary Spending

There are plenty of options to spend “just a little more” inside a Disney World theme park or around the area.  Each individual item isn’t necessarily that expensive, but they can add up over the length of your vacation.  For example, Disney Genie+ and individual Lightning Lane access allows you to avoid some of the lines for rides.  You might want souvenirs like a pair of Mickey Mouse ears or a Walt Disney World t-shirt.  Or perhaps you’ll play some mini golf while you’re here.  If you think you’ll purchase any of these, don’t forget to pad your budget accordingly.

Non-Disney experiences

Ticket purchases for days in non-Disney theme parks — such as Universal , SeaWorld, LegoLand, FunSpot, Gatorland, Kennedy Space Center, and other Orlando and Central Florida attractions — are not included.  If you plan to spend a day or more outside of the parks, factor those costs separately from the total we show you here.  Also, note that this calculator is optimized specifically for Disney World in Florida; it is not programmed for Disneyland in California, which has its own rates for hotels and tickets.

How can I calculate the exact price of my vacation?

If you want to go beyond the estimates we provide here and figure out the exact cost of a vacation, you have a few options:

Research each component of your Disney World Vacation separately

Our articles How to Plan a Disney Vacation and How Much Does it Cost to Go to Disney World cover information about each of the major price factors you’ll need to budget for.  Using those lists as a guide, you can then visit the Disney World website to get specific prices for tickets , hotels , dining , recreation, tours, and more all based on your exact travel plans.  Don’t forget to factor in crowd levels and make a note of when you’re able to begin actually making dining reservations .

Let a travel agent handle your Disney World Planning

If you’d rather not do all of the leg work yourself, you can always enlist the completely-free services of a travel agent who specializes in Disney .  We’ve extensively covered why you should use a Disney travel planner in the past, but as a quick reminder:

• Most agents don’t charge a planning fee for their services.
• The trip won’t cost more than if you’d booked on your own; you might even find it’s cheaper !
• They know all the tips and tricks, including any Disney discounts you might not be aware of.
• They’ll provide you with an exact price quote based on your travel preferences, with no obligation to book .
• Your travel agent will make all of your Disney reservations for you, so there’s no getting up early, waiting on hold for hours, or struggling with websites.
• A good Disney travel agent will monitor your reservations after they’ve been booked, and automatically apply new discounts as they become available.

We believe The Vacationeer is the best Disney travel agency .  Their team includes more than 90 travel agents who specialize in all things Disney — get in touch with them now for a free quote:

Does Disney World offer a payment plan?

It’s no secret that going to Disney World can come with a bit of a sticker shock.  When you combine the price of hotels, tickets, food, and everything else, it’s likely your trip will cost at least a few thousand dollars.

That’s a lot of money to come up with all at once.  Fortunately, Disney World offers very flexible payment arrangements for their vacation packages.

In most cases, all that’s required to make your Disney reservations is a small deposit of $200.

Once you’ve made your deposit, you can pay Disney on any schedule you like, as long as you’re paid in full by 30 days prior to your vacation.  There are no minimum payments, and there are no payment milestones that Disney requires to be met prior to the date that final payment is due.

Note that this payment plan is offered only for Disney World Hotels, and for any Disney theme park tickets that are bundled into your Disney hotel vacation package.  If you’re not staying on-site at Disney World, any tickets you purchase will have to be paid in full at the time of purchase.  Ticket costs also have to be paid in full if you’re buying them separately from your Disney hotel reservation.

It also goes without saying that the costs of anything you’re not buying from Disney itself cannot be bundled into a Disney payment plan.  Tickets for non-Disney theme parks, airline tickets, off-site hotels, ground transportation from the airport, and other third-party services would be subject to whatever payment options those providers offer.

You might be able to pay your off-site hotel over time, but it’s reasonable to expect to pay in full (or at least charge the full amount to your credit card) for plane tickets, ground transportation, and non-Disney theme park tickets.

How can I budget for my visit to Disney World?

The fact that Disney allows you to essentially make your own payment plan for your vacation is great, but it also means that a big part of your Disney World planning is figuring out how to budget for your vacation; Disney is not going to tell you that you must pay a certain amount each month.

Our Disney trip cost calculator will give you a range of what you can expect to spend to go to Disney World, but it’s up to you to break that down into a reasonable method to save up that amount.

The most simple way to decide how much to budget for your vacation is to take the estimated cost from our calculator and then divide it by the number of months between now and your vacation’s start date.  Or, you might determine how many times you’ll get a paycheck between now and then, and divide by that number instead.

You might need to further adjust those smaller payments to account for bigger sums you might be able to apply towards your vacation (such as a tax refund or holiday bonus), or to make up for months when you might not be able to pay Disney as much as you’d like (perhaps due to seasonal employment changes).

Of course, breaking your vacation expenses down into smaller amounts is only part of the equation.  You also need to be able to actually come up with that money.  There are plenty of ways to find extra cash or adjust your vacation plans slightly so they’re more affordable.  Even making slight adjustments to your Disney World food costs or hotel plans can make a significant difference.  We offer 9 tips for cutting costs to get you started with saving on Disney.

Final Thoughts

Planning a visit to Disney requires budgeting for a number of factors.  Not only are there the obvious expenses like Disney park tickets, but there are also expenses that might not be so obvious, like parking fees and ground transportation.  Luckily, there are plenty of ways to save on your Disney World vacation . And with proper planning for each of these costs well in advance of your stay, you can make sure that your visit to Disney doesn’t become a financial burden.  That’s why we created this tool; we want to make sure everyone who wants to go to Disney knows how much it’ll cost and doesn’t wind up with any nasty financial surprises along the way!

Ready to book your Disney World trip?

We hope our Disney World Cost Calculator tool has helped provide you with an accurate baseline estimate on how much your Disney World vacation will cost.

To get an actual cost and to book your Disney World vacation, we recommend contacting the Disney travel experts at The Vacationeer .

There’s no charge for their Disney planning services, and there’s never any obligation to book.

Related Posts:

10 of the most luxurious things you can do at Disney World

• There are a variety of luxury add-ons and experiences to be had at Disney World. 
• Some of the most expensive experiences include private VIP tours, Deluxe Villa accommodations, and fine dining. 
• Extravagant vacation add-ons include chartering a private yacht, taking a private safari, and eating at Cinderella's Royal Table.
• For the truly Disney-obsessed, Disney World offers a nighttime wedding package at the Magic Kingdom and the option to purchase a home inside the resort. 
• Visit INSIDER's homepage for more stories.

When it comes to a truly magical vacation, not much can compare to the wonder of Disney World. 

But could it be even more magical? For a select few the average Disney experience won't do, and for those more luxury-minded travelers, Disney World offers a wide variety of top-of-the-line experiences and add-ons. 

From special events to private tours, here are some of the most luxurious and expensive things you can do at Disney World. 

You can tour the legendary suite in Cinderella’s Castle for a reported $12,000.

One of Disney World's most mythic experiences is to stay in the suite located inside Cinderella's Castle. Unfortunately, money can't buy you a night in this exclusive room. The only way to stay the night in Cinderella's Castle Suite is to either be invited or to win a sweepstakes .

However, guests can access the suite as a part of the extravagant "World Of Dreams" tour. Costing a reported $12,000 for six guests, the 12-hour tour includes exclusive backstage access to the parks, private transportation, front-of-the-line priority to all of the park's attractions, all meals and beverages, and a tour of Cinderella's Castle Suite.

Guests can have year-round access to all of Disney World’s parks for $1,219 per person.

If you live near the "house of mouse," you can purchase an Annual Platinum Plus Pass to visit the park anytime you please. 

Annual Pass holders get access to every Disney World park, including their newest park called Star Wars Galaxy's Edge . In addition, these special pass holders receive parking, Disney PhotoPass downloads, and discounts on select dining and merchandise.

Disney World offers luxurious dining options costing more than $200 per guest.

When it comes to eating at Disney World, guests are not limited to the park's themed restaurants and food courts. Disney offers an array of exquisite fine-dining experiences.

The park features " Delicious Disney: A Chef's Series " events throughout the year. Each dinner is based on a classic Disney story and includes a menu of themed dishes created specifically for the event. A seat at a "Delicious Disney" dinner will run from $349-$399 per person but the site notes that it varies. 

Located at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa , Victoria & Albert's is one of Disney World's most high-end restaurants . The restaurant is a recipient of the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award and the Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star Award and is the only restaurant in Florida to have received both. 

The menu features American cuisine made with luxurious ingredients from all over the world, including Russian Osetra caviar, Italian truffles, and Japanese beef. For an upgraded experience, guests can enjoy a meal at the Victoria & Alberts Chef's Table . For $250 per person , plus an additional $150 for wine pairings, guests can enjoy a three-hour, multi-course service in the heart of the Victoria & Alberts kitchen. 

For nearly $200 per person, guests can enjoy dinner, dessert, and a fireworks show at Cinderella’s Royal Table.

The ultimate experience for fans of the classic Disney tale is the Signature Celebration Package at Cinderella's Royal Table. The package includes a personal welcome by Cinderella and Prince Charming, an extravagant dinner with multiple courses, and a souvenir box of Cinderella-themed treats. 

After dinner, guests are taken to priority seating to view the Magic Kingdom's iconic fireworks show. The fireworks viewing party includes a dessert bar of delicious sweets like chocolate-covered strawberries, Disney-themed desserts, and delicious beverages. 

This one-of-a-kind dining experience will set you back $199 per adult and $169 per child.

The cost of private, VIP tours of Disney World begin at $425 per hour.

The most exclusive way to explore Disney World is with a private, VIP tour . Led by your very own Disney tour guide, this customizable tour accommodates up to 10 guests and takes you on a journey through the park's top attractions. 

Included in the tour is private transportation, VIP viewing areas for Disney World's parades and shows, and top-level hospitality throughout the park. 

You can charter a yacht to view the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks show from the water for about $400 per hour.

If you're looking to avoid the crowds during the Magic Kingdom's must-see fireworks show, Disney World offers the option to charter their Grand 1 Yacht to enjoy the show from the water. 

Accommodating 18 guests, the Grand 1 Yacht cruise includes a variety of snacks, drinks, and decorations if you're celebrating a special event. For an added cost, guests can also add a private dining menu to their cruise.

You can also book a different yacht for between $299-349.

Guests can book a Grand Villa at the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa for around $2,500 per night.

Known as one of Disney World's most elegant resorts, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa overlooks the water and is located just one Monorail stop away from the Magic Kingdom.

The resort's most extravagant rooms are their Grande Villas. They offer more space, separate bedrooms, a full kitchen, as well as a washer and dryer. The most expensive villa is the resort's three-bedroom, lake-view villa. At $2,507 per night , the villa will accommodate up to 12 adults.  

Experience a Disney safari for around $200 per person.

At Disney's Animal Kingdom, guests can enjoy the park's Wild Africa Trek , a private, VIP, guided journey through the park. This three-hour experience takes guests on a tour of Disney's Animal Kingdom and features the chance to see the park's amazing wildlife.

The private tour guide will give you insight into the park's operation while a professional photographer captures all the important moments of the experience. Guests are also given a special souvenir to take home. 

For adults, this trek runs $189-$249 per person.

For a reported $180,000, you can get married at Disney World and have the whole park to yourself.

In 2016, Disney announced that couples could book an unforgettable nighttime wedding experience at the Magic Kingdom after the park closes. 

Included in the " Magic Kingdom Park Evening " wedding is a ride down Main Street USA in Cinderella's horse-drawn carriage, a ceremony directly in front of Cinderella's lit-up castle, and wedding details customized for you by Disney's wedding consultants. 

The reported cost of this fairytale wedding at Disney World? About $180,000. 

For a more budget-friendly wedding, couples can book from a variety of unique wedding packages starting at $3,500 for an intimate ceremony accommodating four guests.

If just visiting Disney World is not enough, you can live at the park for $2 million and up.

For extreme lovers of Disney, the Golden Oak Club at Walt Disney World Resort is a multi-neighborhood community of private homes located inside the resort. 

Beginning at $2 million, the purchase of a home in any of the Golden Oak Club area gets you membership into the club, giving you access to all of the luxurious amenities one would expect from living at Disney. 

Some of the perks of living at Disney World include a private clubhouse complete with a pool and gym, exclusive restaurants, club-sponsored activities and events, concierge services, and complimentary transportation to the Disney World parks.

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The Most Expensive Things To Do at Disney World

By: Author Patty Granger

Posted on Last updated: March 23, 2019

We know that a Disney World vacation is pricey. Have you ever wondered though just what is the most expensive things you can do while on your Disney World vacation? Well, we are here to cover the most expensive things to do at Disney World. 

Grand I Yacht 

Of course, this exquisite yacht can be found at the Grand Floridian of all places. Booking this boat will take your vacation to the next level. On the Grand I yacht you will drift away on a deliciously decadent excursion around Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon aboard this fabulous 52-foot Sea Ray® Sedan Bridge Yacht that defines impeccable taste. With an experienced captain and deckhand at the helm, you will enjoy private dining and butler amenities in a spectacular setting. This spacious watercraft accommodates a total of 18 people or just 17 if you will be traveling with a butler.

So just how much will this Disney experience set you back? Rental prices for the Grand 1 start at $399 per hour, plus tax. Pricing may vary based on time of day and is subject to change. Private dining, butler service and other enhancements are available for an additional charge. To reserve the Grand 1, please call (407) WDW-PLAY or (407) 939-7529.

Perfectly Princess Tea

Take your little princess to a perfect afternoon tea at the Grand! In this premium experience “Rose Petal,” a magical rose from Aurora’s garden, has come alive to host the party. She leads a special princess parade, storytelling and singalongs. During your tea, you will also get to meet Princess Aurora herself. Be sure to bring your cameras and autograph books, there is no Photopass photographer at this event! This all takes place at the Garden View Tea Room at the Grand Floridian, located right off the main lobby.

So what will a princess tea cost? Disney’s Perfectly Princess Tea party is available for $333.64—which includes admission for one Guest (ages 10+) and one child (ages 3 to 9). To add more Guests to your party, there is an additional cost of $234.08 per child (ages 3 to 9) and $98.66 per Guest (ages 10+).

Polynesian Bungalows

Since money actually can’t buy you everything, like the Cinderella Suites the most expensive room at Disney lies elsewhere. The bungalows at the Polynesian are currently the priciest. A room (more like a small house) on the water could run you up to $3,000 a night depending on the time of year you stay! 

Victoria & Albert’s Chef Table

This restaurant often makes Disney fans bucket list. It’s the highest rated and awarded restaurant at Disney World. Throughout the approximately 3-hour service, the chef offers up superb morsels and tasting samples, tailoring the mouth-watering feast to your party’s dietary preferences. And when you choose the optional wine pairing, the sommelier selects the ideal vintage to enjoy with each portion of your meal.

This fine dining experience comes with a hefty price tag. Although subject to change, the Prix Fixe begins at $250.00 per Guest, and wine pairing begins at $150.00 per Guest. (Pricing does not include tax and gratuity.) 

Replica of Cinderella’s Castle

Have an extra $37,500 just lying around? Why not pick up your very own limited edition replica of Cinderella Castle completely covered in hand placed Swarovski Crystals. While it is an impressive sight to see I think the price tag is still pretty steep. If you want to catch a glimpse of this for yourself head over to Swarovski at Disney Springs or to the crystal shop next to Starbucks at the Magic Kingdom. 

Disney Weddings

Having had my own wedding at Disney World I can say it’s pure magic! However, that pixie dust comes with a steep price tag that’s for sure. Our wedding was as budget as we could get with Disney. We did their bottom tier package and only had four guests at our wedding. The cheapest wedding package currently starts at $3,500 before any upgrades. For more on Disney Weddings read about ours !

Maybe you have joked before that if you could live at Disney World you could. Well, you actually can! And no I am not suggesting a long-term booking of a hotel room. Golden Oak offers the first-ever whole ownership of custom single-family homes at Disney World. With its references to European and Caribbean styles, Golden Oak celebrates the timelessness of Old Florida architecture while being attuned to contemporary resort living. Ready to sign on the dotted line? They are still selling new construction custom-built homes, prices start at $2 million.

World of Dreams Tour

Brand new, Disney launched a $12,000 tour! Yup, that’s not a typo it’s actually $12,000 for a one day tour. Of course, you could always opt for a standard VIP tour this can be up to $625/hour. Again, as with most Disney pricing these days, the price is variable on the time of the year. 

Have you been able to go VIP at Disney World before? Let us know in the comment section below about your biggest Disney World splurge! 

I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!

A magical guide for how to plan a trip to Disney World this year

Editor's Note

If you want to know how to plan a trip to Disney World, you've come to the right place. This guide includes tips for choosing the right Disney World hotel for your budget, deciding which ticket type is right for you, determining which extras are worth splurging on and how to plan a trip that's fun and memorable without too much stress along the way.

With four theme parks, two water parks, more than 25 on-site hotels, over 200 dining locations and more attractions, experiences, shows and shops than we can list here, the best way to build a magical Disney World vacation is with planning, preparation and realistic expectations.

Planning a trip to Disney World should be fun and build excitement for your upcoming trip, and this guide can help.

How to start planning your trip to Disney World

There are a few questions you will want to answer early in the process of planning your Disney World vacation.

• What is your budget? Your budget will determine most other factors of your vacation, including where you stay and how many days you visit. How much it will cost you to go to Disney World really can vary widely based on the choices you make.
• When will you go? You may be at the mercy of work or school schedules, but if you have the flexibility, you can plan your trip when crowds are smaller or the weather is better. The summer can be very hot and rainy, the week between Christmas and New Year's is one of the busiest and weekdays when most kids are in school are often the least busy days.
• Where will you stay? You will typically pay more to stay in one of Disney's on-site hotels, especially at the moderate and deluxe tiers, but you'll also get perks like early theme park entry. Before you choose, you'll want to consider your budget, whether you want a themed room like the Royal Guest Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – Riverside and if you want to be located near a certain Disney park. Pro tip: Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help you stay at a deluxe hotel for a moderate price.
• Which parks will you visit on which days? Depending on the length of your vacation, you may need to prioritize which parks you plan to visit. This will also influence whether you purchase one-park-per-day or Park Hopper tickets that allow you to visit multiple parks daily. If you have little kids, be sure your family will have the stamina for multiple parks per day before shelling out the extra cash to hop.
• Where will you dine? Popular Disney dining reservations are snatched up almost as soon as they become available. You'll want to plan ahead for any character dining or other table service restaurants, so you don't miss out.

It is important to book your hotel, dining and theme park tickets as early as possible for the best rates and availability. Disney also periodically releases special offers on hotels and vacation packages that you can often apply even if you have already made your reservations.

Related: Are the Disney Visa credit cards worth it?

We will dig deeper into each of these topics in this guide. Once you have a rough outline of your vacation based on the questions above, here are important dates to keep in mind so you can make your Disney dream a reality.

How soon can you book a Disney World hotel?

Disney releases hotel availability periodically, so there is no exact date that Disney hotel reservations become available. You can currently book Disney World hotel stays through Dec. 31, 2024.

Disney typically opens reservations for the following year around May or June, so you can expect to see 2025 availability around that time. If your plans change, you can cancel your room-only reservation up to five days in advance of arrival for a full refund. Ticket and hotel vacation packages must be canceled 30 days in advance to receive a full refund.

When can you purchase Disney World tickets?

Disney World tickets follow the same availability calendar as Disney hotel reservations. You can purchase tickets (or vacation packages including a hotel and tickets) through Dec. 31, 2024. Disney typically releases tickets for the following year around May or June, so you can expect to see 2025 availability around that time.

All tickets are date-based, and the price of one-day tickets also varies by park. You can purchase your tickets any time before you visit; the price won't change regardless of how long you wait. Theme park tickets are nonrefundable, but you may be able to change your ticket date if your plans change.

Until Jan. 9, 2024, you must have a Disney ticket and make a theme park reservation to enter a Disney park.

When do Disney World dining reservations become available?

You can begin making dining reservations 60 days prior to your visit. If you are staying in a Disney World hotel, you can make dining reservations 60 days before your check-in day for your entire stay (up to 10 days).

Reservations open on Disney's website or the My Disney Experience app between 5:45 a.m. and 6 a.m. EST or you can call 407-939-DINE beginning at 7 a.m. EST, but coveted reservations may already be snatched up by that time. You can cancel most Disney World dining reservations up to two hours before your reservation. Exceptions will be noted in the confirmation email you receive at the time of booking.

If you're not yet sure where to eat, here are our favorite restaurants at Disney World .

FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

What are the 4 parks at Disney World?

Each of Disney World's four theme parks is uniquely themed and packed with fun. You can learn more about each park, including attractions, shows, parade times and interactive maps to help you find your way around in the My Disney Experience app.

Here's a bit more information about each and some tips for choosing the right ticket type to visit them all.

Magic Kingdom

Open since 1971, Magic Kingdom is Disney World's original theme park. This park is a world of fairy tales and fantasy, where you'll find five themed lands — Tomorrowland, Fantasyland, Frontierland, Adventureland and Liberty Square.

Magic Kingdom is home to some of Disney's most iconic attractions, including Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Peter Pan's Flight and the Haunted Mansion, but also exciting new rides like Tron: Lightcycle Run and the soon-to-open Tiana's Bayou Adventure .

Epcot opened in 1982 and has changed drastically in the four decades since. Epcot's core message, however, hasn't changed: sparking visitors' imaginations through science, technology, nature and the human experience. The park is sectioned into "neighborhoods" — World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery and World Showcase, where you can visit pavilions that celebrate the arts, culture and customs of 11 countries around the world.

There are a lot of new things to see at Epcot, including Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind , Journey of Water, Inspired by Moana and the all-new fireworks spectacular Luminous – The Symphony of Us .

Disney's Hollywood Studios

Disney's Hollywood Studios is a movie-themed park that has lands and attractions inspired by blockbuster films and beloved Disney characters. In Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge , you can pilot the Millennium Falcon and meet familiar (and furry) faces like Kylo Ren, Chewbacca and Rey.

In Toy Story Land, visitors shrink to the size of Woody, Buzz, Jessie (who you can meet here, by the way) and Andy's other toys. The land's Slinky Dog Dash coaster is a family-friendly ride that's perfect for a kid's first roller coaster.

Outside of the lands themed to specific films, much of the park evokes an old-Hollywood glamour that makes you feel like a bona fide movie star. In these areas, you'll find some of the park's most iconic shows and attractions are also some of its longest-running, like The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror drop ride, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and the Indiana Jones Stunt Spectacular .

Disney's Animal Kingdom

More than 2,000 animals — from about 300 species — call Disney's Animal Kingdom "home," but this is not a zoo. However, you can visit many of these animals via walking trails, the Kilimanjaro Safaris ride and even a petting zoo.

In addition to the creatures and landscapes found on Earth, you can visit another planet at Pandora — The World of Avatar or go back in time at DinoLand U.S.A. The animals aren't the only things that are "wild" at Animal Kingdom — Expedition Everest is a thrilling coaster; Avatar Flight of Passage puts you on the back of a banshee as you fly over Pandora; and Dinosaur sends you careening through the Cretaceous Period in an off-road vehicle.

What type of Disney tickets should I buy?

Disney world base tickets.

You can purchase one-day or multi-day Disney World tickets. All tickets are date-based, and the price varies depending on the date of your visit. If you purchase a one-day ticket, the price will also vary based on which park you plan to visit, with Magic Kingdom being the most expensive.

Disney World Park Hopper tickets

A base ticket only gets you into one park per day. If you want to visit multiple parks on the same day, you will need to purchase the Park Hopper option with your ticket (you can also add it on in person after you arrive). You can save money by only visiting one park per day, but it does limit how much you can see and do during your vacation.

A Park Hopper Plus ticket includes two visits to either Disney's golf courses, miniature golf courses or water parks, but this is only worth it if you know you will use it all.

Disney World special event tickets

Some of Disney's after-hours events , like Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party , require a separate ticket. The park is only open to guests with special event tickets during these events. If you plan on visiting for one of these parties, you may be able to forgo a general admission ticket that day and utilize your special event ticket, as you can usually get into the park a few hours before the party starts.

Disney World ticket add-ons

There are two major ticket add-ons that you should consider. Both can be worth it but will add to the cost of your vacation.

The first add-on you might want to strongly consider is Disney Genie+ . This skip-the-line service allows you to skip the standby line and enjoy shorter wait times for rides by utilizing Disney's Lightning Lanes.

Currently, you can only purchase it on the day of your visit beginning at 7 a.m. and the price ranges between $15 and $35 per person, per day. A handful of attractions at each park require a separate individual Lightning Lane purchase to skip the line, often for the newest rides, but many rides are available with Genie+. You don't need to purchase Genie+ to buy individual Lightning Lane selections and vice versa. The individual Lightning Lane attraction pricing varies by attraction but typically ranges between $7 and $25 per person per attraction for rides like Tron: Lightcycle Run and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

Another popular add-on is Disney's Memory Maker . Memory Maker gives you unlimited downloads of pictures taken by PhotoPass photographers during your vacation and on-ride photos. You can purchase a one-day Memory Maker for short visits or a multi-day Memory Maker which covers your entire vacation. You can save $25 on a multi-day Memory Maker when you purchase at least three days prior to your visit, so it's best to purchase it when you buy your tickets.

How to get discounted Disney World tickets

Aside from Disney's own discounts, you can sometimes save money on Disney tickets by purchasing them from an authorized third-party reseller. There are a few reputable sources out there for Disney World tickets, but our go-to is Undercover Tourist . Depending on your ticket type, you can usually save between $5 and $100. One of the best ways to save money with Undercover Tourist is when Disney World raises ticket prices , which usually happens at least once per year. Undercover Tourist typically has a limited number of existing ticket stock available at the old prices while supplies last.

Related: We saved every receipt — here's how much it actually costs to go to Disney World

If you are a Florida resident or are an active or retired U.S. military member , there are generous discounted Disney World tickets available directly through Disney's website.

You can also use points to pay for your Disney tickets , and that's a strategy we strongly recommend to keep costs down. For example, with the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , you can earn a welcome bonus of 75,000 points after spending $4,000 within the first three months of having the card. You can use those 75k points as the same as $750 towards travel . And while ticket-only packages from Disney World typically don't code as a travel charge, buying them from Undercover Tourist — or as part of a larger hotel and ticket package directly from Disney — typically does code as a travel charge, so you could save $750 just like that.

Is booking a Disney vacation package a good idea?

If you are staying in one of Disney World's on-site hotels or a certified " Disney World Good Neighbor " hotel, you have the option to bundle your hotel stay and theme park tickets into a Disney vacation package. Normally, these packages are not discounted, but they can be a great value if Disney runs any special vacation package promotions .

Aside from discounts (and the fact that it all likely codes as a travel charge for point-redemption purposes), there's one major reason to book a vacation package: When you purchase your tickets and hotel together, you only have to pay a $200 deposit at the time of booking. Payment in full is due 30 days prior to arrival. If you purchase your tickets separately from your hotel stay, you will have to pay the full amount at the time of purchase.

This is another great example of why you should book through an authorized Disney travel planner who can compare prices for you and keep an eye out for discounts.

When is the best time to visit Disney World?

Do you want the lowest crowds or the best weather? Do you want to attend a Halloween party or see Magic Kingdom's 65-foot-tall Christmas tree ?

The best time to visit Disney World depends on your reason for visiting.

If you want moderate temperatures and less chance of rain, you may want to plan your visit between October and December. If you want shorter waits, your best bets are late January, early May or just after Thanksgiving before the crowds descend upon the parks for winter break. Of course, weekdays typically see lower crowds than weekends and school breaks.

Or, if you are planning a Disney World vacation on a budget, opt for midweek dates in August and September 2024, when prices start at $109 for a one-day ticket.

Read our full guide on the best times to visit Walt Disney World .

What's the best way to get to Disney World?

Getting to Orlando and getting to Disney World after arriving are two different topics, so let's look at each.

What is the closest airport?

The closest airport to Walt Disney World is Orlando International Airport (MCO). Most major airlines fly into MCO, and you can reach Disney World in about 25 to 30 minutes from the airport, depending on traffic. If you are flying Allegiant or Sun Country Airlines, you'll fly into Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB). SFB is smaller than MCO and farther from Disney World. From SFB, it is about a 45-minute drive to Disney World.

What is the best way to get to Disney World from the airport?

Because of its size and proximity to Disney World, MCO has more and better options to help you get between the airport and Disney World.

From Orlando International Airport or Orlando Sanford International Airport, you can rent a car or use a ride-hailing service like Uber or Lyft. If you do rent a car from MCO, you can forgo paying tolls through the car rental company (which often comes with an additional fee) and pick up a Visitor Toll Pass to save on tolls during your trip.

Disney no longer charges a parking fee for overnight hotel guests, so if you rent a car, you can park at your hotel and drive to Disney's theme parks without additional fees. Keep in mind that you may not need a car if you don't plan on leaving Disney property after you arrive. Disney has a robust internal transportation system that operates between its on-site hotels and theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs.

You can also use Disney's official airport shuttle, Mears Connect , from MCO.

Mears Connect is a shuttle service that picks you up from MCO and will drop you off at official Disney World hotels and a handful of nearby hotels. Pricing starts at $16 one-way for adults and $13 one-way for children. Mears Connect offers shared shuttles, where you will stop at multiple Disney hotels on the way to your own. You can pay an additional fee for an "express shuttle" that takes you direct to your resort. The easiest way to reserve your ride is online through the Mears Connect website.

What is the best way to get around Disney World?

If you are staying on Walt Disney World property, you can utilize Disney's complimentary transportation for travel between your resort and Disney's theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs. Disney offers transportation by bus, boat, Monorail and Disney Skyliner gondola system. Which transportation options you have access to will depend on which hotel you are staying in.

All Disney hotels offer regularly scheduled bus transportation around the resort. Transportation begins 45 minutes prior to the theme park opening and up to one hour after the theme park closing.

Guests of Disney's Magic Kingdom area resorts — Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — can use boat or Monorail transportation to travel to the Magic Kingdom. There is also a monorail line that will take you to the Transportation and Ticket Center, where you can transfer to a separate Monorail line that goes to Epcot. These hotels also offer a walking path to Magic Kingdom.

Guests of Disney's Riviera Resort, Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney's Art of Animation Resort and Disney's Pop Century Resort can use the Disney Skyliner gondolas to travel to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot. All Disney World visitors can also use Disney Skyliner to travel between these two parks, regardless of where you are staying. It's a fun and scenic way to get around the resort.

Many Disney World hotels also offer ferry boat transportation to nearby parks. The BoardWalk area hotels, for example, offer boat transportation to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Fort Wilderness, Disney's Wilderness Lodge and others offer boat service to the Magic Kingdom. You can view a full list on Disney's website . You can also walk to Epcot or Hollywood Studios from any BoardWalk area hotel.

Whichever transportation option you choose, you can view the schedule, routes and stop locations in the My Disney Experience app or on video monitors at each stop location.

You can also utilize Disney's Minnie Van service for door-to-door (or door-to-front gate, as it were) service between your hotel and Disney's theme parks. You can book these private rides in red-and-white polka-dot vans directly through the Lyft app. Accessible rides and child safety seats are available.

Though not "official" Disney World hotels, Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotel guests have access to Disney's complimentary ferry boat service to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. A walking path is also available. These resorts also operate their own shuttles to Disney's theme parks, which pick up approximately every 20 to 25 minutes throughout the day.

Disney Springs hotels operate their own shuttle services, independent of Disney's transportation. If you are staying at one of these hotels, you can inquire about scheduling and pick-up times at the front desk.

What's the best place to stay on a Disney vacation?

There are more than two dozen Disney World hotels to choose from, so your main considerations will be your budget and what type of hotel experience you are after. Whether you want over-the-top Disney theming, an upscale cabin in the woods or a luxury villa with access to a club lounge, you can find it at Disney World.

Disney offers three hotel tiers: Value, Moderate and Deluxe.

Value Disney resorts are the most affordable, with prices ranging between $125 and $300 per night. Value resorts offer quick-service, cafeteria-style dining outlets and large pools but don't have full-service restaurants or pool amenities like waterslides and hot tubs.

On average, Moderate Disney resorts run between $250 and $400 and offer amenities you won't find at Value Disney resorts. Some have full-service restaurants, and the pools are better-themed and equipped with waterslides. Many of them are more centrally located near Disney's theme parks, as well.

Deluxe Disney resorts are the most expensive, ranging between $400 to $700 per night and up for a standard room, but they also have the best locations, amenities and dining. You can expect large, well-furnished guest rooms, pool complexes with hot tubs, waterslides and beach areas, multiple full-service restaurants, spas and more.

Regardless of which hotel you choose, Disney's on-site hotels offer perks to enhance your stay:

• A 30-minute jumpstart on your day with Disney's Early Theme Park Entry benefit
• The ability to purchase individual Lightning Lanes for eligible rides begins at 7 a.m. on the day of your visit (non-resort guests can't do this until the park opens)
• Complimentary hotel and theme park parking
• Extended Evening Theme Park Hours for guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels on select nights (this benefit is also available to guests of Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels, as well as Shades of Green)

Best hotels at Disney World

The best Disney World hotel for you depends on what you are looking for in a hotel stay. If you don't plan on spending much time in your room, you can save a lot of money by staying in a Value resort. If you plan on spending part of your vacation enjoying hotel amenities like the pool and restaurants, you may want to choose a Moderate or Deluxe resort. Or, if you have a large family that won't be comfortable in a standard room, one of Disney's family suites might be your best bet.

Here are a few of our favorites:

Best Disney World resort if you are on a budget: Disney's Pop Century Resort may not be the most glamorous hotel at Disney, but the kitschy 1950s through 1990s theming and the starting price of around $200 per night will surely put a smile on your face. This resort has three pools, a playground and an arcade. Guest rooms are furnished with either one king bed or a queen bed and a space-saving table that folds out into a bed. It is also one of two Value resorts with Skyliner gondola access to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.

Best Disney World resort for large families : Disney's Art of Animation Resort is in Disney's more affordable Value category and has family suites themed to popular Disney films like "Cars," "The Lion King" and "Finding Nemo" that sleep up to six guests. The pool here is the largest at any Disney World resort, and you can take the Disney Skyliner gondolas to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Standard rooms are also available.

Best Disney World resort for swimming : Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resorts are sister properties near Epcot. The two resorts have rooms that average around $600 per night and share access to Stormalong Bay, the best pool at Disney World . Stormalong Bay is really more than a pool, it is a water park with sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, an activities pool with a volleyball net and daily pool games and a shipwreck-themed waterslide.

Best Disney World resort for a luxury stay : If the sky is the limit for your Walt Disney World vacation budget, the Copper Creek Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge are some of the finest accommodations you can choose. With two bedrooms, a fireplace, a screened-in porch, a hot tub and lakeside views, these cabins are anything but rustic. The privacy offers you a chance to wind down after a long Disney day, but you are still close enough to take a boat ride to Magic Kingdom and enjoy the amenities and dining in the resort's main lobby.

If you are leaning toward a luxury Disney stay, you may be able to save money by renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points. DVC is Disney's version of a timeshare program. DVC members can rent out their points to non-members through sites like David's Vacation Club Rentals , helping you to save hundreds of dollars versus booking directly through Disney. The trade-off is that availability is limited and that the cancellation policies are much less flexible than if you make the reservation direct through Disney.

Read our full guide on the best hotels at Walt Disney World .

Best hotels near Disney World

Disney World also partners with a handful of off-site hotels where you can still take advantage of certain benefits like Early Theme Park Entry and complimentary transportation while also paying less than you would for an official Disney World hotel. These hotels also participate in major hotel points programs, so you can earn or redeem points for your stay.

The Walt Disney World Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve hotels all participate in the Marriott Bonvoy program. While not technically Disney hotels, they are located on Disney property between Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. If you are a Marriott Bonvoy elite member , these hotels offer benefits like complimentary upgrades, a welcome amenity and more.

Related: This affordable new Disney Springs hotel includes free hot food and 6 nightly drinks

Disney Springs has seven hotels from brands like Wyndham, Hilton, Holiday Inn and others. All of these are adjacent to the Disney Springs shopping and dining district, and some have room rates that start at close to $100 per night. These can be a great option if you want to save money and don't mind leaving the "Disney bubble" at the end of the day.

Read our full guide to Disney Springs hotels here .

What are the best restaurants at Disney World?

With more than 200 restaurants to choose from, you are going to have to decide which Disney World restaurants you most want to visit. Dining options run the gamut from the predictable burger and fries to an out-of-this-world restaurant in space.

Read our full guide to the best restaurants at Disney World .

Hardest Disney reservations to get (and how to get them)

Many of these restaurants are quick-service or snack stands that don't require advance reservations, but there are a few popular restaurants that book up almost as quickly as reservations become available. If you want to dine with Disney royalty at Cinderella's Royal Table, for example, you'll want to make your reservation as soon as you can. Remember, that is 60 days prior to your visit — if you are staying at a Disney World hotel, you can make reservations for your entire vacation 60 days prior to your check-in day.

Related: 'Be our guest' at these 5 best character dining meals at Walt Disney World

Other reservations that book up quickly include Storybook Dining at Artist Point , Space 220 at Epcot, California Grill, 'Ohana, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater at Hollywood Studios and Topolino's Terrace, especially for the character breakfast. All of these have great food and atmosphere, making them popular for new and returning guests.

Best quick-service restaurants at Disney that don't require a reservation

Luckily, there are plenty of Disney restaurants with delicious food you can get your hands on without a reservation. Satuli Canteen in Pandora — The World of Avatar at Disney's Animal Kingdom is consistently ranked as one of the best quick-service restaurants anywhere at Disney. The food is fresh, flavorful and surprisingly inexpensive. You can get a build-your-own bowl with beef, chicken or fish for less than $20.

Other must-try quick-service restaurants include Ronto Roasters at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge (the Ronto Breakfast Wrap is the best handheld meal at Disney!), Columbia Harbour House at Magic Kingdom for New England-inspired fare and Regal Eagle Smokehouse at Epcot for all things barbecue.

Using the Disney app to improve your dining experience

The My Disney Experience app is a must for your Disney World vacation for checking wait times, finding your way around and more. When it comes to dining, you can use it to find walk-up dining availability, score last-minute reservations, see what restaurants are nearby, and place mobile orders at select quick-service restaurants.

When you place a mobile order via the app, you choose what time you would like to pick up your order (with the option to modify if plans change). When you arrive at the restaurant, you can click "I'm here. Prepare my order," and you'll receive a notification on your phone when your food is ready.

Should you buy a Disney Dining Plan?

The cost of dining at Disney can add up quickly, and Disney offers two dining plan options that may help you save money. The Disney Dining Plan lets you prepay for a specified number of meals and snacks for your Disney World vacation. You receive a certain number of meal and snack credits for each night of your stay.

The Disney Dining Plan is both convenient and flexible. By prepaying for your meals and snacks, you won't have to pull out your wallet for every meal and snack, and you aren't required to use a set number of credits each day. You can redeem them anytime during your stay in the way that best works for you.

There are two options — the Disney Quick Service Dining Plan and the Disney Dining Plan. The first is a bit less expensive and allows for more flexibility. The second is best if you plan on more sit-down dining and character meals during your vacation.

Whether or not you can save money with a Disney Dining Plan depends on how you utilize the credits. It is possible to break even or come out ahead if you maximize the value of your credits and actually eat all of the food available on the plan. If you don't use all of your credits, you are essentially leaving money on the table, but our guide can help you out with the math.

Read our full guide to the Disney Dining Plan .

How to save time in line at Disney World

Most Walt Disney World attractions offer a standby line. The only exceptions are new attractions, which will often offer a virtual queue for a limited time after opening. When Disney World is busy, though, standby lines for popular attractions can climb as high as two hours. Luckily, Disney has a service called Disney Genie+ that helps you skip the standby line and get on more attractions with shorter waits.

With Disney Genie+, you can skip the standby line and utilize a much shorter "Lightning Lane" for most attractions. You can only purchase this add-on service on the day of your visit, beginning at midnight (though you will likely be safe waiting until you wake up in the morning except on Disney's busiest days).

The cost of Disney Genie+ varies per park and per day. The service starts at $15 per person per day and occasionally reaches a per-person price of $35 per day during the busy Thanksgiving and Christmas holiday season or in April during spring break. You can purchase Genie+ for one of Disney World's four theme parks or a "multiple park" option valid at all four parks when you purchase through the My Disney Experience app.

Most attractions are included in the Disney Genie+ service, but one or two attractions at each park require a separate Lightning Lane purchase to skip the line. It's not necessary to purchase Genie+ to buy individual Lightning Lane selections and vice versa. The individual Lightning Lane attraction pricing varies by attraction but typically ranges between $7 and $25 per person, per attraction.

Read our full guide to Disney Genie+ .

If you are staying in one of Disney's on-site hotels or in select "Good Neighbor" hotels, as mentioned in the section above, you can also save time in line by utilizing Early Theme Park Entry and/or Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. You can get into the parks 30 minutes early with the Early Entry benefit, but you actually want to arrive at the front gates 30-45 minutes before that time. This will give you time to get through security and to the roped-off area where they hold guests, making you one of the first in line to rush to your favorite ride when early entry starts.

Related: Your guide to visiting Disney World with a child on the autism spectrum

If you or someone in your party has a disability that makes it difficult for you to wait in a traditional standby queue, you can also save time by registering for Disney's Disability Access Service (DAS). You need to start the registration process before your visit, and full instructions are available on Disney's website .

How to plan a Disney World trip on a budget

While sensational stories about $2,500 meals at Disney make for good headlines, it is totally possible to visit Disney World on a budget .

Related: Yes, you can visit Disney World on a budget: Here's how I did it

Here are some of the most important things you can do to make your Disney vacation budget manageable:

• Stay at a Disney Value resort like Disney's All-Star Movies Resort or use Marriott points to stay at the Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve. Here are the best cards to get those points.
• Utilize Disney's complimentary parking and transportation for on-site guests instead of renting a car.
• Purchase groceries for some meals and snacks, and only buy one or two meals in the parks each day.
• Don't visit the parks every day you are at Disney and stick to one park per day, avoiding park hopping. You can save on tickets by spending a day swimming or visiting Disney Springs.
• Don't forget to periodically check Disney's website for discounts. Even after you book, you may be able to apply a hotel or vacation package discount that can save you even more money.
• Be on the lookout for discounted Disney gift cards to help cover the cost of your trip and/or use points for the tickets.
• Visit during less busy times of the year. Ticket prices are cheapest in August and September, with one-day tickets starting at $109.

Disney World pretrip checklist

Now that you've determined your budget, purchased your tickets, booked your hotel and made a few dining reservations, your trip is nearly planned. There are some other details you'll need to consider to make your trip as magical as it should be. Here's our ultimate Disney World pre-trip checklist:

• Pack accordingly : Depending on when you visit, you could be dealing with heat, humidity, afternoon showers, chilly temperatures or a mix of all of the above. It's important to pack comfortable shoes and clothing no matter when you visit, but you may also want rain gear, sun protection or a warm jacket, depending on the weather. You can read our full Disney World packing guide here .
• Download the My Disney Experience app : This app is an invaluable tool that you will use daily during your visit. You can use it to check everything from wait times to walk-up dining availability. You can also use it to navigate the parks with turn-by-turn walking directions, purchase Disney Genie+ and individual Lightning Lanes and even open your hotel room door.
• Check the park hours before your visit : You can view the park hours on the Walt Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app. Each park has separate opening and closing times, and parks occasionally close early for special events like Halloween and Christmas parties. When you view the park hours, you'll also be able to see times for any parades or fireworks shows happening each day of your visit and plan for early entry or extended theme park hours for eligible on-site hotel guests.
• Check the height requirements for attractions: If you are traveling to Disney World with young children, you can check the height requirements for attractions on Disney World's website or in the My Disney Experience app. There are also measuring stations at all attractions that have a minimum height requirement, but it's better to know ahead of time to avoid tears if your child isn't quite tall enough.
• Know where to find your favorite characters : Most Disney characters have designated meeting times and locations, which you can find in the My Disney Experience app. Booking a character meal can be a great way to meet multiple characters at once, but you can also meet many characters in the parks. Popular meet-and-greets also offer Genie+ Lightning Lane access, which can cut down on the time you spend waiting to meet Mickey, Moana or Cinderella.
• Decide if you want to purchase PhotoPass photos : You can save money on Disney Memory Maker by purchasing in advance before you visit. It's the easiest way to capture your vacation memories and an add-on we highly recommend. You can view and download your photos in the My Disney Experience app.
• Study up on Genie+: As helpful as Genie+ can be, there is a bit of a learning curve. Study up using our Genie+ guide and Disney's own overview before your visit. It's good to know which attractions participate in Genie+, how to reserve Lightning Lane access and how to make the most of the service.
• Plan for downtime: One of the biggest mistakes people make at Disney World is overscheduling their trip and leaving no time for rest and relaxation. If you are visiting for more than a few days, try and schedule a day away from the parks where you swim, explore the other resorts or just lounge around the hotel. It'll help rejuvenate you for the rest of your trip. For shorter trips, you may want to schedule a slow morning or return to your hotel early one day instead of being at the parks from opening to closing every day of your trip.

Read all of our best Disney World tips here .

Bottom line

There you have it — the ultimate guide to visiting Walt Disney World.

In addition to the planning and preparation you've now mastered, there are two very important things you must do during your Disney World vacation — don't overplan and have fun. It's much better to have a short list of "must-do" rides, restaurants and activities than to have a minute-by-minute itinerary that most certainly will not play out exactly how you planned.

Keeping a loose itinerary leaves room for magic moments like stumbling upon a favorite character, noticing a super-short line for a ride or deciding last-minute to watch a parade you happened upon. You can't do everything in one trip anyway, so do the things you can and save the rest for next time when you are a certified Disney pro.

FOR NO-COST-TO-YOU ASSISTANCE IN PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .

Related reading:

• The best Disney World hotels for your stay
• The 21 most underrated things at Disney World: What to see, do and eat that many guests miss
• Forgetting to do this 1 thing could ruin your Disney trip
• Disney's take on timeshares: Guide to Disney Vacation Club
• 8 Walt Disney World experiences that don't require a park ticket

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Is Disney World’s Most Expensive Resort Worth the Price?

When you’re planning your Disney vacation, one of your biggest decisions is which resort you’re going to stay at during your trip!

Disney World offers more than 25   hotels with unique amenities, themes, and perks. Its resorts are divided up into separate tiers  — value, moderate, and deluxe. And those deluxe resorts can be pretty pricey, but are they worth it?

Deluxe resorts are the most expensive, but they also come with additional perks and amenities compared to the lower-tier resorts. Guests usually have access to larger rooms, fitness centers, and both quick-service and table-service dining, among other bonuses.

One of the most popular Deluxe Resorts is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa . The hotel is located on the Seven Seas Lagoon within walking distance of Magic Kingdom . Guests have access to high-quality service, dining, and experiences when they stay at the resort. But, it comes at a cost, since it’s also Disney’s most expensive resort.

So, is the cost worth the luxury? We thought we’d find out YOUR answers to the question! We reached out to our AllEars readers to hear their thoughts, and there was a pretty overwhelming agreement. Many of our readers emphasized that they didn’t think that Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort was worth the cost to them, but other Deluxe Resorts in Disney World were .

Many people said they’d rather choose somewhere like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Disney’s Contemporary Resort , if they want to be close to Magic Kingdom. Otherwise, they’d choose options like Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts for their transportation and proximity to other parks.

Some people noted that the location of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort is great for visiting Magic Kingdom, but its proximity to other parks is a letdown.  And, if you plan on spending most of your time in the parks rather than your hotel, it might not be worth the cost to stay at a luxury resort.

However, others said that Disney’s Grand Floridian was a beautiful place to visit during a special trip like a honeymoon or anniversary . Some noted that this resort was a one-time visit for them — it was great for a special celebration, but not someplace they’d stay again.

There’s no denying that  this resort is gorgeous . It offers Victorian-style theming to go along with its incredible restaurants and seasonal elements (like the Gingerbread Houses at Christmas time ), making it great for special occasions.

Still, if you’re going to spend the money on a Deluxe Resort, you should make sure you’re choosing the place best suited to your vacation needs ! If you and your family are avid park-hoppers that only use your resort as a place to sleep, it may not be worth it for you.

Regardless of whether you stay there or not, Disney’s Grand Floridian is worth stopping by, just to take in the atmosphere for yourself. Before you begin planning your next trip to Disney World, check back with us at AllEars for everything you need to know about the parks and resorts!

The Best and Worst Disney Resorts at Every Price Point

What’s your favorite Disney Resort? Let us know in the comments below!

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Rachel Franko

Rachel Franko has been going to Disney Parks since she was a baby, and her love of Disney has only grown into a SLIGHT obsession since! She's been writing for AllEars since 2019 and loves sharing the magic with all the readers. When she's not writing, you can catch her heading to Disney and Universal Studios with a heart full of dreams and a backpack full of themed ears!

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12 Replies to “Is Disney World’s Most Expensive Resort Worth the Price?”

My family and I got to stay there on a week long split stay that started at Pop Century. We were blown away with the level of service, beauty and location. We were there in December and my mom chose to ignore the parks for the majority of the stay. I loved the view we ended up with as well! The room was spacious for 3 people. We were originally supposed to stay at wilderness lodge, but Disney had to change it and upgraded us for the same price. I would stay there again in a heartbeat if I could find a way. I wonder how the dvc studios would compare to the room we had. I cannot express how much more worth the money grand floridian is for me than boardwalk was the time I stayed there.

When hurricane Irma rolled through I took my family to the Grand Floridian to ride out the storm. My daughter was terminally ill with SMA and we needed somewhere we felt the power would not go out. Under these terrible circumstances we still had the best family vacation (unexpected) we had ever had. We never left the hotel for 3 days and it was great. The staff immediately shifted to indoor activities like family trivia. The music in the lobby was always great. The food (concierge level) was in plenty and great. The food at the Grand Floridian Cafe is a hidden gem. So if I have to go to Disney and spend most of my time at a hotel it will be the Grand Floridian. Side note: we have spent Christmas Eve twice at AK Lodge and we’ve also stayed at Contemporary, Yacht and Beach, Boardwalk, Coronado Springs, Port Orleans, All Star, Swan and Dolphin, and more so we’ve seen a lot of the hotels. The Grand Floridian gets everything right and deserves the price it charges for the effort it puts in.

The one time we got to stay at the contemporary we did have a complaining whiner in our group. But everyone has those people in their family. It was my great aunt. She can be a real sour puss

I stayed at the contemporary once. It was awesome. The Grand Floridian is my dream hotel though. No matter what the cheapskate haters say. Money is always an object. But that doesn’t mean I don’t want to stay there. Someday I will. And I won’t whine and complain about it later like some smart elect jerks do.

we stayed at the contemporary resort the first time we visited walt disney world, i was 15 years old. we stayed in the tower facing the magic kingdom. it was amazing!!!!!! it is my favorite. as prices increased, we have stayed at the caribbean resort, which is also a beautiful resort. sadly, i have not been to walt disney world and stayed inside the park for many years. maybe someday i will return.

Money is not object for my family on vacations, the grand floridian is weak sauce.

But feel free to keep drinking the Kool-Aid 🙂

The hotel resembles California’s Hotel Del Coronado featured in the film Some Like it Hot. Pre-covid, I encountered a situation in which people staying at the Grand Floridian had a disadvantage. How can that be? Well, we were staying at the Wilderness Lodge at Christmas time. The bus picked us up first on our way to a park (Animal Kingdom or Studios), and we stopped at Grand Floridian to pick up more. The Grand Floridians had to stand if they could get on. Handicapped visitors couldn’t get on at all. I heard a lady in a scooter yell at her family that she was tired of waiting and she was going back to the room. I’ve only dined at Grand Floridian at 1900 Park Fare. The complaint I hear most often is the location of your room. Most people like to be in the main building which costs big bucks.

Anyone who says they don’t want to stay at the Grand Floridian is obviously lying. You don’t want to stay there because you are cheap. Any excuse you come up with is because you don’t want to spend the money no matter how wonderful the hotel is. You are not fooling anyone

The Grand Floridian is a beautiful resort. I am tired of the constant disrespect it gets from self absorbed cheapskates who just don’t like spending any money

You knock yourself out spending a couple grand a night. I’m perfectly happy being a “cheapskate” as you call it. Most of us aren’t being cheap, we FLAT OUT don’t have that kind of money! Of course, anyone would like to say they’ve stayed there but does that mean that it’s worth the ridiculous price tag? Not in the least.

I agree with you Brandon. It was the first hotel we stayed in WDW, and we were so impressed we stayed there a further three times before buying in to the Vacation Club back in 1993. We have since stayed in a one bedroom in the Grand Floridian Villas I found the apartment so beautiful I did not leave it the first full day we were there.

This is not worth it to anyone who spends most of their time away from their hotel. All hotels look the same behind closed eyelids.

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Walt Disney World is home to a variety of on-site hotels designed to suit the budgets of most visitors. From family suites at the low-cost Disney's Art of Animation Resort to pricy rooms with a view of an African savannah at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, there's a wide selection to choose from. There are almost 25,000 rooms spread across the resort's hotels, campsites, cabins and Disney Vacation Club properties.

But what if you have really deep pockets? Well, Disney is very happy to take your money, and can offer you a stay in one of a host of incredibly luxurious rooms. The rest of us may have to keep on dreaming, but we can enjoy a look at these 10 luxurious Walt Disney World hotel rooms anyway!

10. Yellowstone Suite, Disney's Wilderness Lodge

Price: Around $1,000/night

The 729-room Disney's Wilderness Lodge is located close to the Magic Kingdom , and is designed to resemble a classic National Park Service lodge. The rustic theming extends into the rooms themselves, as well as the hot spring-style pool area.

One of most luxurious rooms is the Yellowstone Suite, which offers views across the courtyard, pool and Bay Lake.

The suite covers some 1,000 square feet, and features a rustic design. Guests staying in the room benefit from two housekeeping visits per day, an eight-seater dining table, a powder room, an office, a sprawling living room and a luxurious bathroom complete with two sinks and a whirlpool tub.

9. Presidential Suite, Disney's Contemporary Resort

Price: Around $2,000/night

The iconic Contemporary Resort was one of Walt Disney World's original hotels, and features a unique A-Frame design. It was constructed by the United States Steel Corporation, which hoped to prove the viability of a new technique using modular rooms that were put together off-site and then slotted into place. The approach proved to be a near-disaster, with Disney subsequently buying out its partner. The resort remains popular, though, offering stunning views over the Magic Kingdom and the convenience of a monorail line that runs right through it.

The two-bedroom Presidential Suite offers an incredible view of the Magic Kingdom, a king-sized bathroom with a whirlpool and a full-sized fridge.

8. Royal Palm Club Level Suite, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

Featuring a Victorian theme, Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is one of the highest-end accommodation options at the Walt Disney World Resort. Boasting 867 rooms, it is home to a wide range of restaurants, two pools, a beach and a full service spa. The Magic Kingdom is easily accessible via monorail.

A two-bedroom Royal Palm Club Level suite will sleep up to 6, and includes concierge service, a parlor area and a wet bar. You'll also gain access to the very posh Royal Palm Club lounge.

7. Princess Suite, Disney's Polynesian Resort

Price: Around $1,500/night

Part of Walt Disney World's original hotel line-up, the South Seas-themed Disney's Polynesian Resort boasts 847 rooms and suites, spread across several buildings and longhouses.

The two-bedroom Princess Suite offers views of Cinderella's Castle and the marina. Perhaps the biggest benefit is that you'll be able to watch the nightly Wishes fireworks show from the comfort of your own room.

6. Steeplechase Suite, Disney's Boardwalk Inn

Price: Around $2,500/night

Situated close to Epcot , Disney's Boardwalk Inn is part of the broader Disney's Boardwalk Resort, which also includes Disney Vacation Club timeshare accommodation. It is designed to resemble a 1920s era Atlantic City or Ocean City boardwalk, and is heavily themed throughout.

Wealthy guests can look forward to a stay in a Steeplechase Suite, offering views over Crescent Lake, the Boardwalk and Disney's Yacht and Beach Club. There's a king bedroom in the master bedroom and two queens in the second bedroom, and one-and-a-half baths.

Founder of Theme Park Tourist and a lifelong fan of everything Disney and Universal. He loved everything about Theme Parks and his goal in starting the site was to create a resource that could help fans make the most of their park trips, and to make visiting theme parks a little more affordable by capturing as many money-saving tricks as possible.

Love all the positive comments. There are also times of the year were they offer free dine which is an incentive during off peak times of the year. It is true however that if you want to afford an awesome vacation full of memories for ppl of all ages you have to plan and save which means putting saving Above other things. Saving is a sacrafice. In the end you will get a vacation you will never forget.

I love the nicer places, but the reality is the rooms are simply a place to sleep. If we planned to never leave the room then I could see renting a better room but but we leave the room at 8am and return at 10pm.

Lovely to read about and see some pics of. Out of my price range by a lot but if we had the money then why not. we are staying in the Art of Animation next Summer and for our trip to florida we will have saved up for two years. Very excited and can't wait. you have to save to enjoy

On off season, the value resorts, which are themed and very nice, can be as low as $49 a night! Also, you can call and plan a stay with the Disney vacation planners up to 36 mos in advance and make monthly payments! Makes it very affordable! We do it all the time! We live 30 minutes from Disney, but still love to stay on property periodically, just to get away! You can include 100% of the cost of your vacation, travel, rooms, dining plans, any extras, and a ton of other things into the total price. And it makes it affordable for almost everyone with a monthly payment plan. So that when you get there, it's totally paid for and you haven't worries. Also, I suggest going to a store(local toy stores etc) and bringing "souvenirs" with you to surprise the kids with when you get there. Saves a ton of money! We also always check in in early evening. Many times we have done so and the resort had been "full or overbooked" and they always upgrade us to a better resort for our inconvenience. We have stayed at the animal kingdom lodge and Polynesian resort for 56$ a night so many times that I've lost count!

I call bull. You have NEVER stayed at polynesian for $56 a night. Not even 20 years ago could you do that. The value resorts are never $56 a night only the campgrounds get that cheap. But we are led to believe that you were able to stay at one of the most expensive resorts on property for less than the Value Resorts nights rates. YEAH RIGHT!

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How to Get the Most Value from Disney World

How much does it cost to go to Disney World, and is it worth the high sticker price? Our guide breaks down typical Disney World costs and offers tips on getting the most value out of your Disney vacation.

There’s no getting around it: Disney World is expensive, and it’s getting increasingly costly every year. The Florida resort still holds so much magic for new and returning guests, but is that enough to make it worth draining your vacation budget?

My take? Absolutely — if you plan ahead.

My family has gone to Walt Disney World my entire life, and always on a budget. As a travel and personal finance journalist (and Disney enthusiast) who focuses on seeing the world on a dime, I’ve come up with several ways to lower the cost of a Disney vacation and get the most bang for my buck when I visit Orlando.

19 Ways to Get the Most Value from Walt Disney World Resort

Here are my tips for keeping costs down, making my dollars stretch, and maximizing the value of a Disney World vacation.

1. Get an Annual Pass

Walt Disney World Annual Passes are expensive, and non-Florida residents are only allowed to purchase the most expensive, top-tier option (the Incredi-Pass ). But if you plan to head down to Florida for a Disney vacation multiple times a year — or will be staying at Walt Disney World for multiple weeks — an Annual Pass could actually be cheaper than single-day tickets.

Plus, Annual Passes get you discounts on food and merch inside the parks — one of many ways to maximize the value of your Annual Pass to Disney World .

There’s a lot of math involved when determining if an Annual Pass makes sense, but no need to bust out the calculator. We got out our number 2 pencils and did the homework for you. Our comprehensive guide should help you determine if a Disney World Annual Pass is worth the price for your family.

We’ve even got a guide to determine if an out-of-state Disney World Annual Pass makes sense ! For reference, I live in Ohio and have found my Incredi-Pass to be well worth the value. Bear in mind: I take two week-long trips a year, but I also travel down for short trips as a journalist throughout the year.

2. Monitor Discounts and Deals

Throughout the year, Disney will release a number of Walt Disney World discounts and deals that will help you save money on your trip, including options like:

• Hotel discounts
• Ticket discounts
• Package discounts
• Pass discounts

Bookmark our Disney World discounts and deals page to see what’s on offer currently, and follow our Facebook page for updates every time Disney announces a new savings program.

3. Use a Shuttle Service from the Airport

For a long time, guests who flew into Orlando International Airport (MCO) could board Disney’s Magical Express , a free shuttle service to their resort (and back to the airport at the end of their trip). However, Disney discontinued this service at the end of 2021.

Since then, guests have had to figure out how to get from the Orlando airport to Disney World on their own. Many now choose an Uber or Lyft to get to the resort for the speed and convenience, but this can get expensive. It’s much cheaper to book a shuttle through Mears Connect . You might not get to your hotel as fast, but you’ll save a lot of money by ditching the rideshare.

4. Fly into the Orlando Sanford International Airport

Of course, you’ll have to rely on a rideshare (or car rental) if you fly into the Orlando Sanford International Airport (SFB), aka the other Orlando airport near Disney . You might pay a little more in transportation costs to and from Disney World, but flights into SFB might be significantly cheaper.

In fact, in a piece I wrote for USA Today , I found that the cheapest airport to fly in and out of is SFB. Routing your travels through here could save you a chunk of change — which you can, of course, use to splurge on more Mickey bars.

While I’ve never flown this way (I love my direct flights from Cincinnati to MCO), our operations director at the magazine , Brydie, swears by this. It’s the only way she flies to Disney!

5. Stay at a Value Resort

The best way to save money at Walt Disney World is to stay off property, at a nearby hotel or Airbnb. But then, you’ll either need to take an infrequent shuttle to and from the parks, pay for rideshare, or rent a car (and pay for parking at Disney World each day, if you aren’t a passholder). While I love saving money, I find it much more convenient (and magical) to stay on property at an official Disney World hotel .

There are three main tiers of hotels to choose from:

As you might expect, the Disney World Value Resorts are the most affordable. They have the fewest amenities and less ideal transportation options, but they still have magical theming and keep you in the heart of Disney World. If you’re on a tight budget, book a stay at one of these hotels.

6. Rent DVC Points

There’s an exception to every rule, even at Disney. Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas at Deluxe Resorts offer the most luxurious stays possible at Walt Disney World, but they’re also highly expensive (and typically reserved for people who belong to the DVC timeshare program).

A Studio Villa at Disney’s Grand Floridian. Photo by Danny Shuster

However, you can nab these rooms for a fraction of the cost by renting DVC points through David’s Vacation Club Rentals . Our staff editor, Morgan, loves booking through David’s Vacation Club Rentals — and uses the program to stay in luxurious resorts on a tight budget quite regularly.

Wondering just how much you can save on a luxurious Disney hotel room with Dave’s? Learn how the program works and book your resort now through Dave’s.

7. Rope Drop and Stay Late

Disney World ticket prices are the same whether you spend an hour in the park or all day. To get the most bang for your buck, plan to get there early and stay late. Resort guests get early theme park entry , meaning they’re allowed to enter the park and ride specific attractions 30 minutes before official park opening.

But there are a lot of people taking advantage of this perk, meaning you need to show up early for rope drop (the phrase for being at the park right when it opens). I advise getting to the park an hour before early entry, either by using Disney transportation or rideshare (in a pinch).

This is the best time to be in the parks. While they’re still busy, all the late-risers are still snoozing in bed, meaning you can get on some of each park’s heavy hitters without long waits.

One morning, I managed to ride eight attractions at Disney’s Animal Kingdom in an hour and a half. That meant the rest of my Animal Kingdom day was a lazy stroll through animal exhibits and enjoying shows and other live entertainment, without having to wait in long lines.

For a complete guide to rope-drop strategies, check out our recent park planning issue of WDW Magazine , with tips and insider secrets for each park.

Fuel up on coffee around Walt Disney World , though, because you’ll want to stay until the park closes. If you don’t care to see the fireworks at Magic Kingdom or EPCOT, you’ll be able to walk on some of your favorite attractions during the nighttime spectaculars, since most guests are lined up to see the show.

8. Use Genie+ Strategically

Genie+ replaced the FastPass system a few years back. The paid service allows you to book Lightning Lanes , which bypass traditional queues, to get on rides faster. On busy days, it’s a life-saver, if you know how to use it.

Unfortunately, there are important Genie+ strategies you absolutely need to know to get the most out of the service. If you don’t do your homework and learn how to stack your reservations, you might not think Genie+ is worth the cost .

And sometimes it isn’t. I find it more useful at Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Hollywood Studios , where I’m more drawn to rides. At EPCOT and Animal Kingdom, I’m more prone to walking around and looking at things, without worrying about the attractions.

Check out our comprehensive Genie+ strategy guide in our special technology issue of WDW Magazine , and brush up on some of these Genie+ basics online:

• How much does Genie+ cost?
• Genie+ price calendar
• How does Genie+ work?
• Difference between Disney Genie and Disney Genie+
• Common Disney Genie+ mistakes

9. Wake Up for the Virtual Queues

Resort guests can book their first Genie+ attractions at 7 a.m., and you’ll want to be up earlier than that if you’re rope-dropping anyway. However, one of the best ways to maximize value at Disney World is to wake up and try to get a virtual queue for any rides that have them.

Virtual Queues are reserved for Disney World’s newest, most popular rides, and your first chance to claim a spot is at 7 a.m. It’s totally free to join, but if you don’t get a spot (everyone else is trying to get a Virtual Queue right at 7 AM as well), you can purchase access to the ride via Individual Lightning Lane — but that’s not ideal if you’re doing Disney on a budget.

That said, if you don’t get a Virtual Queue at 7 AM, you can try again at 1 PM. Unless this is a once-in-a-lifetime trip, I advise getting the second Virtual Queue if you missed the first. Individual Lightning Lanes are expensive (and the cost can add up if you have multiple people in your party). For me, it’s hard to justify paying roughly $20 to ride one attraction.

10. Use Single Rider Lines

I often travel solo to Walt Disney World, and I love it. But even when I’m with friends or family, I love to use the single rider lines at Disney World . With one notable exception (looking at you, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster), single rider lines get you through the queue and onto the attraction much faster than traditional queues.

Just note that if you join a single rider line with other members of your party, you will be separated. You will not get to ride together.

At present, four attractions at Disney World offer single rider lines:

• Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run
• Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster
• Expedition Everest

I’ve found the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster single rider line often takes longer than the posted wait time for the standby queue, but otherwise, these are all a smart strategy for fitting in more rides. Notably, Magic Kingdom does not have any rides with single rider lines.

11. Ditch Park Hopper

If you buy a Walt Disney World Annual Pass, you’ll automatically have Park Hopper , meaning you can jump from one park to another — and then some — as you please (bound by a few Disney rules). But if you’re buying a ticket or package, it’s an add-on.

It’s not super expensive in the grand scheme of Disney World costs, but the time you spend going from one park to another is critical. If you’re only down once a year (or once a decade), I recommend fully committing at least one day to a single park. The 30 minutes to an hour to hop from one park to another is time you could’ve spent watching a parade, riding an attraction, or even enjoying a sit-down meal.

Disney World transportation is super convenient, but it ain’t fast. Park Hopping wastes precious park hours. Unless you have a long trip that allows for leisurely days (and I do recommend these trips if you’re not on a tight budget and have the time), skip Park Hopper.

But pro tip, if you’re heading to Disneyland , absolutely get Park Hopper. It takes all of two minutes to cross the Esplanade separating Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure. It’s much faster to Park Hop there — and thus way more worth the expense when trying to get the most value out of a Disneyland vacation .

12. Pay Attention to Crowd Calendars

Sometimes, you’re bound by specific travel dates. Maybe you can only go to Disney when the kids are on summer vacation or spring break , or maybe you’re planning around major deadlines at work or an extended family’s hectic schedules.

But if there’s any flexibility to your trip dates, absolutely use a Disney World crowd calendar . These help you understand how busy it is at Disney World during different times of the year. If you want to get the most out of your Walt Disney World vacation, travel when crowds are lower.

Smaller crowds mean:

• Shorter wait times for attractions
• Better viewing for fireworks, stage shows, and parades
• An easier time snagging dining reservations
• An easier time getting the Virtual Queue you want
• More open walkways (great if you’re agoraphobic like me!)
• More free time to enjoy Imagineering details

All of those things add up to a more valuable Disney World experience, in my book.

13. Get After-Hours Party Tickets

After-hours parties, like Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party , Jollywood Nights , and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party , as well as general Disney World after-hours events, are some of my favorite times to be at Disney. And they’re expensive.

But hear me out: Despite the high price tag, they are one of the best ways to get the most value out of a day at Disney. Because these are hard-ticket events, the crowds are much lower, meaning you can often walk right onto your favorite rides.

Plus, there’s unique live entertainment and fireworks, rare character meet-and-greets, free snacks, exclusive merch and menu items, and more.

If you have an Annual Pass, you can spend your day enjoying the parks, then stick around for After Hours. But if you’re not a Passholder, after-hours nights are perfect for resort days. Spend your day enjoying the pool, head to Disney Springs for lunch, take the monorail or other transportation to visit some other hotels, and then head to the park hosting the party. After-hours tickets usually let you into the park a few hours before the party begins — so you can get almost a full day’s worth of park experiences, without buying an actual park ticket.

This certainly isn’t a way to do Disney on a budget , but if you’re willing to splurge on one thing during your trip, this should be it. Trying to balance your dollars at Disney? Check out our Save or Splurge issue of WDW Magazine for tips on how to save money — and what’s worth the high price tag.

14. Skip the Disney Dining Plan

This may be a controversial statement, but I think the Disney Dining Plan is a waste of money . Some families appreciate it because it helps them budget for their trip, and they know exactly what they’re going to spend on food over the course of their vacation.

However, many guests leave Walt Disney World without fully using their dining plan, and many others use their credits without a strategy, meaning they’re getting less value for their money.

Like Genie+, successfully using the Disney Dining Plan requires an advanced understanding of the system — it’s one more thing to worry about on vacation, and it may motivate you to get a bigger meal when you might’ve been fine with a pretzel or a Mickey bar. To make it worth my while, I’d likely eat more than I would’ve otherwise, so I fail to see the value.

Plus, a tip for all you dads: My dining budget is usually reserved for booze on EPCOT days, and the dining plan isn’t really helpful there!

That said, I do acknowledge that it works for some families. If you want the plan, at least spend the time pricing out the various plans to figure out which Disney Dining Plan is right for you .

15. Pack Snacks and Water

Speaking of dining at Walt Disney World , you don’t have to eat what Disney’s selling in the parks and resort hotels for every meal. Mickey’s a nice guy and understands that budgets are tight, so you can absolutely pack snacks or full-on meals in your park bag or stroller.

One of my favorite hacks is to take lunch over to Tom Sawyer Island in Magic Kingdom, where I can enjoy some peace and quiet while munching on snacks at a picnic table in the shade. (Learn more about the history of Tom Sawyer Island in our Wild West issue of WDW Magazine .)

You should also pack a refillable water bottle. This helps you avoid spending money on bottled water in the parks (and you should drink a lot of water, especially if you’re not used to Florida’s heat and humidity) — and it also cuts down on single-use plastics.

16. Eat Quick-Service

That said, one of the best parts of a Disney World vacation is the food. The food at Disney is fantastic, and you don’t have to book a Table-Service meal to get in on the good eats. Quick-Service restaurants are more affordable, and there are still some amazing options across the resort.

Here are the best Quick-Service restaurants at each Disney World park, in my opinion:

• Sleepy Hollow (Magic Kingdom)
• La Cantina de San Angel (EPCOT)
• ABC Commissary (Hollywood Studios)
• Flame Tree Barbecue (Animal Kingdom)

EPCOT also almost always has a festival going on, where you can enjoy delicious food from around the world. Skip the sit-down meals on an EPCOT day and instead eat your way around the world.

St. Louis BBQ Ribs from Flame Tree BBQ. Photo by Danny Shuster

Everyone’s palate is different. In case you aren’t a fan of my personal Quick-Service recommendations, check out these restaurant roundups for each park:

• The best Quick-Service restaurants at Magic Kingdom
• The best Quick-Service restaurants at EPCOT
• The best Quick-Service restaurants at Hollywood Studios
• The best Quick-Service restaurants at Animal Kingdom

17. Find Off-the-Beaten Path Activities

Walt Disney World is a sprawling resort with far more to offer than simply four theme parks. If you have ample time to spend at Disney, you might find your trip more worthwhile if you wander off the beaten path and try something new.

The memories will be more unique, the crowds will be lower, and you’ll still be enjoying the magic of Disney. Here are a few things you might try:

• Hiking, archery, or horseback riding at Fort Wilderness
• Golf, mini golf, or even footgolf
• Water park fun at Typhoon Lagoon or Blizzard Beach
• A spa day at Grand Floridian or Saratoga Springs
• A monorail bar crawl
• Fishing or boating on the water
• A nighttime safari at Animal Kingdom Lodge

You can even find unique experiences within the parks that most guests gloss right over, such as:

• A haircut at Harmony Barber Shop inside Magic Kingdom
• The Behind the Seeds tour at EPCOT
• Droid building at Hollywood Studios
• Drawing classes at Conservation Station at Animal Kingdom

18. Pack Smart

Knowing what to pack can save you from unnecessary expenses on and off property during your Walt Disney World vacation. For instance:

• Pack a portable charger to keep your phone juiced all day, every day. While you can purchase Fuel Rods at Disney World , these are an unnecessary expense if you plan ahead.
• It’s going to rain at some point, so bring a jacket, poncho, or umbrella, plus a spare pair of shoes and socks for each park day.
• If you’ve got kids who are going to want all the toys and plushes they see, pack a surprise for them (like a Mickey plush from Target!) and give it to them as a reward for good behavior. They’ll be less likely to beg for the (more expensive) plushes they see in the parks.

19. Use a Disney Travel Agent

Using an authorized Disney travel agent adds no cost to your trip. Instead, travel agents earn a commission through Disney. They often know how to find the best deals to keep the cost of your Disney vacation down, and many also handle all the stressful bits of a Walt Disney World vacation — from Genie+ to Advance Dining Reservations — for you. We recommend using Destinations to Travel for your vacation planning needs.

Fill out this quick form , and a licensed Destinations to Travel agent will respond within 24 hours! You can get a quote today or  get more information about a potential Disney vacation.

Make the Cost of Walt Disney World Work for You

No matter how you slice it, Disney World is expensive. But if you know how to look for savings and travel on a budget, you can minimize costs while maximizing fun. To truly make the most of your Disney World vacation, thoroughly plan the trip in advance, learn how to navigate the resort and its systems, and take advantage of every waking moment on property.

Have a magical trip!

The post How to Get the Most Value from Disney World appeared first on WDW Magazine .

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What Does a Trip to Disney World Cost? Breakdown by Budget!

July 17, 2023 //  by  Brandi Lyons //   2 Comments

When planning a trip to Disney World, the most common question may be “how much does a trip to Disney World cost?” We know that things can get pretty pricey there, but a trip may be more affordable than you think!

We’ve been to Disney World countless times on all types of budgets. We have taken trips on a very, very tight budget and had a great time doing the cheaper experiences. We’ve spent a little bit more money, and done a few more experiences. And, we’ve visited Disney World with even more money to spend, and have taken advantage of some of the more exclusive experiences they offer.

So trust us, we understand! We’ve compiled all of our knowledge into this article so that you can pick the right budget for you and be able to plan the perfect trip to Disney World – regardless of your budget!

What Can I Expect to Spend on My Trip to Disney World?

There’s no exact math and answer to this question, but we can give you the best estimates for the types of trips you can take. A big factor in how much a trip will cost for you not only depends on where you live and are traveling from, but also what kind of person you are. Not everyone is able to – or wants to – spend a lot of money on a family vacation.

For the sake of this article, we will be looking at the average cost of Disney for a family. We know that may not apply to everyone, but if you look at the parts that do apply to you and your travel party, you should be able to find useful information for Disney vacation prices – no matter what your family size.

There are a ton of ways to do Disney, and this breakdown will help you decide how much to save for a Disney trip.

We are going to breakdown the Disney World costs by budget, mid-range, and expensive.

For examples sake, let’s plan a trip for the last week of September: 9/24/2023 – 9/30/2023. We will use this a guideline for the cost of resort and ticket packages, and because we count the first and last days as arrival and departure, we will be looking at a 5-day ticket, not 7-day. So here’s our breakdown of Disney World package prices:

The Budget cost of a Disney World trip :

• 2 adults (10 and up), 1 child (3-9): $2880.56
• 2 adults (10 and up), 2 children (3-9): $3446.60

The Mid-range trip to Disney cost:

• 2 adults (10 and up), 1 child (3-9): $3674.88
• 2 adults (10 and up), 2 children (3-9): $4240.92

The Expensive trip to Disney cost:

• 2 adults (10 and up), 1 child (3-9): $5122.76
• 2 adults (10 and up), 2 children (3-9): $5688.80

We chose the base tickets for these and standard rooms. If you add on some extras, or choose a preferred room, that will increase your costs (more on that later!).

Just a note, kids under 3 are free and do not need a ticket to enter the parks. If your kids are little, considering taking them! It will save you money, and you can still have fun at Disney World with toddlers !

Also, if your kids are older than 10, you will be paying adult prices. This will completely alter the price of your package – it won’t change your room cost but it will change the cost of your tickets.

How Much Does it Cost to Fly to Disney World?

In order to figure out how much it will cost a family to fly to Disney World, we have to take into account where the family is flying from, and what kind of flights are available to them.

The range we are going to put in here will be based off of North American travelers. If travelling internationally, like from Europe, the cost of the flights will be much more and will make the cost of the overall trip more expensive.

We are also assuming that you will be flying into Orlando International Airport (MCO), since that’s where the paid shuttle services and private car companies will pick you up from. You will have to take the price of each service into account while planning the best budget for you trip.

In order to save even more money on your flight, you can drive to a bigger airport if you don’t have one close to you – these normally have more flight options available. You can also choose a flight with more layovers versus a nonstop option since that will be cheaper as well.

Flights to Disney on a Budget

Depending on how early you book your trip, and the day of the week you flight on, you can score a pretty good deal on flights to Orlando. Try to fly out during the week on a weekday instead of arriving on a weekend.

Look for flights with layovers instead of nonstop, and try not to travel during holidays. You can also book with a “budget airline,” if those are offered at the airport near you.

The average range for budget flights to Orlando will be between $150-$250 per person. These are roundtrip tickets, and if you can find one of these from your local airport, these are great deals to snag!

Mid-Range Flights to Disney

If you don’t mind spending a little bit more for your flight, then a mid-range option may be for you. You can book on a better airline, or get a more premium seat/flight experience. You will also be more likely to book a nonstop flight if that’s a possibility from your location.

The average range for mid-range flights to Orlando will be between $250-$450 per person. Again, these are roundtrip tickets for your trip.

Expensive Flights to Disney

If you are looking for the most luxurious flight experience and don’t care how much money you spend on your flight to Disney World, you can book whatever flight you want. Get a first-class ticket, book a nonstop flight, and choose whatever airline and airport you want.

For an expensive flight to Disney World, the cost per person is from $650 per person and up. Sky’s the limit, literally.

Not Flying to Disney?

If you don’t live crazy far from Orlando, or don’t mind the drive, not flying could be the most cost effective. A couple tanks of gas in your vehicle could be a lot cheaper than a flight, and this could drastically lower the average cost of Disney for a family.

If you and your family are down for the drive and don’t mind a little sightseeing on the way there, maybe take a more cost effective drive.

How Much Does Disney Transportation Cost Around Disney World?

Just like transportation to get there, the cost of Disney World transportation varies. Again, based off your preferences and how much you want to spend, the Disney World cost of transportation ranges from free to expensive.

Transport in Disney World on a Budget

If you are looking to use the most cost effective transportation in Disney World, then you can use the free transportation that’s offered. Disney World buses, boats, Skyliner, and monorails are absolutely free and can be used by anyone staying on property.

These are great options to have because you don’t have to lift a finger and Disney takes care of all the transportation for you!

But, these are only available to people staying on Disney World property, as well as using these forms of transportation may increase wait times for traveling.

Mid-Range Transport in Disney World

Those on the mid-range budget may still choose Disney transport over other forms, but you can opt to use Uber/Lyft/Minnie Van services in order to save time on traveling – especially if you have reservations that you need to get to on time.

Those staying on Disney property can use the Minnie Van service, and whether you’re staying off-site or on property you can use Lyft and Uber.

Expensive Transport in Disney World

If you don’t want to use Disney transportation at all – or you aren’t staying on Disney property – you can rent a car once you arrive at the airport use that for your trip.

Maybe you don’t want to rent a car though and you want to be chauffeured around on your trip, which is way more relaxing anyways, then you can use Uber/Lyft/Minnie Van services for most of your transportation needs. Plus, you can still use Disney transportation when it’s most convenient for you.

You can choose a private car service to take you from the airport to your resort, or even a private service offered by the shuttle bus companies. These will be a lot more expensive than the shared services.

How Much Does Lodging Cost at Disney World?

Even though Disney World offers the most amazing resorts, sometimes staying at them doesn’t always fit into the budget. Staying off property can save a lot of money and provide more space for bigger families.

Both on-site and off-site hotels offer luxury experiences – but they vary in price. So we’ve compiled the best places to stay based off your budget, and there are on-site and off-site options for all budgets.

Budget Lodging

If you’re looking for a cheaper Disney stay, you can stay off of Disney property at both Airbnbs and off-site Disney hotels . Staying at an Airbnb can give bigger families more space and still end up being less than $100 a night!

There are some great ones near Disney World – many of them Disney themed. The off-site Disney hotels offer more luxury for a value price, and can be great choices for smaller families or couples.

Now, if you want to stay on Disney property for a budget, consider staying at one of the Value resorts. You will be able to get the Disney experience and perks, but the price of the hotels will lower the overall cost of your trip. Like we stated earlier, the Budget average cost for a family of 3 to go to Disney World is around $3000, so here we will break down what part of that is the room.

Let’s use our example week from earlier of 9/24/2023 – 9/30/2-2023 for these prices.

The Budget Disney prices for rooms :

• All-Stars (all three), Standard Room: $1005
• Pop Century, Standard Room: $1258.02
• Art of Animation, Standard Room: $1494

Mid-Range Lodging

If you want to spend a little more money on your stay, and receive more perks and more comfort, there are some great mid-range options around Disney World. The Disney Springs hotels are close enough to be considered on property, but your stay will feel more cozy and more luxurious – without the cost.

Booking a Moderate resort on property will also allow you to stay within the mid-range Disney World cost, and these hotels offer more restaurants than the Value resorts and often have better transportation options.

We also have a bona fide Disney Trippers hack for you as well! Did you know you can book DVC rentals for the cost of a Moderate resort? You can! Follow our guide on how to book these DVC rentals at a discounted price, and you may be able to score a resort much closer to your favorite park, or book a room that’s a better fit for a bigger group – without the Deluxe DVC cost!

The Mid-Range Disney prices for rooms:

• Cabins at Fort Wilderness: $2848.98
• Caribbean Beach, Standard Room: $2032.98
• Coronado Springs, Standard Room: $1720.02
• Port Orleans French Quarter: $1915.02
• Port Orleans Riverside: $1803

Expensive Lodging

If you’re travelling to Disney World without a budget, then you can stay wherever you want and spend what you want. Really.

Now, if you want our suggestions, then book a suite at one of the Disney Springs Hotels, or book yourself a room at one of the Deluxe resorts that are on Disney property. You can book a fancy cabin or a Polynesian bungalow on the water, among other fancy rooms offered. Even booking a Deluxe Villa at the Deluxe resorts will make that room rate skyrocket.

And if you’re going to go all out, you can stay Club level at the Deluxe resorts. Club level will add anywhere from $300-$500 more PER NIGHT to your stay.

Club Level gives you complimentary breakfast, alcoholic beverages for adults, assorted warm foods and desserts, as well as unlimited bottles of water and sodas. You also have access to a Resort Concierge who will help you book experiences and reservations, and basically act as a travel agent while you are there.

Like we stated earlier, the expensive average cost for a family of 4 to go to Disney is around $5800 – and that’s the low end.

The Expensive Disney prices for rooms:

• Animal Kingdom Lodge, Standard Room: $3258
• Beach Club Resort: $3795
• Boardwalk Inn: $3822
• Contemporary Resort: $3592.98
• Grand Floridian Resort: $4563
• Polynesian Resort: $4717.98
• Wilderness Lodge: $3007.02
• Yacht Club Resort: $3712.02

Bigger family?

If you’re traveling with a larger group or bigger family, then our “cost for a family of 4 to go to Disney” may not apply to you.

Realistically, you might be more interested in “cost for a family of 5 to go to Disney” or “cost of a Disney vacation for 6” – or more. If you are planning on a large group trip, you might want to consider an AirBNB or one of our favorite resorts for big groups .

Staying on-property with a large family will increase your Disney budget, and it’s definitely a numbers game to see what works best for you.

What Do Activities Cost at Disney World?

Just like the other categories here, you have tons of control in how much money you spend on activities while in Disney World. The only thing that is a given is that you, and everyone in your travel party, will need tickets to the park in order to enter them.

Disney World Ticket Prices

• $109-$189 for guests ages 10 and up
• $104 for guests ages 3-9
• FREE for guests under 3

Genie+ and Lightning Lanes

Another add-on that can greatly increase your budget for Disney World is the use of Genie+ and Lightning Lanes. Both Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes will cost you extra per person that wants to ride certain rides and not wait in lines.

• Genie+: $15-29 per person, depending on park and day of attendance
• Individual Lightning Lane: $7-$25 per ride, depending on ride and day of attendance

Activities on a Budget

There are TONS of free things to do while at Disney World. You can resort hop and explore some really awesome Disney hotels, and of course, enjoy the free activities and pool offered at your own hotel. You can also go to Disney Springs, which is a free outdoor shopping center that anyone can visit.

When it comes to your tickets for entry into the parks, we suggest that you buy the base level tickets for your group. These tickets will grant you access to one park per day of your trip. If possible, try to book your trip during “cheaper” times and that will decrease your ticket price as well.

And if you are really trying to save money, don’t use Genie+ or Individual Lightning Lanes! Utilize Virtual Queues for the in-demand new rides, and use rope drop to get on the most rides without paying!

Mid-Range Activities

While you still may want to do some of the free activities, being in the mid-range Disney World cost bracket gives you more options for both your tickets and paid park activities.

You can choose to add Park Hopper to your ticket, which will allow you to visit more than one park per day.

• Average cost of Park Hopper for 1-day: $85
• 5-day ticket for 2 adults, 1 child: extra $287.55
• 5-day ticket for 2 adults, 2 children: extra $383.40

You could choose to do some of the less expensive private experiences at Disney World, like the Behind the Seeds tour in EPCOT and the Keys to the Kingdom tour at Magic Kingdom.

You may also add on Genie+, but we want you to use it like a pro! Get the most out of your Genie+ experience , so that you don’t overspend.

Expensive Activities

For those looking to get the most for their money during their Disney World trip, you can spend a lot on special experiences.

Another great option for those who want to spend just a little more money on their trip is to attend a hard ticket event during their visit, like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party or Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party . These hard tickets can range from $89 up to $199, depending on what night you attend the party.

You can of course book the hard ticket events mentioned above, as well as booking other private tours. You can book the Backstage Magic tour, the Private VIP tour, and even do After Hours events at all the parks.

Also, use Genie+ and buy those Individual Lightning Lanes! You’ll get to ride the hottest rides with minimal wait.

When it comes to tickets, you could pay for an Annual Pass. Disney pass prices start at $1399 per person and the Water Parks and Sports option can be added for an additional $99 per pass.

How Much Does Dining in Disney World Cost?

There are so many options when it comes to dining in Disney World. The parks and hotels offer everything from quick and affordable grab-and-go places to the fanciest of signature restaurants. Plus Airbnbs and Deluxe Villas offer kitchens you can use to make your own food, and Disney allows guests to bring their own food into the parks. And if you’re staying on Disney property, the dining plans are available to you (for trips after January 9, 2024).

Dining on a Budget

One of the best ways to control how much money you spend on food in Disney World is to either bring your own or order groceries for your stay. You’ll be able to take snacks you order into the park with you, so that way you don’t have to drop $5 or more every time someone says they’re hungry.

You can also pack a lunch to take with you, and then visit the quick service restaurants for your other two meals. The quick service restaurants are affordable options on Disney property, and often have a great selection of food. Some of them offer meals you can even share, and since Disney portions can be quite large, we can also recommend those who aren’t big eaters to share meals or eat off the kids’ menu in order to save some money.

If you do choose to eat at quick service restaurants, the quick service dining plan may save some money by allowing you to pre-plan and pre-pay for your food and snacks for the day. The refillable mug included with the plan will also save you a lot of money on beverages at your resort.

• $57.01 per night of stay for guests ages 10 and up
• $29.69 for guests ages 3-9

Mid-Range Dining

When looking to spend a little more money on food and dining experiences at Disney, the regular Disney dining plan may be right for you. It allows you to eat at some of the nicer restaurants, and you still won’t be spending tons of money on food.

• $94.28 per night of stay for guests ages 10 and up

Even if you don’t choose to use the dining plan, you can still choose some of the nicer sit-down restaurants to fit into the mid-range cost. Buffets are a great option because you can get a lot of food for your money, and you can typically have one big meal a day if you visit a buffet – think snack for breakfast, quick or snack for lunch, and save up your appetite for a big dinner.

A lot of the table service restaurants have great menus with many options, and you don’t have to order the most expensive thing. You can absolutely order appetizers or split entrees at many of these restaurants.

Expensive Dining Options

Disney World hotels and parks offer many fine dining experiences, and these are the perfect choices for those looking to fully enjoy their trip with no monetary limits. You could eat most of your meals at table service or signature restaurants. These will cost more, and offer some of the more unique foods and experiences. Victoria & Albert’s at The Grand Floridian is probably the most iconic of these restaurants, and meals there will set you back over $235 per person.

You can go all out during your trip, adding on the Disney Dining Plan that we mentioned above, but also by eating at most of the signature restaurants and adding on the “extra entitlements” on the menus – these are upgrades not covered by Dining Plan credits.

What Do Souvenirs Cost at Disney World?

Just like the other categories we have gone over, we are going to break down what souvenirs can cost you on your next trip to Disney World. You can, of course, spend nothing on souvenirs at Disney World if you don’t want to, but chances are that you will find something you fall in love with and want to take it home with you.

Budget Souvenirs

Some of the most affordable souvenirs at Disney World are pens, keychains, and the little trinkets you will find in any Disney gift shop. Disney character stuffed animals and the cute little Wishable stuffed toys are also fairly affordable, and it’s easy to find your or your kid’s favorite character in these!

Character autographs are completely free to get, and are great souvenirs for both adults and children. Kids will enjoy visiting the KidCot booths in EPCOT, and the passport they get signed at the booths is free!

Mid-Range Souvenirs

If you want to spend a little bit more on souvenirs to take home with you, venture into the world of Disney fashion. Loungefly backpacks, Alex & Ani jewelry, dresses from the Dress Shop, and basically any of the cute clothing at Disney Style in Disney Springs make for great souvenirs. We love getting some wearable souvenirs, and none of these items will break the bank.

Disney ears and hats are also great mid-range souvenirs, and you can find ears inspired by just about any character or park nowadays. These range from $29.99 to $34.99, and are a great option for souvenirs.

A lot of the Disney home décor is fairly affordable as well, and who wouldn’t want to take home tea towels or tableware from Disney World?

Expensive Souvenirs

It’s very easy to spend a lot of money on souvenirs to take home at Disney World, and if you don’t have a budget, then you will be able to buy some awesome things! There’s no shortage of designer jewelry, like Pandora, and designer handbags, like Dooney & Bourke, COACH, and Kate Spade.

There are also some fairly ridiculous things to spend your money on, like the life-size working R2-D2 in Galaxy’s Edge that costs $25,000 or the crystal replica of Cinderella’s Castle for a mere $295.

We hope that we’ve answered “how much does it cost to go to Disney World” for you. When it comes down to it, Disney World is as affordable or as expensive as you want it to be.

The price depends on the hotel you stay at, how far you have to travel to get there, and how much money you choose to spend on food and souvenirs once inside the parks. The average cost of a Disney trip really isn’t all that average – it depends on a lot of variables and choices you make once there.

Ultimately it’s up to you, but we hope that we’ve shown you that no matter where you stay or how much money you spend, you’re going to have an amazingly magical time! Any trip to Disney World is a good trip, and the amount you spend has nothing to do with the amount of fun you’ll have.

Reader Interactions

August 1, 2021 at 6:28 pm

Your information: “Disney World buses, boats, Skyliner, and monorails are absolutely free and can be used by anyone staying on property.” is somewhat misleading. While those staying off property would have a more challenging time getting to and using said transportation, it is free to ALL guests regardless of accommodations.

August 1, 2021 at 7:52 pm

This is true! ANYONE can use the transport, although it is harder than on-site guests! Thanks!

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The Most Expensive Things at Disney World - Video

Discover the most expensive meals, merchandise, experiences, and places to stay at disney world..

What is the most expensive thing at Disney World? If you assumed it was something like dining at Be Our Guest or buying a $250 custom lightsaber at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge, think again. While those are definitely pricey, they don’t even come close to the luxury experiences you’ll read about in this article.

Hold onto your Mickey ears as I take you on a tour of the most extravagant side of Disney. From lavish meals that can rival monthly rent to souvenirs that cost more than a luxury car, you can drop a ridiculous amount of money at WDW.

What’s Disney World’s most expensive meal?

How much does it cost to join Club 33 or DVC?

And where can you drop $17,000 per night to stay at the Most Magical Place on Earth?

Find out all of this and more.

Table of Contents

What is the most expensive thing at Disney World? – Video

See more Disney World videos on Guide2WDW’s YouTube Channel.

The Most Expensive Meal at Disney World

First stop, food. Of course, Disney offers some amazing meals at restaurants like Be Our Guest and Space 220. For most families, those would be a splurge at $67 per person and $79 per person respectively.

But if you want the crème de la crème of dining experiences, the check is about to get a lot steeper.

EPCOT has two of the most luxurious meals at Disney World. For a whopping $195 per person, Monseiur Paul features a Prix Fixe menu that offers the gastronomic meal, which has become a tradition in French cuisine. According to Disney:

“The meal entails rites which include the search for good seasonal and local products, references to a codified repertoire of recipes, culinary skills, the setting of a beautiful table, the succession of courses and the pairing of dishes with wine.”

This elegant five course menu includes highlights such as seared scallops served with maple pumpkin velouté, center cut beef tenderloin served with porcini fricassee, mashed potatoes mousseline, and Bordelaise sauce, as well as a cheese course.

Just a short walk away in the Japan Pavilion is Takumi Tei, which features an Omakase menu for $250 per person. Delivering an authentic Japanese dining experience, dishes include wagyu steak, lobster tempura, and sashimi.

But the crowning jewel of Disney dining? None other than Victoria & Albert’s, which is widely considered to be the best restaurant at Disney World. Enjoying the regular tasting menu in the dining room starts at $295 per person. But for the most elite experience, you can dine at their Chef’s Table , which is $425. If you wish to add the $200 wine pairing, you’re looking at $625 per person.

“Inspired by the season, each unique menu features ingredients culled fresh daily from the world market. Throughout the approximately 3-hour experience, the chef offers up superb morsels and tasting samples, tailoring this fantastic feast to your party’s dietary preferences.”

Looking at the realm of fancy drinks, you can spend a lot more money on your Disney dining. At Disney Springs, Wine Bar George features several $3500 bottles of wine . If you’re curious to just have a taste of a wine that expensive, a 1 oz pour costs $150. Wine Bar George also offers a tasting called the “First Growth Experience,” which includes a flight of five pours, the 2 oz version setting you back a cool $1300.

As a side note, don’t let those high price tags scare you away from trying Wine Bar George. They also offer extremely reasonable food and drinks, and it’s one of my favorite places to dine at Disney Springs.

However, the most expensive meal at Disney World would be to eat at one of the Club 33 restaurants or lounges as a member.

In case you don’t know, Club 33 is a super exclusive club centered around the Disney Parks. It’s more commonly associated with Disneyland, but Disney World has its own Club 33. There are four Club 33 locations at Disney World, one in each park:

• Magic Kingdom – Captain’s Quarters – Adventureland
• EPCOT – Constellation Club – America
• Hollywood Studios – Spotlight Lounge – Brown Derby
• Animal Kingdom – Harambe House – Between Africa/Pandora

While the food and beverage at these locations are reasonable for a fancy Disney meal, the real cost comes with the price of membership. Joining Club 33 costs $33,000, and then has a $15,000 annual fee.

But you can still go to these locations as a guest of a member.

The Most Expensive Merchandise at Disney World

Let’s talk shopping. Disney World has a lot of easy ways to spend money on merchandise. From the $250 lightsaber at Savi’s to the $400 Disney Castle Lego set , you can drop a lot of money at Disney.

But want to drop a ridiculous amount of money? How about a life-sized R2-D2 at the Droid Depot for $25,000?  That price doesn’t include shipping, which is another $800.

But Artoo doesn’t touch the bejeweled crown of the Arribas Brothers. They offer a wide variety of glass and crystal keepsakes that you can find at their store at Disney Springs or at Crystal Arts in Magic Kingdom. They range from the reasonable to the most expensive souvenirs at Disney World.

Found at the Germany Pavilion in EPCOT, this crystal recreation of Spaceship Earth costs $79,000.

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If Disney Princesses are more your thing, you can buy Cinderella Castle at Crystal Arts for $49,500.  And for WDW’s 50th Anniversary, they debuted a grander version that costs a jaw-dropping quarter of a million dollars.

Yes, a Disney World souvenir that most people would need a mortgage for.

The Most Expensive Experiences at Disney World

Most young people rather spend their money on experiences than things these days. So what are the most expensive things you can do at Disney World?

In the splurges for mere mortals realm, Disney World offers several special ticked events, like the After Hours events and holiday parties like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party , costing $150-$200 per person.

One of the most unique experiences at Disney World is to take a Fireworks Cruise to watch Magic Kingdom or EPCOT’s fireworks from the water. Cruises start at $399.

Speaking of being out on the water, you can actually rent a luxury yacht at Disney World. The Grand 1 embarks from the Grand Floridian, and costs $480 per hour during the day and $799 per evening. Private dining can be added for an additional fee, and the yacht fits up to 18 guests.

Or 17 if you want to add butler service, which costs even more.

One of the most expensive experiences at Disney World is tying the knot. Weddings at Disney World start at $15,000 , but depending on your venue things can get much more expensive. For example, getting married at Pandora or Tower of Terror costs between $20,000 – $25,000.

But the most expensive weddings at Disney World take place at Magic Kingdom, and cost $30,000 – $100,000 as the event minimum. Fairy tale weddings come with a steep price tag.

What if your dream isn’t a wedding, but to skip all the lines at the parks? You should check out the Disney Private VIP Tour . You’ll be picked up from your hotel, brought into the parks, and showed around by a VIP Tour Guide. During this tour, you and up to 9 other guests can skip the line at any ride you want.

Prices range from $450-$900 per hour depending on the time of year you go, and there’s a minimum of 7 hours. So a VIP Tour at Disney World starts at $3150-$6300. One caveat: theme park admission is not included in that price.

The Most Expensive Places to Stay at Disney World

Want a hotel that matches the lavish items we’ve covered so far?

Disney World hotels vary price based on their time of year, with the busiest weeks like Christmas having the most expensive rooms.

At the Grand Floridian , a three bedroom villa costs almost $6,000 per night during that week.

However, the Polynesian Village Resort has the most expensive accommodations of a Disney Resort, with their bungalows going for $6146 per night that week.

Now, I can’t talk about the most expensive ways to stay at Disney World without mentioning DVC, which is the Disney Vacation Club. It’s Disney’s version of a timeshare. You buy points that you can use at Disney resorts. It gives you more flexibility than a typical timeshare, because you can use your points at any DVC location.

To join, you need to purchase “real estate interest” at a home resort. Joining costs anywhere from $22,000 all the way up to $65,000 , depending on your home resort, and how many points you’ll need. Plus then there’s an annual membership fee.

Is it a good deal? That’s a question for a different article.

But is expensive? Oh Yeah.

Want the ultimate in luxury? The Four Seasons has the Royal Suite for $17,000 per night . According to Orlando Sentinel , “the suite comes with 8 hours of butler service and has an open living and dining room that looks out to a large private balcony, with sweeping views of Disney World and Magic Kingdom.”

The Four Seasons is located inside Golden Oak, which is a gated community just four miles away from Magic Kingdom.

Which brings us to the most expensive thing money can buy at Disney World: a home at Golden Oak.

As of the time of this writing, there are three homes available for purchase at Golden Oak . But the dream of living inside of Disney World will cost you. These homes run from $9.65 million – $19 million,  making them easily the most expensive thing you can buy at WDW.

We want to hear from you!

Let me know in the comments below: If you could buy only one of these things, which one of the most expensive things you can buy at Disney World would you choose?

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James Grosch

James is a lifelong Disney Parks fan. While at the parks, he loves finding new details, learning more about Disney World history, and taking pictures. His favorite WDW attractions include Rise of the Resistance, Spaceship Earth, and Tower of Terror. James is a filmmaker and writer based in Atlanta, GA.

Given the stresses and providing the best possible experiences for guests, could you give visitors tips for uplifting and supporting Disney cast members?

Hi Cindy! That’s a great idea! I always stress in my guides that guests should always be polite and considerate when dealing with Cast Members. They work so hard to make the magic possible, and too many people don’t treat them like they deserve. But I think a dedicated article on Cast Member appreciation would be great.

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What Is The Most Expensive Resort At Disney World

Published: December 8, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Sharl Shull

• Hotel Reviews
• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

Welcome to the enchanting world of Walt Disney World! As one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, Disney World offers a magical experience that captivates visitors of all ages. From thrilling rides to beloved characters, there’s something for everyone at this iconic theme park resort.

But a visit to Disney World isn’t just about the theme parks. It’s also about finding the perfect place to stay and immerse yourself in the Disney experience. With a variety of resorts to choose from, each offering its own unique charm and amenities, selecting the right one can be a daunting task.

In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Disney World resorts and explore the factors that influence their pricing. We’ll also unveil the most expensive resort at Disney World and delve into its luxurious features and offerings. Whether you’re planning a once-in-a-lifetime vacation or just curious about the epitome of luxury accommodations at Disney World, we’ve got you covered.

So, get ready to journey into the enchanting realm of Disney World resorts and uncover the epitome of opulence and extravagance.

Walt Disney World

Located in Bay Lake and Lake Buena Vista, Florida, Walt Disney World is the ultimate dream destination for millions of people around the globe. Spanning over 25,000 acres, this sprawling resort is home to four major theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.

Walt Disney World is not just a collection of theme parks, but a complete immersive experience filled with entertainment, dining, shopping, and accommodations. From the moment you step foot on Disney property, you are transported to a world of magic and wonder, where the ordinary is extraordinary and dreams come true.

The resort offers an incredible array of experiences, including iconic attractions like Cinderella Castle, Spaceship Earth, and the Tree of Life. Visitors can embark on thrilling rides, meet beloved characters, catch spectacular shows and parades, and explore themed lands that transport them to different times and places.

But Walt Disney World is not just a theme park destination. It’s a place where you can stay, relax, and truly immerse yourself in the Disney magic. The resort features various accommodations options, ranging from budget-friendly hotels to luxurious resorts that offer unparalleled comfort and service.

Whether you’re a thrill-seeker looking for an adrenaline-pumping adventure or a family seeking a magical vacation, Walt Disney World has something to offer for everyone. Now, let’s explore the resorts that make your Disney World experience even more unforgettable.

Resorts at Disney World

When it comes to accommodations, Disney World offers a wide range of resorts to suit every guest’s preferences and budget. From themed resorts to deluxe villas, each option provides its own unique atmosphere and amenities that cater to different types of travelers.

Disney World resorts are divided into three main categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. The Value resorts are the most budget-friendly options and are perfect for guests who want to enjoy all the magic of Disney without breaking the bank. These resorts are designed to capture the whimsical spirit of Disney’s animated films, with larger-than-life characters and colorful theming.

The Moderate resorts offer a step up in amenities and theming, while still providing good value for money. With beautifully landscaped grounds and additional amenities such as pools with waterslides and sit-down dining options, these resorts strike a balance between affordability and comfort.

The Deluxe resorts are the epitome of luxury and cater to guests seeking a more extravagant experience. These resorts offer impeccable service, top-notch dining options, and breathtaking views. The level of detail in the theming and décor of these resorts is truly remarkable, allowing guests to immerse themselves in a world of luxury and sophistication.

What sets Disney World resorts apart from other accommodations is their commitment to storytelling. Each resort has its own theme, whether it’s a tropical paradise, a wilderness lodge, or a European-inspired retreat. The attention to detail is evident in every aspect, from the architecture to the decor, creating a truly immersive experience for guests.

Additionally, staying at a Disney World resort comes with several perks. Guests can enjoy extended park hours, complimentary transportation to the theme parks, and access to Disney’s Magical Express transportation service, which provides hassle-free transportation between the airport and the resort.

Now that you have an overview of the different resort categories at Disney World, let’s explore the factors that influence the pricing of these accommodations.

Factors that Influence Resort Pricing

When it comes to pricing, several factors come into play when determining the rates of Disney World resorts. These factors are carefully considered to ensure that guests receive the best value for their money while maintaining the high standards of quality and service that Disney is known for. Here are some key factors that influence resort pricing at Disney World.

Location: The location of a resort within the Disney World property is a significant factor in pricing. Resorts that are in close proximity to the theme parks or offer stunning views of attractions or scenic areas tend to be priced higher. Being able to easily access the parks or enjoy spectacular vistas adds value to the guest’s experience.

Resort Category: As mentioned earlier, there are three main resort categories at Disney World: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. The amenities, theming, and overall level of luxury and service provided by each category differ. Naturally, Deluxe resorts tend to be priced higher due to their more opulent offerings, while Value resorts are more budget-friendly.

Room Type: The type of room selected also affects the pricing. Disney World resorts offer a variety of room options, ranging from standard rooms to suites and deluxe villas. Larger and more luxurious accommodations come with a higher price tag, providing additional space and enhanced amenities.

Time of Year: Disney World follows a seasonal pricing model, with different rates for different times of the year. During peak seasons such as holidays and school vacations, prices are generally higher to accommodate the higher demand. On the other hand, prices may be lower during off-peak times to attract guests during periods of lower attendance.

Special Events and Promotions: Disney World often hosts special events and offers promotions throughout the year. These events, such as the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival or Star Wars Weekends, may impact resort pricing. Additionally, Disney frequently releases discounted packages and offers that can provide significant savings for guests.

Resort Amenities: The range and quality of amenities available at a resort also play a role in pricing. Deluxe resorts typically have more extensive amenities, including multiple pools, fitness centers, spa facilities, upscale dining options, and convenient on-site transportation. These added features contribute to a higher overall price.

It’s important to note that the pricing for Disney World resorts is dynamic and can fluctuate based on demand and availability. By considering these factors, Disney ensures that guests have a variety of options to choose from to suit their preferences and budget.

Now that we understand the factors that go into pricing, let’s uncover the most expensive resort at Disney World and discover the lavish experiences it offers.

The Most Expensive Resort at Disney World

When it comes to luxury and opulence, the most expensive resort at Disney World is undoubtedly the iconic and highly acclaimed Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Nestled on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, this Victorian-themed resort is a testament to elegance and sophistication.

As soon as you step into the lobby of the Grand Floridian, you are greeted with breathtaking chandeliers, luxurious furnishings, and live orchestral music floating through the air. The attention to detail and the grandeur of the architecture create an atmosphere of timeless luxury.

The rooms and suites at the Grand Floridian offer a level of sophistication and comfort that is second to none. From the rich fabrics and plush bedding to the ornate furnishings and elegant décor, every aspect of the accommodations exudes refined luxury. Guests can choose from various room categories, including standard rooms, suites, and even the exclusive club-level rooms that come with personalized concierge service and access to the luxurious concierge lounge.

One of the standout features of the Grand Floridian is its world-class spa. The Senses – A Disney Spa offers a range of indulgent treatments, including rejuvenating massages, invigorating facials, and tranquil body wraps. The spa’s serene ambiance and expert therapists ensure a blissful escape from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.

When it comes to dining, the Grand Floridian boasts a variety of exceptional options. Victoria & Albert’s is the resort’s crown jewel, offering an exquisite fine dining experience that has earned it the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award. Narcoossee’s, located on the waterfront, serves up delectable seafood dishes with stunning views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. For a more casual yet elegant dining experience, guests can indulge in afternoon tea at the Garden View Tea Room or enjoy a delightful meal at the Grand Floridian Café.

For those looking to relax and unwind, the resort features multiple pools, including a zero-entry pool with a waterslide and a tranquil adults-only pool. Guests can also enjoy recreational activities such as fishing excursions, boating, and bike rentals.

While the Grand Floridian may be the most expensive resort at Disney World, it offers an unparalleled level of luxury and service that caters to even the most discerning guests. From its stunning architecture and lavish accommodations to its top-notch dining and indulgent spa, every aspect of this resort is designed to provide a truly magical and unforgettable experience.

So, if you’re looking to treat yourself to the epitome of luxury during your visit to Disney World, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the ultimate choice.

Amenities and Features

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers a plethora of amenities and features designed to provide guests with the utmost comfort and convenience. From luxurious accommodations to world-class dining and recreation options, every aspect of this resort is thoughtfully designed to enhance the guest experience.

One of the notable amenities at the Grand Floridian is its stunning pools. The resort boasts two large pools, including the Beach Pool and the Courtyard pool, with an additional tranquil adults-only pool called the Courtyard Pool. The Beach Pool features a 181-foot-long waterslide that provides hours of fun for both kids and adults. The zero-entry design of the pool allows for easy access, and poolside cabanas are available for rent for those seeking extra privacy and relaxation.

For guests seeking a more serene environment, the Grand Floridian offers a private beach area where visitors can soak up the sun and take in the breathtaking views of the Seven Seas Lagoon. This hidden oasis provides a tranquil retreat away from the crowds, allowing guests to unwind and enjoy the beauty of their surroundings.

In addition to the pools and beach, the resort offers a range of recreational activities for guests of all ages. From fishing excursions on the lagoon to watercraft rentals, there are plenty of options to keep everyone entertained. The resort also features a state-of-the-art fitness center for those looking to stay active during their stay.

One of the standout features of the Grand Floridian is its world-class spa, Senses – A Disney Spa. This full-service spa offers a range of indulgent treatments, including massages, facials, body wraps, and more. Guests can relax and rejuvenate in the peaceful and serene ambiance of the spa, allowing for a truly pampering experience.

When it comes to dining, the Grand Floridian offers a variety of exceptional options. From fine dining to casual fare, there is something to please every palate. Victoria & Albert’s, the resort’s flagship restaurant, provides an exquisite and sophisticated dining experience that has earned it numerous accolades and awards. Narcoossee’s, located on the waterfront, serves up delectable seafood dishes with stunning views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. Guests can also enjoy relaxed dining at the Grand Floridian Café, where classic American dishes are served in a charming setting.

Other amenities at the Grand Floridian include a fully-equipped business center, laundry services, valet parking, and complimentary Wi-Fi access throughout the resort. The attentive and friendly staff at the Grand Floridian go the extra mile to ensure that every guest’s needs are met, providing exceptional service and creating a truly memorable stay.

Whether you choose to indulge in the luxurious spa treatments, relax by the pool, dine at the award-winning restaurants, or simply take in the grandeur of the surroundings, the amenities and features at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa cater to every guest’s desire for an unforgettable and magical experience.

Dining Options

At Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, guests can embark on a culinary journey filled with diverse flavors and exquisite dining experiences. The resort offers a range of dining options that cater to various palates and preferences, ensuring that every guest’s taste buds are tantalized.

One of the crown jewels of dining at the Grand Floridian is Victoria & Albert’s. This prestigious, AAA Five Diamond Award-winning restaurant offers an unparalleled fine dining experience. Impeccable service, an elegant ambiance, and an ever-changing prix fixe menu crafted with the finest ingredients make dining at Victoria & Albert’s a truly remarkable experience. This intimate venue is perfect for a special occasion or for those seeking a truly extraordinary culinary adventure.

Narcoossee’s is another standout dining option at the Grand Floridian. Located on the waterfront with breathtaking views of the lagoon, this upscale restaurant specializes in delectable seafood dishes. From sustainably caught and expertly prepared fish to mouthwatering steaks and sumptuous desserts, Narcoossee’s offers a menu that combines fresh flavors with unparalleled views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

For a more relaxed and casual dining experience, guests can visit the Grand Floridian Café. This charming restaurant serves up classic American dishes with a touch of elegance. From hearty breakfast options to flavorful sandwiches and delectable seafood, the Grand Floridian Café offers something for everyone in a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

If you’re in the mood for a light bite or a sweet treat, the Gasparilla Island Grill is the resort’s quick-service dining option. This 24-hour grab-and-go location offers a variety of sandwiches, salads, pastries, and snacks for a convenient and satisfying meal on the go.

The Garden View Tea Room is a delightful option for those looking to enjoy an elegant and traditional afternoon tea experience. This charming tea room offers a selection of teas, finger sandwiches, scones, and pastries, all accompanied by live piano music. It’s the perfect spot to relax and savor a quintessential British pastime.

In addition to these dining options, the Grand Floridian also offers several bars and lounges where guests can unwind and enjoy a refreshing cocktail or a glass of fine wine. Citricos Lounge, Mizner’s Lounge, and Enchanted Rose are all fantastic spots to socialize and enjoy a drink in stylish and sophisticated settings.

With its culinary variety and exceptional dining experiences, the Grand Floridian Resort & Spa ensures that guests have access to a wide range of options to satisfy their cravings. From lavish and elegant fine dining to casual and convenient eateries, the resort offers an unparalleled culinary journey that adds to the overall enchantment of the Disney experience.

Activities and Entertainment

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa not only offers luxurious accommodations and delectable dining options but also a plethora of activities and entertainment to ensure an unforgettable stay for every guest. From relaxation to adventure, there’s something for everyone to enjoy during their time at this enchanting resort.

One of the highlights of the Grand Floridian is its magnificent pools. The Beach Pool is a hub of excitement with its 181-foot-long waterslide, perfect for guests looking to make a splash. The zero-entry design provides a gradual incline, making it easily accessible for all ages. For a more peaceful and serene experience, the Courtyard Pool offers a tranquil setting for guests to unwind and soak up the Florida sun. The poolside cabanas provide an extra touch of luxury and privacy, allowing guests to bask in the lap of luxury.

For those seeking a romantic outing or a serene moment, the Grand Floridian’s private beach is the ideal spot. Situated along the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, this white sandy beach provides a picturesque backdrop for relaxation and enjoying the stunning views of Cinderella Castle and the nightly fireworks.

In addition to the pools and beach, the resort offers a range of recreational activities to keep guests entertained. Fishing excursions allow guests to try their hand at catching freshwater bass alongside an experienced guide. Watercraft rentals, including pontoon boats and kayaks, provide the opportunity to explore the waters at your own pace.

If you’re in the mood for some friendly competition, head to the resort’s arcade, where you can enjoy a variety of classic and modern games. The arcade is perfect for guests of all ages and offers a fun indoor option during the hot Florida afternoons or rainy days.

Keeping up with your fitness routine is easy at the Grand Floridian thanks to its state-of-the-art fitness center. Equipped with a variety of workout machines and free weights, guests can stay active and energized during their stay at the resort.

For those seeking relaxation and rejuvenation, the Senses – A Disney Spa located at the Grand Floridian offers a variety of luxurious spa treatments. Indulge in a rejuvenating massage, pamper yourself with a soothing facial, or unwind with a full-body wrap. The tranquil ambiance and skilled therapists ensure a blissful experience that will leave you feeling refreshed and revitalized.

Entertainment at the Grand Floridian goes beyond the amenities and activities. The resort often hosts live music performances in the lobby, providing a delightful backdrop to cocktail hours or relaxation moments. The elegant surroundings, combined with the enchanting melodies, create a truly magical and memorable atmosphere.

From recreational activities to spa indulgence and live entertainment, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa offers a diverse range of activities and entertainment options that cater to all preferences. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or simply a touch of elegance, this luxurious resort ensures that your stay is filled with enchantment and everlasting memories.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa stands as the pinnacle of luxury and sophistication at Walt Disney World. From its stunning Victorian-inspired architecture to its impeccable service, this resort offers an unparalleled level of opulence and enchantment for guests seeking the crème de la crème of Disney accommodations.

The Grand Floridian’s luxurious amenities and features create the perfect backdrop for a magical vacation. Relax by the stunning pools, enjoy the private beach with breathtaking views, or pamper yourself with indulgent treatments at the world-class spa. The options for relaxation and rejuvenation are endless.

The dining experiences at the Grand Floridian are nothing short of extraordinary. From the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s to the waterfront views at Narcoossee’s, there are culinary delights to suit every palate. And for those looking for a more casual meal, the Grand Floridian Café offers a cozy and inviting atmosphere.

The activities and entertainment available at the resort cater to a variety of interests. Whether you’re seeking thrilling waterslide rides, leisurely strolls on the beach, or engaging in recreational activities like fishing or boating, the Grand Floridian has it all. And don’t forget to indulge in the live music performances that add an extra touch of enchantment to your stay.

While the Grand Floridian may be the most expensive resort at Disney World, it more than justifies its price tag. The meticulous attention to detail, the luxurious accommodations, and the world-class service make it a truly exceptional and unforgettable destination. Staying at the Grand Floridian allows guests to immerse themselves in the Disney magic while indulging in the finest comforts and amenities.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, planning a romantic getaway, or simply looking to experience the epitome of luxury, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the ultimate choice. From the moment you step foot into its grand lobby to the time you bid farewell, you’ll be enveloped in a world of elegance, splendor, and pure Disney enchantment.

So, why not treat yourself to a stay at the Grand Floridian and make your Disney World vacation truly unforgettable? Experience the pinnacle of luxury and indulge in the magical surroundings that only Disney can provide. Your dreams are sure to come true at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

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• Smart Living

This Is Disney World's Most Expensive Resort

Updated on 9/3/2019 at 1:50 PM

Let's face it — if we could, we would happily live at Walt Disney World year-round. But since that's not really an option, we have to settle for the wide variety of resort hotels scattered about the property during our visits. The good news is that Disney World has a hotel for nearly every price range, from budget properties perfect for family trips to deluxe resorts with spas, shopping, and world-class dining built in. But if you really want to go top-tier on your next Disney trip, you'll want to book a room at the resort's most expensive hotel: the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa , where rooms start at $597 a night! Yep, it's more than the Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Polynesian, and even more than its Disneyland counterpart, the Grand Californian.

With its Senses spa and salon offering facials, massages, and more, and three fine-dining restaurants including Victoria & Albert's — Disney's only AAA 5-Diamond Award-winning eatery — the Grand Floridian has so much going on that you may not even want to leave for the parks.

And oh yeah, don't forget about the live music in the lobby, the traditional English tea room, and the pool that overlooks Seven Seas Lagoon and features a 181-foot water slide. Plus, the Grand Floridian is in a prime location — it's on Disney's monorail route and is just a short ride away from the Magic Kingdom.

The luxury doesn't come cheap, but if you really want to splurge on a Disney trip, the Grand Floridian is the place to do it.

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FULL ROOM TOUR at the Most EXPENSIVE Hotel in Disney World

By Jordan-Paige Sudduth Leave a Comment

Disney World is home to some pretty expensive hotels .

Four Seasons Hotel

The most expensive tier of Disney hotel is the deluxe level , but there are hotels on Disney World property NOT owned by Disney that cost even more. Come with us to explore a room at the Four Seasons Hotel — the most expensive hotel on Disney World property!

When you walk in, you’ll notice that the door has two separate locks , and the emergency evacuation plan is on the back of the door.

To the right of the door is a control panel that allows you to turn on and off the lights, ask for privacy, or wake up the room. Fancy!

Beside the Door

When you start to walk into the room, the bathroom will be on your right.

The Bathroom

This bathroom has a beautiful double vanity complete with a large well-lit mirror.

Underneath the vanity, you’ll find helpful products like a scale and hairdryer .

Underneath the Sink

On the vanity, you’ll find complimentary soaps, tissues, cups , and more.

There’s a metal holder filled with nail polish remover, Q-tips, and more .

Inside the Container

You’ll also notice a TV remote on the vanity.

Remote Control

That’s to control the TV that is BUILT INTO the mirror !

TV inside the mirror

The bathtub is located at the back of the bathroom and comes with complimentary soap and hair products.

The commode is located to the left of the bathtub and has a sliding door that closes it off from the rest of the room.

To the left of the commode is a beautiful glass-paneled shower. It also comes stocked with plenty of body wash and hair products, and you can hang your comfortable robe right within arm’s reach.

Finally, you’ll notice there’s also a full-length mirror on the back of the bathroom door.

Mirror on the door

Once you exit the bathroom, you’ll see the room in full!

To your immediate right, you’ll notice the coffee bar is ready for you! It’s complete with mugs, coffee, cream, sugar, tea, an ice bucket, and a coffee maker.

Coffee Counter

But that’s not all — above the coffee bar you’ll find a mini fridge, a safe, and plenty of room to store your own snacks.

Fridge and Safe

Immediately turning around from the coffee bar, you’ll find the two beds .

In between the beds is a bedside table .

Bedside Table

Don’t forget the  slippers you’ll find by your bed!

On the bedside table, you’ll find water bottles, a lamp, a hotel phone, and a digital assistant . There are also outlets to plug in your devices and ask for privacy in the room.

On the Table

The digital assistant is a great way to help you plan what to do around the hotel.

Virtual Assistant

There are also small bedside lamps built into the sides of the bed.

Bedside light

At the end of each bed, you’ll find a footrest that doubles as a seat . And check out those lights underneath the beds!

Seats at the End of Beds

To the left of the beds, you’ll find another small table, a comfortable chair, and another lamp .

Turning left from there, you’ll find yourself facing the balcony !

Out to the balcony

The balcony is quite narrow, but it can fit two chairs and a table . Plus, it gives you a gorgeous view of the resort and skyline.

Coming back in from the balcony, you’ll face the rest of the room.

Other side of the room

To the right, you’ll find a wardrobe that can hold your clothes, or whatever else you’d like to put in.

To the left of the wardrobe is a table and two chairs , sitting in front of a longer, shorter desk.

Table and chairs

On the desk, you’ll find a noise machine and a pad of paper and pen .

Noise machine and Notepad

Plus there’s an additional lamp, more outlets, and another hotel phone.

Phone and lamp

To the left of the desk and table and chairs, you’ll find the TV sitting on another dresser . All of the drawers open and can be used for storage.

And let’s not forget the beautiful walk-in closet ! This is the best place to hang any clothes that need to be stored without wrinkles. However, you can use the iron and ironing board to get out any undesired creases.

This is where you’ll also find the laundry bags to send your dirty clothes away to be washed, as well as a special bag for your shoes.

Laundry Bags

And that’s a look at the amazing rooms in the Four Seasons Hotel. As always, stay tuned to DFB for all the latest Disney news!

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What’s your favorite part about this hotel room? Tell us in the comments below!

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