Disney World Orlando – A Guide For First Time Visitors

By Jessica Alvarez

Read time: 18 mins.

Introduction

Disney World – the star attraction of Orlando. Growing up in Orlando, I first visited when I was 4, but the memories really started rolling in when I was 8. Since then, I’ve been head over heels for Disney. I have done Disney being a child, a teenager, an adult, and now as a mom to two beautiful daughters and one handsome son. And let me tell you, each trip has been a whole new ball game. Whether you’re 5 or 50, Disney World is pure magic.

So, if you’re gearing up for a Disney adventure for the first time and feeling like you’re about to dive into the deep end (well, that’s true somehow) however, don’t sweat it. I’m here with my trusty guide to help you make the most out of Mickey’s house. From the ABCs of Disney to the best rides, dining spots, and places to stay, this guide is a must-have gem for your travel bag. Ready? Let’s jump in!

Overview Of the Walt Disney World

Well, first Disney World is huge. It is about 25,000 acres big – that’s like the entire city of San Francisco. It opened on October 1, 1971, and is managed by Disney Experiences, a division of The Walt Disney Company. With more than 77,000 employees, it attracts nearly 50 million visitors each year which is double the population residing in our beautiful state Florida.

Traveling from Orlando Airport to Disney World

So, when you land at Orlando International Airport, you’re about 25 miles from the magic. It takes around 30 minutes to drive over. But to add up in your knowledge, Disney’s Magical Express service is gone now. Sigh! You’ll need to think about alternatives.

What I recommend the best way to get from Orlando airport to Disney world is using to use shuttle service of Mears Connect, totally affordable and reliable option. Apart you can opt for private car services for $199 and rental cars, or even taxis for just $70.

What You’ll Find at Disney World

Aahh! Sparking the excitement out of me! Well, here is a quick rundown of the fun and facilities available:

  1. 4 incredible theme parks
  2. 2 splashing water parks
  3. 4 scenic golf courses.
  4. 5 convention hotels
  5. 32 resorts and hotels. (Out of which 22 are Disney’s owned)
  6. More than 200 dining spots.
  7. More than 60 sporting facilities.
  8. Disney boardwalk for a stroll and extra dose of entertainment.
  9. 9 fishing marinas, 2 fitness centers, 5 world-class golf courses, spas and more.

In short, to sum up in numbers, you can easily spend 14 days and still not see everything. Living here I’m still encountering new places.

But….

With so many options, getting around can take time. Yet againDisney World takes the lead by offering fantastic transportation system. With the options of ferries, taxis, monorails, gondola lifts and a network of buses serving people after every 30 minutes between hotels and resorts you can easily take off.

Parental Advice: If travelling with kids, be mentally prepared you might spend up to 2-3 hours a day just traveling between parks. Yeah! It can be bit exhausting. I still remember wrestling with strollers and trying to keep track of my kids - it felt like a marathon. Despite the hustle, it's all part of the fun.

Now, let’s get into brief details of these facilities….

Parks at Walt Disney World

With parks Disney World has 2 categories. The theme parks and the water parks. Within theme parks there lies 4 parks which are the heart and soul of Disney World. Here’s a breakdown of their starting prices:

  1. Epcot: $158.96
  2. Magic Kingdom: $174.66
  3. Animal Kingdom: $109
  4. Hollywood Studios: $158.69

Then, you’ve got the 2 water parks:

  1. Typhoon Lagoon: $74 for adults, $68 for kids (ages 3-9)
  2. Blizzard Beach: $69 for adults, $63 for kids (ages 3-9)

Each park requires a separate ticket, but there are deals like 3-day 3 park or 4-day 4 park or even combos where you can visit more than one park in a single day. With these, you can enjoy over 120 attractions, 50 entertainment options, and 140 dining spots, making it a perfect place for a multi-day adventure at Walt Disney World Resort.

Parking Perks

Now, let’s talk about Disney’s parking. If you’re staying at a Disney resort, parking at the theme parks is on the house. Oh! Living off the property? You’ll need to shell out $25 per day for standard and $45-50 per day for preferred parking my friend. However, good news for water park visitors: standard parking is free for everyone!

EPCOT

Epcot is a must-see if you enjoy gaming, technology, and futuristic entertainment. With over 10 million visits last year, it’s ideal for families. There are 20 attractions and 11 rides in total, with our favorites being Spaceship Earth, Soaring Around the World, Test Track, and The American Adventure. Other notable attractions include Frozen Ever After, The Sea with Nemos and Friends, Living with the Land. And not forgetting the recently released Beauty and the Beast Sing-Along and Wide in Circle-Vision 360.

Furthermore, the park is centered on Bay lake and separated into four sections: World Celebration, World Nature, World Discovery, and our favorite, World Showcase, which allows you to tour 11 other countries without ever leaving the park. And with several annual festivals, 25 restaurants and 6 play areas around the place, it has a slight drawback of not holding many shows. But never mind, it is still the best!

Magic Kingdom

If you’re gearing up for your first trip to Disney World, take it from me, Magic Kingdom is where you’ll want to start. It’s the big cheese of the parks! Since opening in 1971, it’s stayed on top, attracting almost 17.3 million visitors each year. Simply put, it’s a land where fairy tales come alive.

Magic Kingdom has five fun zones: Main Street USA, Adventureland, Frontierland, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland. With 24 rides, it boasts the highest number among all Disney theme park. As we are talking off rides, Astro Orbiter and The Barnstormer are the leading favored among visitors. Whereas, People Mover, Tea Cups, Train, Peter Pan’s Flight, and the Carousel among the kids.

Magic Kingdom is also home to Disney’s most iconic attractions like Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, The Little Mermaid, and the Haunted Mansion. It’s also wanderlust for its spectacular fireworks shows, along with 43 dining spots catering to diverse tastes and dining preferences throughout the park.

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom, covering 580 acres, offers a unique blend of animal conservation and adventure, appealing to all ages. It hosts around 105,000 guests and features over 2,000 animals from 300 species. But don’t mistake it for a zoo – it’s way more than that.

The park recorded 9.03 million visitors in the past year, 2023. It is centered around the Discovery River and split into seven thematic areas: Pandora – The World of Avatar (my husband’s favorite), Africa, Oasis, Asia, Rafiki’s Planet Watch, Dinoland USA, and Discovery Island.

It boasts more than 23 attractions with 11 stunning rides. Highlights include the Kilimanjaro Safaris, Festival of the Lion King show, and popular rides like Avatar Flight of Passage, which often has a 152-minute wait. Furthermore, it offers 25 dining spots to satisfy your hunger.

Hollywood Studios

Disney’s Hollywood Studios what I call is a movie-themed wonderland. It is divided into six main areas: Echo Lake, Hollywood Boulevard, Animation Courtyard, Grand Avenue, Sunset Boulevard, and Toy Story Land. It attracts about 10.9 million visitors annually, making it the second most popular park after Magic Kingdom. Here are 17 attractions and 9 slides and rides that cater to all thrill levels.

I loved the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith and The Twilight Zone Tower of Terror. And if you’re into Star Wars like my dear husband, don’t miss this new entry, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, and Toy Story Mania. With over 20 dining spots, from quick snacks to full meals and must-see shows like the Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular, you’re in for a fantastic time.

Suggested Reading → Best Theme Parks NEAR Orlando.

Gushing into WATER PARKS…

Disney Blizzard Beach Water Park

Blizzard Beach at Disney World is like a chilly escape in sunny Florida! This 66-acre water park is themed like a frosty winter wonderland and has loads to do. Last year, the park had over 100,000 visitors splashing around.

You’ve got seven awesome slides, 12 fun attractions, 9 dining areas, a chairlift, two kid-friendly play areas, the Melt Away Bay wave pool, and the longest lazy river in the country at 3,000 feet. The slides are split into Green, Purple, and Red Slopes. Summit Plummet here is the tallest and fastest thrill ride, followed by the Teamboat Springs water-bobsled ride for a blast with friends and family.

But here’s the bad news: Blizzard Beach is currently closed for some refurbishments. Keep an eye on their website for updates so you’ll know when it’s back in action.

Disney Typhoon Lagoon Water Park

Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon is another splash-tastic adventure that welcomes up to 7,200 guests and draws around 1.92 million visitors each year. The park features three main areas: Hideaway Bay, Mount Mayday, and Typhoon Lagoon. The Typhoon Lagoon Surf Pool is at the heart of the park, a massive wave pool surrounded by a lazy river, Castaway Creek. Popular attractions include the thrilling Humunga Kowabunga – the tallest slide, Mayday Falls, and the fun-filled Crush ‘n’ Gusher. It’s a water wonderland with seven water slides, a kiddie slide, a play area, and a small explorative trail.

A personal advice here: for the best experience, arrive early or in the afternoon to avoid the peak summer crowds and afternoon rainstorms.

Suggested Reading → Best Water Parks NEAR Orlando.

Other Attractions at Walt Disney World

Plenty of attractions besides the parks won’t cost you a dime. Just remember to keep your wallet handy, as you’ll likely want to splurge while exploring places like Downtown Disney, where there’s no shortage of fun and excitement.

Here I list some of my go to spots beside the parks.

Dining Options at Walt Disney World

If you’re heading to Disney World for the first time, you might think the food has to match the magic of the place, and you’d be right! Disney dining is top-notch and goes way beyond just burgers and hot dogs. They cater to all kinds of dietary needs.

My eldest daughter has celiac disease, and I was amazed at the gluten-free options available. As a vegetarian, I also found plenty of delicious choices. Once, they even whipped up a special dish for me called Zesty Quinoa Stuffed Peppers – so good! They also offer Halal meals at select restaurants, but you must request them 24 hours before.

Now, with dining, you don’t have 1 but 4 different options.

  • Table-Service Restaurants: These are great for a sit-down meal.
  • Character Dining: This is a fun way to eat and meet your favorite Disney characters, who come to your table.
  • Quick-Service: If you prefer something faster, there are many spots where you don’t need reservations.
  • Mobile Ordering: My favorite! Order and pay through the app, then pick up your food when it’s ready. Perfect for those late-night cravings.

But to enjoy dining at Disney, you need to be quick with the timelines. Here’s what you need to know:

  • If you’re staying at a Disney Resort, book dining reservations 60 days in advance.
  • If you’re staying off-site, you must book 45 days ahead.
  • You can even make advance dining reservations (ADR) up to 180 days before your trip for the best spots like Le Cellier and Cinderella’s Royal Table.
Locals Tip: Get the My Disney Experience App

To make reservations a breeze, download the My Disney Experience App. It’s super easy and convenient. Just a little heads up: Character dining can fill up fast, so definitely book early! My girls missed this on our first visit. But later, we discovered that if you miss out on a reservation, don’t stress. Keep checking or use a service like MouseDining to find openings.

My Dining Experience

So, we’ve had some amazing dining experiences at Disney World. On our first visit, we stopped at ‘Ohana at the Polynesian Resort. Who knows, it’s going to take our hearts. We love it so much that we’ll change our vacation dates just to get a reservation! The all-you-can-eat setup has delicious meats, mouth-watering noodles, fantastic wings, potstickers, and a dangerously good dessert.

From our second trip I vote for the Sci-Fi Dine-In at Hollywood Studios. The food is good, but retro drive-in movie theater. vibe is what makes it a must-do. Third, there’s Space 220 at Epcot. The food is great, and the experience of dining in “outer space” is super cool. Lastly, we recently tried Biergarten at Epcot. It’s an all-you-can-eat buffet with your own selection of beer making it a super enjoyable experience.

Other good restaurants on my list and must-dos are:

Resort Hotels at Walt Disney World

When planning your Disney World trip, the first big decision is whether to stay on Disney property or off-site. I’ve been on both sides of this fence, so here’s my two cents.

Staying on Disney Property

There are three levels available if you wish to stay on Disney property.

  1. Value Resorts (3-star hotel): These are the no-frills, budget-friendly options. Think All-Star Resorts, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. Rooms start around $145 and go up to $350 per night, depending on when you go.
  2. Moderate Resorts (3-star hotel): A little more upscale with better amenities. Caribbean Beach and Port Orleans are great picks here, with prices from $255 to $550 per night.
  3. Deluxe Resorts (4-star hotel): If you’re going all out, these are the crème de la crème. The Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Animal Kingdom Lodge start around $550 and can soar past $1,100 per night. But oh, the luxury.

Staying Off-Property

If you’re considering staying off Disney property, some fantastic options exist. A few of the best alternatives are the Swan & Dolphin by Marriott, Four Seasons, Disney Springs (with seven hotels), or Hilton Bonnet Creek. They can be easier on the wallet, offer more room to stretch out, or let you use your saved hotel points. Plus, they provide a nice break from the constant Disney vibe if needed!

Other Options

Renting DVC points or an Airbnb is another cool choice, especially if you dream of a Deluxe Resort experience without the price tag. It’s a great way to save and get a lot of bang for your buck.

Which Disney World Resort Hotel to Select?

From my own experience, I can’t recommend staying at a Disney resort enough, especially for first-timers. It’s like getting the red carpet treatment with perks like early park entry, free transportation, and the ability to book dining reservations 60 days in advance. You also get free parking, can add a dining plan, and enjoy extended park hours. Though some off-property hotels offer similar perks, staying on-site keeps you in the Disney bubble, and that makes the magic feel non-stop.

A Basic Guide To Disney World

When planning your first trip to Disney World, you’ll find endless advice on everything from travel and packing to booking your stay. But here are some personal insights that I’ve gathered over the years. These are the things I’ve learned, applied, and am still discovering as I continue to explore the magic of Disney.

  • Shop Wisely: Disney World can be expensive, especially for merchandise. Save money by purchasing Disney-themed gear at stores outside the parks.
  • Plan Ahead: To avoid long waits and disappointment, make park and dining reservations in advance using the My Disney Experience app.
  • Use Genie+ Wisely: Get familiar with the Genie+ system, as it will help you maximize your time in the parks.
  • Prepare for Walking: Wear comfortable shoes and consider how much walking you can handle. Bring a poncho or umbrella along for Florida’s unpredictable weather.
  • Take Advantage of Free Perks: Don’t miss out on free benefits like the “First Visit” button, free ice water at quick-service spots, and the Play Disney app. These can enhance your experience without additional cost.
  • Pack Smart: Bring a park bag with snacks, a refillable water bottle, and an external battery charger. Pack items (like toys) for younger children to keep them entertained in long lines.
  • Keep Kids Safe: Attach Air Tags to your child’s clothing or stroller. Use silicone bracelets with your phone number to help cast members if you get separated.

The Wrap-Up!

I’m SO pumped for you – your first Disney World trip will be amazing! The countdown is officially on! As you get ready for your Disney adventure, just remember to have a blast and make some incredible memories. With these basics in mind, you’re all set to be wowed by everything Disney World offers. You might even find yourself daydreaming about your next visit before this one’s even over.

So, kick back, enjoy the ride, and let Disney World sprinkle its pixie dust around you.

FAQs For First-Time Disney Visitors

1. What should I know before my first trip to Disney World?

Disney World is packed with options, so it helps you plan what you want to see and do beforehand. That way, you can ensure your visit fits your family’s interests and needs.

2. What are the best times to visit Disney World?

Weekdays during the off-peak seasons, like January or September, tend to be less crowded. Avoid holidays and school vacation periods if possible.

3. Can I bring my food and drinks to Disney World?

You can bring food and non-alcoholic drinks into the parks, but they must be in clear, resealable containers. Glass and alcohol are not allowed.

4. What are Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane?

Disney Genie+ lets you reserve access to popular rides and attractions so you can skip the regular lines. You use Lightning Lane with Genie+ reservations.

5. How many days should I spend at Disney World if it’s my first visit?

A good rule of thumb is to spend 5 to 7 days. This gives you enough time to explore each park and enjoy everything Disney World offers.

Jessica Alvarez

Jessica Alvarez

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