First-Timer's Guide to Disney: What You Need To Know Before You Go

Are you planning your first Disney trip? While Walt Disney World can be an exciting thought, stepping into the magic for the first time can feel overwhelming. Between the countless rides, shows, dining, and endless details, it’s difficult to know where to begin. That’s why I’ve put together this simple first-timer’s guide to help you make the most of your magical adventure!

1. Plan Ahead (But Don’t Overplan)

Disney is enormous, offering an extreme variety of attractions and activities. Spend some time researching the parks, rides, and dining experiences that interest you the most. Develop a flexible plan to avoid aimless wandering, but ensure your schedule isn't so packed that you can't savor the experience. Allow for spontaneous fun—it's part of the magic!

2. Know the Parks

Walt Disney World features four theme parks—Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, and Animal Kingdom—as well as two water parks, Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Each park offers a unique atmosphere, so consider what interests you the most, whether it's fairy tales, thrilling rides, food and culture, or live shows. This will guide you in choosing what you want to experience more.

3. Staying Onsite vs. Offsite

Disney resorts offer close proximity to the excitement with benefits such as early entry, transportation, and themed accommodations. Staying at offsite hotels might be more cost effective and provide extra space. Decide what is most important to you: budget, convenience, or an immersive experience.

4. Download the Disney App

The My Disney Experience App will be your best friend. You can check wait times, mobile order food, make dining reservations, make Lightning Lane selections, and even find where your favorite characters are. It’s essential to have this for navigating the parks smoothly.

5. Understand Lightning Lane Passes

Disney’s skip-the-line system can be confusing for first-timers. Lightning Lane Multi-Passes let you reserve access to select rides, while Lightning Lanes Single-Passes (separate purchase) let you book high-demand attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. If avoiding long waits is important to you, budget for this.

6. Make Dining Reservations Early

Popular restaurants, particularly character dining experiences, fill up fast. At Disney World, you can make reservations 60 days ahead. If you don’t secure your first choice, don't worry—there are many excellent quick-service alternatives. Additionally, by regularly checking the app, you might find an opening for a reservation if there is a cancellation!

7. Pack Smart

Comfortable shoes are a must—you'll be walking miles daily. Other essentials include sunscreen, a portable phone charger, snacks, and more. You'll be grateful you brought them. I have another blog post detailing what I pack for a day in the parks. Take a look at that if you need more guidance here!

8. Arrive Early, Stay Late

To avoid the crowds, arrive at the parks before they open, a strategy known as "rope dropping." You'll often find shorter wait times and cooler temperatures in the mornings and late evenings. The afternoon is an ideal time to take a break if needed.

9. Don’t Try to Do It All

Disney is enormous, and even a week won't allow you to see everything. Concentrate on what excites you the most and leave the rest for your next visit (because there will definitely be a next visit).

10. Soak in the Magic

Beyond the rides, Disney is all about the details—the music, the parades, the snacks, the fireworks, and those small moments of happiness. Pause and savor it. See the castle illuminate at night. Sample the Mickey-shaped treats. Capture plenty of photos. Be in the moment.

Final Tip: Don't worry or stress if everything doesn't go as planned—Disney magic often turns unexpected moments into unforgettable experiences. Happy planning!