Walt Disney World is undeniably one of the most enchanting places on Earth. From the moment you drive onto Disney property, there’s an instant shift—you can feel it in the air. Whether you’re an adult or a child, it’s as if you’ve stepped into a completely different world, where every corner sparkles with magic. The excitement is palpable, and you can’t help but smile as you feel like a kid again. But what if you could take that magic even further and make your trip extra special? As someone who’s had the joy of visiting Disney multiple times, here’s how I’ve learned to make my trip even more magical—some tips and tricks that will elevate your experience and ensure that you leave with even more magical memories.
1. Embrace Your Inner Child
The first and most important step in making your Disney trip magical is to let go and embrace your inner child. No more worrying about parent duties or checking the time—just enjoy the magic. The very first time I visited Magic Kingdom and saw Cinderella’s Castle, I was overwhelmed with emotion. I couldn’t believe I was standing in front of something I’d seen in movies and pictures for so many years. And then? I met Cinderella herself. I couldn’t help but grin from ear to ear, feeling like a child again. It’s easy to get caught up in the hustle and bustle of being an adult, but at Disney, you’re free to just be.
As you walk through the park, skip around, laugh out loud, and don’t be afraid to squeal when you meet your favorite character. The joy you experience will not only make your trip more magical but will also encourage your children to be equally excited and playful. It’s all about soaking in the experience and letting the magic of Disney fill you up.
2. Meet Your Favorite Characters
Have you always dreamed of meeting your favorite Disney character? Whether it’s Cinderella, Goofy, or even the lovable Baloo, you can make it happen! Sure, it may mean waiting in line for a bit (and yes, we’re all really good at that, right?), but the moment you wrap your arms around that character and exchange a hug or a high five, all the waiting will seem worth it.
Mickey Mouse is a personal favorite of mine. After all, as Walt Disney said, “It all started with a mouse.” Whenever I spot Mickey, you can bet that I’ll be there with a camera ready. And where Mickey goes, the whole gang follows—Minnie, Donald, Daisy, Goofy, and Pluto. Meeting them is a must, and you won’t want to miss out on these iconic moments.
3. Try Pressed Coins for a Fun Souvenir
Pressed coins may sound like a small, simple souvenir, but they can add an extra layer of fun to your trip. In every park, there are machines where you can squash a penny into a keepsake for just a small fee. Some charge $1, while others are 50 cents, but it’s always a fun experience. What makes it even more exciting is the collection aspect. You can gather them throughout the park, and if you collect enough, you can even purchase a special book to keep them in.
Our family’s pressed coin collection started by accident when we let our kids try it for the first time. They quickly became obsessed, and before we knew it, we had accumulated 57 pressed coins and one pressed quarter! It’s a quirky little activity that brings a lot of joy, and it’s a fun way to create lasting memories. Some of my personal favorites come from Epcot and the World Showcase, with designs featuring beloved characters like Mike from Monsters, Inc. and Buzz Lightyear.
4. Start Pin Trading
Pin trading is a fantastic way to engage with the magic of Disney while collecting special keepsakes. In 2013, we decided to let the kids try pin trading, and they loved it! My son, LP, was just 4 years old at the time, but he was so confident when going up to cast members to swap pins. It became a whole new adventure for them, and it made our Disney experience even more exciting.
Getting started is easy. All you need is a lanyard to display your pins, which you can personalize with fun and colorful pins from Disney. Allow your children to pick out their own lanyard, which gets them even more excited about their trip. We like to buy a collection of pins from eBay or other sites before our trip. This way, we have plenty of extra pins to trade, and the kids can have fun swapping them with cast members throughout the park. It’s a great way for your kids to interact with others while collecting pins that represent special moments from your trip.
5. Plan Character Dining Experiences
For a truly magical experience, consider booking a character dining reservation. This allows you and your family to meet beloved characters while enjoying a delicious meal. From breakfast with Mickey at Chef Mickey’s in the Contemporary Resort to dining with Cinderella at Cinderella’s Royal Table, these experiences are unforgettable. The characters visit your table, take pictures with you, and sign autographs, all while you enjoy a stress-free meal in the heart of Disney magic. It’s an excellent way to ensure your children get ample time with their favorite Disney characters in a relaxed setting.
6. Don’t Forget the Small Moments
While the big attractions and parades are undoubtedly magical, sometimes the small moments can be just as enchanting. Take a moment to relax and enjoy the beauty around you—whether it’s watching the fireworks at Cinderella Castle, strolling through the World Showcase at Epcot, or sitting down to listen to a street performer in Disney Springs. The magic of Disney isn’t just in the rides or characters; it’s in the moments you share with your family, the joy of being together, and the wonder of it all.
7. Capture Every Moment
And finally, don’t forget to capture the memories! Whether it’s taking photos, making a video diary, or even using Disney’s PhotoPass service to get professional photos throughout the park, having physical reminders of your magical trip will help you hold onto the magic long after you leave. The memories you create at Disney will stay with you forever, and it’s nice to have tangible mementos to look back on.
In conclusion, Walt Disney World is already an incredibly magical place, but with a little extra effort and some thoughtful touches, you can make your experience even more unforgettable. Let yourself be a kid again, embrace the magic, and take the time to enjoy the smaller moments that make Disney so special. Whether it’s meeting your favorite characters, collecting pressed coins, or diving into pin trading, there are endless ways to enhance the magic of your trip. So, pack your bags, bring your family, and get ready for an adventure filled with magic, laughter, and memories that will last a lifetime!