8 Essential Disney World Hacks For Having a Relaxing Vacation (Stress-Free Tips)

Do you want some major Disney World hacks to have a relaxing trip?

No, it’s not a myth: relaxing Disney World trips DO exist!

But you can’t expect relaxing Disney World trips to just happen. You have to know the right Walt Disney World hacks to prepare for a chilled Disney trip before your visit (or even before you book your trip!).

From maximizing your productivity in the parks whilst taking it slow and having plenty of downtime, we’re talking all the imperative Disney World tricks you should know!

This post is all about the 8 important Disney World hacks for having a relaxing vacation.

Disney World Hacks for Having a Relaxing Vacation

1) Stay at On-Site Disney World Resorts

Staying on-site at Disney World is one of the best ways to plan a relaxing vacation. 

Disney World has three on-site Resort categories:

• Value Resorts– the least expensive hotels.

• Moderate Resorts – the mid-range hotels.

• Deluxe Resorts – the most expensive hotels.

By staying in on-site Disney World Resorts, you’ll enjoy the convenience of being close to all the action, making it easier to travel to and from the parks. 

Additionally, Disney’s on-site hotels offer excellent amenities such as complimentary transportation to the parks, allowing you to avoid the hassle of driving. 

However, if you do choose to drive, you can park for “free” at the resorts—and you’ll get “complimentary” standard theme park parking. This means that it is included in the cost of your hotel booking. 

This is also one of the best Disney World hacks to save money. Standard Disney World Theme Park parking costs a staggering $30 per day!

After a long day of exploring the parks, you can unwind in your comfortable hotel room or enjoy the resort’s pools and recreational activities. 

Every Disney World Resort has at least one swimming pool. Every Disney Resort (except Port Orleans – French Quarter) has a leisure pool – which is usually less crowded and noisy.

Please note that if you are staying at Port Orleans – French Quarter, you can use the leisure pools at Port Orleans – Riverside.

If you stay on-site, you also have access to Early Theme Park Entry – where you can enter the Disney Parks 30 minutes before off-site guests.

2) Stay at a Deluxe Resort (this doesn’t have to be more expensive)

Staying in a Deluxe Resort at Disney World can significantly enhance the relaxation factor of your vacation. 

These upscale accommodations offer a quieter and more serene atmosphere than other resort categories, allowing you to unwind and recharge after a busy day at the parks. 

(Though you can have a similar experience in some of the Moderate Resorts – namely Coronado Springs and the Port Orleans Resorts). 

With luxurious amenities and spacious rooms, Deluxe Resorts provide a comfortable and indulgent retreat during your stay. 

Additionally, many Deluxe Resorts offer extended evening hours for guests, allowing you to enjoy the parks during less crowded times and make the most of your vacation experience. 

Whether you’re lounging by the pool, or simply taking in the scenic views, staying in a Deluxe Resort is sure to elevate your Disney World getaway to a whole new level of relaxation.

If you want to stay at a Deluxe Resort for a Moderate (or even Value) price, check out our post about Renting Disney Vacation Club points.

3) Plan & prioritise 

Planning and prioritising all the things you want to do on your Disney World vacation is key to ensuring a relaxing and stress-free experience. 

I know that for some people, planning is the opposite of being chilled. 

But I’m not suggesting writing a detailed itinerary – with everything from coffee breaks to bathroom breaks.

But if you have a rough idea of which attractions you want to complete in each park – and check the usual, approximate wait times – you can ensure you’re leaving enough time to get everything you want done.

This is also true for dining options (especially if you’re planning to dine at table service restaurants and will require advanced reservations).

Additionally, planning ahead helps you set realistic expectations for your trip and ensures that you’re fully prepared for whatever the parks may throw your way. 

4) Try not to visit at peak seasons (if possible)

Avoiding peak seasons at Disney World can significantly enhance the relaxation factor of your vacation. 

Peak seasons, including major holidays and school breaks, often bring larger crowds and longer wait times for attractions. 

By choosing to visit during quieter times of the year, you can enjoy shorter lines, less congestion, and a more relaxed atmosphere throughout the parks. 

Consider planning your trip during off-peak months, such as January or September, when crowds are typically lower. 

Not only will you spend less time waiting in line, but you’ll also have more space to explore and enjoy the parks at your own pace. 

Plus, with fewer people around, you’ll have the opportunity to experience attractions, restaurants, and entertainment offerings with ease. 

However, if you plan to visit at busier times of the year, be aware of the extended wait times and crowds. I’ve visited during summer break and had a great time. 

RELATED POST: Disney World in Summer: The Best Tips for Surviving the Heat & Humidity 

Utilising Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours, if you stay at a Deluxe Resort is a great way to maximise time when crowds are lower.

So, if you’re looking to maximise relaxation on your Disney World vacation, consider scheduling your visit during a less crowded time of year.

5) Consider using Genie+ some of the time

Utilising Disney Genie+ can be a game-changer when it comes to maximising relaxation during your Disney World vacation. 

This paid service is essentially a replacement for the Fastpass system (which used to be “free” 😭).

By using Genie+, you can spend less time waiting in line and more time enjoying the attractions and experiences that matter most to you. 

That being said, Disney says that guests usually enter 2-3 attractions per day using Genie+ (assuming the first selection is made “early”).

This isn’t exactly a high number, and may not warrant the high prices (often as high as $25 and $35+ per person per day).

I have had positive experiences using Genie+, but there is a lot to learn before you purchase it. This guide is helpful at breaking it down.

6) Utilise Virtual Queues

Taking advantage of virtual queues can be a savvy strategy to enhance the relaxation factor during your Disney World vacation. 

While Disney Genie+ offers Lightning Lane access for select attractions, virtual queues provide an alternative option to secure a spot on popular rides without the need to pay extra. 

Currently, virtual queues are available for select new and popular attractions, including TRON at Magic Kingdom and Guardians of the Galaxy at Epcot. 

By utilising these virtual queues, you can secure a “guaranteed ride” reservation, allowing you to skip the traditional standby lines and enjoy more leisurely exploration of the parks. 

While there may be a bit of a wait when you arrive at the attraction, the convenience and time-saving benefits of virtual queues can contribute to a more relaxing and enjoyable vacation experience overall.

For more information on utilising virtual queues, check out this guide.

7) Use mobile order to avoid waiting forever for food

A strategic use of mobile ordering can significantly streamline your dining experience at Disney World, minimising time spent waiting in queues for food. 

By mobile ordering, you can place your meal orders in advance through the official Disney app, allowing you to bypass the traditional ordering lines and pick up your food at designated times. 

This is one of the best Disney vacation hacks to save some serious time!

Furthermore, while table service meals can be enticing, sometimes your meals can be a little rushed – and let’s face it, table-service dining is usually double the price of quick-service meals AT THE LEAST.

To check out which dining locations offer this service, check out this list.

RELATED POST: How Much Can You Save by Dining Exclusively at Disney World Quick Service Restaurants VS Table Service Locations (spoiler alert: it’s a lot!)

8) Check out some slower-paced attractions

Embracing slower-paced attractions can be a hidden gem for enjoying a more relaxing Disney World vacation. While popular thrill rides like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster are undoubtedly exciting, don’t overlook the charm of less-attended attractions. 

@caffeinebythecastle

Is there a better roller coaster than Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster?! 🎸❤️ #rocknrollercoaster #hollywoodstudios

♬ Aerosmith style guitar rock(1250146) – RingoHoshi

Take a leisurely ride on the PeopleMover at Magic Kingdom, where you can enjoy scenic views of Tomorrowland. 

Dive into the heartwarming journey of Walt Disney’s Carousel of Progress, a classic Disney experience that offers a nostalgic glimpse into – you guessed it – the progress of technology in the home throughout the decades.

There are plenty of incredible, calm attractions to explore! Just because they’re not as spoken about, doesn’t mean they’re not good!

This really is one of the best Disney Park hacks for avoiding crowds (and the heat, depending on the time of year you visit).

Ta Ta For Now

Incorporating these essential hacks for Disney World can truly elevate your experience and ensure a more relaxing getaway. 

So, go ahead, plan and immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Disney with ease and comfort!

This post was all about the 8 important Disney World hacks for having a relaxing vacation.

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