If you took your own kids to Disney World 20 years ago, you may think you know all you need to know to take the grandkids, but the truth is there have been incredible changes in the parks and in the ways you tour them. Use these three tips to go out armed with all the info you need to make it a magical trip.
1. There are more parks than you remember!
If your last trip to Disney World was 20 years ago, then you may not even know that Disney’s Animal Kingdom exists. This park covers 500 acres and is themed entirely around animal conservation. There you can go on a safari, ride thrill rides, and learn how the animal keepers ensure the health and safety of their animals.
You may also remember a park called MGM Studios and note that it’s no longer at Disney World. Well, you’re half right! MGM is no longer in name only – it’s now Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You’ll notice a ton of changes in this park, including the fact that it’s no longer a working movie production facility. Luckily there are still many rides and attractions for those both young and old. Keep an eye on this park in the years to come as incredible changes are on the way – including a rumored Star Wars Land.
2. FastPass+ can save you from lines
There are now more ways than ever to avoid spending a good portion of your day in lines. It used to be that your only option was to show up as soon as the park opened and ride as many headliners as possible before the parks started filling up and lines started getting well into the 60+ minutes per ride range.
These days you can take advantage of FastPass+, which essentially allows you to make reservations for three rides per day. The rules can get a little complicated but if you use this option wisely you can skip the lines on the most popular attractions and character meet and greets.
3. Your accommodation options have greatly expanded
20 years ago you likely stayed either on property at an expensive Disney resort or at one of the generic, but much more affordable, hotels nearby. These days you have tons of options – many of them surprisingly affordable. Orlando vacation homes start at just $99 a night and give everyone their own private space. There are also numerous resort hotels within 15 minutes of the Disney World parks, each with their own fabulous theming – but at a fraction of the price you’d pay to stay on Disney property.
