Whether you're a first time visitor or seasoned Disney guest, there is so much to keep in mind when planning a trip to this iconic spot.
From figuring out what to pack to navigating the crowds and using the My Disney Experience App, you'll want to ensure you're well-prepared for every aspect of your journey.
Here are 12 tips for Canadians heading to Walt Disney World this year to help you make the most of your adventure. Get ready for magic, excitement and pixie dust!
Check for special offers
Everyone likes saving a buck or two, so before you book your trip, it's a good idea to check for deals. The Walt Disney World Special Offers page has a range of deals and discounts that could help save you some cash. Some deals are even exclusive to Canadians.
From savings on rooms to discounts on longer Disney trips, the offers page might just be the key to stretching your budget further.
Make sure you're not travelling on a holiday
Let's say you've strategically planned your trip around Canadian holidays, hoping to get a less-crowded experience at the parks. The last thing you'd want is to show up and find it jam-packed because of an American holiday.
Disney World tends to be busier during American holidays, so be sure to check both the Canadian and American calendars and make sure you're not planning a trip during any breaks or festivities.
Make sure your passport is valid
It's every traveller's nightmare to find out that their passport has expired right before they are supposed to leave on a trip. Be sure to check your passport before heading to Disney World to ensure it is still valid. If it's going to expire, get it renewed as soon as possible as wait times can be lengthy.
Watch tutorials about the My Disney Experience App before you go
The My Disney Experience App is a tool that allows you to plan your trip and access a number of features from your phone. It's a great way to stay organized and keep everything in one place.
The app has a lot to offer, but it can be overwhelming when you first open it up. In order to get the most out of your experience, it's a good idea to play around with and and even watch some tutorials on using the app before you head out.
That way, you won't end up wasting precious time at the parks trying to figure out how to use it.
Get Genie+
If you want to avoid waiting in long lines, it might be worth purchasing Genie+. This service "lets you use Lightning Lane entrances at select attractions and experiences," according to the website.
By making your initial selection early on, you could access 2 to 3 attractions or experiences per day through Lightning Lane entrances, saving you lots of time.
The service also includes features like Disney-themed photo lenses for your phone and Audio Tales which give you behind-the-scenes information about the parks.
Pack smart
When packing for Disney World, you'll want to keep a few things in mind. Despite Florida's sunny skies, the weather is unpredictable and can turn rainy at times, so don't forget a rain jacket.
Layers are also important to pack. The mornings and evenings can be chilly depending on what time of year you visit, so bring a few sweaters as well as t-shirts.
Comfortable shoes are perhaps the most important thing to bring on your trip. You'll be wandering through endless Disney magic and you don't want sore feet to slow you down.
As tempting as it is to fill your suitcase to the brim, leave some room for souvenirs. You'll likely pick up at least one thing as a reminder of your Disney World adventures, so make sure you have some space to bring it home.
Visit fellow Canadians in the EPCOT Canada Pavilion
You can enjoy a little taste of home while visiting Disney World. The Canada Pavilion at EPCOT features all sorts of Canadian-inspired scenery, including totem poles, gardens, a château and more.
There is entertainment such as live music featuring Canadian bands as well as Les Raftsmen, who bring "Franco-Ontarian folklore to life through song and dance," according to the website.
You can even enjoy a meal at Le Cellier Steakhouse, where you will "descend into the cozy cellar of a Canadian château for exquisite steaks and seafood specialties," according to the restaurant.
Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel for early park entry
If you're eager to get a head start on your Disney adventures, you might consider staying at one of the Disney World Resort Hotels. There are a number of resort hotels located near the parks with unique themes and rooms.
The best part is, guests can enjoy a 30-minute early entry into Walt Disney World theme parks every day, meaning you'll have a chance to beat the crowds.
There is also frequent transportation to the resorts and parks, making them accessible if you don't have a car.
Make your dining reservations in advance
If you have a few restaurants in mind that you want to dine at, it's a good idea to make reservations in advance, especially for some of the more popular ones.
For example, the Space 220 Restaurant can book up quickly, so if it's on your bucket list, book it as soon as possible to ensure you don't miss out.
Be flexible when travelling in the winter
If you're flying to Walt Disney World during the winter, be prepared for flight delays or even cancellations due to the weather. Try to make flexible plans during your travel days so you can adapt to any unexpected changes in your itinerary without feeling stressed or rushed.
Check the Disney Parks Blog for updates
The Disney Parks Blog has all sorts of news and information about new events, rides, attractions, and happenings at Walt Disney World.
Check it out before your trip to see if there's anything fun and exciting for you to see during your adventures.
Exchange your money
If you like having cash on hand, then don't forget to exchange some Canadian money for U.S. money before heading out on your adventure.
The most important thing to remember is to have fun on your vacation. Soak up every bit of magic and live your Disney dreams to the fullest this year.
Before you get going, check out our Responsible Travel Guide so you can be informed, be safe, be smart, and most of all, be respectful on your adventure.
This article has been updated since it was originally published on March 20, 2024.
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