Step 1: Choose the Best Time to Visit Walt Disney World®
One of the most important decisions when planning a Disney World trip is selecting the right time of year to visit.
Popular Times to Visit
- Spring Break (March–April)
- Summer Vacation (June–August)
- Thanksgiving Week
- Christmas and New Year's
These seasons offer special events, holiday celebrations, and extended park hours, but they also tend to bring larger crowds.
Less Crowded Times
For a more relaxed experience, consider visiting during:
- Mid-January through February
- Early May
- Late August
- September through early November
Checking Disney's event calendar before booking can help you avoid peak crowd periods or plan around seasonal celebrations.
Step 2: Create a Walt Disney World® Vacation Budget
A successful Disney World trip starts with a realistic budget.
Be sure to account for:
- Park tickets
- Lodging
- Transportation
- Dining
- Souvenirs
- Special experiences
Many families underestimate accommodation costs. Choosing a spacious suite with family-friendly amenities can help reduce expenses by allowing you to prepare meals, store snacks, and enjoy extra space throughout your stay.
Step 3: Book Accommodations Early
One of the most important parts of planning a trip to Disney is securing the right place to stay. Families often find that a suite near Disney offers more comfort and value than a traditional hotel room. Features like multiple bedrooms, separate living areas, full kitchens, and additional bathrooms can make a significant difference during a multi-day vacation.
At Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa, families enjoy spacious accommodations designed for comfort and convenience. Our Orlando suites provide plenty of room to relax after long days exploring the parks. Whether you're traveling with grandparents, extended family, or multiple children, staying together in a spacious suite can enhance the entire vacation experience.
Benefits of Staying in a Family Suite
- Multiple bedrooms
- Full kitchens
- Separate living and dining areas
- Private balconies
- Washer and dryer in select suites
- Convenient location near Walt Disney World
For families planning Disney World trips, these amenities can make your stay more comfortable and enjoyable.
Step 4: Decide Which Disney Parks to Visit
A key part of any Disney World vacation checklist is deciding which parks you want to experience.
Walt Disney World features four unique theme parks:
Magic Kingdom
Ideal for first-time visitors and families with young children. Home to Cinderella Castle and many classic Disney attractions.
EPCOT
Known for international pavilions, innovative attractions, and seasonal festivals throughout the year.
Disney's Hollywood Studios
Features Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge, Toy Story Land, and thrilling attractions for older children and adults.
Disney's Animal Kingdom
Combines incredible wildlife experiences with immersive attractions, including Pandora – The World of Avatar. Most families spend four to five days exploring the parks, though longer stays allow for a more relaxed pace.
Step 5: Purchase Tickets and Consider Park Hopper Options
Disney offers several ticket options to fit different vacation styles.
Standard Tickets
Allow admission to one park per day.
Park Hopper Tickets
Give guests the flexibility to visit multiple parks in a single day. When planning Disney World trips, consider how much time you'll spend in the parks and whether the added flexibility of Park Hopper tickets fits your family's schedule.
Step 6: Make Dining Reservations
Dining reservations are an important part of planning a Disney World trip, especially if you want to experience some of Disney's most popular restaurants.
Family favorites include
- Character dining experiences
- Cinderella's Royal Table
- Chef Mickey's
- Be Our Guest Restaurant
- Space 220
Reservations typically open 60 days before arrival, so it's wise to plan ahead and secure your preferred dining experiences early.
Step 7: Create a Flexible Daily Itinerary
While planning is important, flexibility is equally valuable.
A good Disney itinerary should include:
- Priority attractions
- Dining reservations
- Midday breaks
- Evening entertainment
Many families find that returning to their Orlando suite for an afternoon rest helps everyone recharge before heading back to the parks.
Step 8: Pack Smart
Essential items include:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Refillable water bottles
- Portable phone chargers
- Sunscreen
- Ponchos
- Cooling towels
- Autograph books for children
Florida weather can change quickly, so it's always wise to prepare for both sunshine and rain. To view a full list of packing items year-round, read our Ultimate Packing Guide for Your Orlando Vacation.
Step 9: Schedule Rest Days
Trying to do everything at Disney can quickly lead to vacation burnout. Consider planning a resort day between park visits. Enjoy the pool, relax at the spa, or explore nearby attractions throughout Orlando.
Guests staying at Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa can enjoy:
- Pirate-themed pool
- Reflections Spa & Salon
- Family-friendly dining
- Spacious accommodations perfect for downtime
These breaks often become some of the most enjoyable moments of the entire trip.
Step 10: Leave Room for Disney Magic
The best Disney memories often come from unexpected moments. Whether it's discovering a favorite attraction, meeting a beloved character, watching fireworks over Cinderella Castle, or simply spending quality time together, don't overschedule every minute. Allow your family time to explore, relax, and enjoy the experience at their own pace.
Stay Close to the Magic at Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa
Planning a Disney World vacation starts with choosing the right place to stay. Lake Buena Vista Resort Village & Spa offers spacious family suites in Orlando just minutes from Walt Disney World. With full kitchens, multiple bedrooms, separate living areas, and resort-style amenities, our accommodations provide the comfort families need during their Orlando vacation. If you're searching for a spacious suite near Disney, our resort offers the perfect home base for your next family adventure. Book your Orlando suite today and start planning an unforgettable Disney World getaway.
