In this post: Learn all about the top Disney World splurges that are worth the extra cost.
What Disney World Splurges Are Worth It?
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I love a good money-saving hack when it comes to Disney World planning, but honestly, sometimes the splurge is absolutely worth it.
As a mom who knows when to save and when to spend, I’m here to tell you the top things that are actually worth the extra cost.
From special events to Disney resorts to park hopper tickets, we will cover everything you won’t regret buying.
What to Actually Splurge on at Disney
We all know that Disney World is a world of magic and adventure, and while it’s easy to get caught up in the excitement of the rides and shows, certain splurges can take your experience to a whole new level.
If you’re willing to indulge in some premium experiences, here are 15 of the best splurges at Disney World that are truly worth the money.
VIP Tour Services
For a truly exclusive experience, consider booking a VIP Tour. This private tour guide service allows you to bypass the regular lines and receive personalized attention.
You’ll get a customized itinerary, insider tips, and a dedicated guide to make your day seamless and unforgettable. It’s a splurge that provides unmatched convenience and luxury.
Here are a few perks of a private VIP tour:
- The team at Disney VIP Tour Services will plan your day, so you can just chill
- You get your very own VIP Tour Guide who’ll actually customize your day based on what you want to do.
- You’ll be picked up in a private vehicle from your Disney Resort or partner hotel.
- You get to choose the start time that works best for you. How cool is that?
- Want to hop between parks? No problem! You can visit multiple theme parks in one or more days.
- You get to skip the long lines.
- You also get to learn lots of insider knowledge throughout the tour, which, if you are a Disney fanatic like me, you’ll love to lesser known fun facts.
The Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
For younger guests, the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is a magical splurge. Children can be transformed into their favorite princesses or knights with professional hair styling, makeup, and costumes. It’s an unforgettable experience that adds an extra layer of magic to your Disney visit.
Cinderella’s Royal Table
There are lots of amazing dining experiences at Disney World, but only one takes you inside the castle to dine like royalty.
Dining inside Cinderella Castle feels like a dream come true for many guests. Enjoy a delicious meal in a fairytale setting, complete with the chance to interact with iconic characters in an enchanting atmosphere.
Cinderella’s Royal Table offers a regal dining experience with a royal parade or meet-and-greets with Disney princesses. The line-up of princesses varies, but Cinderella is always there.Â
You can meet Cinderella in the Grand Hall before or after your meal.
Some kiddos (ages 3-9) will also receive a princess wand or prince sword as a special surprise gift from the server. This is such a fun little touch that will make the kids so excited.
In fact, my son still has his sword!
In my opinion, this isn’t a must-do every visit type restaurant, but definitely a restaurant must-try at least once.
A Deluxe Resort Stay Near a Park
Disney’s Deluxe Resorts provide an elevated level of comfort and luxury. Fair warning though that once you go Deluxe, it’s VERY hard to go back to moderate and value.
Properties like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort all have walkways to Magic Kingdom.
BoardWalk Inn, Yacht & Beach Club, Swan and Dolphin are all walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
The convenience alone makes the price tag worth it. Not to mention, they offer exquisite amenities, stunning views, and easy access to the parks.
You can even watch the fireworks from the resorts.Â
Oh, and don’t get me started on the dining options. Each Deluxe resort has multiple restaurants from quick service to table service, and some of the best restaurants on Disney property.
The extra space, luxurious rooms, and exceptional service make these resorts worth the splurge.
Private Fireworks Dessert Party
Watch Disney World’s spectacular fireworks from a reserved viewing area with a private dessert party. Enjoy a delicious array of sweet treats and beverages while taking in the breathtaking display. It’s a perfect way to enjoy the nighttime magic in comfort and style.
Minnie Van to Magic Kingdom
One thing to know about transportation to Magic Kingdom is that if you take a rideshare service or the monorail, your first stop will be the ticket and transportation center. From there, you’ll board a monorail and make your way to the park entrance.
This is actually strategic. Walt wanted Magic Kingdom to be completely removed from reality. So, that means no parking lots and stuff like that in sight.
Anyways, the loophole around this is by booking a Minnie Van through the Lyft app They’ll drop you off by the buses. The costs runs a little higher, but it’s definitely worth it to shave off quite a bit of time.
The vans are so cute, too! They’re painted red with white polka dots all over it to look like Minnie Mouse. You’ll certainly be arriving in style.
INSIDER TIP: Â I suggest using a Minnie Van if you need a guaranteed car seat or going to Magic Kingdom.Â
To book a Minnie Van, you’ll go to your Lyft app, plug in where you are going, and then select the Minnie Van option.
The Disney After Hours Event
Disney After Hours events offer a limited-access experience in the parks after regular closing hours. With fewer guests, shorter wait times, and special treats, these events provide a more relaxed and exclusive experience.
It’s perfect for those who want to experience the parks in a more intimate setting.
To piggyback off of the After Hours Events, there are also special occasion after hours events like Mickey’s Not so Scary Halloween Party and Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party.
These are events you have to try at least once. There is specialty food, parades, shows, etc. Plus, your kids will love the shorter lines and getting to hit up all the things they wanted to when the parks may have been a little busier.
Signature Dining Experiences
Disney World boasts several high-end dining options that offer exquisite cuisine and ambiance.
Restaurants like Victoria & Albert’s, Monsieur Paul, and California Grill provide gourmet meals and exceptional service.
These dining experiences are perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a memorable meal.
Lightning Lane Service
This is a must every single time we go to the parks for our family, and I highly recommend making room in your budget for it, too.
The Lightning Lane service allows you to reserve access to popular attractions, minimizing wait times and enhancing your park experience.
While there’s an additional cost, it’s a worthwhile splurge for those who want to maximize their time and experience more of the magic.
Trust me on this one, you’ll get to do so much more with Lightning Lanes.
To purchase, you’ll just go into your app and the option will be on the main page.
Specialty Tours
Disney World offers a range of specialty tours that provide behind-the-scenes access and unique experiences. Tours like the “Keys to the Kingdom” and “Wild Africa Trek” offer in-depth looks at the parks and attractions, complete with exclusive access and knowledgeable guides.
Character Dining Experiences
Character meals offer a unique way to meet beloved Disney characters while enjoying a meal. Options like Chef Mickey’s, The Crystal Palace, ‘Ohana, and Akershus Royal Banquet Hall provide both fantastic food and the opportunity to interact with your favorite characters in a more relaxed setting.
Witnessing your kid’s excitement make this one worth every single penny.
Disney’s Aulani Resort
If you’re looking to extend your Disney experience beyond the parks, consider a stay at Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa in Ko Olina, Hawaii.
This luxurious resort offers stunning beaches, a relaxing spa, and unique Disney experiences in a tropical paradise.
Deluxe Dining Plan
For those who love dining, the Deluxe Dining Plan offers the ultimate culinary experience with three meals and two snacks per day, plus the option to dine at the most exclusive restaurants.
It’s a great way to enjoy a wide range of dining options without worrying about individual meal costs.
Custom Disney Artwork
Bring home a piece of the magic with custom Disney artwork. Artists in the parks offer personalized paintings and sketches of your favorite characters and scenes. It’s a unique and memorable way to commemorate your visit.
The Disney Dreamer Package
For a truly magical experience, consider the Disney Dreamer Package. This all-inclusive package includes a stay at a Deluxe Resort, park tickets, VIP tour services, dining credits, and special experiences like private meet-and-greets and custom itineraries.
You can’t get much more pampered than this.
It’s the ultimate splurge for those looking to experience Disney World in the lap of luxury.
Final Thoughts
There you have it — Disney World Splurges you won’t regret!
Splurging at Disney World can add a layer of luxury and exclusivity to your visit, making your experience even more memorable.
From VIP tours and deluxe resorts to exclusive dining and unique experiences, these splurges are worth considering if you want to enhance your Disney adventure with a touch of magic.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a bit of luxury, these experiences promise to make your visit to Disney World truly unforgettable.
Will you be trying anything from the list? Have you tried something from the list? Would you add anything? I would love to hear from you in the comments below!
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