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Home > Travel Tips > Walt Disney World for First Timers

Walt Disney World for First Timers

January 2, 2026 by Jennifer Shoemaker

First Time at Walt Disney World? Here Are 5 Must-Know Tips for a Magical Vacation!

Planning your very first trip to Walt Disney World can feel just as overwhelming as it is
exciting with four theme parks, two water parks, dozens of resorts, dining reservations, Multi Pass, Single Pass… and don’t forget the Mickey-shaped snacks! As a travel agent specializing in Disney vacations, I’ve helped countless families plan unforgettable first visits and today, I am sharing my Top 5 Tips for Disney World First-Timers so your trip starts off practically perfect in every way.

Book Early — Especially If You Want the Best Options

Walt Disney World is one of the most popular vacation destinations in the world and rooms, dining, and park reservations go fast. Booking early not only gives you the best selection of resorts and room categories, but it also gives you time to plan character dining, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique appointments, and more.

Pro tip: I help clients monitor promotions and apply any eligible discounts automatically, even after booking!

Know the Parks & Make a Plan

Disney World has four theme parks: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom. Each offers unique attractions and experiences. Trying to “wing it” can lead to missed must-do’s. We recommend choosing one park per day and having a flexible game plan that includes a few top priorities.

Pro tip: Choose your top 3 must-do attractions or experiences in each park, and consider everything else that happens as extra pixie dust!

Understand Multi Pass and Single Pass Options

Walt Disney World has replaced Genie+ with the new Multi Pass and Single Pass systems for skipping the standby lines. Multi Pass lets you select multiple attractions in advance, while Single Pass lets you book one top-tier attraction individually. These passes can save time in line but they work best with a plan! I will help you choose the best combination based on park day, crowd levels, and must-do rides.

Pro tip: Not in the budget? That’s okay, I can still help you plan a smart strategy using standby lines and timing to minimize wait times!

Schedule Rest Time

This is a big one! Disney can be magical and exhausting. For first-timers, it’s easy to try to pack everything into one day, but we promise: a midday break or pool afternoon can help everyone enjoy the trip more (especially little ones). Consider a resort with great amenities so rest days feel like part of the vacation.

Pro tip: If your trip is five days or longer, consider blocking off one full day to relax at the resort or enjoy non-park activities; it can make a huge difference in your overall energy and enjoyment.

Work with a Disney Travel Expert

There’s a lot to know about Walt Disney World, but you don’t have to figure it all out alone! When you book with me, you get:

  • Personalized planning guidance
  • Dining & Multi/Single Pass recommendations
  • Itinerary help
  • Travel support before, during and after your trip

And the best part? My services are completely FREE to you when you book your Disney vacation with me.

Whether you’re dreaming of hugging Mickey, riding the monorail, or watching fireworks light up Cinderella Castle, your first Disney trip should be stress-free, joyful, and unforgettable. Let me help you plan the magic from start to finish.

Jennifer Shoemaker
[email protected]
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Filed Under: Disney, Disney First Timers, Disney Vacations, Multigenerational Travel, Travel Tips, Walt Disney World Tagged With: Disney, Disney Tips, First Timers, Walt Disney World

About Jennifer Shoemaker

Jennifer lives in South Carolina with her family. She visits Walt Disney World often as well as Universal Studios Orlando.

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