Top 10 Disney Parks Tips, Tricks, and Hacks to Make Your Visit Magically Perfect

Sure, the monorail is an iconic way to get around Disneyland and Walt Disney World, but did you know it’s also a hidden gem for taking a relaxing break and enjoying the views? Not only does it give you a quick and scenic way to travel between resorts and parks, but you can also hop on the monorail to avoid the crowds during peak times. Plus, it’s a cool way to skip the lines when you’re heading to resorts like the Contemporary or Polynesian for lunch or a quick drink. Pro tip: try riding the monorail at night to see the park lit up in all its glory—hello, magic!

There’s nothing worse than getting to the parks and finding out your favorite ride is closed for refurbishment (hello, Space Mountain). Before you even pack your bags, take a quick look at Disney’s refurbishment calendars online to see if any major attractions are temporarily unavailable. It’s not the most glamorous part of planning, but it’s a must-do! That way, you can avoid disappointment and plan your park days around the rides that are up and running.

Who says you have to have a dining reservation months in advance to enjoy a fantastic meal at Disney? While reservations are always a good idea (hello, Be Our Guest), don’t forget about the walk-up dining option! A lot of quick-service spots and even some table-service restaurants offer walk-up availability, especially during off-peak times. If you’re flexible with your schedule and not worried about having a set reservation, walk-up dining can save you a lot of time (and stress).

Feeling hot and bothered after a few hours in the sun? Animation Academy at Disney California Adventure is the perfect escape. Not only is it air-conditioned (hello, sweet AC), but it’s also a fun, free experience where you can learn how to draw a Disney character from a real animator! Grab a seat, enjoy the cool air, and channel your inner artist while you take a break from the summer heat.

Don’t let Disney snack prices put a damper on your fun. I’m all for indulging in a churro here and there, but when you’re in the parks all day, your snack game needs to be on point. Pack your own snacks! Trail mix, granola bars, or fruit snacks are easy to toss in your bag and will keep your energy up without breaking the bank. Plus, when you’re in the middle of an epic queue and suddenly get hangry, you’ll be prepared. Trust me, a snack stash will be your best friend!

When you’re walking miles under the hot sun, staying hydrated is a must. Thankfully, Disney has free water refill stations at various locations throughout the parks. Bring your own water bottle and fill it up at the refill stations to avoid buying overpriced bottled water. It’s good for your wallet and the environment—talk about a win-win!

Everyone knows the fireworks show at Disneyland is a can’t-miss event, but have you ever watched them from outside the crowds? Head to It’s a Small World or Galaxy’s Edge in Disneyland to enjoy the fireworks without being surrounded by thousands of people. You’ll get a great view, plus a more peaceful experience. For a bonus tip, in Galaxy’s Edge, the fireworks are set to music that fits the Star Wars theme—making the whole experience even cooler. Less crowd, more magic!

You know what’s better than waiting in a 60-minute queue? Using single rider lines! Many of Disney’s top attractions (like Test Track, Expedition Everest, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster) have single rider lines that allow you to get through the ride much faster. It’s perfect if you’re in the parks solo or don’t mind splitting up from your group for a few minutes. You’ll be zipping through those queues and getting more rides in without the long waits!

Gone are the days of waiting in line at quick-service restaurants. With Disney’s Mobile Ordering feature on the My Disney Experience app, you can order your food ahead of time, pay via the app, and skip the line entirely. It’s especially great during peak meal times when the lines at quick-service spots can get insanely long. Simply choose your pickup window, grab your food, and go. It’s a total game-changer!

If you’re serious about making the most of your time in the parks, get to the parks early—like, really early. I’m talking about arriving at rope drop (that magical moment when the park officially opens). Not only will you beat the crowds, but you’ll have the chance to hop on some of the most popular rides with little to no wait. Trust me, getting to the park early and knocking out the top rides will set you up for a smoother, less stressful day. Plus, you’ll have bragging rights for being a true Disney park pro. #RopeDropRoyalty