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A Family Adventure Awaits Going on a Disney cruise is a fantastic way to escape the long, chilly winter. I didn’t think twice about booking my family a Caribbean cruise this past January. My oldest daughter was studying the Mayans and learning Spanish at school, so a cruise stopping in Progreso, Mexico, was the perfect fit. My husband and I surprised the girls with the trip on Christmas, and we sailed out of Galveston, Texas, on the Disney Magic three weeks later. The Itinerary: Cozumel and Progreso The cruise was scheduled to stop at Cozumel and Progreso. While I love my beach time, I was most enthusiastic about visiting Progreso and exploring the Mayan Ruins. Disney offers several port adventures to the Mayan Ruins. After a little research, I chose the Chichen Itza Mayan Ruins port adventure. Chichen Itza is recognized as one of the seven new wonders of the world. Although it’s a 130-minute drive from the Progreso port, which was a slight downside, it seemed worth it for this exciting adventure. Weather Woes Well, as much as I planned and prepared for our Chichen Itza port adventure, the weather had different plans! We experienced very rough seas and heavy winds the night before our stop in Progreso. I received an alert on my phone that our Chichen Itza port adventure had been canceled. Since it wasn’t guaranteed we could dock on time, the 130-minute drive made this adventure no longer viable. As you can imagine, we were a bit disappointed. A Silver Lining This disappointment was short-lived. I headed to the port adventures desk on board for assistance. The crew member was very knowledgeable and helpful. She booked us the Uxmal Mayan Ruins port adventure instead. This Mayan site was only a 90-minute drive from the port! My experience kept getting better. The next morning, we woke up excited for our Mayan ruin adventure. The tour guides greeted us with an air-conditioned bus at the Progreso port, sharing fascinating facts about Progreso and the Uxmal Mayan Ruins along the way. Our guide mentioned that these impressive ruins are less visited than Chichen Itza because they are not as close to Cozumel, which receives many more cruise ships. Progreso averages about 25 cruise ships a month, and its primary industry is fishing, not tourism. Our guide also shared the current US dollar to peso conversion rate, which was very helpful. Exploring Uxmal Once we arrived at the Uxmal Mayan Ruins, we had a guided tour. Our guide spoke English, while most others who worked there did not. We received a wealth of history, had the chance to ask questions, and enjoyed time to walk around. There were very few people there, and no other tour groups at the time we visited. I’m thrilled with the pictures we captured with so few people around. There are a few small shops, drink stands, and a restaurant. We grabbed frozen drinks for the kids before heading out. If we had more time, I would have loved to eat at the restaurant and enjoy some authentic Mexican food. Our experience was wonderful. The only upgrade I would add to this experience is a little more time! Why Choose a Disney Cruise? If you want to visit Progreso and experience the Uxmal Mayan Ruins, Disney Cruise Line currently offers 4 to 5-night cruises out of Galveston sailing from November through March! The combination of Disney's exceptional service and the allure of the Mayan Ruins makes for an unforgettable family vacation. Planning Your Magical Adventure Would you like to learn more about a cruise with Disney? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free, and I price monitor to save you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here or email me at Irene@mouseketrips.com with any cruising questions! Conclusion: A Journey Worth Taking In conclusion, a Disney cruise to Progreso is more than just a vacation; it’s an adventure filled with memories that will last a lifetime. From exploring ancient ruins to enjoying the magic of Disney, every moment is special. So, if you’re considering a getaway, I highly recommend this experience. You won’t regret it!

With Father's Day around the corner, it's the perfect time to share top picks for the Disney Dad! Treat Dad to LaFou's Brew a warm cinnamon roll at Gaston's Tavern in Magic Kingdom! Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Dad can unleash his inner Jedi with this Jedi Knight Sports Chair with side table! Perfect for sporting events, camping and picnics! This travel chair has an adjustable shoulder strap plus two handles for easy transport! Image from Amazon Pair this chair with a Star Wars cooler backpack!Nothing is cooler than this far out Star Wars backpack cooler by Picnic Time ! This backpack is great for keeping dad's favorite beverage or snack cold and fresh! Image from Amazon Get Dad a Disney themed shirt! Dad can look official in this Princess Security t-shirt . It's fun for any Disney trip or princess outing. This Incredible Dad t-shirt is anot her great option! Image from Amazon Dad will feel like a superhero with this Citizen Men's Eco-Drive Marvel Spider Man watch in stainless steel! Image from Amazon Cheesed to meat you! Dad will love charcuterie on this Death Star cheese board ( available in two sizes)! Image from Amazon Dad can stargaze while he builds the Galactic Empire's ultimate fire in this Death Star fire pit ! Image from Amazon Who doesn't love Jack Sparrow? Dad will get a lot of laughs wearing this Jack Sparrow 2024 t-shirt . If you have plans for a Caribbean or Bahamian cruise, this shirt is great for pirate night! Image from Amazon Cruising Alaska? Get Dad this Ice Master of Arendelle t-shirt to wear on Frozen night! Image from Amazon Give the gift that keeps on giving! The Mickey Mouse BBQ grill scraper with a built-in bottle opener is the essential grilling utensil. After the meat is served, this is the item that finishes the job, and the one that gives Dad the opportunity to drink while doing it. Made of parawood and with a hanging rope loop, this scraper was built to last and made with easy storage in mind. Image from Amazon Dad will feel cozy, stylish and comfy in this Barefoot Dreams Classic Disney men's hoodie ! Pair with the matching joggers and slippers or socks for a complete set! Image from Amazon Finally, the PERFECT gift for anyone is the family is the gift of lasting memories. Check out this blog post to learn 5 fun ways to surprise your family with a Disney vacation . I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan your next Disney adventure! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here .

Headed on a Bahamian cruise with Disney or thinking about one? I have you covered! Disney currently offers year-round 3 to 7-night cruise itineraries sailing to the Bahamas out of Florida and Texas on 5 of its cruise ships, with stops at one or both of Disney's private islands, Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay . Some itineraries may be themed, such as Pixar , Halloween on the High Seas , or Merrytime . Bahamian cruises have so much to offer. You'll want to make sure to be prepared and organized if you are headed on one of these adventures to make the most of your vacation! To help simplify your trip, I have a packing checklist along with outfit inspiration to keep you organized as you plan for your Bahamian cruise. Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Embarkation Day Basics Pack these items in a day bag and/or crossbody to keep with you, as your luggage may not arrive at your stateroom until a few hours after the ship leaves port: Medication (in their original containers) Passport and/or  required citizenship documentation Phone charger/portable charger Extra prescription glasses or contact lenses Sunscreen or hat Swimsuit and cover-up Attire and Accessories While you may envision the Bahamas as a warm destination, nights at sea, the theater and dining can be cool, so keep this in mind when packing your outfits. Be sure to pack a few layering pieces. Jeans, pants or leggings Sunglasses T-shirts Shorts Sundresses Sandals or sneakers (rubber-sole shoes for some Port Adventures) Windbreaker/rain jacket Sweater or other clothes you can layer Dinner attire (see below) Exercise clothing if you plan on taking advantage of the fitness center Dining Attire Disney Cruise Line ships feature an array of diverse dining experiences, from casual to upscale. Be sure to follow the dress code for your restaurant: Main Dining  Dining attire is cruise casual in all 3 main dining restaurants, meaning no swimwear or tank tops. Guests often like to dress up, but this is optional. Adult Exclusive Dining   Adult-exclusive restaurants aboard Disney Cruise Line ships are elegant dining experiences and Guests are requested to dress in a manner consistent with the restaurant’s ambiance. Formal or semi-formal attire is recommended. Also permitted is dress-casual attire with a polished look, such as dress pants, jeans in good condition, collared shirts, dressy tops and lifestyle shoes. For brunch at Palo and Palo Steakhouse, dress shorts are acceptable. Clothing such as T-shirts, swimwear and sports attire are not permitted. Formal Night  On 7-night sailings and longer cruises, the ship offers themed nights, including a formal night, and you're encouraged to dress up and participate in the evening's festivities. You'll see guests in everything from sundresses to very formal attire. There are many opportunities for photos. Pirate Night Most sailings do include a pirate night with a themed dinner and deck party. Guests do not have to dress up, but many do. You can wear matching themed shirts or full pirate costumes. There will be many photo opportunities. Other Themed Cruises - Check your sailing to see if you are on a themed cruise such as Halloween on the High Seas, Merrytime, or Pixar. Most guests on these sailings will wear themed shirts or dress in costumes for at least one day of the cruise. Extras Here are a few optional items you may want to include: Cabin Door Magnets Most guests on Disney cruises decorate their cabin door. It's fun to see everyone's creativity and also helpful in locating your room! Fish Extenders If you are participating in a fish extender gift exchange group, don't forget to pack your fish extender and gifts. Hair tools such as a curling iron, flat iron or both. Each stateroom has a small mat to lay these on, just be sure to use it to protect stateroom surfaces. Make up, skin care, toiletries organized in separate make up bags. or a make up box . Band-aids and aloe can come in handy, but are also available at the gift shop if needed. Binoculars can be fun to check out nature and wildlife from your verandah A water-resistant beach day pouch can be used for some port adventures if you want to change out of a wetsuit or for day one on the ship before you have access to your stateroom. Tote ,   crossbody  or insulated backpack cooler for port adventures. What Not to Pack Everyone on board a Disney ship must comply with specific safety guidelines mandated by US Customs and Port Security. This includes not packing certain items. Please DO NOT bring: Firearms and ammunition, any kind of knife, sword, dagger, bullwhip or any other type of weapon. These items are not allowed on the ship under any circumstances. Guests found in possession of any weapons or similar prohibited items on their person or in their baggage may be denied boarding and are subject to severe legal penalties. Homemade, precooked or other perishable items. Irons, bottle warmers, sporting equipment, balloons, candles, musical instruments, illegal drugs inclusive of medically prescribed and synthetic marijuana. Coolers, except those carrying medications, baby food or items related to dietary constraints. Always check the Prohibited Items FAQ Looking for outfit inspiration? Below are some ideas and some of my favorite brands. Resort and Swimwear Bahamin cruises offer plenty of beach time, and time to lounge by the pool. Below my go-to brands for resort and swimwear. Beach Riot What you'll find: Fun designs in vibrant colors, matching mommy and mini dresses, swimsuits and even holiday sweaters , which is great for those themed cruises! La Blanca Swimwear What you'll find: Figure-flattering one and two-piece swimsuits that work for a variety of body types. Both my teenage daughter and I have found favorite suits from La Blanca. They also carry cover-ups and resort wear . Sea Level Swimwear What you'll find: Classic simple designs, nice textures (I love the spinnaker) and great support. If you are looking for the perfect bikini to chase kids around on the beach, look no further than their cross front top which comes in the bra top , tankini and one piece . They also carry a variety of linen pants, blouses and resort dresses . Formal Night You will see a variety of attire for formal night, from very fancy long evening gowns to sundresses. Here are a few of my favorite brands for formal dresses and sundresses. Dress the Population What you'll find : Beautiful evening dresses at reasonable prices. For my last cruise, I found a great little black dress from Dress the Population. If you are on the petite side, they have many styles that will work for you and require no hemming. Their styles range from sequins to floral prints , and even jumpsuits . Lilly Pulitzer What you'll find : Bright colors and fun patterns. Lilly Pulitzer is a popular resort wear brand so you will likely see some designs aboard your cruise and possibly in the gift shop. There are many beautiful bright patterns to choose from and some solid designs . as well. (Also consider their tops, sweaters and shorts for the casual rotational dining). Petal & Pup What you'll find : A variety of dresses from evening to casual. Petal & Pup has beautiful prints , and styles at great prices. They also offer pants and short sets . Pirate Night You'll want to join in the fun for Pirate Night. You can choose to dress in a full pirate costume, wear themed t-shirts, or pirate accessories. Disney provides each guest with a pirate bandana, which makes a fun accessory and souvenir. T-Shirts Try this: For my last cruise, I created my own version of a Let the Pirate Shenanigans Begin shirt using my Cricut . I added "Shenanigans Coordinator" to the back of the kids' shirts, and "Shenanigans Investigator" to the back of my husband's and my shirt. Pirate Costumes and Accessories Try this:  Many guests will wear full pirate costumes. Here's a few great options: Girls Pirate Dress Boys  Pirate Costume Pirate Ears Stay tuned for packing lists for additional cruise destinations! Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free, and I price monitor, saving you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Check out this year's holiday gift guide! I'm so excited to share some of my favorite finds with you. I have the perfect gifts for every Disney traveler, whether they are headed to a Disney destination this year or just want to feel like they are. Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Gifts For Travel Touchland & Disney Special Edition Hand Sanitizer + Mist Case This Touchland & Disney Special Edition Hand Sanitizer + Mist Case perfect travel gift to keep hands clean when stopping for all those Disney snacks! Orbitkey Disney Sling Meet the new must have park bag. Obitkey, known for its high-quality organizational gear, has launched a Disney collection. These bags are waterproof and feature excellent front pockets along with a secure back pocket, ensuring all your essentials for travel and park visits are well-organized. They even make matching quick release key rings that can be added to the bags or used separately! Consider filling the bag with small Disney themed travel items such as Lip Smacker Disney Princess Flavored Lip Balm ,  Mickey Mouse Mad Libs , Mickey Mouse Sleep Mask ,   Bicycle Disney Playing Cards , or Touchland & Disney Special Edition Hand Sanitizer + Mist Case. Packing Cubes Packing cubes and shoe bags are great for organizing suitcases and keeping clothes clean. Packing cubes can be used to sort outfits by day or to keep various items together, such as pool gear or park clothes. These shoe bags are water-resistant and ensure your shoes, which have traveled the parks all day, are safely separated from the rest of your gear. Cabin Door Magnets and Fish Extenders Did you know cruise cabin doors and walls are metal? Cabin door magnets are a fun gift for cruisers. They can be used to decorate the cabin door and even spaces inside the cabin. Placing a magnetic whiteboard on your door is also a fun addition. Cruisers can leave messages for fellow cruisers, ask questions, and let other cruisers respond! Don't forget the fish extender, which is used for gift exchanges between shipmates. Learn more about fish extenders here . Summer Fridays: Your Glow, On the Go Summer Fridays Dream Lip Oil Summer Fridays Jet Lag Mask - Hydrating Face Moisturizer Summer Fridays ShadeDrops Broad Spectrum SPF 30 & Jet Lag Mask Gift Set Everyone wants to feel fresh and look good on vacation. Summer Fridays is excellent for keeping skin hydrated during travel and is safe for the entire family. It's clean, and appropriate for all skin types. With hydration from ingredients such as shea butter, hyaluronic acid, and vitamin E, it makes an ideal travel companion! #SummerFridaysonAmazon Washable Luggage Covers 30-32 Inch Luggage 22-24 Inch Luggage Ever have a hard time locating your bags at baggage claim? These covers come in a variety of designs and are waterproof and dust proof, so they will not only help you quickly find your luggage after hopping off the plane or on when leaving your cruise, but they will keep your luggage clean and dry! CreateOn Crayola Magnetic Tiles These vibrant magnetic tiles make learning fun and are perfect for extended car rides. They are available in a range of colors and designs, including a doodle draw option! Blenders Sunglasses These are my go to shades and I have received so many compliments. I purchased this pair for a Disney trip and couldn't be happier. They are reasonably priced, great quality and keep everything bright, not dim. My tween and teen daughters liked them so much I had to order additional pairs. The mirrored lenses also work well if you want to capture a castle reflection picture in your lenses! Disney Havaianas Disney Havaianas are perfect go to Disney flip flops for cruises, relaxing by the resort pool, and keeping in your park bag for rainy weather. They are comfortable and come in a variety of designs. Disney Princess Owala Swig or sip, you choose, with this Disney Princess Owala . I love that it comes in a variety of princess styles including, Ariel, Belle, Tiana, Rapunzel, Cinderella and Moana. My Owala goes everywhere with me. This one, the 24 oz, is narrow enough to fit most car cupholders. The larger ones do not. Portable Fan Any traveler headed to Florida during the summer months will really appreciate a portable fan. This one comes with a lanyard, is very light, and has joined me on quite a few park visits. It's rechargeable, so you will need to remember to recharge each night. CamelBak Quick Stow Flask A collapsable water bottle is a great addition to a park bag. I like this CamelBak Quick Stow Flask . It will save space, money (fill with free cups of ice water available at quick service kiosks throughout the park), and it's very lightweight. I have four of these and no leaks! High Powered Waterproof Binoculars Binoculars are a must have for anyone traveling on an Alaskan cruise. This pair is compact and waterproof making it perfect for enjoying all Alaska has to offer! Want to learn more about Alaskan cruises? Check out 10 Reasons You'll Love An Alaskian Cruise with Disney Luxury Gifts Geir Ness Laila Eau de Parfum Spray Geir Ness NORSK SNØ Eau de Parfum There's a reason this perfume is one of Epcot's most popular! In facebook groups you will often hear it referred to as "Epcot's Norway perfume". Envision the freshness of Norway’s mountains, fjords and valleys with Laila . NORSK SNØ evokes a fresh and confident vibe, similar to the crisp aroma of Nordic snow. Both can be found at the Norway pavilion in Epcot and keep travelers coming back for more. Many don't realize Geir Ness Laila Eau de Parfum Spray and Geir Ness NORSK SNØ Eau de Parfum can both be purchased outside the parks as well and make an amazing holiday gift! Disney socks, Blankets, Wraps and More From Barefoot Dreams Did you know Barefoot Dreams offers a Disney collection? If you haven't tried Barefoot Dreams yet, they produce some of the softest fabrics imaginable. What better way to unwind and enjoy your favorite Disney movie on a chilly winter night than by wearing a cozy pair of Disney Barefoot Dreams socks or wrapping yourself in a Disney Barefoot Dreams throw or robe You'll find gifts for everyone, from babies to adults. . Kendra Scott Disney Elisa Princess Necklace Kendra Scott has gained popularity in recent years and now offers a DISNEY collection! During our last park visit, a Disney Kendra Scott souvenir was a must have for my tween and teen. Check out all the Disney pieces here ! Kitsch Disney Mickey Mouse Satin Pillowcase Wake up to smoother hair and glowing skin with this silky and stylish Mickey pillowcase! Anyone with longer hair will love this gift! Satin Pillowcases are great for keeping hair smooth and tangle free. Gifts for the Home & Family Disney Board Games Stitch Yahtzee Disney Villains Clue What's not to love about a Disney twist on a classic game? These would be great additions to family game night! Consider Disney Villains Clue, Chutes and Ladders: Disney Princess Edition , Uno Star Wars . or Stitch Yahtzee . The Official Disney Parks Cookbook Some of the best vacation moments happen during a great meal, and this collection of official Disney parks recipes is the perfect ingredient to sharing similar food, love, and laughter with friends and family at home! The Official Disney Parks Cookbook: 101 Magical Recipes from the Delicious Disney Vault is a great gift for the family or any foodie on your list. The Kona salad in this one is a family favorite in my house! Pixar: The Official Cookbook Launch your kitchen “to infinity and beyond,” with this inspiring, high-quality cookbook featuring more than 75 delicious recipes inspired by beloved Pixar films! This comprehensive, family-friendly cookbook features nearly every Pixar short and film in chronological order and includes a creative collection of colorful appetizers, mains, and desserts that fans will adore, from Ratatouille from Ratatouille to Trenette al Pesto from Luca ! Disney | Dash Mickey & Minnie My Mug Ice Cream Maker Bundle My girls have loved Dash for years. They make cute, accessible kitchen gadgets. Now, they have a Disney line! Many are mini-sized and perfectly proportioned for creative minds. Also be sure to check out the Mickey and Minnie popcorn maker , Mickey and Friends waffle maker, Daisy and Donald waffle maker, Stitch and Mickey Santa waffle makers , and the double Stitch waffle maker . Picnic Time Cutting Boards and Cooler Totes Picnic Time carries an adorable line of cutting boards and totes perfect for movie night, school picnics or family outings. Check out their online store . Disney Princess Icons Ceramic Camper Mug & Winnie The Pooh Up and Away Double Wall Stainless Steel Stemless Tumbler Silver Buffalo and Toynk have a wide range of really cute character themed items for the home. From mugs, to dishes and planters, you are sure to find something to put a smile on your face. These are two items I feel in love with. The princess camper mug is so cozy for warm drinks at home, and the Winnie the Pooh tumbler is fun for a cheery beverage on the go. #iloveToynk Magic Candle Company Candles Magic Candle Company Candles  are my favorite Disney scented candles. The scents capture the resorts and attractions perfectly. Using the candle warmer with the candle will really extend the life of the candle. The website frequently runs sales, so if you are looking to gift candles, would definitely check them out. Holiday Themed Gifts Disney Ornaments I love these ornaments from It All Started With A Flag . They make hand crafted wood ornaments for virtually every Disney resort and destination. The owner, who happens to be a former Disney Cast member, is very easy to work with and will personalize these ornaments for you upon request. You can add a name, special date or message to the back of the ornament to make it extra special. Disney Advent Calendar Lego Disney Advent Calendar , a 253-piece buildable toy packed with 24 days of characters, activities and surprises! Mini Brands Disney Advent Calendar includes 24 minis for an exciting holiday countdown. MAD beauty makes a 12 day advent calendar with bath and body goodies fit for any princess. Gifts Sure to Please the Kids Skirfy Kids Princess Play Tent During the winter months a cozy tent is the perfect place sit down with a book or craft. What princess wouldn't enjoy this adorable tent? Use this 50% promo code ：ZHUWCWPK through 11/1/25 for 50% off! Have a Moana fan? Check out this tropical themed Moana inspired tent with LED lights! Disney Crocs Yup, Crocs has a Disney line . With Florida rain and trips to the pool, Crocs do make a practical shoe for a Disney trip. You can even dress them up with Disney Jibbitz in a variety styles and Disney characters. Check out their online store . Princess Lip Smacker Glam Bag This Princess Lip Smacker Glam Bag makes a great gift for any little princess who is packing for a Disney vacation or just wants a little glam at home. Winne the Pooh MAD Beauty Hand Warmers These are perfect for cold walks to school or the bus stop. A set of Winnie the Pooh hand warmers from MAD Beauty makes for a great stocking stuffer. MAD beauty has a complete Disney line of bath, body and skincare products. Check out their online store . RUGGABLE Disney Classic Mickey Mouse Washable Rug Find hidden Mickeys at home! This kid friendly, pet friendly, washable rug comes in several different Disney designs. The more bold designs are great for playrooms, while the more subtle designs could be used in a family room, entryway or living room . Star Wars Choose Your Own Destiny Chapter books With multiple pathways and endings, these books provide hours of fun and adventure. Check out Star Wars: An ObiWan & Anakin Adventure: A Choose Your Destiny Chapter Book , or other books in this series. Disney Pixar Storybook Collection: Tales to Finish: Color Your Own Storybook Collection! What kid doesn't want to color their own storybook! This book is great for artists who love to read as well as reluctant readers who love to color. Star Wars Mandalorian Baby Yoda backpack   Fill this Star Wars Mandalorian Baby Yoda backpack or Star Wars Mandalorian Yoda Collapsible Nylon Basket with a coordinating insulated lunch box , Star Wars Baby Yoda gripper socks and Star Wars lounge pants for your favorite little Star Wars fan. The Perfect Gift for EVERYONE A Disney Vacation Nothing makes a better gift than the gift of lasting memories. Check out this blog post to learn 5 creative ways to surprise your family with a Disney vacation . What memories will you create in the new year? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan your next Disney adventure! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Ahoy! Headed on a Disney Cruise? Here is a step-by-step checklist of 6 things you should do before heading out to sea. Be sure to save this so you can be prepared and organized for a great vacation! Check your dining time. There are two seating times for dinner. The main and most popular is the 5:45 pm seating. This one goes first. When you book, you are asked which time you would like, and if the main time is full, the default is the second seating, which is 8:15 pm. Both seating times allow you to see the evening entertainment. There are always two shows, and you will eat opposite your showtime. So if you have the 5:45 pm seating, you will see the show after dinner; if you have the 8:15 pm dinner, you will see a show before. While guests with very young children often feel the 8:15 dining time is too late, I think it comes with many benefits. First, your dining and showtimes are less crowded, and you can come back from your port adventure later. There is no rush to return to the ship to get dressed for dinner. If you are hungry before dinner, there is always food available for a pre-dinner snack on the pool deck. Knowing your time will help you prepare as you are booking port adventures and onboard fun later. Be sure you have travel documents. Approximately 30 days prior to sailing, you will complete online check-in. At this time, you will need to have your travel documents available and ready to scan. All guests must provide a government-issued ID, and most itineraries also require a valid passport. Information on your sailing can be found here . Create a My Disney Experience Account. Create a My Disney Experience  account and download the mobile app. Through this account you will: Link your resort reservation Count down to to sailing date Book port adventures, upgraded dining and onboard fun Connect with family and friends traveling with you View daily activities View restaurants, dining times and menus See showtimes Chat with crew mates See maps of the ship Many of the features will not be accessable to you until you reach the port. Prior to sailing you will us the App mostly just to book onboard fun and port adventures. While onboard you will find this extremely helpful for a variety of uses. Mark important dates on your calendar. First time cruisers are eligible to book onboard fun and port adventures 75 days prior to sailing. Returning guests may have earlier booking windows. Check with Disney or your Travel Advisor for your booking dates. Book when your booking window first opens for best availability. First time cruisers complete online check in 30 days prior to sailing. Returning guests may have earlier check in windows. Check with Disney or your Travel Advisor for your check in date. During online check in you will upload important travel documents and receive your port arrival time. Look into themed nights so you can prepare. Cruises often feature themed nights, making it fun to dress up. Cruises lasting seven nights or more include a formal night, while shorter cruises offer a semi-formal or optional formal night. Additionally, many cruises have a pirate nigh t or a Frozen-themed night . For specific details about your cruise, contact your Travel Advisor or call Disney Cruise Line. Review packing lists and prohibited items I like to create a packing list for each member of my family. Disney Cruise Line offers suggested packing lists for each cruise destination. Packing lists can be found here . These lists can be a great starting point when creating your own personalized list. You'll also want to be sure to check what items are not allowed aboard your ship. Prohibited items can be found here . Do note, under the alcohol policy that each adult may carry on 2 bottles of wine or 6 beers. Work with a Disney Vacation Planner . Most Disney Vacation Planners do not charge any extra for their services and can help you with all of the steps to prepare for your vacation, as well as provide personalized recommendations. Another benefit of working with a Disney vacation planner is having someone who can price monitor your trip. Disney often releases new offers, and if a new offer becomes available that can lower the cost of your trip, most will apply the offer for you automatically, saving you money. If you have booked your trip within the past 30 days, you may be able to transfer the booking to a Disney Vacation Planner . Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free, and I price monitor, saving you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

It's that time of year again! If you are looking to check off your holiday shopping list for your favorite Disney traveler, look no further! I have the perfect gifts for every Disney traveler, whether they are headed to a Disney destination this year, or just want to feel like they are. Christmas at Animal Kingdom Lodge Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Gifts For Travel Collapsable Sand Buckets Image from Amazon These collapsable sand buckets  are great for anyone headed off to one of Disney's private islands, Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point. Loungefly Mini Backpack Image from Amazon Loungefly  has a themed bag that will fit every Disney style. These bags come in very handy as you are traveling both to and from your destination, but you will also see they are very popular at the parks and on cruises. Consider filling the bag will small Disney themed items such as Lip Smacker Disney Princess Flavored Lip Balm ,  Mickey Mouse Mad Libs , Mickey Mouse Sleep, Mask Mickey Mouse Pimple Patches , or Minnie's Magic Glow Face Masks Disney Havaianas Image from Amazon Disney Havaianas  are great for cruises, lounging by the resort pool, and throwing in your park bag in case it rains. Disney Sand Cloud Towels Image from Sand Cloud Sand Cloud Towels are very soft and repeal the sand making them perfect for any beach trip. Sand Cloud has both a Disney and Star Wars collection with really creative designs. Use this  link for $15 off your first order. A White Stanley Cup and Metallic Sharpies A white Stanley Cup  and Metallic Sharpie Markers   from Amazon make a great gift for anyone looking to collect character autographs. For more character autograph ideas, check out this blog post. Portable Fan Image from Amazon Any traveler headed to Florida during the summer months will really appreciate a portable fan. This one comes with a lanyard, is very light, and has joined me on quite a few park visits. CamelBak Quick Stow Flask Image from Amazon A collapsable water bottle is a great addition to a park bag. I like this CamelBak Quick Stow Flask . It will save space, money (fill with free cups of ice water available at quick service kiosks throughout the park), and it's very lightweight. I have four of these and no leaks! Luxury Gifts Once Upon a Vine Wine and JoyJolt Disney Glasses Image from Amazon Once Upon a Vine Wines can be found at Disney Parks and Resorts, but this wine can also often be found at your local beer and wine store. If you don't see it on the shelf, ask at the register, sometimes it can be special ordered! Pair a bottle with fun Disney glasses from JoyJolt. They carry an entire Disney Line. Check out their online store here . Magic Candle Company Candles Magic Candle Company Candles  are the BEST Disney scented candles. The scents capture the resorts and attractions perfectly. I will be gifting myself some new scents this year. The website frequently runs sales, so I would definitely check them out. Disney socks, Blankets, Wraps and More From Barefoot Dreams Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Did you know Barefoot Dreams has a Disney collection ? If you haven't yet experienced Barefoot Dreams, they create just about the softest fabric you can imagine. What better way to relax and watch your favorite Disney movie on a cold winter night, then wearing a cozy pair of Disney Barefoot Dream socks or wrapped in a Disney Barefoot Dreams throw or robe. You'll find gifts for everyone from babies to adults (even pets) on their online store . Corkcicle Disney Tumblers, Waterbottles and Accessories Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Corkcicle offers some great Disney and Star Wars designs. Check out their online store . I especially like the Star Wars and Princess tumblers. Star Wars Stackable Drinking Glasses Image from Amazon May the fun be with you! Glasses don't get much cuter than these Star Wars Stackable drinking glasses from JoyJolt. BaubleBar Disney Jewlery Image from Amazon BaubleBar is known for good quality and great design and they carry and Disney line. Check out their online store for anyone on your list who likes jewelry. Gifts for the Family Disney Board Games Image from Amazon Image from Amazon What's not to love about a Disney twist on a classic game? These would be great additions to family game night! Consider Disney Villains Clue, Chutes and Ladders: Disney Princess Edition , Uno Star Wars . or Stitch Yahtzee The Offical Disney Parks Cookbook Image from Amazon Some of the best vacation moments happen during a great meal, and this collection of official Disney parks recipes is the perfect ingredient to sharing similar food, love, and laughter with friends and family at home! The Offical Disney Parks Cookbook: 101 Magical Recipes from the Delicious Disney Vault is a great gift for the family or any foodie on your list. Picnic Time Cutting Boards and Cooler Totes Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Picnic Time carries an adorable line of cutting boards and totes perfect for movie night or a family picnic. Check out their online store . Holiday Themed Gifts Disney Ornaments I love these ornaments from It All Started With A Flag . They make hand crafted wood ornaments for virtually every Disney resort and destination. The owner, who happens to be a former Disney Cast member, is very easy to work with and will personalize these ornaments for you upon request. This year, I ordered my daughters Boardwalk Resort ornaments and had their names and the year engraved on the back in celebration of our summer vacation. Disney Advent Calendar Image from Amazon Image from Amazon Mini Brands Disney Advent Calendar includes 24 minis for an exciting holiday countdown. MAD beauty makes a 12 day advent calendar with bath and body goodies fit for any princess. Minnie and Mickey Lip Balm and Lip Scrub This lip balm and lip scrub set in holiday scents is perfect for a stocking stuffer. Gifts Sure to Please the Kids Disney Crocs Image from Amazon Yup, Crocs has a Disney line . You can order Disney Crocs and Jibbitz in a variety styles and Disney characters. Check out their online store . Princess Lip Smacker Glam Bag Image from Amazon The Princess Lip Smacker Glam Bag makes a great gift for any little princess. Winne the Pooh MAD Beauty Hand Warmers Image from Amazon These are perfect for cold walks to school or the bus stop. A set of Winnie the Pooh hand warmers from MAD Beauty makes for a great stocking stuffer. MAD beauty has a complete Disney line of bath, body and skincare products. Check out their online store . Alice in Wonderland Limited Edition Box Makeup Set Image from Amazon This Alice and Wonderland themed make up kit by Wet n Wild is perfect for any tween on your list. Star Wars Choose Your Own Destiny Chapter books Image from Amazon These books provide hours of fun and adventure. Check out Star Wars: An ObiWan & Anakin Adventure: A Choose Your Destiny Chapter Book , or other books in this series. Disney Pixar Storybook Collection: Tales to Finish: Color Your Own Storybook Collection! Image from Amazon What kids doesn't want to color their own storybook! This book is great for artists who love to read as well as reluctant readers who love to color. Disney "Up" House LEGO Set This Disney Pixar Lego set is great for LEGO enthusiasts ages 9 and up. Disney LEGO Celebration Train Image from Amazon This LEGO Disney Celebration Train includes a variety of loved characters and is for children ages 4 and up. MAD Beauty Disney Mulan Bath Milk Image from Amazon Know someone loyal, brave and true? This lotus flower and peony scented bubble bath milk will be the perfect gift. Be sure to check out the matching mirror and hand care set ! The Perfect Gift for EVERYONE A Disney Vacation Nothing makes a better gift than the gift of lasting memories. Check out this blog post to learn 5 fun ways to surprise your family with a Disney vacation . What memories will you create in the new year? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan your next Disney adventure! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here .

With the holidays right around the corner, I wanted to share a few ways to surprise loved ones with the gift of lasting memories! As an added bonus, all of these ideas include ways to slide in a little learning before your trip! Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Present a countdown calendar. A countdown calendar can take on many forms, but a common and simple way to create one is to print out a month view page of a calendar. Children in preschool to second grade generally have a month view calendar in their classrooms that is used for daily skill building. Creating a month view Disney countdown calendar for home can not only be a fun way to count down to a Disney vacation, but it can help reinforce skills that are being taught at school, such as one-to-one correspondence, patterns, days of the week, and even months depending on how far out you make your calendar. For younger children, it may be best not to make the countdown too far out (a month or less). Great questions to ask as you are counting down towards your vacation are, "How many days have we crossed off?" and "How many more days until our trip?" Calendars can be easily made for free using Canva, or you can find free printable calendars by searching Google Images. Wrap up puzzle pieces that reveal the surprise. Purchase a blank jigsaw puzzle and write the surprise message, such as "We are going to Disney World!" Puzzles are great for problem-solving, reasoning, and building spatial awareness. This blank jigsaw puzzle from Amazon comes in an 8-pack. Consider writing one word on each puzzle for an extra challenge! Just be sure to keep each puzzle in separate baggies to prevent pieces from getting mixed up. Send your family on a a Disney scavenger hunt. Scavenger hunts are always fun, and you can get really creative by mixing in problem-solving or math problems. Start with a clue that leads to the next clue until you reveal the final surprise. Below are some clues you could use to get started: Captain Hook hid your clue in a treasure chest, but first, you'll have to solve this problem! (Use a combination lock on a box, give a math problem where the solution is the code for the box. Ex: There are 357 pieces of gold and 482 gems. How many treasures are there in the box?) Mirror mirror on the wall, you'll find the next clue here! (tape the clue to a mirror) Pluto hid your next clue (tape the under a dog dish, or by dog food) Sleeping beauty knows where to find your next clue. (hide the clue under a bedroom pillow) When the clock struck midnight, this got left behind, and so did your clue (hide the clue in a shoe) I'm hiding under a dinglehopper. (hide the clue in the silverware drawer) Use a guess box. In a bag or box, put several items related to the vacation. Gather the family together. Tell them you have several items that you will reveal one at a time, and it's their job to put the clues together to guess the theme. Start with the least obvious item, such as sunglasses. Items may include bathing suits, tennis shoes for lots of walking, flip-flops for the pool or beach destinations, mini Disney backpacks, Disney or matching t-shirts, ears, magic bands, fish extenders or door magnets for cruises, etc. Take items out one by one and let the fun begin! Heading on a cruise or Adventures by Disney? Write a letter in the language spoken at the destination. This is so fun and works great for older children (and adults)! Last Christmas, we surprised the kids with a cruise with stops in Mexico. My oldest happened to be taking Spanish at school. We decided to wrap up a letter describing the trip and what we would be doing, all written in Spanish. The kids had to translate the letter to learn about the trip and our planned excursions. Google Translate can help you translate any text into whatever language you are looking for. Ready to give the gift of family travel? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here or email me Irene@mouseketrips.com with any questions! Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Heading to Disney? Here is a step-by-step checklist of 5 things you should do before arriving at your resort. Be sure to save this so you can be prepared and organized for a great vacation! Create a My Disney Experience Account. Create a My Disney Experience  account and download the mobile app. Through this account you will: Link your resort reservation Connect with family and friends traveling with you View attractions, height requirements and wait times Purchase Lightning Lane passes View restaurants and menus Make dining reservations and complete online ordering See bus times Get maps and walking directions Complete online check in Get comfortable with this app prior to your trip. Make a list of your "must do" attractions. Check out restaurants and begin to think about which ones are the best fit for your travel party. Mark important dates on your calendar. If you are a resort guest, 60 days prior to your check-in date you can begin booking dining reservations. 7 days prior to your stay, you can book Lightning Lanes passes. If booking a resort package, the final payment will be due 30 days prior to check-in. Review the Disney park calendar Review the Disney park calendar . Make note of the opening and closing times of each park, extended evening hours, parades, and night show times. This will help you determine which park you would like to be at each day. Check the weather for your stay. Are you visiting during a hot or rainy season? Make sure you have everything you need to make the most of your stay. Below is a table that shows what you can expect during each month. As you get closer to your stay, be sure to check the weather app as well. Month Avg High / Low (°F) Rain Crowds Notes January 71 / 49 Low Low Cool mornings, mild days February 74 / 52 Low Moderate Warming up, great for outdoor days March 78 / 56 Moderate High (Spring Break) More crowded, comfortable temps April 83 / 60 Low High Warm, less rain, busy May 88 / 66 Moderate Moderate Hotter, humid starts June 90 / 72 High High Rainy afternoons, start of summer heat July 92 / 74 High High Hottest month, humid, storms likely August 92 / 74 High Moderate Similar to July, fewer crowds late in month September 89 / 73 High Low Still hot, hurricane season October 84 / 66 Moderate Moderate-High Pleasant weather, Halloween events November 78 / 58 Low Moderate-High Cooler, start of holiday crowds December 73 / 52 Low High (Christmas) Cool, festive, crowded later in month Prepare to travel the parks. Disney World requires a lot of walking. You'll want to make sure you have comfortable walking shoes. If anyone in your party has mobility issues, consider renting a scooter. ScooterBug will drop off a scooter right at your resort. Don't underestimate the need for a stroller, even for older kids. ScooterBug also rents strollers. Alternatively, strollers can be rented at each park, either daily or for the length of your stay through Disney. Work with a Disney Vacation Planner . Most Disney Vacation Planners do not charge any extra for their services and can help you with all of the steps to prepare for your vacation, as well as provide personalized recommendations. Many will even book your dining reservations for you if you like. Another benefit of working with a Disney vacation planner is having someone who can price monitor your trip. Disney often releases new offers, and if a new offer becomes available that can lower the cost of your trip, most will apply the offer for you automatically, saving you money. If you have booked your trip within the past 30 days, you may be able to transfer the booking to a Disney Vacation Planner . Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free, and I price monitor, saving you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

We are just two weeks away from the opening night of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party! Today I'm sharing some fun, creative, and simple Disney-themed costume ideas that will make you stand out and keep you comfortable! Some links on this website are affiliate links. This means, if you click on a link to one of these products and make a purchase,  I may receive a small commission at no cost to you.  I only recommend products I would use myself and all opinions expressed here are my own. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.  Tower of Terror Transform into a Tower of Terror Bellhop with this Hollywood Terror Hotel patch from Etsy, which can be ironed onto a tank or tee. Add these Tower of Terror themed ears , and you are set to go! This "Take the Stairs Shirt" pairs great if you want to add a little humor! Sassy Princess Crew Grab your girls and give a nod to your favorite princess with a sassy tank and a princess-themed set of ears! Cinderella Has anyone seen my glass slipper? tank Ears Snow White Original Princess tank Ears Aurora Being a Princess is Exhausting tank Ears Belle My Weekend is Booked tank Ears Moana Hei Hei is My Spirit Animal tank Ears Ariel Mermaid Hair Don't Care tank Ears Rapunzel I Have Magic Hair That Grows When I Sing tank Ears Jamine World Traveler tank Ears Tiana Tired of Kissing Frogs tank Ears Haunted Mansion Happy Haunts Feeling spooky? Dress as one of Haunted Mansion's 999 happy haunts! With the help of a Cricut Explore 3 you can DIY your own shirt or tank with glow in the dark heat transfer vinyl or wear this cute Haunted Mansion dress or Beware of Hitch Hiking Ghost Shirt . Accessorize with creepy claw clips ! Wilderness Explorers Channel your inner camper with this Wilderness Explorer t-shirt or tank and accessorize with a hat and bag . (The bag is a great place to stash extra candy as you are trick-or-treating around the park!) Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Without a doubt, there are some fantastic table service dining options at Hollywood Studios. Sci Fi Dine-In theater remains my go to spot for family dining. Here's what keeps bringing me back! Theming The dining room immerses you in a 50s style drive in theater. Most tables are 50s style convertible cars positioned to view a big screen with vintage clips that are sure to give you feelings of nostalgia while introducing the kids to a new genre of entertainment! Prices If you are paying out of pocket, versus using a meal plan, the prices are towards the lower end for a table service meal. They also offer a 10% discount if you are using a Disney Visa card! Food My family has dined at Sci Fi Dine In Theater more times than I can count and the food has been consistently good. We have enjoyed salads, burgers, sandwiches, shakes and adult beverages. The menu is full of familiar favorites such as thick shakes, juicy burgers and crispy onion rings. A few tips: Reservations for this one go fast! If you are a resort guest, be sure to make your reservation as soon as your reservation window opens. For all other guests, you may make your reservation 60 days ahead of your visit. If you are unable to get an advanced dining reservation there is a walk up wait that may have availability. Priority car seating is given to guests with advanced reservations. So, if you are able to join the walk up list expect a table not a car. You will still have a great view of the screen and enjoy the overall vibe, so I wouldn't let this discourage you. The car outside the restaurant is a great spot for a picture. Hop in and see who can create the funniest pose! Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to work with you! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!

Disney World is my go-to place for family fun and memories. My husband and I have been taking the kids since they were babies. We have stayed at and visited most of the resorts. With more than 25 Disney Resorts to choose from, Disney's Yacht Club Resort often makes the short list of fan favorites. It is definitely one of ours! Why Choose Disney's Yacht Club Resort? Disney's Yacht Club Resort is situated in the Epcot area, right beside its sister resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort . The New-England style nautical theming will transport you to a world of seaside charm and elegance. This stunning resort is packed with a plethora of perks that will make your Disney experience unforgettable. Here are just a few reasons my family keeps coming back to Disney's Yacht Club. Sunrise from a first floor resort view room at Disney's Yacht Club Resort Stormalong Bay Disney Yacht Club is home to Stormalong Bay. This pool is arguably the BEST at any Disney resort. It features a lazy river and a sand-bottom pool area. Guests receive wristbands upon arrival to ensure only those staying at Disney's Yacht and Beach Club have access. Campfire and Movies Under the Stars While all resorts offer Movies Under the Stars and most have campfires, I love the setup at Disney's Yacht Club. Adirondack chairs are arranged right on the beach. Sometimes, you might even find a pop-up glow party here! Fireworks Epcot fireworks can be viewed from the Boardwalk area in front of this resort, as well as from many rooms. Watching the fireworks from the comfort of your room is a magical experience! Fireworks viewing from a resort view first floor room at Disney's Yacht Club Resort Accessibility The Yacht Club is a very short walk to Epcot and a quick ferry ride to Hollywood Studios. If you're up for a slightly longer walk, there is a scenic path that can take you to Hollywood Studios from the resort. Epcot at night Sunsets You can see beautiful sunsets over Crescent Lake while walking along the Boardwalk, or from many resort rooms. These moments make for wonderful photo opportunities. Sunset at Disney's Yacht Club Extended Evening Hours The Yacht Club is a Deluxe Resort. On select nights, extended evening hours are offered at select parks. If you plan to take advantage of these extended hours at Hollywood Studios or Epcot, this location is ideal! Guardian's of the Galaxy queue during extended evening hours Beaches and Cream Soda Shop While this deluxe resort has many food offerings, including a character breakfast, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is a unique 50s-style ice cream shop. They serve delicious sandwiches, but the main attraction is the ice cream. This is the spot where you will find Disney's famous Kitchen Sink sundae. This sundae, made for sharing, is big in every way. It comes out with a special announcement and flashing lights. The Kitchen Sink at Disney's Beaches and Cream Soda Shop With all these fantastic features, it's no wonder that Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a favorite among families. Whether you're splashing around in Stormalong Bay or enjoying a cozy movie night by the beach, your family will create memories that last a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? Let's make your Disney dreams come true! Planning Your Disney Adventure Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner , and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free, and I price monitor, saving you time and money! Request a no-obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe so you never miss a new post!

During the fall and winter months, Magic Kingdom closes at 6 p.m. on several evenings for special ticketed events. This means guests pay full price for park tickets, but their visit is shorter than on typical days, which leaves many questioning, are early closure days the best days to visit Magic Kingdom? August through October the park hosts Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party followed by Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party November and December. The parties offer holiday ride overlays, character meet and greets, parades, fireworks, treats and lower crowds. While the official start time of the party is 7 p.m., eager ticketed guests can arrive as early as 4 p.m. Attending the Disney holiday parties has become a tradition for my family over the past few years. We love the parties for the holiday fun and low crowds, but the 4 p.m to 6 p.m. time frame when there's the overlap of day guests and party guests hasn't been my favorite. Around 6 p.m when the day crowd leaves it's so much less crowded and that's when we can really kick back and enjoy. This has left me wondering, what it is like on the flip side? What do the morning guests experience before the party guests arrive? This year I decided to find out for myself. I took my husband and two girls to Magic Kingdom during the day on opening night of Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween party to check this out. So, here's a snapshot of what our day looked like. Magic Kingdom opened at 8 a.m. We arrived a little before 8 a.m, scanned our magic bands for early entrance (this is a perk available for resort guests) at about 7:55 and walked towards Space Mountain. We were able to walk right on Space Mountain with no wait at all. Afterwards, we filled up our popcorn bucket and got pixie dusted! The cast member told us we were his first customers of the day and said anything we wanted was on him. We thanked him, grabbed a few waters to go with the popcorn and headed to Tiana's Bayou which had a 10 minute wait. Next, we walked over to Haunted Mansion where the time posted was 13 minutes. Pirates of the Caribbean was our next stop. There was a very short wait there as well, about 10 minutes. Unfortunately, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train was closed, so we missed out on that ride. Tron consistently had a 40 to 60 minute wait throughout the day, which isn't a horrible wait for Tron, but longer than we were willing to wait for Tron given it's not one of our favorite rides. We rode a few other rides we could walk on to with a little or no wait. We spent time shopping, and when we were hungry, we went to Tony's Town Square and got on the walk up list and they sat us right away. When checking the my Disney experience app, I did notice most restaurants did have availability so I was not worried about making reservations ahead of time for this visit. Tony's Town Square Overall, I noticed the crowd was visibly thinner than what I had experienced at the holiday parties I have previously attended, but the wait times were longer at times. I believe this is because there are fewer other things pulling guests away from attractions to create the shorter wait times. For example, at the parties you will also find dance parties, character meet and greets and complimentary snacks (candy for Halloween, and cookies for Christmas). We visited during mid August which typically has lower crowds, but this crowd was thinner than I had experienced during my park visits earlier that week. Space Mountain Here are my takeaways: Pros of visiting Magic Kingdom on an early closure day: Thinner crowds Easier to get dining reservations Cons of visiting Magic Kingdom on an early closure day: Less time at the park due to the earlier closure Must go early (expect a crowd to arrive at 4 p.m.) No fireworks Here are a few tips to make the most of your early closure Magic Kingdom day: 1. Arrive Early Get to the park when it opens. If you are a resort guest, take advantage of early entry hours and enjoy an extra 30 minutes. 2. Take Advantage of Lower Crowds Utilize the early hours when crowds are lighter. Focus on high-demand attractions first, then enjoy less popular rides as the day progresses. 3. Enjoy Holiday Decorations, Merchandise and Treats Take time to appreciate the festive decorations throughout the park. Stroll through the shops. Check for specialty seasonal treats that may be available. You can plan ahead by checking menus. I also often post updates on Instagram and Facebook so be sure to follow me! 4. Consider a 4 p.m. Dining Reservation. At 4 p.m. the park will become much more crowded as party guests arrive. This is a great time to get out of the crowd and sit down for a meal before you leave the park. 5. Park Hop If you have a park hopper ticket, Magic Kingdom on a party day is a great first stop! Ready to start planning your next Disney adventure? I'm Irene, a travel agent with Mouseketrips, an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and I would love to help you plan a vacation that meets your needs and budget! My planning services are free and I price monitor saving you time and money! Request a no obligation quote here . Have you subscribed to my blog yet? It's free and packed with resources to help inspire and simplify Disney travel. Visit my home page and subscribe and never miss a new post!