; you $20 per person per day, while at Disney World, it is $15 per person per day. This fee allows you to make Lightning Lane selections for certain attractions throughout the day, essentially allowing you to skip the regular lines.
While the convenience of skipping lines is certainly tempting, there are ways to enjoy the parks without shelling out extra money for Disney Genie+. One option is to arrive at the park early or stay late, as lines tend to be shorter during these times. You can also use the single rider line option at certain attractions, which can help cut down on wait times.
Another tip is to prioritize which attractions are must-dos for your group and focus on those instead of trying to do everything in the park. By planning ahead and knowing what you want to do, you can make the most of your time without having to pay extra for skip-the-line access.
Take advantage of free entertainment and activitiesDisney World offers a variety of free entertainment options throughout the parks. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUYOne of the best things about Disney parks is that there are plenty of free entertainment options to enjoy. From character meet and greets to parades and shows, there is no shortage of things to see and do that won’t cost you a dime.
At Disney World, you can catch the Festival of Fantasy parade at Magic Kingdom or the Jammin’ Jungle Parade at Animal Kingdom. You can also watch the fireworks show at Epcot or catch a performance of the Festival of the Lion King at Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
At Disneyland, you can watch the Main Street Electrical Parade or catch a performance of Fantasmic! at Disneyland Park. You can also watch the Pixar Play Parade at Disney California Adventure or catch the World of Color show at night.
In addition to the free entertainment options, there are also plenty of free activities to enjoy around the parks. You can explore the different lands and attractions, take in the sights and sounds, and soak up the magic of Disney without spending a dime.
Pack your own snacks and drinksDisney park prices can add up quickly, especially when it comes to food and beverages. TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINTS GUYOne of the easiest ways to save money at Disney parks is to pack your own snacks and drinks. While you may not be able to bring in a full meal, you can pack small snacks like granola bars, fruit, nuts, and crackers to tide you over between meals.
Bringing your own snacks and drinks can help you avoid spending money on expensive park food and beverages. You can also bring a refillable water bottle and fill it up at water fountains throughout the parks to stay hydrated without having to buy bottled water.
If you do want to splurge on a meal or treat at the parks, consider sharing with a friend or family member to cut down on costs. Many of the portions at Disney are large enough to share, so you can still enjoy the experience without breaking the bank.
Final thoughtsDisney parks are a magical place to visit, but the rising prices can make it challenging to enjoy all that they have to offer without busting your vacation budget. By using these tips and tricks, you can save money on tickets, transportation, accommodations, and food, allowing you to make the most of your Disney vacation without breaking the bank.
While it may not be possible to bring back all the things that used to be free at Disney, like MagicBands and skip-the-line access, you can still have a magical experience without spending a fortune. With a little planning and creativity, you can enjoy all that Disney has to offer while staying within your budget.