Planning a trip to Disney World in 2025? Whether it’s your first time visiting or you’re a seasoned Disney pro, there’s a lot to consider to make the most of your experience. From selecting the best hotel to learning how to skip the lines at popular attractions, a little preparation can go a long way in creating magical memories. In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know to plan your dream Disney World vacation, including insider tips, money-saving hacks, and hidden gems you won’t want to miss!
Why 2025 is the Year to Visit Disney World
Disney World in 2025 promises to be even more magical with new attractions, dining options, and entertainment experiences. While Disney World is always evolving, 2025 will be a great year to experience everything the parks have to offer—from innovative technology to thrilling new rides. To get ready, let’s dive into the essential tips and tricks for planning your 2025 Disney vacation.
1. Where to Stay: Pop Century Resort
One of the best ways to kick off your Disney World vacation is by booking a stay at one of the value resorts on property—like Pop Century Resort. Located just minutes away from the parks, Pop Century offers a fun, retro-themed experience with bright colors, large iconic pop culture characters, and spacious rooms that are perfect for families.
Why Pop Century?
Affordable: As a Disney Value Resort, Pop Century offers budget-friendly accommodations while still providing the convenience of staying on Disney property.
Location: It’s centrally located, so it’s easy to access all four major parks. Plus, the Skyliner transportation system connects Pop Century directly to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Themed Fun: From the 50s to the 90s, the resort’s themed sections are full of nostalgic charm that will delight both kids and adults. Think huge bowling pins, giant Rubik’s cubes, and giant jukeboxes.
While staying at Pop Century, you’ll also get early park access (30 minutes before the crowds) and the ability to use Disney’s free transportation system to get to the parks, saving you both time and money.
2. How to Skip the Lines at the Most Popular Park Rides
There’s nothing worse than waiting hours in line for a popular ride. Thankfully, there are a few ways to skip the lines and maximize your time at Disney World:
Use Genie+
In 2025, Genie+ will still be the go-to option for skipping the lines on many of Disney’s most popular rides. This service allows you to reserve a time to experience certain attractions, so you can avoid the standby lines. While there’s an additional fee for Genie+, it’s totally worth it for attractions like Space Mountain, Slinky Dog Dash, and Avatar Flight of Passage.
Individual Lightning Lane
For the newest or most popular rides, like Tron Lightcycle Run or Rise of the Resistance, you can purchase an Individual Lightning Lane pass. These passes allow you to access these high-demand rides without the wait. The price varies, but it’s a great option for those who want to experience the top-tier rides with minimal wait time.
Arrive Early or Stay Late
The lines at Disney’s most popular rides tend to be the shortest right when the park opens or later in the evening when the crowds thin out. If you’re staying on property, you’ll get early access to the parks, which can help you beat the crowds to the rides.
Mobile Ordering for Food
Another great way to skip the line is by using Disney’s mobile ordering system. Simply order food from your phone at select quick-service restaurants and skip the long lines when it’s time to eat.
3. Money-Saving Tips for Your Disney World Trip
Disney vacations can be expensive, but there are several ways to save money on your booking, food, souvenirs, and hotel stays without sacrificing the magic.
Book Early for Discounts
Booking your hotel, park tickets, and flights well in advance often comes with substantial savings. Disney frequently offers promotional discounts, especially during off-peak times, so keep an eye out for deals.
Dining Tips
Bring Snacks: You can save money by bringing your own snacks into the parks. While Disney doesn’t allow full meals or large coolers, small snack-sized items are allowed.
Eat at Off-Peak Hours: The parks tend to be less crowded during early lunch hours and late dinners. Eating during these times can help you avoid long waits and find more affordable options.
Look for Discounted Meal Plans: Disney offers some dining plans that may save you money on meals, especially if you’re planning to dine at character meals or upscale restaurants. Keep an eye on special promotions that offer meal plans at a discount.
Souvenir Shopping Hacks
Buy Souvenirs Outside the Parks: You can find Disney merchandise at Disney Springs, Disney hotels, or off-property stores at a lower price than in the parks. Also, look for discount stores like Character Warehouse for great deals.
Free Souvenirs: Don’t forget that you can get free “souvenirs” by collecting Disney park buttons, which are given away for celebrations like birthdays, anniversaries, and first visits.
Hotel Savings
Stay at Value Resorts: As mentioned earlier, Pop Century is a great budget-friendly option. Disney also offers other Value Resorts like Art of Animation and All-Star Movies that offer great accommodations at a lower price point compared to Deluxe Resorts.
4. A Quick Summary of the Different Disney Parks
Disney World is made up of four amazing theme parks, each offering a unique experience:
Magic Kingdom
The heart of Disney World, where you’ll find Cinderella’s Castle, classic attractions like *Pirates of the Caribbean* and *Splash Mountain*, and beloved characters strolling the streets.
Epcot
A mix of futuristic technology and world cultures, Epcot offers attractions like Spaceship Earth and the World Showcase—a collection of pavilions representing different countries with authentic food, shopping, and entertainment.
Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Home to exciting, movie-themed attractions like Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance, Toy Story Land, and Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom
A blend of nature and adventure, this park is known for its stunning Pandora – The World of Avatar, thrilling rides like Expedition Everest, and unique animal exhibits.
5. Hidden Gems and Unknown Things to Do at Disney World
Looking for something off the beaten path? Here are a few lesser-known activities to add some extra magic to your trip:
Tom Sawyer Island (Magic Kingdom): Escape the crowds and explore this hidden island, full of caves, bridges, and fun for the whole family.
The Carousel of Progress (Magic Kingdom): An underrated attraction, this classic 360-degree rotating theater show takes you through 20th-century American history and innovation. A great way to cool off and relax for a bit!
Hidden Mickey Hunts: Disney parks are full of hidden Mickeys (Mickey Mouse-shaped icons). Challenge your family to find as many as you can, or download the official app for a guide.
Caring for Giants Tour (Animal Kingdom): For an up-close look at the elephants at Animal Kingdom, book the Caring for Giants tour. It’s a hidden gem for animal lovers!
Epcot’s Club Cool: Head to Club Cool to sample sodas from around the world, including some wild flavors like Beverly (which is famous for its extremely bitter taste).
Final Thoughts
Disney World in 2025 promises to be full of new experiences, but with the right planning, you can ensure it’s an unforgettable trip. Whether you’re staying at Pop Century Resort, skipping the lines with Genie+, or saving money with insider tips, these strategies will help you make the most of your magical vacation. Don’t forget to explore the hidden gems, try new attractions, and most importantly, have fun making memories with your loved ones!