Tip #1: If you are planning to stay on a Disney property, it's okay to request a room facing wherever you want (e.g., facing the park, near transportation, etc.). Disney staff usually goes all the way out to fulfill your request. They add your request into your file and call you about 2 weeks before your departure to confirm that they still have it on file. Also, when making your room reservation, don't feel shy to ask for the lowest price possible. If you don't ask, they don't tell you, and you wouldn't want to miss out on any savings, would you?
Tip #2: Rent Pal Mickey while you're at the Walt Disney World. This huggable, talking Mickey Mouse plush will let you in on insider park tips, give you parade and showtime reminders, tell you when your favorite characters are nearby, and let you know about short waits at your favorite attractions. It's also available for purchase.
Tip #3: You need a strategy to tour Walt Disney World during the summer (June, July, August and September) as the sun in Florida is strong. One effective strategy is to use water misters. These are water bottles with an attached fan. You can spray cold water on and blow the fan at yourself to cool down. It's best to buy these before you reach Disney World as they cost much more inside the parks.
Tip #4: Expect long wait in the lines, but you can make the wait easier for your child if you bring along one or two hand held games. Your child will be entertained while you are caught in long lines and time will pass so much quicker.
Tip #5: If you have a 5, 6 or 7 year old child with you, consider getting a stroller for your child to rest. Children tire easily and this is more so with heat and excitement. Most of them get cranky by mid-day and it's hard to enjoy your holiday when the little one is upset. All of the parks have single and double strollers for rent. Note, however, that some of the doubles won't fit on certain tours, and you have to park your double at the entrance of such attractions.
Tip #6: Find time to enjoy an evening at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort with the nightly sing-along campfire with Chip and Dale. Besides yummy roasted marshmallows, the atmosphere is entertaining and magical, especially if you have young children. An advantage of going to the sing-along is that Chip and Dale pose for pictures with everyone after a few songs. This is one good opportunity to take a picture with characters without waiting in long lines or paying high prices for character meals.
