Everyone who knows me, understands my love of family vacations at Walt Disney World. Most of the time, my friends are asking me for tips and suggestions for trip planning. However, there are those that just don’t buy into the hype. They have believed the myths about Disney Parks vacations and I am always a little sad. So, I’m going to share some of the myths I hear repeatedly and my opinions on why these myths shouldn’t keep you from visiting Walt Disney World!

Francis-Beane family shot, Photopass

1. Planning a Disney Vacation is complicated.

   Okay- I get it. It does seem really overwhelming to plan a Walt Disney World vacation at first glance. But here’s the deal- if you do a little bit of planning before you get to Walt Disney World, when you arrive you really can relax. It seems overwhelming to pre-plan, but picture this. You are hot, tired and ready to eat. Everyone in your party is fighting over where you will eat: Pizza or a burger? Stay in the park or go back to the resort? No tables at the Hollywood and Vine character meal where your toddler can easily meet his FAVORITE character? Pre-planning your Advanced Table Reservations will cut out these conversations and frustrations. And don’t forget to plan your FastPass+ selections so you don’t waste too much time waiting to ride your favorite attractions!

2. Walt Disney World is for Older Kids

   This is partially true. Older kids can have a blast on the “Mountains” of Magic Kingdom (Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, and Big Thunder Mountain Railroad) or get their Aerosmith fix at the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster at Disney’s Hollywood Studios. But, there is still SO much for the younger kids to do! When Walt Disney opened Disneyland, his vision was for a place for families to come together- so many of the rides are built for at least 4 people in the same row or several people in the same boat together. I have seen infants enjoying a nap on it’s a small world and on the People Mover as well as giggling while taking a ride on the Jungle Cruise. My own children had their first haircuts at the Harmony Barber Shop and we took my youngest when she was just 19 months old. I always say, they may not remember those trips- but *I* do!  Epcot has lots of Kidcot stations set up around the World Showcase that helps to buy parents some time to look around in each country represented.

3. Walt Disney World is for Younger Kids

   Okay, now did you skip that last paragraph? Let me start by saying YES! Little kids LOVE meeting Mickey, Jake and Cinderella! However, don’t be fooled- teenagers LOVE taking selfies with characters as well! Tweens and Teens can enjoy some amazing freedom in a fairly safe environment. But it’s not just Tweens and Teens that love Disney. Grandparents as well as extended family without kids can enjoy a Walt Disney World vacation! With Epcot offering some amazing table service options and the resorts with spas, there is something for everyone! Check out Lisa M.’s post about taking her mother to Walt Disney World.

   

   Photo Credit Renee Virata.

   

   Beaches & Cream Soda Shop-Photo Credit Lisa McBride

   

   Norway’s favorite- the Viking hat!

   
   

4. Walt Disney World is for Families

   Yes, I know- I just mentioned Walt wanted a place for families to be together. However, Walt Disney World is a FUN place for adults to go without the kids! Several members of our team went to Walt Disney World together last year with NO kids (or husbands!) in tow and had a FANTASTIC time. And every year, hundreds of young adults apply to attend the Disney College Program and fulfilling their dreams of being a part of the magic. Couples can have a magical wedding, amazing honeymoon or romantic trips as well! 

5. It’s too expensive to go to Walt Disney World

   This myth is harder to bust. Yes, it costs a lot of money to go to Walt Disney World. But even considering some of the rising costs, I believe there are still plenty of ways to save money and still enjoy a completely magical vacation. From staying at a Value Resort (And check out my article about Finding the Value!) to the fact that Disney will allow you to bring in your own food and drinks (check this out Pack Your Lunch-Bags!), you don’t have to spend as much as you might think on a Walt Disney World Vacation. My biggest advice on saving money is to use a Disney Travel Agent!! They can help you find the best bang for your buck and if they are EarMarked they do not charge for their customized service! Contact a travel agent (our site has some great ones to chose from!) and give them your budget- you may be surprised!

So, do you have any myths that I didn’t discuss here? Well, share them with me in the comments or in our Facebook group! You can also like us on Facebook, and follow us on Twitter, Instagram, Pinterest, and Google+ so you can be kept up-to-date on all the latest news and articles! Please take a moment to sign up for the Magical DIStractions newsletter, Our YouTube channel features videos taken by our team and new videos will be added soon.