As a self-proclaimed “Disney Die-Hard,” there are a lot of random Disney things I’ve learned over the years, from facts about movies to adventures to take throughout the parks.
When you make the big leap to go to their Orlando, Florida location, there are plenty of free things you can do to make your experience as unique and fun as possible and to ensure you have the best time of your life.
Here are a few things you have got to try:
- Dance In a Disney Parade
How many people can say that they’ve actually been in a legendary Disney parade? I can, and it was one of the best moments of my life. Around 10 am (or shortly thereafter), the Disney Jr. parade starts, and for a good portion of the parade, the characters are on the ground and they start a dance party on Main Street, USA and in front of the castle. All guests are welcome to join the parade. It makes for the most fun and the best pictures and videos! Plus, there’s no shame in how old you are because people from all walks of life will enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience.
2. Grab a Free Button
One of the coolest souvenirs you can wear while you’re at Disney (and bring home with you!) is a Disney button. Whether you’re celebrating something, engaged, on your honeymoon, enjoying your birthday, or you’re there for your first time, you can get a celebratory button. The best part is you can get the buttons at the welcome centre at each park! Not only are they adorable (and affordable), but they’re also great conversation pieces for when you meet cast members or characters.
3. Go For a Walk At The Boardwalk at Night
One of the hotels at the Disney resorts has a free boardwalk, and on the weekends, they have buskers and a mini carnival type of vibe. The boardwalk’s full of scenic views and twinkly lights that make for the best pictures. It’s super romantic, too! And, if you’re lucky, you may even be able to take a free boat ride!
4. Get a Coca-Cola Freebie
If you’re visiting Epcot be sure to check out Club Cool in Future World. You can go in and have unlimited free samples of Coca-Cola products from around the world! It’s the best (and cheapest) way to try new things from around the globe! Plus it’s a great way to score a free drink on the hot and humid days Florida has.
5. Character Palooza
In Hollywood Studios, there’s a super-secret character meet-and-greet every single day (as long as it’s not raining) around 4 pm. Ask an employee about Character Palooza, and see where they will direct you since the location has recently changed a few times. Basically, the most rare characters (who don’t usually have meet-and-greets) come out for a limited time, and only people who make it to the designated area before the gates close get to meet them. It’s intimate, extremely personal, and it’s never discussed publicly. So, be sure to put this secret experience on your to-do list.
When you’re spending so much money to go to Disney World, you expect to have the best time possible, and there are a lot of hidden perks. Most people don’t realize the parks offer so many free things! The memories you make will be so worth it, and those are things you can always afford to make.
Photo by Laura Marques on Unsplash
