“All things are poison, and nothing is without poison; the dosage alone makes it so a thing is not a poison.” – Paracelsus
Is there such a thing as too much Disney? Can visiting the parks every day diminish their magic, or does each visit deepen your love for the parks?
I’ve wrestled with this question, especially since my relationship with Disney has changed over the years. When I lived in Orlando, the parks were my second home. I wasn’t there just for the rides or the shows—I was there for the ambiance, the sense of belonging, and the joy that came from simply being immersed in the magic. Spending several days a week at Walt Disney World was routine, yet it was a routine that filled my life with comfort and contentment.
But when I moved away, I discovered something unexpected: absence truly does make the heart grow fonder. Now, every visit feels like a treasure. Riding the PeopleMover or experiencing Tower of Terror isn’t just a casual activity anymore—it’s a cherished memory in the making. As a local, I had the luxury of enjoying my favorites anytime, often without giving it much thought. Now, with each trip, I savor those moments in a way I never did before.
My approach to the parks has also shifted. When I lived nearby, I often stuck to my “must-dos,” skipping the less exciting attractions because I knew they’d always be there. As a vacationer now, I try to experience as much as possible. Being a thousand miles away, I don’t just miss the rides—I also know there’s no guarantee that my favorites will still be there next time. Tomorrowland Speedway, for instance, is far from my favorite, but I make an effort to ride it anyway. Disney is constantly evolving—just look at Tom Sawyer Island, which will be reimagined into a Cars-themed area. This impermanence adds a new layer of appreciation to every visit.
The ideal time between trips is a personal decision and depends on various factors. For me, having kids has been a significant one. Ironically, as our family has grown, our trips have become less frequent because they now require much more planning and effort. My wife and I now have to manage strollers, a diaper bag, snacks, and all the extras that come with traveling with young children. While the memories we create with our kids are absolutely worth it, there’s no denying that the amount of gear needed for even a simple trip has multiplied dramatically compared to just a few years ago.
For some, Disney is best enjoyed as a rare treat, while others could visit daily and never grow tired of the details. For me, it’s somewhere in between. The magic is alive in every visit, but the time spent longing in between makes each return feel like coming home.
