Let me be very clear – this isn’t a way to cheat the system in a morally corrupt way. This list is simply a way to take advantage of the rules and systems in place at Walt Disney World to maximize your vacation and make you feel like a VIP without paying the cost of the VIP tour. Some of these suggestions even come at an extra cost, but nowhere near the VIP tour cost, which on any given day can cost in a range from $450 to $900 per hour for a minimum of 7 hours.
Disney Minnie Van Service When Leaving the Magic Kingdom at Night
Now, if you can pay for the Minnie Van Service throughout the week, that is great, but for many, that is outside of the budget. With that being said, I think there are a couple of times when the cost of the Minnie Van Service is well worth it. The most important time to utilize the service is if you are leaving the Magic Kingdom at night, especially around park close or after the fireworks. At those times the bus pick-up is a disaster with huge crowds and long times, but the Minnie Van Service is seriously an escape from that craziness that feels so VIP you’ll be glad you forked over the extra bit of money.
Use Rider Switch (if you have young Children)
Families with small children can take turns riding attractions with height requirements while one parent stays with the child, avoiding the need to wait in line twice. The Rider Switch system gives you a touch of VIP treatment, allowing you to experience the park while some of the party is waiting in line, even without a private guide. It streamlines your day, freeing up more time to explore and enjoy attractions without the hassle of double waiting. Plus, it ensures everyone in the family gets to experience the magic without feeling left out, at least those tall enough to ride.
Bring or Become a Disney Parks Historian
One of the highlights of a Disney VIP tour is the insider knowledge and interesting facts that the guide shares throughout the day. If you’re not already the go-to person for your family, consider researching a few fun facts about each park to share with your kids or other family members as you explore. These little nuggets of information can deepen everyone’s appreciation for the incredible effort that went into creating these wonderfully themed parks. For example, did you know that Magic Kingdom was built on top of a network of underground tunnels called “utilidors” that allow cast members to move around the park without being seen by guests? (I realize you probably already knew that, but I wanted to give you a solid example.)
Utilize Rope Drop
Yes, the early mornings really don’t feel VIP, I’ll admit that, but the first hour or so in the park before the lines have accumulated is incredible. With my young family, I’ve knocked out 4-5 attractions in Fantasyland in that time, and before kids would routinely ride one of the most popular E-ticket attractions of the park I was visiting that day with a minimal wait. So get your caffeine and get up early because once you’re in the park the first hour (sometimes an hour and a half depending on crowd size) can feel like your own personal VIP tour with walk-on attractions.
Be Nice to Cast Members
We should all be treating cast members with kindness regardless, and if it takes this as a reminder to start being nice, that’s unfortunate. But one of the many reasons to be kind is that, on special occasions, cast members may go out of their way to create a magical moment for you and your family. This could be something small, like a free Mickey Ice Cream Bar, or something bigger, like letting your family use the Lightning Lane even without a reservation. Of course, there’s no guarantee this will happen, so don’t assume being nice automatically means you’ll receive special treatment. However, being kind can brighten everyone’s day, even if it doesn’t result in a magical moment—it’s still much better than being grumpy!
Skip the Hub for Fireworks in the Magic Kingdom
When it comes to watching fireworks at Magic Kingdom, most people head straight to the Hub in front of Cinderella Castle, which can get extremely crowded and make the experience less enjoyable. Instead, try skipping the Hub and finding a spot that’s a bit off the beaten path, like behind the Castle in Fantasyland or at the end of Main Street, U.S.A. near the Emporium. These areas still offer great views but without the crush of people, you’ll find in the Hub, letting you enjoy the show in a more relaxed, almost VIP-like atmosphere (even if you don’t have a reserved VIP area). Plus, you’ll feel like you’ve unlocked a hidden secret as you avoid the massive crowds and easily make your way to your next destination after the fireworks whether you are headed out, or going to get a jump start on the biggest rides after the fireworks end.
