How To Do Disney Like A Local



Does living local to the magic sound like paradise to you? Florida locals who do Disney World have extensive experience within the parks, with many locals having gone regularly since childhood. If you go anywhere often enough you’ll become extremely familiar with it and you might even pick up some tips and tricks along the way. Guests of Disney World who aren’t local might feel intimidated by the park’s size and all there is to do. But Disney World doesn’t have to feel like such a big place! When you visit Disney like a local you can experience the parks in a way that makes them feel more manageable. It’s all about approaching Disney in chunks and not trying to run all over and do everything. If you have an upcoming visit to Disney World then consider doing Disney like a local!

Remove All Expectations

When locals visit Disney World they aren’t starting their day with a jam-packed schedule and high expectations. Their goal is to simply be present and enjoy the parks. If you are feeling stressed about your Disney vacation then try and reframe your mindset by lowering or removing your expectations altogether. Make your only expectation to have fun and enjoy your experience being at the parks. See the sights, hear the sounds, and smell the smells. You are at Disney World! You made it; relax!

Magic Kingdom’s Castle. Photo: Megan Woodard

Focus on Experiences Over Attractions

So many guests get caught up in attractions and forget about all of the other experiences that the parks have to offer. Riding ride after ride can not only become overstimulating but also takes away from the time you have for other experiences during your day. Magic Kingdom’s Festival of Fantasy parade runs twice daily, Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire is a stage show in front of Cinderella Castle that runs periodically throughout the day, and you never know what other entertainment you might stumble upon.

Mickey's Magical Frienship Faire.
Mickey’s Magical Friendship Faire. Photo: Emily Murray.

Snack Your Way Around the Parks

Enjoying sit-down meals can be great for guests who wish to take a break during their Disney day, or for those who want to meet characters at character buffets. But locals tend to snack their way through their days rather than sit down and eat. This allows guests to experience the many flavors of the Disney parks and also gives them more time to walk around and enjoy the atmosphere. There are so many snacks to enjoy.

Mickey Ice Cream. Photo: Megan Woodard

Explore Your Disney Resort or Resort Hop

Sometimes locals come to Disney without even stepping foot inside a park. Exploring your Disney resort hotel and all it has to offer can be a great way to recharge and relax during your vacation. You can even hop on the monorail or Skyliner and explore other deluxe resorts to plan for your next trip!

Exploring the Contemporary. Photo: Megan Woodard

How would you do Disney like a local? Locals of Florida, give us your tips and tricks in the comments below!

Featured Photo: Megan Woodard

Written by

Megan Woodard


Contributing Writer

Megan was born into a Disney family. Her first trip to Disney World was when she was only 18 months old. Now as an adult, Megan loves to share the magic of Disney with her family. Keeping up with Disney news and Disney World knowledge is a fun hobby for Megan. Disney World is her favorite place to be and continuously brings back her childhood joy.

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