How to Score Big on Your Next Disney Cruise in 2026

If you’ve ever dreamed of sailing with Mickey and friends but were deterred by the premium price tag, now might be the perfect time to check your calendar. Disney Cruise Line is currently offering significant discounts—up to 35% off—on a variety of upcoming sailings.

The Disney Wish is backing up to the pier in Nassau, Bahamas.

While Disney is famous for its "early bird" booking incentives, a savvy new wave of travelers is finding that last-minute flexibility can lead to some of the deepest discounts the cruise line offers (which are incredibly rare for Disney).

Here is everything you need to know about the current special offers and how to snag a "Guaranteed Room" deal.

The Big Deal: Save Up to 35%

Disney Cruise Line has released special domestic rates that allow guests to save between 20% and 35% on the prevailing voyage fare. These discounts are appearing on select dates for almost every ship in the fleet, including the brand-new Disney Treasure and the fan-favorite Disney Wish.

Where you can sail for less:

• Port Canaveral & Fort Lauderdale: 3- to 7-night Bahamian and Caribbean cruises (including stops at Disney’s private islands, Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay).

• Galveston: 4- and 5-night Western Caribbean sailings, some featuring "Marvel Day at Sea."

• San Diego: 3- to 4-night Baja cruises and Pacific Coast repositioning voyages.

The Secret to "Last-Minute" Savings: Restricted Categories

The most substantial discounts are typically found under Disney’s Guaranteed Stateroom with Restrictions categories. These are essentially "last-minute" filler rates used to pack the ship as the departure date approaches (usually within 30–75 days of sailing).

When you book these rates, you’ll see them listed as:

• IGT: Inside Stateroom with Restrictions

• OGT: Oceanview Stateroom with Restrictions

• VGT: Verandah Stateroom with Restrictions

The Catch: You pick the category (Inside, Oceanview, or Verandah), but Disney picks the specific room for you. You won’t know your exact room number until shortly before you board, and once you book, the fare is non-refundable and requires payment in full. However, the trade-off is often a savings of thousands of dollars compared to standard rates. I do this all the time - I really don’t care where my stateroom is located, especially if it means saving a few hundred dollars or more.

Targeted Discounts: Florida Residents & Military

Beyond the general "Guaranteed Rate" discounts, Disney continues to offer specialized pricing for specific groups:

• Florida Residents: Often eligible for up to 35% off on select Bahamian and Caribbean cruises departing from their home state.

• U.S. Military: Special deeply discounted rates are available for active-duty and retired U.S. military personnel (and their spouses) on select dates.

• Canadian Residents: Occasional "At-Par" or percentage-based discounts are often available for guests traveling from the Great White North.

Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure | Disney Cruise Line

My Pro-Tips for Catching a Deal

Over the years, I’ve learned that timing is everything when it comes to booking a Disney Cruise without breaking the bank. Here is how I personally hunt for the best savings:

• I stay flexible with my dates: I’ve found that the best deals almost always pop up during "off-peak" months like January, February, and early May. If you can travel when schools are in session, you'll save a fortune.

• I watch the 90-day mark: This is a big one. When other guests hit their final payment deadline and decide to cancel, Disney often releases that "Restricted" inventory I mentioned earlier to fill the ship. I always start checking the site daily once a cruise is about three months out.

• I live on the Navigator App: Even after I’ve booked, I keep a close eye on the Disney Cruise Line Navigator app. It’s the best way to spot potential upgrades or surprise special offers that might apply to my sailing.

• I lean on travel professionals: I highly recommend using a specialized Disney travel agent. They track these "hidden" restricted rates every single day and can alert me the second a 35% discount drops for a route I’ve been eyeing.

With new ships like the Disney Treasure joining the fleet, I’m seeing more staterooms available than ever before, which is incredible news for fellow deal-hunters. Whether you’re looking for a quick 3-night getaway or a week-long Caribbean adventure, I truly believe the "Magic at Sea" is more affordable right now than it has been in years.

To view current eligible sailings and specific dates, visit the Disney Cruise Line Special Offers page.

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Top 5 Disney World Hotels with the Largest Declining Reviews (2026)

I’ve been staying at Disney World hotels for decades, and if I’m being honest, the landscape has changed more in the last three years than in the previous twenty. Lately, I’m seeing more people than ever take to public forums like Google Reviews and TripAdvisor to share some pretty harsh feedback.

As prices for a Disney vacation continue to climb—with the average nightly rate for some official hotels hitting a staggering $1,300 in 2026—the margin for error has disappeared. Guests are no longer willing to "pay for the pixie dust" if the carpets are scuffed, the buses are late, and the rooms feel more like a sterile clinic than a deluxe retreat. In a recent article, I shared what $5,000 gets you in Orlando today.

I’ve crunched the numbers and identified the Top 5 Disney World Hotels that have seen the biggest plunges in review scores from 2023 to 2025. I’ll be real with you: one of my personal favorites is on this list, and it hurts to see it here.

Watch the full deep-dive video below, then read on for the data and the "why" behind these declines.

5. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort: The Value Illusion

Review Score Drop: 8%

Starting our countdown at number five is Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This is the perfect cautionary tale about price inflation in the "Value" category. While the theming here is some of the best on property—walking through the Cars wing feels like stepping into Radiator Springs—the price tag has started to outpace the actual experience.

The Price Disparity

The biggest issue here is the "Value Illusion." Standard rooms at Art of Animation (specifically the Little Mermaid section) are consistently priced $30 to $50 higher per night than functionally identical rooms at Pop Century.

When you pay that premium, you expect more. Instead, guests are met with:

• The "Motel" Feel: Despite the immersive decor, you can’t escape the fundamental motel structure with exterior-entry doors.

• Paper-Thin Walls: This is a hallmark of Value Resort construction. One reviewer on TripAdvisor put it perfectly: "I now know the bedtime story of the child next door".

• The Logistics Gap: If you’re in the Little Mermaid wing, you are a long walk away from the main building and the Skyliner station. Paying more for a room that is less convenient is a hard pill for guests to swallow.

The Silver Lining: Disney began a major room refresh in early 2025 to address complaints about "worn" furniture in the Cars and Lion King suites. We may see these scores bounce back, but for now, it remains in the bottom tier of Disney’s portfolio.

4. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort - Riverside: The Struggle Bus

Review Score Drop: 12%

This one is tough for me because I love this hotel. The grounds are stunning, and the atmosphere is classic Disney World. However, Port Orleans Riverside has seen a 12% decline in satisfaction scores because, quite frankly, time has passed it by.

A Relic of an Earlier Era

While other Moderate resorts have been overhauled or gained massive transportation perks like the Skyliner, Riverside has remained largely the same. The specific metric fueling this decline is transportation wait times.

• Internal Bus Nightmare: The property is sprawling. There are six bus stops just to get around the resort before you even head to a park. Guests are reporting an extra 15 to 20 minutes added to their commute just to exit the resort grounds.

• Aging Aesthetics: Even the themed Royal Rooms, once a major draw, are now being criticized for feeling "dated and busy".

As one reviewer on WDW Magic remarked, "I think I earned a fitness badge just walking to my room". When the price for these rooms starts creeping toward Deluxe territory, guests expect more than just a "pretty walk."

3. Disney’s Contemporary Resort: The Location Premium Isn't Enough

Review Score Drop: 15%

For a flagship "Monorail Loop" hotel to see a 15% drop in satisfaction is a humiliation. Disney’s Contemporary Resort is coasting on its location and its history, but modern travelers paying $700 to $900 a night are starting to revolt.

The "Hospital" Aesthetic

The biggest source of negative reviews? The Incredibles-themed room refurbishment. While meant to be "Mid-Century Modern," many guests describe the vibe as sterile and cheap.

• Clinical Vibes: One Google Review captured the sentiment perfectly: "We paid for a view of Cinderella Castle and got a room that looked like a hospital on the Starship Enterprise".

• Lack of Atmosphere: Unlike the rich, immersive theming at Animal Kingdom Lodge or the Grand Floridian, the Contemporary feels corporate. The pool area, in particular, is frequently cited for having "zero atmosphere" for a Deluxe resort.

I personally love the Tower rooms for the Magic Kingdom view, but the data doesn't lie: location is no longer enough to mask a lack of luxury.

2. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: The Sprawling Headache

Review Score Drop: 18%

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is perhaps the most polarizing resort on property right now. While it has the massive benefit of the Skyliner, its sheer size has become its downfall.

The Skyliner Catch-22

The resort's decline is best reflected in transportation efficiency. Because the Skyliner station was placed at the edge of the resort, it is impossible to have a room that is "conveniently located" for everything.

• The Trade-off: If you’re near the pool and dining (Old Port Royale), you’re a 15-minute hike from the Skyliner. If you’re near the Skyliner, you’re in a "food desert".

• Noisy AC Units: Unlike Coronado Springs, which has central air, Caribbean Beach still uses wall units that reviewers say sound like "a truck idling in our room".

One TripAdvisor user summed up the frustration perfectly: "The distance to do something as simple as fill up your refillable mug is too far".

I recommend you see my article on the best rooms at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort so you can find that perfect balance of being near both Skyliner and Old Port Royale.

1. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: The Premium Disconnect

Review Score Drop: 22%

Taking the top spot with the absolute largest decline is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This is a systematic failure of the "Premium Experience". When you are paying upwards of $1,200 per night, you expect flawless service. Currently, the Polynesian is failing to deliver.

The Density Problem

The primary driver of this 22% plunge is the crowding caused by the new DVC Island Tower. While the tower is now complete, the increased density has overwhelmed the resort’s infrastructure:

• Service Failures: Reviews are flooded with mentions of Bell Service delays and long lines at the monorail station.

• The "Magnum P.I." Effect: While the Moana rooms are pretty, the rest of the resort is starting to show its age. My favorite review comment of the year: "It’s a Magnum P.I. themed hotel straight out of the 1980s".

Guests are feeling the "Premium Disconnect." They are paying for paradise, but they are receiving a crowded, noisy, and overpriced experience that currently ranks lower in satisfaction than some Moderate resorts.

Why is this happening now?

The common thread through all five of these resorts is Price vs. Value. In 2025, the "Disney Premium" is higher than it has ever been, but the perks that used to justify those prices—like the Magical Express and complimentary MagicBands—are gone.

Furthermore, third-party hotels (like the Bonnet Creek resorts or the Drury Plaza) are now offering comparable amenities and better transportation at a fraction of the cost.

My Advice for Your 2026 Stay

If you are planning a trip in the coming year, don't just book based on nostalgia. Look for the resorts that are currently undergoing—or have just finished—significant improvements:

1. Disney’s Pop Century: Currently the best value on property with refreshed public areas and reliable Skyliner access.

2. Coronado Springs (Gran Destino Tower): If you want a Deluxe feel at a Moderate price, this is the gold standard right now. It has central air, incredible dining, and a modern aesthetic that blows the Contemporary out of the water.

3. Port Orleans French Quarter: While Riverside is struggling, its sister resort (French Quarter) is much more manageable and just finished its own room refurbishments in mid-2025.

What do you think? Have you stayed at any of these "declining" resorts recently? Was your experience as bad as the reviews suggest, or do you think people are just being too hard on Disney? Let me know in the comments below!

Planning a trip? Make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel for weekly updates on everything happening at Walt Disney World, from construction projects to the best (and worst) snacks in the parks.

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Why Summer 2026 Might Be the Best Time Ever to Visit Walt Disney World (And How to Save Big)

Every year, right after the holidays, Disney World quietly rolls out a new wave of discounts. And every year, I get that same thrill of opening up my laptop, diving into the offers, and immediately starting to mentally plan a summer vacation to Orlando. But this year feels different. For Summer 2026, Disney has released four major offers that, when used correctly, can lead to some of the biggest savings I’ve seen in years.

Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter

If you’ve been dreaming about a Disney World vacation in 2026, wondering whether you should stay at a Disney Resort hotel, debating whether the Disney Dining Plan is worth it, or just trying to bring down the cost of theme park tickets, these offers are absolutely worth a look.

To see more about Disney’s full lineup of hotels, check out my Disney Hotel reviews pages.

Here are the four big offers Disney World is promoting:

Let’s dive into each one. And before you book your Disney vacation, you should read my article: Walt Disney World: What the Brochure Doesn’t Tell You.

1. Buy 4 Nights, Get 2 Nights and 2 Park Days Free

This is the headline deal for Summer 2026 at Walt Disney World, and honestly, it’s one of the most generous package-style discounts Disney has released in a while.

Here’s how it works in real terms.

If you book a vacation package that includes:

• a minimum 4-night stay at a Disney Resort hotel

• and theme park tickets for at least 4 days

Disney will automatically add:

• two extra hotel nights

• two extra theme park ticket days

at no additional cost.

So instead of a 4-night, 4-day Walt Disney World vacation, you’re suddenly taking a 6-night, 6-day Disney World trip — but still paying the 4-night package price. When you think about how expensive Disney park tickets are on their own, that “bonus” really adds up.

Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter

Why I like this deal

In my experience, a 6-night Disney World trip is the sweet spot. Four nights always feels a bit rushed. Six nights gives you:

• time for all four parks

• a pool day or resort day

• maybe even Disney Springs

• actual breathing room

This offer is ideal if you want:

• a week-long Disney World vacation in 2026

• to stretch your budget without cutting park days

• to avoid the feeling of “we didn’t get to do everything”

It’s especially strong for families with kids, because younger children usually need a slower pace, midday breaks, and rest days. Getting two extra days and nights free means you can spread things out without paying for the privilege.

Who this offer is best for

• families staying 6 nights or more

• first-time visitors who want to “do it all”

• anyone traveling mid-summer

• people who want park tickets built into their package

If you were already planning five or six nights at Disney World in 2026, this is almost a no-brainer. You’re getting exactly what you wanted… for less.

Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort

2. Up to 30% Off Disney Resort Hotel Rooms (General Public Offer)

Not everyone needs a whole vacation package. Sometimes you already have tickets, you’re an annual passholder, or you just want to stay on property and do different Orlando attractions. For those situations, Disney’s general room-only summer discount is perfect.

This offer is simple and flexible, which is one of the reasons I like it.

Here’s the gist of it

Disney is taking:

• up to 30% off room rates for stays of five nights or longer

• and up to 25% off for stays of one to four nights

across select Disney Resort hotels during summer 2026.

The “up to” language is important. Not every resort or room category will hit that full 30%, but if you’re flexible with where you stay or what view you book, you can usually land a very good deal.

Why this works for a lot of travelers

This one is best for people who like to build their own trip instead of bundling everything into one pre-packaged vacation.

It’s ideal if:

• you’re buying tickets separately

• you want to stay at Disney but also visit Universal Orlando, SeaWorld, or attractions in Orlando

• you’re splitting your stay between multiple resorts

• you already have tickets from a past promotion

I personally really like this discount for split stays — for example, starting at a value resort for a few nights and then upgrading to a deluxe for the weekend. A percentage-off room discount stretches a lot further at the higher-priced resorts, which can make deluxe hotels surprisingly affordable in summer.

3. Florida Resident and Annual Passholder Room Discounts

Disney tends to take care of its most loyal and local fans, and summer 2026 is no exception. On top of the general public discounts, there are extra savings for Florida residents and Walt Disney World Annual Passholders.

These are typically the best room discounts of the season, beating out the regular offers most guests see.

Florida resident discounts

If you live in Florida, you can unlock special summer pricing on Disney Resort hotels that isn’t available to the general public. You’ll need to show valid proof of Florida residency at check-in, but if you qualify, this can be one of the best hotel deals of the year.

This is fantastic for:

• staycations

• long weekends

• families within driving distance

I know a lot of Florida locals who book spontaneous two- or three-night getaways at Disney in summer because the resort pools are incredible and the hotels become destinations in themselves.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Annual Passholder room discounts

If you’re a Walt Disney World Annual Passholder, the room discounts get even deeper. Historically these are some of the biggest savings Disney releases, and they can make staying at deluxe resorts far more approachable.

This works especially well because passholders don’t need tickets, so a room-only discount paired with your pass is already your full vacation.

This is best for:

• frequent visitors

• short repeat trips

• people who like trying multiple resorts during the year

If you’re an annual passholder planning any Disney World trip in Summer 2026, you should always check the AP rate before booking anything else.

4. Kids Eat Free With the Disney Dining Plan in 2026

The last offer ties directly into one of the most talked-about topics in planning a Disney World vacation: the Disney Dining Plan.

For all of 2026, kids ages 3–9 can get the Disney Dining Plan for free, as long as adults on the reservation purchase a dining plan.

That means:

• you buy the Disney Dining Plan for the adults

• eligible kids receive the same plan at no cost

If you’ve ever traveled to Disney World with children, you already know how quickly food adds up. Character meals, quick service lunches, Mickey waffles, snacks — it’s a lot. Getting a full dining plan free for kids can take a massive chunk out of your food budget.

Why I really like this perk

Food is one of the hardest costs for families to predict. You can see room prices and ticket prices ahead of time, but dining varies wildly depending on:

• how many character meals you do

• how hot it is (snacks and drinks add up!)

• whether your kids eat full meals or nibble

The Kids Eat Free promotion:

• simplifies the budget

• encourages sitting-down meals you might otherwise skip

• allows families to try character dining experiences without guilt

When this is combined with the Buy 4, Get 2 Free package, you suddenly have savings on:

• hotel

• park tickets

• food

all in the same vacation. For families with younger children, this is easily the strongest overall value of Disney World’s summer 2026 discounts.

Disney World Offers at a Glance

How I Decide Which Disney World 2026 Deal to Book

When I’m planning a trip for myself or helping someone else decide, I don’t start with the discount — I start with the trip style.

Here’s my personal thought process.

• If I want a full week in the parks with kids, I look at Buy 4, Get 2 Free + Kids Eat Free.

• If I’m taking a short trip or solo visit, I lean toward a room-only discount.

• If I’m already an annual passholder, AP discounts usually win.

• If I’m local to Florida, the resident rates are hard to beat.

Then I price out two or three scenarios for the exact same dates. Disney discounts aren’t one-size-fits-all; what sounds better on paper doesn’t always win if you run the numbers.

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How to Pay Tolls in Orlando with a Rental Car (SunPass & Best Companies)

Driving a rental car in Orlando means you’ll run into toll roads, but paying them doesn’t have to be complicated. In this guide, I’ll show you how to use SunPass with your rental car, plus break down the toll programs from major rental companies. You’ll also learn why Alamo, National, and Enterprise are the easiest and most convenient options for visitors.

If you’re planning to drive a rental car in Orlando or anywhere in Florida for that matter, you’ll quickly discover that toll roads are everywhere. Florida’s toll system is not tourist friendly by design. The idea is to have the tourists pay a little more, to help keep costs down for locals. Some of these tolls are pricey especially in the theme park area, where I live. I have a $2 toll right near my house that I get hit with all the time, even though it’s meant for tourists. But thanks to you, I get a little statement credit each month. So thank you!

The good news is that paying tolls is easy, especially if you use SunPass, Florida’s prepaid toll program.

Existing SunPass Customers: Using SunPass with a Rental Car

SunPass customers renting a vehicle can apply their tolls directly to their prepaid account during the rental period. Here’s how:

1. Log into your SunPass account (using the mobile app is best).

2. Add the rental vehicle’s license plate.

3. Select the start and end date of your rental period.

4. If you have a SunPass transponder, bring it with you and remove it from the car before returning it.

This setup allows you to drive through SunPass lanes and have tolls billed at the lowest SunPass rate, avoiding extra rental car fees.

If you Do Not Have SunPass or a Removable Transponder

Not a SunPass customer? Sunpass sticker not removable? No worries. Most rental car companies have their own toll programs that let you use Florida’s toll roads without carrying cash or stopping at a booth.

• When you drive through a toll lane, cameras photograph your license plate.

• The toll is billed to the rental car company’s toll program vendor.

• That vendor then charges your credit card, often with added service fees.

These programs let you use SunPass lanes (as well as E-PASS and LeeWay lanes), but you’ll usually pay higher fees than if you had your own SunPass. Always read your rental agreement carefully to understand the costs.

Rental Car Toll Programs and Hidden Fees

Here’s what you can expect from the major rental car companies in Orlando:

Alamo, National, and Enterprise

• Participation is automatic—no need to sign up ahead of time.

• You’re only charged if you actually use a toll road.

• Tolls are billed directly to the card on file with your rental.

• Lowest daily convenience fees ($4.95)

SIXT

• Express Tolls Unlimited: This package offers unlimited use of automated toll lanes and typically waives the administrative fees. You pay a flat rate per day for the service (check the current daily rate at the counter, as it can change). This is generally the best option if you plan on using toll roads frequently.

• Pay Per Usage: If you do not opt for a toll package and use a cashless toll lane, you will be billed for:

  • The cost of the toll at the prevailing rate.

  • An administrative fee per day when tolls are incurred, up to a maximum amount per rental agreement. This is usually the most expensive option if you use tolls sparingly.

Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty

• Purchase the toll program for $13.99 per day or $69.95 per week.

• Includes unlimited tolling during the rental period.

• If you decline the program but drive through cashless lanes, you’ll be charged each toll plus an administrative fee of $9.99 per day.

Fox Rent A Car

• $12.99 per rental day, capped at $194.85.

• Includes unlimited tolls during the rental.

Avis, Budget, and Payless

• Avis/Budget: $6.95 per day when tolls are incurred (max $34.75 per month).

• Payless: $7.95 per day when tolls are incurred (max $37.95 per month).

• If you don’t opt-in and use a toll road, you’ll pay each toll plus additional administrative fees.

Final Recommendation

If you already have a SunPass, bring your transponder or add your rental’s license plate to your account—it’s the cheapest way to pay. Install the mobile app in advance to make it easy.

If you don’t have SunPass, Alamo, National, and Enterprise are the easiest and most budget-friendly rental car options in Orlando. Their automatic participation means you can just drive, and your tolls will be billed without hassle or surprise daily fees.

👉 Planning your Orlando trip? Don’t forget to factor in tolls—especially if you’ll be driving from the airport, visiting the theme parks, or taking day trips to the beach.

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Where to Dine for Free on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas

Sailing on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas? You don’t have to spend extra to eat well! I explored every included dining spot onboard — from buffets and pizza to tacos and elegant dinners. Here’s my first-hand guide to the best free restaurants so you can plan your perfect foodie cruise.

If you’re like me, one of the best parts of cruising is the food. And on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, there’s no shortage of incredible included dining options. That’s right — many of the best meals onboard are already covered in your cruise fare. As someone who loves both eating well and saving money, I made it my mission to try all the Utopia of the Seas restaurants where you can dine for free.

Below, I’m sharing my favorites — from poolside snacks to elegant dinners — so you can plan your foodie adventure at sea.

Windjammer Marketplace

The Windjammer is my go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s buffet-style, with a massive variety of dishes from around the world. I love grabbing a plate of fresh fruit in the morning or sampling new international flavors at night.

Main Dining Room

Every evening brings a new three-course menu — and it’s all included. Think lobster tail on formal night, filet mignon, or escargot. The atmosphere is beautiful, but there’s no strict dress code, so I often keep it casual.

Sorrento’s Pizza

Located on the Royal Promenade, Sorrento’s serves pizza until late at night. Perfect after a show or a few hours of dancing.

Café Promenade

Open 24 hours, this spot keeps me fueled with coffee, pastries, and light bites.

Park Café

Tucked in Central Park, it’s quieter and perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Don’t miss the fresh salads and sandwiches.

Solarium Bistro

Mediterranean-inspired and steps from the adults-only Solarium — I come here for fresh Greek salads, tzatziki, and lamb chops.

El Loco Fresh

Poolside tacos, burritos, and nachos? Yes, please.

Boardwalk Dog House

Gourmet hot dogs with a variety of toppings. A must-try on a sunny day.

The Spare Tire

This new poolside food truck has incredible pulled pork sandwiches and flatbreads.

Room Service (Some Items)

Continental breakfast is free — great for slow mornings on the balcony.

Watch my full video guide to see these dining spots in action:

If you’re planning a Royal Caribbean cruise from Florida, make sure you save this list. The free dining on Utopia of the Seas is worth the trip alone.

#UtopiaoftheSeas #RoyalCaribbean #CruiseTips #CruiseLife #FloridaTravel #FreeFoodOnACruise

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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What to Do in Nassau Bahamas WITHOUT a Cruise Excursion (2025 Walking Tour)

Explore Nassau, Bahamas without a shore excursion! Here's what cruise passengers can see on foot, from the Straw Market to Atlantis and more.

Today I’m in Nassau, Bahamas, and I don’t have a single excursion booked. But here’s the thing… I don’t need one. I’m going to show you a few places you can explore all on your own, and have a great time on your port day, especially if you’re a first-time cruiser. 

Hello and welcome back to the channel, and welcome to Nassau. Most of the cruisers are headed off to beach resorts, but I like to walk around the port area in the morning, then head back to the ship for lunch and enjoy the ship with fewer people onboard. Whether you're cruising with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, or Norwegian, everything I visit today is close to the cruise port. 

Here are 6 things you can do without an excursion in Nassau. 

Port Marketplace, Nassau Bahamas

Watch my video tour of Nassau, Bahamas:

#6 Port Marketplace

Once you’re on the pier you'll walk straight into the brand new Port Marketplace — and this is a huge upgrade from what Nassau used to be like.

The Bahamian Port Authority recently gave this entire area a major facelift. It’s cleaner, better organized, and feels a lot safer and more welcoming than it did just a few years ago.

You’ll find colorful buildings and plenty of shops selling local souvenirs, T-shirts, tropical drinks, ice cream, artisan soaps, seashells, and jewelry. 

There’s even a designated area for hair braiding now — something that used to take place in a makeshift park across the street in a park. Now it’s all been moved into a proper space right here in the marketplace, which makes the whole experience more comfortable for everyone. Braids start around $40. While my wife gets her hair braided, my son and I like to walk around and check out the different stalls. 

The Global Porter is one of my favorites - it’s one of the larger shops in the port - it’s like a department store with things you can wear, collectables, and even things for your house. The Port Marketplace leads you to the Straw Market and taxi depot. It’s so easy to find the Straw Market now.  

Straw Market is a legendary destination for purchasing souvenirs in Nassau.

#5 Straw Market

And speaking of the Straw Market, now is a great time to walk across the street and check it out. So, here you leave the actual port complex, and you’re officially in the city of Nassau. This indoor market is packed wall-to-wall with vendors selling things like handwoven straw bags, hats, wood carvings, T-shirts, and souvenirs with your favorite island slogans.

It’s lively, it’s crowded, and yes — it can feel a little overwhelming if you’re not used to being in close quarters. But that’s part of the experience.

Most of the items you see here are negotiable, so don’t be afraid to politely haggle. Just keep in mind — many of the vendors are selling very similar merchandise, so take your time, compare prices, and if you’re after something unique or handmade, be sure to ask who made it.

The Straw Market isn’t air-conditioned, so if you’re looking for that classic Bahamian market atmosphere, this is it. 

Straw work has been part of island life here for centuries, But the actual Straw Market as we know it began in the 1940s, when the tourism industry started to grow and locals began selling their handwoven crafts directly to visitors.

This all started with a handful of women selling handmade goods under umbrellas.  Today, it’s a symbol of local entrepreneurship, especially for Bahamian women. You’ll notice that the stalls in here are all women-owned, keeping the tradition alive even today. 

I hope I don’t spoil any nostalgia here, but the current building is actually relatively new, built after a devastating fire destroyed the original structure in 2001.

And while you will find plenty of mass-produced souvenirs these days, there’s still genuine handmade work here if you look for it — like intricately woven bags, dolls, and even name-customized items made right on the spot.

It’s well worth a walk through if you want to take home something with a story behind it.

Once you’ve had your fill of browsing the Straw Market, it’s an easy walk just a few blocks west along the waterfront to one of Nassau’s newest attractions — the Margaritaville Beach Resort.

#4 British Colonial Hotel

On the way to Margaritaville, you’ll pass by the beautiful British Colonial Hotel. 

This modern, family-friendly spot is open to the public, and even if you’re not staying here, there’s plenty you can check out — including the lobby and grounds.. Let’s head that way.”

If you're a hotel buff like I am, you’ll love the details here — elegant columns, polished marble floors, a painted ceiling above the check-in desk, and thoughtfully curated artwork throughout.

The British Colonial Hotel was originally built in 1924 on the site of Old Fort Nassau, which dated back to the 1600s. The fort was demolished, and the hotel was constructed as part of Nassau’s growing appeal to international travelers.

Over the decades, it’s hosted British royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood stars. In fact, it even had a cameo in the James Bond film 'Never Say Never Again' with Sean Connery.

After a few ownership changes and a closure during the pandemic, the hotel underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2024, restoring much of its historic charm while adding modern amenities.

The British Colonial Hotel was considered Nassau’s most luxurious hotel for many years.

Now, while the hotel does technically have a beachfront, it’s not exactly the postcard-perfect Bahamas setting. You’re basically looking out over the harbor and the cruise ships. Still, for anyone who enjoys a bit of architecture and history — or just wants to cool off in a gorgeous air-conditioned space — the British Colonial is a great stop on your Nassau walking tour.

Margaritaville in Nassau offers a vibrant island escape with tropical drinks, live music, and waterfront dining in a laid-back Caribbean setting.

#3 Margaritaville Resort

Just a few more minutes down the road and we’ve arrived at Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau — one of the most popular new stops for cruise travelers looking to enjoy some off-ship relaxation.

Even if you’re not staying here, the lobby is open to the public — and it’s definitely worth walking through. You’ll find that signature Margaritaville flip-flop - each resort has one in a unique color. Ours in Orlando is ruby red. : It’s great for some photo ops while you're here.

Just beyond the lobby, the resort opens up to an impressive pool deck and water park that overlooks the harbor. There’s a lazy river, water slides, a FlowRider surf simulator, and plenty of loungers and cabana rentals if you’re just looking to chill.

Now, here’s the important part — you can’t access the pool or water park unless you purchase a day pass, which is available directly through the resort or through some cruise lines as an excursion add-on. Prices vary, but it’s generally one of the more expensive day pass options in Nassau - somewhere around $120 per person. 

Still, even without a pass, walking through Margaritaville is a great way to soak in some tropical energy, grab a drink at the bar, or just enjoy exploring a nice hotel before heading back toward the ship.

Bay Street in Nassau is a bustling thoroughfare known for its vibrant marketplaces, duty-free shops, and colorful colonial architecture.

#2 Bay Street

On the way back we’ll stop at Bay Street to hit the shops. But first, I see one more attraction I must stop at —Dairy Queen. I love Dairy Queen - it’s the one chain restaurant we don’t have in Orlando, so I have to make a stop. And just for fun, there’s even a McDonalds across the street. 

I pass by the Pirates of Nassau Museum, I’ve been here before and it’s a great time - lots of detailed exhibits inside, and it’s especially fun for kids. It’s just a block off Bay Street is one of Nassau’s most unique attractions.

It dives into the Golden Age of Piracy — when Nassau was once a real pirate stronghold. If you think learning about some real pirates is pretty cool, hit that like button. 

As we make our way back toward the heart of town, we’re walking along Bay Street, Nassau’s main shopping corridor — and, this is where you’ll find the usual mix of jewelry stores, designer brands, and locally-owned souvenir shops.

If you’re looking for Pandora charms, perfume, watches, or luxury sunglasses, you’ll find them here — often at better prices than back home.. Just be prepared: some shops can be a bit pushy, especially the larger jewelry retailers that cater heavily to cruise passengers.

You’ll also spot smaller, independent shops selling T-shirts, sneakers, rum cakes, and handmade goods, though prices can vary.

Even if you’re not shopping, Bay Street is a great place for people-watching and soaking in a bit of the local rhythm. It’s one of the busiest streets in Nassau — and it connects many of the attractions we’ve been visiting today.

The casino at Atlantis Resort offers a vibrant gaming experience with a wide range of slots, table games, and poker in an upscale, tropical setting.

#1 Atlantis Resort

Atlantis is pretty much an all-morning visit by itself, maybe combined with a walk down Bay Street. Rather than take a taxi, we hopped on a water taxi right from the pier to Paradise Island — the easiest and most scenic way to get to Atlantis Resort from the cruise port.

The boat ride itself is half the fun. You’ll cruise right past the harbor and get up close and personal with the massive cruise ships — it’s a whole different perspective seeing them from the water.

Once you arrive at Atlantis, there are a few things you can explore without a day pass. The Marina Village is open to the public — a pastel-colored shopping and dining district where you can stroll past luxury yachts. There’s a Starbucks here with indoor and outdoor seating. 

Inside Atlantis, you enter through and browse high-end shops like Balenciaga, Rolex, and other designer names.

The casino is also open to the public, and you’re free to play here. If you came on a Disney ship and miss having a casino, this is your chance to try your luck. Even if you’re not playing casino games, you can still walk through and enjoy the air conditioning and sculptures.

That said, the main parts of the resort — including the aquarium, water park, hotel lobby, and beach access — are all off-limits unless you’ve purchased a day pass or are staying at the resort. A pass to the water park, beach, and pool will run about $250 per person. 

Still, it’s a fun little adventure, and the whole experience — including the boat ride — makes it feel like you’ve gone much farther from port than you actually have

So there you have it — a few places to explore while walking around in Nassau, all on foot or by water taxi, and no excursion needed. From local shopping to historic hotels, from resort walk-throughs to pirate history and yacht spotting, there’s actually a lot you can see here on your own.

If it’s your first time in Nassau, here are a few quick tips:

☀️ Wear sunscreen — the sun here is no joke, and you’ll be walking a lot.

💵 Bring small bills — cash is helpful at the Straw Market and for tipping, but most shops accept cards. US currency is fine. 

🚶 Don’t be afraid to explore — most of the popular spots are within easy walking distance, and the area around the port has become much cleaner, safer, and more tourist-friendly in recent years.

🚤 And if you’re up for it, take that water taxi to Atlantis. Even if you can’t access the full resort, the views alone are worth the trip. It’s a fun mini-excursion that you can do. 

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Darren Wittko 4/14/25 Darren Wittko 4/14/25

Epic Universe Express Passes - What You Need to Know

Express Passes at Epic Universe have different rules - here’s what you need to know before you go!

Epic Universe represents a new chapter in Universal Orlando’s evolution, bringing a fresh wave of excitement and immersive experiences to the theme park landscape. As the highly anticipated fourth theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, it is designed to transport guests into fantastical worlds inspired by beloved franchises. With this vast array of attractions, entertainment, and dining options, utilizing Universal Express Passes becomes an essential strategy to maximize enjoyment and minimize wait times.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of the Universal Express Passes at Epic Universe, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Free Express Passes for Epic Universe?

At this time, Epic Universe is not included with the free Express Passes that are included with Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, and Royal Pacific hotels.

The only way to get Express Passes for Epic Universe is to purchase it as an add-on to your theme park ticket.

Does Helios Grand Hotel include Free Express Passes?

While Helios is a Signature hotel - up there with Portofino Bay Hard Rock and Royal Pacific, you need to know that a stay here does not include free Express Passes. It does offer other perks like being able to walk right into the park from the lobby, and of course, beautiful views if you have a theme park view room.

Epic Universe Express Passes are not Unlimited

Universal Orlando offers two kinds of Express Passes - single-use and unlimited. In most cases, the unlimited version makes more sense because it doesn’t cost that much more. However, single-use Express Passes are the only option for Epic Universe at this time.

List of Epic Universe Rides Offering Express Pass

• Celestial Park

  • Constellation Carousel

  • Stardust Racers

• Super Nintendo World

  • Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

  • Yoshi’s Adventure

• Dark Universe

  • Curse of the Werewolf

  • Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

  • Fyre Drill

  • Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

  • The Untrainable Dragon

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

  • Le Cirque Arcanus

(subject to change)

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Darren Wittko 3/26/25 Darren Wittko 3/26/25

Family Deals for Walt Disney World Summer 2025

Disney World has released a barrage of summer family deals. Here’s how you can save money on your vacation.

Disney World, not to be outdone by Universal Orlando this summer, has released family discount pricing. This is in response to slower-than-expected travel sales at Disney World as Universal launches the first new theme park in Orlando in 20 years, Epic Universe.
If you want a good deal on Disney World, this is it! Deals included discounted theme park tickets and another round of free dining offers.

Celebrate summer at Walt Disney World Resort with exciting new family deals:

• 50% Off on Kids Tickets: Purchase a 3-day or longer kids (ages 3-9) standard ticket for 50% off. This deal is available for visits beginning May 27 through September 20, 2025.

• 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket: Get a 3-day, 3-park ticket starting at $89 per day ($267 total, plus tax) for visits starting on April 6 through September 22, 2025. This ticket is for admission to EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom (one theme park per day, not valid for admission to Magic Kingdom).

• Free Dining Plan Deal Returns: Back by popular demand, get a free dining plan with the purchase of a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day (or longer) package that includes a room at select Disney Resort hotels and a ticket with a Park Hopper option. This offer is for visits on select dates from June 29 through December 22, 2025.

• Free Disney Water Park Admission on Arrival Day: When you stay at a Disney World hotel, you’ll get free admission to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park on the day you check in.

• Disney Resort Room Deals: Save up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotel rooms when you stay longer for visits beginning August 1 through October 11, 2025. Special deals on rooms are also available for Florida Residents and Annual Passholders.

Want me to find the best deal for you? Click here to get started.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Darren Wittko 3/13/25 Darren Wittko 3/13/25

Universal Orlando Epic Universe 1-Day Tickets Now Available

Universal Orlando has released 1-day tickets to Epic Universe this summer!

Universal Orlando has released single-day tickets for Epic Universe for travel dates in 2026! If you have been waiting to add a day at this brand-new theme park featuring Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk and more, now is the time!

2026 rates 1-day Epic Universe tickets cost about $190 per person; however, this price varies slightly by day. Ticket prices in September drop to around $150 per person, per day.

Before you go, watch this video where I take you on a tour of Epic Universe

Universal is now allowing guests with multi-day tickets to visit Epic Universe more than once. During the intiital opening of the park, guests were limited to just one day. I’m glad that’s no longer the case.

Now, Universal Passholders still cannot access Epic Universe without a 1-day ticket. Epic Universe is not included with the Annual Passes. My guess is that we will get some update on this in 2026 (hopefully) but I am willing to bet it will be an extra cost.

Florida residents now have the option to purchase 1-day Epic Universe tickets as well.

Before you visit Epic Universe, you will want to come up with a touring plan so you wait less in line. This will ensure you get everything done in one day. I have a video on how to plan your day at Epic Universe (or read the article here):

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Darren Wittko 1/23/25 Darren Wittko 1/23/25

Disney Cruise Line Gratuity Increase 2025

Beginning Jan. 22, a gratuity increase will take effect for all sailings beginning January 23, 2025 or later.

Beginning Jan. 22, a gratuity increase will take effect for all sailings beginning January 23, 2025 or later.

For non-Concierge Guests, Disney Cruise Line will increase the recommended pre-paid gratuities by $1.50 per person/per day. This new recommendation will increase the gratuities for the Assistant Dining Room Server, Dining Room Server, and Stateroom Host/Hostess. The total recommended gratuity is $16.00 per person/per day.

For Concierge Guests, the recommended increase is $3.75 per person/per day. In addition to the positions listed above, there is also a recommended increase for the Assistant Stateroom Host/Hostess and the Concierge Lounge Team positions. The recommended gratuity is now $27.25 per person/per day.

Guests who have already pre-paid gratuities for an upcoming sailing will not increase to the new pricing.

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Most of my clients prepay their gratuities because it’s much more convenient that paying out in cash. If you don’t prepay gratuities, you’ll be given paper envelops for cash. Then, usually on the last night of your cruise, you will give hand out your envelops to the people who took care of you.

But if you pay in American money, for example, the crew memeber will need to find a place to do the conversion. American money is useless to them becasue they seldom, if ever, get off the ship in the United States.

But if you prepay them, the ship takes care of the conversion for them automatically.

Prepaying gratuities does’’t really save you money, but it certainly doesn’t cost you any more. And 100% of the gratuity goes to your staff.

And for those who provide exceptional service onboard that are deserving of a little something extra, feel free to slip them some cash - in this case, American money would be fine.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Darren Wittko 1/21/25 Darren Wittko 1/21/25

Walt Disney World Lightning Lane Premier Pass is Here to Stay

Disney’s premier skip-the-line feature is here to stay.

Disney introduced Lightning Lane Premier Pass as a test program and after selling out over the holidays, it’s now here to stay.

The booking window will be consistent with Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass, allowing Guests to purchase this option in advance of their visit.

Guests can purchase Lightning Lane Premier Passes for days they have valid theme park admission starting at 7:00 AM Eastern Time on their first day of eligibility. 

Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel or other select hotels can purchase Lightning Lane Premier Passes starting 7 days before the first day of their Resort stay, for their length of stay (up to 14 days). This early-planning benefit is available to registered guests staying at:

• Disney Resort hotels

• Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel  

• Walt Disney World Swan Hotel  

• Walt Disney World Swan Reserve 

Guests not staying in a Disney Resort hotel can purchase Lightning Lane Premier Passes 3 days in advance. See additional details below, which vary based on admission type:  

• Guests with date-based theme park tickets (which require the Guest to choose a start date at the time of purchase) can purchase 3 days before the first day of their ticket, for the total number of valid admission days on their ticket.  

• Guests with other ticket types can purchase 3 days before their park visit.  

• Annual Passholders can purchase 3 days before their park visit.  

This is the only update to Lightning Lane Premier Pass at this time, and the pass continues to be offered in very limited quantities. Guests looking for additional details can visit DisneyWorld.com/LightningLanePremierPass.

Prices for Lightning Lane Premier Pass vary by day. The busier the park, the more it costs.

General pricing for Lightning Lane Premier Pass:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom $130 - $160 per person, per day

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios $269 - $329 per person, per day

• Epcot $169 - $229 per person, per day

• Magic Kingdom $329 - $400 per person, per day

How does Lightning Lane Premier Pass work with Park Hopper Tickets?

This service will be available in very limited quantities and is only valid for one park per day. For example, if you purchase Lightning Lane Premiere Pass for Magic Kingdom Park and complete all eligible attractions you will not be able to use Premier Pass at a second park on the same day, even if you have Park Hopper Option tickets. However, you can combine this purchase with Lightning Lane Multi Pass and/or Single Pass at the same park, or additional parks as you like, subject to availability.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Darren Wittko 1/2/25 Darren Wittko 1/2/25

Inside Guide to FREE DINING at Walt Disney World 2025

A detailed look at the Disney World Free Dining Plan offers for 2025.

Enjoy a fantastic FREE dining plan when you purchase a nondiscounted minimum 3-night, 3-day package from the Walt Disney Travel Company, which includes accommodations at a select Disney Resorts Collection hotel along with a theme park ticket featuring the Park Hopper option.

This free Disney dining offer is valid for arrivals on most nights from May 27 to June 26, 2025, and from July 7 to August 6, 2025.

Additionally, packages may be available for longer lengths of stay, providing even greater flexibility for your vacation plans. The Disney dining plans feature an enticing selection of delicious meals and tasty snacks, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the magic of your visit while eliminating the hassle of meal budgeting.

Embrace the convenience and ease of having your meals thoughtfully planned as you explore the enchanting parks and experience all the wonderful adventures that Disney has to offer.

As with past free dining plan offers, Disney is using a tiered system based on the resort category booked.

Free Disney Dining Plan

• Disney Deluxe Resorts

• Disney Deluxe Villas

Free Quick Service Dining Plan

• Disney Moderate Resorts

• Disney Value Resorts

The free dining offer excludes the following room types: 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows and 2-Bedroom Penthouses at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and Suites at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels.

Disney World Free Dining Blackout Dates

I always recommend booking free dining offers early because they do sell out. There are numerous hidden blackout dates with the broad offer dates. Disney doesn’t share what those blackout dates are for two reasons: 1) there are too many to list and 2) they change all the time as hotels begin to book up.

See, Disney provides a broad range of dates to simplify things. But the offer is not wide-opened to every resort, room category, and date. The only way to see if free dining is being offered is to plug in your travel dates.

The other thing to be mindful of here is that Disney may limit how many free dining packages it’s going to release for a given resort, room category, or date. Again, we don’t have access to that insider information, but I am pretty good at keeping track of it. For example, let’s say Disney secretly allocates 10 rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort for free quick-service dining on the night of June 10. Once 10 people book free dining on June 10 at that resort, the free dining offer then becomes unavailable.

So in short, book as early as possible to get the best availability for free dining.

Sample Free Dining Package Prices for Walt Disney World

Let’s take a look at some of the packages I have prepared for clients using the free dining offer. Here’s a look at a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children ages 5 and 7). Keep in mind that children must order from a child menu when one is available. And it’s Disney, so there’s pretty much always one available.

Free Quick Service Dining

• August 3 - 6, 2025; Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Standard View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $2,719.22

• July 13 - 16, 2025, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Standard View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $3,256.52

Free Disney Dining Plan

• June 1 - 4, 2025, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Resort View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $4,416.82

• June 5 - 8, 2025 Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Resort View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $3,964.56

How the Disney Dining Plans Work

Basic Disney Dining Plan:

Dining plans are per person and based on the number of package nights.

For each package night, each person will receive:

• 1 table service meal credit

• 1 quick service meal credit

• 1 snack or beverage credit

• 1 Resort-refillable mug per person in your package. Mugs are refilled at the self-service beverage station at your hotel's quick-service locations for the duration of the stay.

Disney Quick Service Dining Plan:

For each package night, each person will receive:

• 2 quick-service meal credits 

• 1 snack or beverage credit

• 1 Resort-refillable mug per person in your package. Mugs are refilled at the self-service beverage station at your hotel's quick-service locations for the duration of the stay.

See how the dining plans work in my video here, or my article here.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Darren Wittko 8/14/24 Darren Wittko 8/14/24

Why You Shouldn’t Rent Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Points

The downside to renting DVC Points. What they won’t tell you.

Disney Vacation Club is a Disney’s version of a timeshare program but rather than buying a set week as with companies like RCI and Hilton Grand Vacations, Disney Vacation Club members get an annual allotment of points. These points can be redeemed at a variety of Disney Resorts, most of them however are located at Disney World in Florida. 

Points are based on things like the resort you choose, room category, and date. Nightly point rates cost more during the holidays and spring break than say, summertime which is Value Season. 

One of my viewers pointed out that she was looking to rent points for a 1-bedroom villa at Bay Lake Tower at Walt Disney World for a few nights in late December.

The room cost 56 points per night.

But when she looked into traveling in July, the same room cost only 28 points per night. So she was able to rent fewer points which saved her money. 

If a Disney Vacation Club Member decides they do not want to use their points, they can rent them out to someone else either through a broker, they may use a Facebook group that relies heavily on the honor system where you can rent DVC points by owner.

The claim is that renting points can save you a lot of money over paying cash for the room and allow you to book a room category that would likely be available only to Disney Vacation Club members - like a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom villa at a Disney World Deluxe Resort. 

And while I can confirm that there are savings, they are not usually as high as some people say. In the research that I’ve done, it looks to be more like a savings of about 30-35%.

But Disney almost always has 30-35% discounts on Deluxe hotel rooms anyway.

Now, I have noticed that the 3-bedroom Villas are often excluded from the discounts, but 3-bedroom villas are very expensive no matter how you book them.

They are also difficult to get because there are so few of them. 

Watch My Video on Renting Disney Vacation Club Points

First I don’t recommend booking through Facebook groups etc. I know many people are have had only great experiences and most people are honest.

But it’s when things go wrong that positive relationships can go downhill rather quickly and you’ll probably end up on The People’s Court.

Both parties are entrusting each other, who are strangers by the way, with thousands of dollars at play. And as a fan of The People’s Court myself, I’ll borrow at quote from the judge: “the cheap ends up expensive.”  

Brokers are the way to go when it comes to renting points. Just do a Google search and you’ll see a whole bunch come up.

But the process requires money up front with some uncertainties. 

With most, you’ll be required to give a deposit upfront to initiate the search.

You’ll provide your dates, hotel, and room choice and know how many points you’ll need. Once the deposit is made, the broker will then try to find someone who matches your parameters and negotiate a price. 

Hopefully, they can match you with someone who has points based out of that resort, known as a Home Resort.

In short, a home resort allows you to book at that specific resort 11 months out - which is a significant headstart over other Disney Vacation Members who have a different home resort. More on this coming up in a bit.r

If a match is found, and the price is acceptable, the broker has them create a reservation for you through Disney.

The broker will then pass that information on to you. 

You then have a set period, usually 24 hours, to pay the broker in full for the cost of the rented points. 

Now, you have to be absolutely sure that you’re taking this vacation, even if someone gets sick because the payment is non-refundable.

Some brokers will allow you to cancel and issue a credit for a future stay, but otherwise, it’s rare to get your money back once you hand it over. 

On the other hand,  when you book a Disney vacation package, you only need to pay the refundable $200 deposit and the final payment isn’t due until 30 days prior to your check-in date.

So this is a big downside to renting points. Disney makes it very easy for you to make modifications, cancel, and even make payments.

When you rent DVC points you’re agreeing to give up these perks.  

Mike wrote to me and pointed out that he had to purchase his Disney theme park tickets on his own after renting his points.

““I didn’t realize that I had to pay for my tickets in full and they were non-refundable,” he wrote. He went on to say “”

This is a major drawback compared to booking a package with my travel agent.”

Mike is 100% right.

Tickets purchased outside of a package are non-refundable but Disney will allow him to change his ticket dates.

But it’s yet another thing that you must pay in full upfront.

So between the full payment for the points and full payment on the tickets, you can easily have several thousands of dollars out.

Remember when you book a Disney World package, you only pay the $200 refundable deposit - the final balanuce isn’t due until 30-days prior to check in. 

One of the biggest drawbacks of renting points is that modifying your dates or changing your party mix is a complicated endeavor.

If you find a significantly cheaper flight that comes in two days before, well, changing your DVC dates isn’t going to be easy - and may even be impossible.

So you may be stuck paying the higher airfare if you can’t change your DVC dates. 

This one seems obvious but you have to ensure that the member’s account is in good standing. If they forget to pay their annual dues, Disney may suspend their member benefits, including the ability to make or keep reservations. 

Also, many DVC members who are renting points, are open to selling their membership. Maybe they are just done with it, sick of Disney, the kids prefer Universal or want to on a cruise, whatever.

Members may sell their membership on a DVC resale market.

Now, the new owners will see that they are buying points that have been rented. Hopefully, the new owners will honor your points, but they could cancel your reservation if they want your points for their vacation. Remember that the member owns your reservation, you’re just renting. 

I heard from a woman who rented points for a studio at Animal Kingdom Lodge.

After some consideration, she decided she wanted to buy the Disney Dining Plan. But to add the dining plan, she had to ask the broker to ask the owner to add it to the reservation.

The owner needed her credit card to make the purchase.

This made her feel uncomfortable. 

Travel Insurance with DVC Points

Travel insurance is something you need to consider when renting points but you’ll need to do this on your own, it’s not offered through the broker.

I don’t know why, but the sites I visited all make a point of saying they cannot offer travel protection and they cannot offer any advice on travel protection.

When you book a typical Disney World vacation package, Disney or your travel agent (you know you should book with a travel agent, right?) will take the time to review the travel protection policy with you and you can purchase it directly from Disney. 

Do You Save Money Renting DVC Points?

Do you really save 50% off as some websites say? Yes and no.  I have visited multiple DVC rental sites and compared them to Disney’s current prices.

In some cases, there were significant discounts, even greater than 50%, but most of the time the savings were about 25-35 percent.

In some cases there was hardly any savings at all like this one:  

I entered Oct 21 through Oct 24, 3 nights, for a 1-bedroom Standard View Villa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort.

The average rental price for points was $1,800 for the stay.

Booking directly with Disney, using the fall room discount of 35% off, the nightly rate was $1849.

It Works For Other DVC Members

So why would anyone rent points with all these negatives and uncertainties?

Well, there is one group of people in particular where renting points makes perfect sense: other Disney Vacation Club members. 

See, DVC members have a home resort, which simply means they get a headstart on booking their vacation at one particular resort over everyone else - an 11-month headstart.

For example, my home resort is Boulder Ridge at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

I can book my reservation there 11 months out while others have to wait.

This gives me the best chance at availability. 

Now, if I want to book a different resort, let’s say Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, I have to wait 7 months to book it because it’s not my home resort.

Availability will be limited at 7 months out, so there’s a good chance I won’t be able to book the room I want there.
Unless I rent points from someone whose home resort is Bay Lake Tower. I can rent their points 11 months out for the best availability and then rent my own points out to someone else. Hopefully, I’ll break even but in most cases, there will be some loss, especially if I use a broker who will take a commission for their work. 

Renting points is a tricky business and you really have to do your homework.

Weigh out the pros and cons of renting, consider cancellation policies, and if the savings are worth it.

If you’re a first-time visitor, I don’t think you should attempt this - you really should know the ins and outs of Disney World vacation before you go rogue and end up making it even more complicated.

I have a video that explains traditional Disney World vacation packages where I discuss how it works and point out some money-saving tips. You can check that coming up right here! 

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Darren Wittko 4/17/24 Darren Wittko 4/17/24

Free Disney Dining Plan 2024 Prices. Worth it?

Breaking down the Disney World free dining offer

On April 9, 2024, Disney released a second free dining offer for select July, September, and December dates. In short, Disney is saying that if you come to Disney World this summer or fall, you’ll be able to eat most of your meals for free while on your vacation.

Free Dining has become extremely popular over the years and many guests have even come to expect it. The idea behind it is to fill empty hotel rooms during off-peak times of the year.

Disney knows people love this offer and some even wait for it.

Since 2017, Disney has offered a free dining plan discount for summer travel dates.

For example in 2019, the offer ran from July 5 through September 2nd. And in the summer of 2018, kids would get the dining plan for free. 

But what makes 2024 unique is that Disney ran the free dining plan promotion twice, for nearly the same travel dates.

The first offer came on January 3, 2024, and required visitors to have a Disney+ membership.

Disney then released a second round of free dining on April 9, 2024, also for the summer and this time included September and December as well.

To get the free dining you’ll need to pay the package deposit with a Disney Visa credit or debit card.

That’s not a bad idea because if you don’t already have a Disney Visa you can apply for one and get up to a $400 statement credit plus you’ll get 0% financing on your Dinsey World package for 6 months. 

Also on April 9th Disney released a room offer where you can save up to 30% on the nightly hotel rate for summer and fall. This offer is available to everyone, even those who do not have a Disney Visa credit card but it cannot be combined with the free ding deal. 

So, should you take advantage of Disney World’s free dining offer? Let’s take a look at a few sample vacation packages and see how it works. 

Disney World Free Dining 2024

The free dining package promo for summer 2024 gives guests staying at Disney World Value and Moderate category resorts the quick service dining plan for free.

Deluxe hotel guests can get the regular Disney Dining Plan for free (the one that includes the table service meals).

Required package components:

• Minimum of 4-day Park Hopper tickets

• Minimum 4 nights at the Disney World hotel

Let’s use a sample family to see how they might do with the free dining offer. This fictional family will consist of 2 adults and 2 children ages 8 and 6, staying 4 nights during the first week of July, at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside with 4-day Park Hoppers.

This is just sample pricing to illustrate my point, but actual pricing will vary based on dates, length of stay, and party mix.

The non-discounted rate for this offer including the Quick Service Dining Plan is about $5,002. If this family takes the room offer, their package price is $4,705, a savings of about $300.

And if they take the Quick Service Dining Offer, the package price is $4,355. 

But what if they take the room offer and exclude the quick-service dining plan? Then their total would be about $4,058. Yes, it’s less than the free quick-service dining offer. But only by $300.

A family of 4 staying 4 nights will easily spend more than $300 on food, so free dining is still the better deal. 

What if they stay at a Disney Deluxe hotel? I like Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for free dining because it tends to have the best rates and the most availability.

Now remember at the Deluxe hotels, they will get the table service dining plan for free:

• 1 table service meal

• 1 quick service meal

• 1 snack

This is per night, per person.

The rack rate with the Disney dining plan included without any offers for 4 nights during the first week of July with 4-day park Hoppers comes to $6,760

Now let’s apply some discounts. The room offer with the Disney dining plan comes to $6,028. A savings of $900.

When I apply the free dining offer, the package total comes to $5,768.24, a savings of $1032 compared to the rack rate. 

And what about the room offer without a dining plan, compared to free dining? That comes to $5,037.00.

Free dining is $431 more. But think about that for a moment.

For $431 more, they can dine at the best Disney World restaurants, including most character meals. The average price of a character meal is about $50 per person. So $200 for a family of 4.

It’s close when you compare free dining to the room offer. You could easily spend $700 on dining at Disney, especially if you do a character meal.

But the room offer may be the better deal. 

This is where I can help. I work with people every day to help them determine which offer works out best for them. I’d be happy to help you too.

You can contact me here to get started in just one click.

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Disney, Royal Caribbean and Universal Orlando.

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Darren Wittko 4/9/24 Darren Wittko 4/9/24

Guide to Walt Disney World FREE DINING Offers

For the first time in 4 four years, Disney World is again offering the infamous FREE Dining offer.

Current Free Dining Offers at Disney World

If you’re a Disney Visa Cardmember you can get a FREE Disney Dining Plan for select dates and hotels in July, September, and December 2024.

The trade-off here is that you cannot combine the room discount with this offer. Free Dining Plan offers generally work out better for those that have 4+ people on their reservation.

Otherwise, it might work out better to take the room discount.

See more about the Disney Dining Plans here >

FREE Disney Dining Plan Details

• Free Quick Service Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Value and Moderate Resorts

• Free Disney Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts

If you’re staying at a Value or a Moderate resort, I can upgrade your Quick Service Dining Plan to the Disney Dining Plan. You just need to pay the difference in cost.

Disney World Free Dining Dates 2024

• July 1 to July 31, 2024

• September 1 to September 7, 2024

• December 9 to December 21, 2024

To receive a free dining plan:

• Must book a deposit with a Disney Visa credit card. Right now you can get 0% financing for 6 months on Disney World packages.

• Stay at least 4 nights at Disney World hotel

• Include at least 4 ticket days with Park Hopper

• 3 Bedroom Villas, Club Level rooms, and Suites are excluded

Insider Tips on the Free Dining Plan

Dining Plan Upgrade

If you book the offer at a Moderate or Value resort, receiving a free Quick-service meal plan, you can pay a price difference to get the Disney Dining Plan.

Free Dining Blackout Dates

As with most Disney World offers, there are blackout dates. Disney does not disclose what those blackout dates are. Some resorts and room categories are excluded on select nights.

Disney may adjust blackout dates and hotels without notice.

If you prefer to have me do the work for you, send me a quote request. You’ll also get insider, expert travel planning advice.

If you’re familiar with previous Disney Dining Plans, you should note there are some big changes in 2024.

See my video below for details or click here to read my article “Disney Dining Plans: How they work and are they worth the cost?”

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Specializing in family-friendly vacations at

Disney, Royal Caribbean and Universal Orlando.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Darren Wittko 4/8/24 Darren Wittko 4/8/24

Disney World - Latest Offers and Discounts 2024

New offers available for Walt Disney World Resort

Starting April 9, 2024, you’ll be able to take advantage of 2 new offers:

1. A room discount offer where you can save up to 30% on the night hotel rate

2. Free Disney Dining Plan Offer

But each offer comes with a few restrictions that you need to know about. When you book with me, I automatically determine which offer works out best, so you don’t have to. Get your quote now.

Let’s take a closer look at these new offers.

Save up to 30% at Select Disney World Hotels

This is a broad offer that covers a general timeframe. There are block-out dates for each participating hotel and Disney doesn’t share what they are.

The only way to know for sure is to enter your travel dates and your hotel to see if there’s a discount available. I help clients with this all the time. Request a quote today and I’ll find you the best rate.

Now - October 3, 2024 - Stay More, Save More (Extended)

• Save up to 20% at Disney World Value Resorts

• Save up to 25% at Disney World Moderate Resorts

• Save up to 30% on Disney Deluxe Resorts

The perative words here are “up to.” Stays that include 5 nights or more get the highest percentage off the night room rate.

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Specializing in family-friendly vacations at

Disney, Royal Caribbean and Universal Orlando.

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Free Disney Dining Plan offer for the entire party!

If you’re a Disney Visa Cardmember you can get a FREE Disney Dining Plan for select dates and hotels in July, September, and December 2024.

• July 1 to July 31, 2024

• September 1 to September 7, 2024

• December 9 to December 21, 2024

You cannot combine the room discount with this offer. Free Dining Plan offers generally work out better for those that have 4+ people on their reservation.

Otherwise, it might work out better to take the room discount.

See more about the Disney Dining Plans here >

Watch my video on the Disney Dining Plans here >

FREE Disney Dining Plan Details

• Free Quick Service Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Value and Moderate Resorts

• Free Disney Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts

If you’re staying at a Value or a Moderate resort, I can upgrade your Quick Service Dining Plan to the Disney Dining Plan. You just need to pay the difference in cost.

To receive a free dining plan:

• Must book a deposit with a Disney Visa credit card. Right now you can get 0% financing for 6 months on Disney World packages.

• Stay at least 4 nights at Disney World hotel

• Include at least 4 ticket days with Park Hopper

• 3 Bedroom Villas, Club Level rooms, and Suites are excluded

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Universal Orlando Darren Wittko 2/20/24 Universal Orlando Darren Wittko 2/20/24

How Much Does a Universal Orlando Vacation Really Cost in 2024?

How to budget for your Universal Orlando vacation.

The call of Universal Orlando’s thrilling rides, the immersive worlds, and the irresistible taste of butterbeer is undeniable. But before you grab your wand and head to Hogwarts, it's important to understand the financial realities of a Universal Orlando vacation.

Worry not, this guide delves deeper into the cost considerations, offering a map to navigate your Universal Orlando budget and maximize your vacation experience.

Universal Orlando Tickets: Your Gateway to Adventure

Theme Park tickets are a major component of your vacation. Prices fluctuate based on factors like travel dates, duration (how many days on your tickets), park combinations (Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay), and whether you would like to visit just one park per day, or multiple parks on the same day.

If you are visiting Universal Orlando primarily to experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I highly recommend the Park to Park feature for your tickets. Wizarding World spans both theme parks so you’ll want the ability to travel between both parks, which, by the way, is done via the Hogwarts Express Train - a major attraction.

Multi-day passes offer a big discount. The longer you stay, the cheaper your tickets get per day. A 1-day ticket is the most expensive.

Fun Fact! Universal Orlando is price-controlled, meaning prices are the same whether you book online, by phone, or through a travel agent.

Universal does all of its discounting in-house. As your travel agent, I ensure you get the most value by providing insider advice and watching for any future discounts.

Universal Orlando Express Passes

For those wanting to maximize their ride time, Universal Orlando offers Express Pass. Express Passes grant priority access to attractions, but come at an additional cost, ranging from $100 to $200 per day per person.

Consider your patience level and desired pace before taking this option.

Universal Premier Hotels includes Express Pass for free when you include theme park tickets as part of your package.

It may work out better to book a stay at a Premier hotel than to purchase Express Passes separately. I help clients determine this every day. Click here to have me do this for you.

There are single-park and multi-park Express Pass options plus the option to skip the line once-per-ride Express Pass Base), or skip the lines as many times as you want on each ride (Express Pass Unlimited).

The Premier Hotels include Express Pass Unlimited for free.

Accommodations: Choosing Your Universal Orlando Hotel

Universal Hotels: Immerse yourself in the magic with on-site hotels, offering perks like Early Park Admission and Express Pass options. Prices vary greatly depending on your chosen hotel tier.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Value hotels like Endless Summer start around $88 per night, while Premier hotels like the Royal Pacific Resort can reach $600 per night or more.

Remember, location and amenities influence the price tag.

See my Guide to Universal Orlando Hotels here.

Partner Hotels: Opt for more budget-friendly options just outside the parks. Expect rates ranging from $100 to $200 per night. Most are third-party chain hotels and some even offer a free breakfast.

I recommend the Drury Inn & Suites Near Universal Orlando because the amenities offered here are even better than some of the Universal hotels. Features like a free breakfast buffet, free transportation to the theme parks, free snacks, and Early Park Admission are all included with your stay.

Fueling Your Magical Adventures: Food and Beverage

Quick Service Dining: Yes, there are a lot of theme park favorites like burgers and pizza, but the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has Three Broomsticks and The Leaky Cauldron, both heavy on Harry Potter theming. Expect to spend $10-$20 per person per meal. The Quick Service options in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are some of the most popular at Universal Orlando.

Table Service Dining: Indulge in themed restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, The Palm Restaurant, Cowfish, and NBC Sports Grill. Prepare for $25-$35 per person per meal at Universal table service restaurants.

Snacks and Drinks: Budget $5-$10 per person for snacks and beverages throughout the day. I recommend investing in a Coke Freestyle refillable drink mug. A single refillable mug is $18 but the more you purchase, the cheaper they get. For example, if you buy 2 mugs, the price drops to $16 each. You get unlimited free refills throughout the day. To activate the cup on a different day, the cost is $10.99

Beyond the Essentials: Souvenirs and Special Experiences

Souvenirs are one thing people do not sufficiently plan for. They are everywhere and no one, and I mean no one, will be able to resist the temptation to buy something. Some of the most popular items: Interactive Harry Potter Wands start around $50. Butterbeer mugs range in price from $13 to $45. T-Shirts and casual apparel start around $35. Allocate $50-$100 per person for souvenirs, or adjust based on your willpower. Remember, resisting the allure of Diagon Alley's shops can be nearly impossible, even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan!

Approximate Cost of a Universal Orlando Vacation Package

When you book your vacation with me, you get expert, insider advice that can save you time and money. I’m a licensed and certified Universal Travel Agent. There’s no additional cost to you - Universal pays me to ensure you have a great vacation. Contact me today to get the best price and the best advice.

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Beyond the Parks Darren Wittko 1/11/24 Beyond the Parks Darren Wittko 1/11/24

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas Now in Miami

Icon of the Seas, the largest ship ever built, arrived in Miami, Florida.

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has arrived in Miami, Florida for its inaugural activities.

The cruise line welcomed the world’s largest ship to its new homeport ahead of its maiden voyage set to depart on Saturday, January 27.

Icon of the Seas arrives in Port Miami for the first time.

Where Does Icon of the Seas Go

The seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing includes visits to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Basseterre, St. Kitts and St Thomas, and the US Virgin Islands.

The seven-night Western Caribbean stops at Costa Maya, Mexico; Honduras, Cozumel, Mexico; and of course Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Following its maiden voyage, Icon of the Seas will operate week-long Caribbean voyages sailing roundtrip from Miami.

How much does Icon of the Seas cost?

A seven-night voyage on Icon of the Seas starts at around $1,759 per person for an inside stateroom, $1,929 per person for an Outside View and $2,179 for a Balcony Stateroom. Prices vary by date and itinerary.

Icon promises an all-encompassing lineup of experiences that combines the best of every vacation—from the beach retreat to the resort escape and the theme park adventure—making the first-of-its-kind adventure the way to get away for every type of family and vacationer.

Across eight neighborhoods that are destinations in themselves are firsts and next-level favorites for everyone day and night, including thrills like six record-breaking waterslides at Category 6 and the Crown’s Edge experience at 154 feet above the ocean, and new ways to chill with seven pools like the first suspended infinity pool at sea.

The game-changing experiences also include a stay-all-day neighborhood designed for families with young kids, more than 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges; and deck-defying entertainment across air, ice, water, and theater.

Starting Jan. 27, vacationers can get away on Icon and island hop in the tropics at any time of the year.

Icon’s sister ship, Star of the Seas will be coming to Orlando (Port Canaveral) Florida in 2025.

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Darren Wittko 12/15/23 Darren Wittko 12/15/23

AVERAGE NIGHTLY RATES FOR DISNEY WORLD HOTELS

What the Walt Disney World Resort hotels cost per night, on average.

There are several rate seasons that Disney World uses to determine the nightly cost of a hotel room, mostly based on demand.

It’s important to know that Disney World is price-controlled. Whether you book it yourself, through a travel agent, or even a travel wholesaler, the price is going to be the same for everyone.

Don’t stress over nightly rates

Don’t drive yourself crazy over prices. In the end, Mickey gets your money. And that’s ok! We want him to show us a good time.

Think big picture when it comes to Disney packages

There are so many variables that affect the price.

For example, you might find a week with a lower hotel rate, but ticket prices cost more, or airfare is higher. It seems that if one vacation component is cheaper, the other costs more.

Instead, do this…

1. Decide on the time of year that you want to go. Traveling when you want has more value. If you don’t like heat and humidity, don’t come in August just to save a little money. That would be a poor value because you’re going to be uncomfortable.

2. If price is your primary concern, avoid holidays and spring break.

3. If your package is coming out too high, try a different hotel category or try a Disney Good Neighbor [off-property] hotel.

Average Cost of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Average nightly rates for Disney value priced resorts

• All Star Movies $144

• All Star Music $144

• All Star Sports $130

• Art of Animation Family Suite $604

• Art of Animation - Little Mermaid Standard $285

• Pop Century $316

Average nightly rates for Disney moderate priced resorts

• Caribbean Beach $271

• Coronado Springs $260

• Gran Destino Tower $328

• Ft. Wilderness Cabin $505

• Ft. Wilderness Campsite $95

• Port Orleans Resort French Quarter $268

• Port Orleans Resort Riverside $265

Average nightly rates for Disney Deluxe Resorts

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort $509

• Beach Club Resort $613

• Boardwalk Inn $646

• Contemporary Resort $608

• Grand Floridian Resort $729

• Polynesian Village Resort $704

• Wilderness Lodge Resort $533

• Yacht Club Resort $621

Average nightly rates for Disney Villa Resorts - Deluxe Studios

• Animal Kingdom Lodge - Jambo House $448

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village $490

• Bay Lake Tower $688

• Beach Club Villas $622

• Boardwalk Villas $610

• Boulder Ridge Villas $513

• Copper Creek Villas $512

• Grand Floridian Villas $808

• Old Key West $486

• Polynesian Villas $680

• Riviera Resort $521

• Saratoga Springs $481

Average nightly rates Disney Villa Resorts - 1 Bedroom Villas

• Animal Kingdom Lodge - Jambo House $937

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village $917

• Bay Lake Tower $1,344

• Beach Club Villas $1,092

• Boardwalk Villas $921

• Boulder Ridge Villas $879

• Copper Creek VIllas $983

• Grand Floridian Villas $1.254

• Old Key West $722

• Riviera Villas $1,206

• Saratoga Springs $722

Average nightly rates for Disney Villa Resorts - 2 Bedroom Villas

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village $1191

• Bay Lake Tower $2,122

• Beach Club Villas $1,876

• Boardwalk Villas $1,948

• Boulder Ridge Villas $1,633

• Copper Creek Villas $1,684

• Grand Floridian Villas $1,951

• Old Key West $1,189

• Riviera Villas $1,698

• Saratoga Springs $1,189

Related

• Current Walt Disney World Room Offers

• Walt Disney World Hotel Brochures

About Darren:

Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.

🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy

Recent Updates

See my Orlando travel updates and tips:

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Las Modified: July, 2022

Tags: Disney World Hotel Room Prices, Disney World Hotel Rates, Disney World Hotel Costs, How Much Disney World Costs, Disney Room Rates, Gran Destino Tower Room Rates

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Darren Wittko 11/16/23 Darren Wittko 11/16/23

Things to do at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

A unique vacation experience awaits at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

For too long I overlooked this resort opting for places like Pop Century, Port Orleans, and the Polynesian but Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a classic Disney World vacation experience and I’m so glad I finally gave it a try. Actually, it’s one of the best Disney World vacations I’ve planned and I am not an outdoorsman or a camper.

Even if you’re a hotel buff like me, I say that’s all the more reason to try Fort Wilderness. I promise that you’ll have a uniquely Disney World experience here.

In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do while at “Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.”

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort - Wilderness Cabins

If you are like me and don’t have an RV it’s no problem, there are a number of places that rent them, even here in Orlando. A quick Google search will bring up quite a few. They can even deliver them to Fort Wilderness for you and set them up.

Or you can do what I did and book a Wilderness Cabin.

First of all, these cabins are very cozy inside but also spacious, and have the ability to accommodate up to 6 guests.

They have a living room, a kitchen with full-size appliances, a separate bedroom with a queen bed, and bunk beds.

But my favorite feature is the BBQ grill on the deck and the picnic table. 

There’s something about being able to relax in your own vacation home right on Disney property, it’s absolutely wonderful.

Sure Disney’s hotels are wonderful, but you’re limited to 2 queen beds and maybe a balcony. But in a cabin, you have your piece of land to call home.

While the theme parks are a blast, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking a little time off and having a BBQ and maybe moseying over to the evening sing-a-long with Chip ‘n’ Dale. You’ll definitely want to plan an evening or two where you can just relax in the wilderness - the way Disney intended.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort isn’t about the parks. It’s about being on vacation. Theme parks can be secondary because there are so many fun things to do here.

Cost of Wilderness Cabins

Now the big question everybody asks is, “How much do the Fort Wilderness Cabins cost per night?”

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. It has to do with things like the time of year or if you want a room and ticket package. Generally speaking, Wilderness Cabins range in price from about $450 - $650 per night.

OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises

One of the best-kept secrets here at Walt Disney World is the Tri-Circle-D Ranch. It’s part attraction and part working horse stable.

The name is a reference to an old Mickey Mouse Club spin-off called The Adventures of Spin and Marty where the boys camped at the Triple R Ranch. 

You can stroll through the stables to visit Cinderella’s ponies and the working horses of Walt Disney World - there are about 90 in all.

Don’t miss the antique calliope, it was purchased by Walt Disney himself for the opening of Disneyland in the 1950s. There’s also a little museum dedicated to Walt Disney’s love of horses. There are some great memorabilia pieces and photos inside.

The Tri-Circle-D Ranch also offers horseback riding and pony rides for little ones. Horseback riding requires advance reservations and is actually located in a separate barn at Fort Wilderness located at the Outpost.

Horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides

There are horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides offered at the resort. Advance reservations are recommended by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. These tours can be booked starting 60 days in advance. As your travel advisor, I’m also happy to make the reservation for you. 

These horse-drawn rides take you on a tour through Ft Wilderness. This is a great way to see the Fort, especially during the fall when many of the campers set up elaborate Halloween and Christmas displays at their campsites.

Campers at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort started an unofficial tradition of setting up magical Halloween and Christmas displays around their campsites.

During the Christmas season, there’s even a horse-drawn sleigh ride available - but since this is Florida, the sleigh is on wheels! So, just use your Disney imagination there. 

Onsite General Stores

There are two general stores at the Fort: The Settlement Trading Post and The Meadow Trading Post.

Both offer select grocery items, mostly essentials like milk, eggs, bread, and other necessities that you might need to set up your vacation cabin.

If you’re a Disney nerd, you might consider Disney merchandise to be an essential part of your shopping list, and don’t worry, there’s plenty of that too.

I like they have a number of Ft. Wilderness logo gear as well. These items can’t be purchased anywhere else at Walt Disney World.

Now, if you’re wondering about how you can have a BBQ, at your cabin, the Meadow Trading Post and Settlement Trading Post carry charcoal, firewood, and even smores kits.

Golf cart rentals at Disne’s Fort Wilderness Resort

How to Rent a Golf Cart at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

I saved the best for last. The one that you must do at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is to rent a golf cart. Even if you have your own vehicle, I say ditch the family car and spring for a golf cart. You really can’t drive your car around the resort anyway because there isn’t any place to park other than your cabin or campsite.

Golf carts cost about $80 per night for a 24-hour rental period. I recommend reserving a golf cart in advance by calling 407-824-2742.

They do sell out. Now, if you forgot to make your reservation, you can join a waitlist at the check-in desk. You’ll receive a text if one has been made available for you.

As your travel advisor, I can arrange a golf cart rental for you as well.

You must have a driver’s license and be a guest at Ft Wilderness to rent a golf cart because it is billed to your campsite or cabin.

You’ll see golf carts everywhere at the Fort. I think driving around in our golf cart was the most fun we had during our entire stay.

We, meandered around each night just to enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. We even spotted some wildlife like deer and wild turkeys.

I recommend taking a drive around to explore the resort and check out some of the RVs - some are quite impressive.

But you can also drive it to the pool, the general stores, and even to the Magic Kingdom boat launch at the Settlement and the bus depot at the Outpost.

Transportation at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Fort Wilderness has internal buses just like Port Orleans and Caribbean Beach. There are two main transportation hubs at Fort Wilderness: the Outpost and the Settlement. They are on polar opposite sides of the resort.

Boat to Magic Kingdom from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground

The Outpost is the main bus stop for the theme parks (except for Magic Kingdom). You’ll need to walk, drive your golf cart, or take the internal shuttle to the Outpost if you want to visit EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, or the water parks. 

The Settlement is all the way in the back of the resort complex and it’s where you’ll find the restaurants, the Hoop Dee Doo dinner show, a general store, and a boat dock for Magic Kingdom transportation. 

Magic Kingdom can be accessed by boat or you can take a bus from the Settlement depot.

View fullsize

Map of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (click or tap to enlarge).

Just make sure a Magic Kingdom bus is running, sometimes it isn’t which means you’ll need to take a boat or take a bus to the nearby Wilderness Lodge Resort and transfer there.

You can call the front desk for current transportation availability.

When going to Magic Kingdom, I recommend taking the boat. It’s a scenic ride that passes by Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The boat ride is about 10 -20 minutes depending on whether or not goes express.

Some boats will stop at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and/or Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Whether or not the boat runs express varies by time or day and even by season.

If the boat is making stops at other resorts, add about 8 minutes per stop to the time it takes to reach Magic Kingdom.

Other tips for Fort Wilderness Resort

Now of course this isn’t everything there is do to at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. 

You’ll also want to check out

• Hoop-Dee-Doo-Musical Review is the longest-running show in America. Reservations are recommended and can be booked starting 60 days in advance. 

• Rent canoes and kayaks

• Go on an off-road segway tour (to book call 407-WDW-PLAY)

• Spend an afternoon at the pool and water slide

• Watch Disney movies and under the stars

• Join the fun at Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long - no reservation required.

Nestled on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground evokes the timeless beauty of the American frontier and its totally unique way to enhance your Walt Disney World vacation.

Every day I help people plan magical vacations to Walt Disney World Resort. I’d be happy to help you too.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.

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How to Pay Tolls in Orlando with a Rental Car (SunPass & Best Companies)

If you’re planning to drive a rental car in Orlando or anywhere in Florida for that matter, you’ll quickly discover that toll roads are everywhere. Florida’s toll system is not tourist friendly by design. The idea is to have the tourists pay a little more, to help keep costs down for locals. Some of these tolls are pricey especially in the theme park area, where I live. I have a $2 toll right near my house that I get hit with all the time, even though it’s meant for tourists. But thanks to you, I get a little statement credit each month. So thank you!

The good news is that paying tolls is easy, especially if you use SunPass, Florida’s prepaid toll program.

Existing SunPass Customers: Using SunPass with a Rental Car

SunPass customers renting a vehicle can apply their tolls directly to their prepaid account during the rental period. Here’s how:

1. Log into your SunPass account (using the mobile app is best).

2. Add the rental vehicle’s license plate.

3. Select the start and end date of your rental period.

4. If you have a SunPass transponder, bring it with you and remove it from the car before returning it.

This setup allows you to drive through SunPass lanes and have tolls billed at the lowest SunPass rate, avoiding extra rental car fees.

If you Do Not Have SunPass or a Removable Transponder

Not a SunPass customer? Sunpass sticker not removable? No worries. Most rental car companies have their own toll programs that let you use Florida’s toll roads without carrying cash or stopping at a booth.

• When you drive through a toll lane, cameras photograph your license plate.

• The toll is billed to the rental car company’s toll program vendor.

• That vendor then charges your credit card, often with added service fees.

These programs let you use SunPass lanes (as well as E-PASS and LeeWay lanes), but you’ll usually pay higher fees than if you had your own SunPass. Always read your rental agreement carefully to understand the costs.

Rental Car Toll Programs and Hidden Fees

Here’s what you can expect from the major rental car companies in Orlando:

Alamo, National, and Enterprise

• Participation is automatic—no need to sign up ahead of time.

• You’re only charged if you actually use a toll road.

• Tolls are billed directly to the card on file with your rental.

• Lowest daily convenience fees ($4.95)

SIXT

• Express Tolls Unlimited: This package offers unlimited use of automated toll lanes and typically waives the administrative fees. You pay a flat rate per day for the service (check the current daily rate at the counter, as it can change). This is generally the best option if you plan on using toll roads frequently.

• Pay Per Usage: If you do not opt for a toll package and use a cashless toll lane, you will be billed for:

  • The cost of the toll at the prevailing rate.

  • An administrative fee per day when tolls are incurred, up to a maximum amount per rental agreement. This is usually the most expensive option if you use tolls sparingly.

Hertz, Dollar, and Thrifty

• Purchase the toll program for $13.99 per day or $69.95 per week.

• Includes unlimited tolling during the rental period.

• If you decline the program but drive through cashless lanes, you’ll be charged each toll plus an administrative fee of $9.99 per day.

Fox Rent A Car

• $12.99 per rental day, capped at $194.85.

• Includes unlimited tolls during the rental.

Avis, Budget, and Payless

• Avis/Budget: $6.95 per day when tolls are incurred (max $34.75 per month).

• Payless: $7.95 per day when tolls are incurred (max $37.95 per month).

• If you don’t opt-in and use a toll road, you’ll pay each toll plus additional administrative fees.

Final Recommendation

If you already have a SunPass, bring your transponder or add your rental’s license plate to your account—it’s the cheapest way to pay. Install the mobile app in advance to make it easy.

If you don’t have SunPass, Alamo, National, and Enterprise are the easiest and most budget-friendly rental car options in Orlando. Their automatic participation means you can just drive, and your tolls will be billed without hassle or surprise daily fees.

👉 Planning your Orlando trip? Don’t forget to factor in tolls—especially if you’ll be driving from the airport, visiting the theme parks, or taking day trips to the beach.

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Where to Dine for Free on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas

If you’re like me, one of the best parts of cruising is the food. And on Royal Caribbean’s Utopia of the Seas, there’s no shortage of incredible included dining options. That’s right — many of the best meals onboard are already covered in your cruise fare. As someone who loves both eating well and saving money, I made it my mission to try all the Utopia of the Seas restaurants where you can dine for free.

Below, I’m sharing my favorites — from poolside snacks to elegant dinners — so you can plan your foodie adventure at sea.

Windjammer Marketplace

The Windjammer is my go-to spot for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. It’s buffet-style, with a massive variety of dishes from around the world. I love grabbing a plate of fresh fruit in the morning or sampling new international flavors at night.

Main Dining Room

Every evening brings a new three-course menu — and it’s all included. Think lobster tail on formal night, filet mignon, or escargot. The atmosphere is beautiful, but there’s no strict dress code, so I often keep it casual.

Sorrento’s Pizza

Located on the Royal Promenade, Sorrento’s serves pizza until late at night. Perfect after a show or a few hours of dancing.

Café Promenade

Open 24 hours, this spot keeps me fueled with coffee, pastries, and light bites.

Park Café

Tucked in Central Park, it’s quieter and perfect for breakfast or a light lunch. Don’t miss the fresh salads and sandwiches.

Solarium Bistro

Mediterranean-inspired and steps from the adults-only Solarium — I come here for fresh Greek salads, tzatziki, and lamb chops.

El Loco Fresh

Poolside tacos, burritos, and nachos? Yes, please.

Boardwalk Dog House

Gourmet hot dogs with a variety of toppings. A must-try on a sunny day.

The Spare Tire

This new poolside food truck has incredible pulled pork sandwiches and flatbreads.

Room Service (Some Items)

Continental breakfast is free — great for slow mornings on the balcony.

Watch my full video guide to see these dining spots in action:

If you’re planning a Royal Caribbean cruise from Florida, make sure you save this list. The free dining on Utopia of the Seas is worth the trip alone.

#UtopiaoftheSeas #RoyalCaribbean #CruiseTips #CruiseLife #FloridaTravel #FreeFoodOnACruise

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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What to Do in Nassau Bahamas WITHOUT a Cruise Excursion (2025 Walking Tour)

Today I’m in Nassau, Bahamas, and I don’t have a single excursion booked. But here’s the thing… I don’t need one. I’m going to show you a few places you can explore all on your own, and have a great time on your port day, especially if you’re a first-time cruiser. 

Hello and welcome back to the channel, and welcome to Nassau. Most of the cruisers are headed off to beach resorts, but I like to walk around the port area in the morning, then head back to the ship for lunch and enjoy the ship with fewer people onboard. Whether you're cruising with Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Disney Cruise Line, or Norwegian, everything I visit today is close to the cruise port. 

Here are 6 things you can do without an excursion in Nassau. 

Port Marketplace, Nassau Bahamas

Watch my video tour of Nassau, Bahamas:

#6 Port Marketplace

Once you’re on the pier you'll walk straight into the brand new Port Marketplace — and this is a huge upgrade from what Nassau used to be like.

The Bahamian Port Authority recently gave this entire area a major facelift. It’s cleaner, better organized, and feels a lot safer and more welcoming than it did just a few years ago.

You’ll find colorful buildings and plenty of shops selling local souvenirs, T-shirts, tropical drinks, ice cream, artisan soaps, seashells, and jewelry. 

There’s even a designated area for hair braiding now — something that used to take place in a makeshift park across the street in a park. Now it’s all been moved into a proper space right here in the marketplace, which makes the whole experience more comfortable for everyone. Braids start around $40. While my wife gets her hair braided, my son and I like to walk around and check out the different stalls. 

The Global Porter is one of my favorites - it’s one of the larger shops in the port - it’s like a department store with things you can wear, collectables, and even things for your house. The Port Marketplace leads you to the Straw Market and taxi depot. It’s so easy to find the Straw Market now.  

Straw Market is a legendary destination for purchasing souvenirs in Nassau.

#5 Straw Market

And speaking of the Straw Market, now is a great time to walk across the street and check it out. So, here you leave the actual port complex, and you’re officially in the city of Nassau. This indoor market is packed wall-to-wall with vendors selling things like handwoven straw bags, hats, wood carvings, T-shirts, and souvenirs with your favorite island slogans.

It’s lively, it’s crowded, and yes — it can feel a little overwhelming if you’re not used to being in close quarters. But that’s part of the experience.

Most of the items you see here are negotiable, so don’t be afraid to politely haggle. Just keep in mind — many of the vendors are selling very similar merchandise, so take your time, compare prices, and if you’re after something unique or handmade, be sure to ask who made it.

The Straw Market isn’t air-conditioned, so if you’re looking for that classic Bahamian market atmosphere, this is it. 

Straw work has been part of island life here for centuries, But the actual Straw Market as we know it began in the 1940s, when the tourism industry started to grow and locals began selling their handwoven crafts directly to visitors.

This all started with a handful of women selling handmade goods under umbrellas.  Today, it’s a symbol of local entrepreneurship, especially for Bahamian women. You’ll notice that the stalls in here are all women-owned, keeping the tradition alive even today. 

I hope I don’t spoil any nostalgia here, but the current building is actually relatively new, built after a devastating fire destroyed the original structure in 2001.

And while you will find plenty of mass-produced souvenirs these days, there’s still genuine handmade work here if you look for it — like intricately woven bags, dolls, and even name-customized items made right on the spot.

It’s well worth a walk through if you want to take home something with a story behind it.

Once you’ve had your fill of browsing the Straw Market, it’s an easy walk just a few blocks west along the waterfront to one of Nassau’s newest attractions — the Margaritaville Beach Resort.

#4 British Colonial Hotel

On the way to Margaritaville, you’ll pass by the beautiful British Colonial Hotel. 

This modern, family-friendly spot is open to the public, and even if you’re not staying here, there’s plenty you can check out — including the lobby and grounds.. Let’s head that way.”

If you're a hotel buff like I am, you’ll love the details here — elegant columns, polished marble floors, a painted ceiling above the check-in desk, and thoughtfully curated artwork throughout.

The British Colonial Hotel was originally built in 1924 on the site of Old Fort Nassau, which dated back to the 1600s. The fort was demolished, and the hotel was constructed as part of Nassau’s growing appeal to international travelers.

Over the decades, it’s hosted British royalty, world leaders, and Hollywood stars. In fact, it even had a cameo in the James Bond film 'Never Say Never Again' with Sean Connery.

After a few ownership changes and a closure during the pandemic, the hotel underwent a major renovation and reopened in 2024, restoring much of its historic charm while adding modern amenities.

The British Colonial Hotel was considered Nassau’s most luxurious hotel for many years.

Now, while the hotel does technically have a beachfront, it’s not exactly the postcard-perfect Bahamas setting. You’re basically looking out over the harbor and the cruise ships. Still, for anyone who enjoys a bit of architecture and history — or just wants to cool off in a gorgeous air-conditioned space — the British Colonial is a great stop on your Nassau walking tour.

Margaritaville in Nassau offers a vibrant island escape with tropical drinks, live music, and waterfront dining in a laid-back Caribbean setting.

#3 Margaritaville Resort

Just a few more minutes down the road and we’ve arrived at Margaritaville Beach Resort Nassau — one of the most popular new stops for cruise travelers looking to enjoy some off-ship relaxation.

Even if you’re not staying here, the lobby is open to the public — and it’s definitely worth walking through. You’ll find that signature Margaritaville flip-flop - each resort has one in a unique color. Ours in Orlando is ruby red. : It’s great for some photo ops while you're here.

Just beyond the lobby, the resort opens up to an impressive pool deck and water park that overlooks the harbor. There’s a lazy river, water slides, a FlowRider surf simulator, and plenty of loungers and cabana rentals if you’re just looking to chill.

Now, here’s the important part — you can’t access the pool or water park unless you purchase a day pass, which is available directly through the resort or through some cruise lines as an excursion add-on. Prices vary, but it’s generally one of the more expensive day pass options in Nassau - somewhere around $120 per person. 

Still, even without a pass, walking through Margaritaville is a great way to soak in some tropical energy, grab a drink at the bar, or just enjoy exploring a nice hotel before heading back toward the ship.

Bay Street in Nassau is a bustling thoroughfare known for its vibrant marketplaces, duty-free shops, and colorful colonial architecture.

#2 Bay Street

On the way back we’ll stop at Bay Street to hit the shops. But first, I see one more attraction I must stop at —Dairy Queen. I love Dairy Queen - it’s the one chain restaurant we don’t have in Orlando, so I have to make a stop. And just for fun, there’s even a McDonalds across the street. 

I pass by the Pirates of Nassau Museum, I’ve been here before and it’s a great time - lots of detailed exhibits inside, and it’s especially fun for kids. It’s just a block off Bay Street is one of Nassau’s most unique attractions.

It dives into the Golden Age of Piracy — when Nassau was once a real pirate stronghold. If you think learning about some real pirates is pretty cool, hit that like button. 

As we make our way back toward the heart of town, we’re walking along Bay Street, Nassau’s main shopping corridor — and, this is where you’ll find the usual mix of jewelry stores, designer brands, and locally-owned souvenir shops.

If you’re looking for Pandora charms, perfume, watches, or luxury sunglasses, you’ll find them here — often at better prices than back home.. Just be prepared: some shops can be a bit pushy, especially the larger jewelry retailers that cater heavily to cruise passengers.

You’ll also spot smaller, independent shops selling T-shirts, sneakers, rum cakes, and handmade goods, though prices can vary.

Even if you’re not shopping, Bay Street is a great place for people-watching and soaking in a bit of the local rhythm. It’s one of the busiest streets in Nassau — and it connects many of the attractions we’ve been visiting today.

The casino at Atlantis Resort offers a vibrant gaming experience with a wide range of slots, table games, and poker in an upscale, tropical setting.

#1 Atlantis Resort

Atlantis is pretty much an all-morning visit by itself, maybe combined with a walk down Bay Street. Rather than take a taxi, we hopped on a water taxi right from the pier to Paradise Island — the easiest and most scenic way to get to Atlantis Resort from the cruise port.

The boat ride itself is half the fun. You’ll cruise right past the harbor and get up close and personal with the massive cruise ships — it’s a whole different perspective seeing them from the water.

Once you arrive at Atlantis, there are a few things you can explore without a day pass. The Marina Village is open to the public — a pastel-colored shopping and dining district where you can stroll past luxury yachts. There’s a Starbucks here with indoor and outdoor seating. 

Inside Atlantis, you enter through and browse high-end shops like Balenciaga, Rolex, and other designer names.

The casino is also open to the public, and you’re free to play here. If you came on a Disney ship and miss having a casino, this is your chance to try your luck. Even if you’re not playing casino games, you can still walk through and enjoy the air conditioning and sculptures.

That said, the main parts of the resort — including the aquarium, water park, hotel lobby, and beach access — are all off-limits unless you’ve purchased a day pass or are staying at the resort. A pass to the water park, beach, and pool will run about $250 per person. 

Still, it’s a fun little adventure, and the whole experience — including the boat ride — makes it feel like you’ve gone much farther from port than you actually have

So there you have it — a few places to explore while walking around in Nassau, all on foot or by water taxi, and no excursion needed. From local shopping to historic hotels, from resort walk-throughs to pirate history and yacht spotting, there’s actually a lot you can see here on your own.

If it’s your first time in Nassau, here are a few quick tips:

☀️ Wear sunscreen — the sun here is no joke, and you’ll be walking a lot.

💵 Bring small bills — cash is helpful at the Straw Market and for tipping, but most shops accept cards. US currency is fine. 

🚶 Don’t be afraid to explore — most of the popular spots are within easy walking distance, and the area around the port has become much cleaner, safer, and more tourist-friendly in recent years.

🚤 And if you’re up for it, take that water taxi to Atlantis. Even if you can’t access the full resort, the views alone are worth the trip. It’s a fun mini-excursion that you can do. 

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Epic Universe Express Passes - What You Need to Know

Epic Universe represents a new chapter in Universal Orlando’s evolution, bringing a fresh wave of excitement and immersive experiences to the theme park landscape. As the highly anticipated fourth theme park at Universal Orlando Resort, it is designed to transport guests into fantastical worlds inspired by beloved franchises. With this vast array of attractions, entertainment, and dining options, utilizing Universal Express Passes becomes an essential strategy to maximize enjoyment and minimize wait times.

In this article, we will explore the benefits of the Universal Express Passes at Epic Universe, ensuring you make the most of your visit.

Free Express Passes for Epic Universe?

At this time, Epic Universe is not included with the free Express Passes that are included with Portofino Bay, Hard Rock Hotel, and Royal Pacific hotels.

The only way to get Express Passes for Epic Universe is to purchase it as an add-on to your theme park ticket.

Does Helios Grand Hotel include Free Express Passes?

While Helios is a Signature hotel - up there with Portofino Bay Hard Rock and Royal Pacific, you need to know that a stay here does not include free Express Passes. It does offer other perks like being able to walk right into the park from the lobby, and of course, beautiful views if you have a theme park view room.

Epic Universe Express Passes are not Unlimited

Universal Orlando offers two kinds of Express Passes - single-use and unlimited. In most cases, the unlimited version makes more sense because it doesn’t cost that much more. However, single-use Express Passes are the only option for Epic Universe at this time.

List of Epic Universe Rides Offering Express Pass

• Celestial Park

  • Constellation Carousel

  • Stardust Racers

• Super Nintendo World

  • Mario Kart: Bowser’s Challenge

  • Yoshi’s Adventure

• Dark Universe

  • Curse of the Werewolf

  • Monsters Unchained: The Frankenstein Experiment

• How to Train Your Dragon – Isle of Berk

  • Fyre Drill

  • Hiccup’s Wing Gliders

  • The Untrainable Dragon

• The Wizarding World of Harry Potter – Ministry of Magic

  • Le Cirque Arcanus

(subject to change)

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Family Deals for Walt Disney World Summer 2025

Disney World, not to be outdone by Universal Orlando this summer, has released family discount pricing. This is in response to slower-than-expected travel sales at Disney World as Universal launches the first new theme park in Orlando in 20 years, Epic Universe.
If you want a good deal on Disney World, this is it! Deals included discounted theme park tickets and another round of free dining offers.

Celebrate summer at Walt Disney World Resort with exciting new family deals:

• 50% Off on Kids Tickets: Purchase a 3-day or longer kids (ages 3-9) standard ticket for 50% off. This deal is available for visits beginning May 27 through September 20, 2025.

• 3-Day, 3-Park Ticket: Get a 3-day, 3-park ticket starting at $89 per day ($267 total, plus tax) for visits starting on April 6 through September 22, 2025. This ticket is for admission to EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom (one theme park per day, not valid for admission to Magic Kingdom).

• Free Dining Plan Deal Returns: Back by popular demand, get a free dining plan with the purchase of a non-discounted 4-night, 4-day (or longer) package that includes a room at select Disney Resort hotels and a ticket with a Park Hopper option. This offer is for visits on select dates from June 29 through December 22, 2025.

• Free Disney Water Park Admission on Arrival Day: When you stay at a Disney World hotel, you’ll get free admission to Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon water park on the day you check in.

• Disney Resort Room Deals: Save up to 30% on select Disney Resort hotel rooms when you stay longer for visits beginning August 1 through October 11, 2025. Special deals on rooms are also available for Florida Residents and Annual Passholders.

Want me to find the best deal for you? Click here to get started.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Universal Orlando Epic Universe 1-Day Tickets Now Available

Universal Orlando has released single-day tickets for Epic Universe for travel dates in 2026! If you have been waiting to add a day at this brand-new theme park featuring Super Nintendo World, The Wizarding World of Harry Potter - Ministry of Magic, Dark Universe, How to Train Your Dragon - Isle of Berk and more, now is the time!

2026 rates 1-day Epic Universe tickets cost about $190 per person; however, this price varies slightly by day. Ticket prices in September drop to around $150 per person, per day.

Before you go, watch this video where I take you on a tour of Epic Universe

Universal is now allowing guests with multi-day tickets to visit Epic Universe more than once. During the intiital opening of the park, guests were limited to just one day. I’m glad that’s no longer the case.

Now, Universal Passholders still cannot access Epic Universe without a 1-day ticket. Epic Universe is not included with the Annual Passes. My guess is that we will get some update on this in 2026 (hopefully) but I am willing to bet it will be an extra cost.

Florida residents now have the option to purchase 1-day Epic Universe tickets as well.

Before you visit Epic Universe, you will want to come up with a touring plan so you wait less in line. This will ensure you get everything done in one day. I have a video on how to plan your day at Epic Universe (or read the article here):

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Disney Cruise Line Gratuity Increase 2025

Beginning Jan. 22, a gratuity increase will take effect for all sailings beginning January 23, 2025 or later.

For non-Concierge Guests, Disney Cruise Line will increase the recommended pre-paid gratuities by $1.50 per person/per day. This new recommendation will increase the gratuities for the Assistant Dining Room Server, Dining Room Server, and Stateroom Host/Hostess. The total recommended gratuity is $16.00 per person/per day.

For Concierge Guests, the recommended increase is $3.75 per person/per day. In addition to the positions listed above, there is also a recommended increase for the Assistant Stateroom Host/Hostess and the Concierge Lounge Team positions. The recommended gratuity is now $27.25 per person/per day.

Guests who have already pre-paid gratuities for an upcoming sailing will not increase to the new pricing.

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Most of my clients prepay their gratuities because it’s much more convenient that paying out in cash. If you don’t prepay gratuities, you’ll be given paper envelops for cash. Then, usually on the last night of your cruise, you will give hand out your envelops to the people who took care of you.

But if you pay in American money, for example, the crew memeber will need to find a place to do the conversion. American money is useless to them becasue they seldom, if ever, get off the ship in the United States.

But if you prepay them, the ship takes care of the conversion for them automatically.

Prepaying gratuities does’’t really save you money, but it certainly doesn’t cost you any more. And 100% of the gratuity goes to your staff.

And for those who provide exceptional service onboard that are deserving of a little something extra, feel free to slip them some cash - in this case, American money would be fine.

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Walt Disney World Lightning Lane Premier Pass is Here to Stay

Disney introduced Lightning Lane Premier Pass as a test program and after selling out over the holidays, it’s now here to stay.

The booking window will be consistent with Lightning Lane Multi Pass and Single Pass, allowing Guests to purchase this option in advance of their visit.

Guests can purchase Lightning Lane Premier Passes for days they have valid theme park admission starting at 7:00 AM Eastern Time on their first day of eligibility. 

Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel or other select hotels can purchase Lightning Lane Premier Passes starting 7 days before the first day of their Resort stay, for their length of stay (up to 14 days). This early-planning benefit is available to registered guests staying at:

• Disney Resort hotels

• Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel  

• Walt Disney World Swan Hotel  

• Walt Disney World Swan Reserve 

Guests not staying in a Disney Resort hotel can purchase Lightning Lane Premier Passes 3 days in advance. See additional details below, which vary based on admission type:  

• Guests with date-based theme park tickets (which require the Guest to choose a start date at the time of purchase) can purchase 3 days before the first day of their ticket, for the total number of valid admission days on their ticket.  

• Guests with other ticket types can purchase 3 days before their park visit.  

• Annual Passholders can purchase 3 days before their park visit.  

This is the only update to Lightning Lane Premier Pass at this time, and the pass continues to be offered in very limited quantities. Guests looking for additional details can visit DisneyWorld.com/LightningLanePremierPass.

Prices for Lightning Lane Premier Pass vary by day. The busier the park, the more it costs.

General pricing for Lightning Lane Premier Pass:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom $130 - $160 per person, per day

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios $269 - $329 per person, per day

• Epcot $169 - $229 per person, per day

• Magic Kingdom $329 - $400 per person, per day

How does Lightning Lane Premier Pass work with Park Hopper Tickets?

This service will be available in very limited quantities and is only valid for one park per day. For example, if you purchase Lightning Lane Premiere Pass for Magic Kingdom Park and complete all eligible attractions you will not be able to use Premier Pass at a second park on the same day, even if you have Park Hopper Option tickets. However, you can combine this purchase with Lightning Lane Multi Pass and/or Single Pass at the same park, or additional parks as you like, subject to availability.

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Inside Guide to FREE DINING at Walt Disney World 2025

Enjoy a fantastic FREE dining plan when you purchase a nondiscounted minimum 3-night, 3-day package from the Walt Disney Travel Company, which includes accommodations at a select Disney Resorts Collection hotel along with a theme park ticket featuring the Park Hopper option.

This free Disney dining offer is valid for arrivals on most nights from May 27 to June 26, 2025, and from July 7 to August 6, 2025.

Additionally, packages may be available for longer lengths of stay, providing even greater flexibility for your vacation plans. The Disney dining plans feature an enticing selection of delicious meals and tasty snacks, allowing you to focus solely on enjoying the magic of your visit while eliminating the hassle of meal budgeting.

Embrace the convenience and ease of having your meals thoughtfully planned as you explore the enchanting parks and experience all the wonderful adventures that Disney has to offer.

As with past free dining plan offers, Disney is using a tiered system based on the resort category booked.

Free Disney Dining Plan

• Disney Deluxe Resorts

• Disney Deluxe Villas

Free Quick Service Dining Plan

• Disney Moderate Resorts

• Disney Value Resorts

The free dining offer excludes the following room types: 3-Bedroom Grand Villas, Cabins at Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Bungalows and 2-Bedroom Penthouses at Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows, and Suites at Disney Deluxe Resort hotels.

Disney World Free Dining Blackout Dates

I always recommend booking free dining offers early because they do sell out. There are numerous hidden blackout dates with the broad offer dates. Disney doesn’t share what those blackout dates are for two reasons: 1) there are too many to list and 2) they change all the time as hotels begin to book up.

See, Disney provides a broad range of dates to simplify things. But the offer is not wide-opened to every resort, room category, and date. The only way to see if free dining is being offered is to plug in your travel dates.

The other thing to be mindful of here is that Disney may limit how many free dining packages it’s going to release for a given resort, room category, or date. Again, we don’t have access to that insider information, but I am pretty good at keeping track of it. For example, let’s say Disney secretly allocates 10 rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort for free quick-service dining on the night of June 10. Once 10 people book free dining on June 10 at that resort, the free dining offer then becomes unavailable.

So in short, book as early as possible to get the best availability for free dining.

Sample Free Dining Package Prices for Walt Disney World

Let’s take a look at some of the packages I have prepared for clients using the free dining offer. Here’s a look at a family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children ages 5 and 7). Keep in mind that children must order from a child menu when one is available. And it’s Disney, so there’s pretty much always one available.

Free Quick Service Dining

• August 3 - 6, 2025; Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort, Standard View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $2,719.22

• July 13 - 16, 2025, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, Standard View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $3,256.52

Free Disney Dining Plan

• June 1 - 4, 2025, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Resort View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $4,416.82

• June 5 - 8, 2025 Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, Resort View, 3-Day Park Hopper Tickets $3,964.56

How the Disney Dining Plans Work

Basic Disney Dining Plan:

Dining plans are per person and based on the number of package nights.

For each package night, each person will receive:

• 1 table service meal credit

• 1 quick service meal credit

• 1 snack or beverage credit

• 1 Resort-refillable mug per person in your package. Mugs are refilled at the self-service beverage station at your hotel's quick-service locations for the duration of the stay.

Disney Quick Service Dining Plan:

For each package night, each person will receive:

• 2 quick-service meal credits 

• 1 snack or beverage credit

• 1 Resort-refillable mug per person in your package. Mugs are refilled at the self-service beverage station at your hotel's quick-service locations for the duration of the stay.

See how the dining plans work in my video here, or my article here.

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Why You Shouldn’t Rent Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Points

Disney Vacation Club is a Disney’s version of a timeshare program but rather than buying a set week as with companies like RCI and Hilton Grand Vacations, Disney Vacation Club members get an annual allotment of points. These points can be redeemed at a variety of Disney Resorts, most of them however are located at Disney World in Florida. 

Points are based on things like the resort you choose, room category, and date. Nightly point rates cost more during the holidays and spring break than say, summertime which is Value Season. 

One of my viewers pointed out that she was looking to rent points for a 1-bedroom villa at Bay Lake Tower at Walt Disney World for a few nights in late December.

The room cost 56 points per night.

But when she looked into traveling in July, the same room cost only 28 points per night. So she was able to rent fewer points which saved her money. 

If a Disney Vacation Club Member decides they do not want to use their points, they can rent them out to someone else either through a broker, they may use a Facebook group that relies heavily on the honor system where you can rent DVC points by owner.

The claim is that renting points can save you a lot of money over paying cash for the room and allow you to book a room category that would likely be available only to Disney Vacation Club members - like a 1, 2, or 3-bedroom villa at a Disney World Deluxe Resort. 

And while I can confirm that there are savings, they are not usually as high as some people say. In the research that I’ve done, it looks to be more like a savings of about 30-35%.

But Disney almost always has 30-35% discounts on Deluxe hotel rooms anyway.

Now, I have noticed that the 3-bedroom Villas are often excluded from the discounts, but 3-bedroom villas are very expensive no matter how you book them.

They are also difficult to get because there are so few of them. 

Watch My Video on Renting Disney Vacation Club Points

First I don’t recommend booking through Facebook groups etc. I know many people are have had only great experiences and most people are honest.

But it’s when things go wrong that positive relationships can go downhill rather quickly and you’ll probably end up on The People’s Court.

Both parties are entrusting each other, who are strangers by the way, with thousands of dollars at play. And as a fan of The People’s Court myself, I’ll borrow at quote from the judge: “the cheap ends up expensive.”  

Brokers are the way to go when it comes to renting points. Just do a Google search and you’ll see a whole bunch come up.

But the process requires money up front with some uncertainties. 

With most, you’ll be required to give a deposit upfront to initiate the search.

You’ll provide your dates, hotel, and room choice and know how many points you’ll need. Once the deposit is made, the broker will then try to find someone who matches your parameters and negotiate a price. 

Hopefully, they can match you with someone who has points based out of that resort, known as a Home Resort.

In short, a home resort allows you to book at that specific resort 11 months out - which is a significant headstart over other Disney Vacation Members who have a different home resort. More on this coming up in a bit.r

If a match is found, and the price is acceptable, the broker has them create a reservation for you through Disney.

The broker will then pass that information on to you. 

You then have a set period, usually 24 hours, to pay the broker in full for the cost of the rented points. 

Now, you have to be absolutely sure that you’re taking this vacation, even if someone gets sick because the payment is non-refundable.

Some brokers will allow you to cancel and issue a credit for a future stay, but otherwise, it’s rare to get your money back once you hand it over. 

On the other hand,  when you book a Disney vacation package, you only need to pay the refundable $200 deposit and the final payment isn’t due until 30 days prior to your check-in date.

So this is a big downside to renting points. Disney makes it very easy for you to make modifications, cancel, and even make payments.

When you rent DVC points you’re agreeing to give up these perks.  

Mike wrote to me and pointed out that he had to purchase his Disney theme park tickets on his own after renting his points.

““I didn’t realize that I had to pay for my tickets in full and they were non-refundable,” he wrote. He went on to say “”

This is a major drawback compared to booking a package with my travel agent.”

Mike is 100% right.

Tickets purchased outside of a package are non-refundable but Disney will allow him to change his ticket dates.

But it’s yet another thing that you must pay in full upfront.

So between the full payment for the points and full payment on the tickets, you can easily have several thousands of dollars out.

Remember when you book a Disney World package, you only pay the $200 refundable deposit - the final balanuce isn’t due until 30-days prior to check in. 

One of the biggest drawbacks of renting points is that modifying your dates or changing your party mix is a complicated endeavor.

If you find a significantly cheaper flight that comes in two days before, well, changing your DVC dates isn’t going to be easy - and may even be impossible.

So you may be stuck paying the higher airfare if you can’t change your DVC dates. 

This one seems obvious but you have to ensure that the member’s account is in good standing. If they forget to pay their annual dues, Disney may suspend their member benefits, including the ability to make or keep reservations. 

Also, many DVC members who are renting points, are open to selling their membership. Maybe they are just done with it, sick of Disney, the kids prefer Universal or want to on a cruise, whatever.

Members may sell their membership on a DVC resale market.

Now, the new owners will see that they are buying points that have been rented. Hopefully, the new owners will honor your points, but they could cancel your reservation if they want your points for their vacation. Remember that the member owns your reservation, you’re just renting. 

I heard from a woman who rented points for a studio at Animal Kingdom Lodge.

After some consideration, she decided she wanted to buy the Disney Dining Plan. But to add the dining plan, she had to ask the broker to ask the owner to add it to the reservation.

The owner needed her credit card to make the purchase.

This made her feel uncomfortable. 

Travel Insurance with DVC Points

Travel insurance is something you need to consider when renting points but you’ll need to do this on your own, it’s not offered through the broker.

I don’t know why, but the sites I visited all make a point of saying they cannot offer travel protection and they cannot offer any advice on travel protection.

When you book a typical Disney World vacation package, Disney or your travel agent (you know you should book with a travel agent, right?) will take the time to review the travel protection policy with you and you can purchase it directly from Disney. 

Do You Save Money Renting DVC Points?

Do you really save 50% off as some websites say? Yes and no.  I have visited multiple DVC rental sites and compared them to Disney’s current prices.

In some cases, there were significant discounts, even greater than 50%, but most of the time the savings were about 25-35 percent.

In some cases there was hardly any savings at all like this one:  

I entered Oct 21 through Oct 24, 3 nights, for a 1-bedroom Standard View Villa at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort.

The average rental price for points was $1,800 for the stay.

Booking directly with Disney, using the fall room discount of 35% off, the nightly rate was $1849.

It Works For Other DVC Members

So why would anyone rent points with all these negatives and uncertainties?

Well, there is one group of people in particular where renting points makes perfect sense: other Disney Vacation Club members. 

See, DVC members have a home resort, which simply means they get a headstart on booking their vacation at one particular resort over everyone else - an 11-month headstart.

For example, my home resort is Boulder Ridge at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge.

I can book my reservation there 11 months out while others have to wait.

This gives me the best chance at availability. 

Now, if I want to book a different resort, let’s say Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, I have to wait 7 months to book it because it’s not my home resort.

Availability will be limited at 7 months out, so there’s a good chance I won’t be able to book the room I want there.
Unless I rent points from someone whose home resort is Bay Lake Tower. I can rent their points 11 months out for the best availability and then rent my own points out to someone else. Hopefully, I’ll break even but in most cases, there will be some loss, especially if I use a broker who will take a commission for their work. 

Renting points is a tricky business and you really have to do your homework.

Weigh out the pros and cons of renting, consider cancellation policies, and if the savings are worth it.

If you’re a first-time visitor, I don’t think you should attempt this - you really should know the ins and outs of Disney World vacation before you go rogue and end up making it even more complicated.

I have a video that explains traditional Disney World vacation packages where I discuss how it works and point out some money-saving tips. You can check that coming up right here! 

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Free Disney Dining Plan 2024 Prices. Worth it?

On April 9, 2024, Disney released a second free dining offer for select July, September, and December dates. In short, Disney is saying that if you come to Disney World this summer or fall, you’ll be able to eat most of your meals for free while on your vacation.

Free Dining has become extremely popular over the years and many guests have even come to expect it. The idea behind it is to fill empty hotel rooms during off-peak times of the year.

Disney knows people love this offer and some even wait for it.

Since 2017, Disney has offered a free dining plan discount for summer travel dates.

For example in 2019, the offer ran from July 5 through September 2nd. And in the summer of 2018, kids would get the dining plan for free. 

But what makes 2024 unique is that Disney ran the free dining plan promotion twice, for nearly the same travel dates.

The first offer came on January 3, 2024, and required visitors to have a Disney+ membership.

Disney then released a second round of free dining on April 9, 2024, also for the summer and this time included September and December as well.

To get the free dining you’ll need to pay the package deposit with a Disney Visa credit or debit card.

That’s not a bad idea because if you don’t already have a Disney Visa you can apply for one and get up to a $400 statement credit plus you’ll get 0% financing on your Dinsey World package for 6 months. 

Also on April 9th Disney released a room offer where you can save up to 30% on the nightly hotel rate for summer and fall. This offer is available to everyone, even those who do not have a Disney Visa credit card but it cannot be combined with the free ding deal. 

So, should you take advantage of Disney World’s free dining offer? Let’s take a look at a few sample vacation packages and see how it works. 

Disney World Free Dining 2024

The free dining package promo for summer 2024 gives guests staying at Disney World Value and Moderate category resorts the quick service dining plan for free.

Deluxe hotel guests can get the regular Disney Dining Plan for free (the one that includes the table service meals).

Required package components:

• Minimum of 4-day Park Hopper tickets

• Minimum 4 nights at the Disney World hotel

Let’s use a sample family to see how they might do with the free dining offer. This fictional family will consist of 2 adults and 2 children ages 8 and 6, staying 4 nights during the first week of July, at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort Riverside with 4-day Park Hoppers.

This is just sample pricing to illustrate my point, but actual pricing will vary based on dates, length of stay, and party mix.

The non-discounted rate for this offer including the Quick Service Dining Plan is about $5,002. If this family takes the room offer, their package price is $4,705, a savings of about $300.

And if they take the Quick Service Dining Offer, the package price is $4,355. 

But what if they take the room offer and exclude the quick-service dining plan? Then their total would be about $4,058. Yes, it’s less than the free quick-service dining offer. But only by $300.

A family of 4 staying 4 nights will easily spend more than $300 on food, so free dining is still the better deal. 

What if they stay at a Disney Deluxe hotel? I like Disney’s Yacht Club Resort for free dining because it tends to have the best rates and the most availability.

Now remember at the Deluxe hotels, they will get the table service dining plan for free:

• 1 table service meal

• 1 quick service meal

• 1 snack

This is per night, per person.

The rack rate with the Disney dining plan included without any offers for 4 nights during the first week of July with 4-day park Hoppers comes to $6,760

Now let’s apply some discounts. The room offer with the Disney dining plan comes to $6,028. A savings of $900.

When I apply the free dining offer, the package total comes to $5,768.24, a savings of $1032 compared to the rack rate. 

And what about the room offer without a dining plan, compared to free dining? That comes to $5,037.00.

Free dining is $431 more. But think about that for a moment.

For $431 more, they can dine at the best Disney World restaurants, including most character meals. The average price of a character meal is about $50 per person. So $200 for a family of 4.

It’s close when you compare free dining to the room offer. You could easily spend $700 on dining at Disney, especially if you do a character meal.

But the room offer may be the better deal. 

This is where I can help. I work with people every day to help them determine which offer works out best for them. I’d be happy to help you too.

You can contact me here to get started in just one click.

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Disney, Royal Caribbean and Universal Orlando.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Since 2010, Darren has been making Orlando vacations easy! As an Orlando resident, he is able to provide insider, expert advice on Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Florida-based cruises.

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Guide to Walt Disney World FREE DINING Offers

Current Free Dining Offers at Disney World

If you’re a Disney Visa Cardmember you can get a FREE Disney Dining Plan for select dates and hotels in July, September, and December 2024.

The trade-off here is that you cannot combine the room discount with this offer. Free Dining Plan offers generally work out better for those that have 4+ people on their reservation.

Otherwise, it might work out better to take the room discount.

See more about the Disney Dining Plans here >

FREE Disney Dining Plan Details

• Free Quick Service Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Value and Moderate Resorts

• Free Disney Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts

If you’re staying at a Value or a Moderate resort, I can upgrade your Quick Service Dining Plan to the Disney Dining Plan. You just need to pay the difference in cost.

Disney World Free Dining Dates 2024

• July 1 to July 31, 2024

• September 1 to September 7, 2024

• December 9 to December 21, 2024

To receive a free dining plan:

• Must book a deposit with a Disney Visa credit card. Right now you can get 0% financing for 6 months on Disney World packages.

• Stay at least 4 nights at Disney World hotel

• Include at least 4 ticket days with Park Hopper

• 3 Bedroom Villas, Club Level rooms, and Suites are excluded

Insider Tips on the Free Dining Plan

Dining Plan Upgrade

If you book the offer at a Moderate or Value resort, receiving a free Quick-service meal plan, you can pay a price difference to get the Disney Dining Plan.

Free Dining Blackout Dates

As with most Disney World offers, there are blackout dates. Disney does not disclose what those blackout dates are. Some resorts and room categories are excluded on select nights.

Disney may adjust blackout dates and hotels without notice.

If you prefer to have me do the work for you, send me a quote request. You’ll also get insider, expert travel planning advice.

If you’re familiar with previous Disney Dining Plans, you should note there are some big changes in 2024.

See my video below for details or click here to read my article “Disney Dining Plans: How they work and are they worth the cost?”

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Disney World - Latest Offers and Discounts 2024

Starting April 9, 2024, you’ll be able to take advantage of 2 new offers:

1. A room discount offer where you can save up to 30% on the night hotel rate

2. Free Disney Dining Plan Offer

But each offer comes with a few restrictions that you need to know about. When you book with me, I automatically determine which offer works out best, so you don’t have to. Get your quote now.

Let’s take a closer look at these new offers.

Save up to 30% at Select Disney World Hotels

This is a broad offer that covers a general timeframe. There are block-out dates for each participating hotel and Disney doesn’t share what they are.

The only way to know for sure is to enter your travel dates and your hotel to see if there’s a discount available. I help clients with this all the time. Request a quote today and I’ll find you the best rate.

Now - October 3, 2024 - Stay More, Save More (Extended)

• Save up to 20% at Disney World Value Resorts

• Save up to 25% at Disney World Moderate Resorts

• Save up to 30% on Disney Deluxe Resorts

The perative words here are “up to.” Stays that include 5 nights or more get the highest percentage off the night room rate.

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Free Disney Dining Plan offer for the entire party!

If you’re a Disney Visa Cardmember you can get a FREE Disney Dining Plan for select dates and hotels in July, September, and December 2024.

• July 1 to July 31, 2024

• September 1 to September 7, 2024

• December 9 to December 21, 2024

You cannot combine the room discount with this offer. Free Dining Plan offers generally work out better for those that have 4+ people on their reservation.

Otherwise, it might work out better to take the room discount.

See more about the Disney Dining Plans here >

Watch my video on the Disney Dining Plans here >

FREE Disney Dining Plan Details

• Free Quick Service Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Value and Moderate Resorts

• Free Disney Dining Plan on stays at Disney World Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resorts

If you’re staying at a Value or a Moderate resort, I can upgrade your Quick Service Dining Plan to the Disney Dining Plan. You just need to pay the difference in cost.

To receive a free dining plan:

• Must book a deposit with a Disney Visa credit card. Right now you can get 0% financing for 6 months on Disney World packages.

• Stay at least 4 nights at Disney World hotel

• Include at least 4 ticket days with Park Hopper

• 3 Bedroom Villas, Club Level rooms, and Suites are excluded

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How Much Does a Universal Orlando Vacation Really Cost in 2024?

The call of Universal Orlando’s thrilling rides, the immersive worlds, and the irresistible taste of butterbeer is undeniable. But before you grab your wand and head to Hogwarts, it's important to understand the financial realities of a Universal Orlando vacation.

Worry not, this guide delves deeper into the cost considerations, offering a map to navigate your Universal Orlando budget and maximize your vacation experience.

Universal Orlando Tickets: Your Gateway to Adventure

Theme Park tickets are a major component of your vacation. Prices fluctuate based on factors like travel dates, duration (how many days on your tickets), park combinations (Universal Studios Florida, Islands of Adventure, Volcano Bay), and whether you would like to visit just one park per day, or multiple parks on the same day.

If you are visiting Universal Orlando primarily to experience the Wizarding World of Harry Potter, I highly recommend the Park to Park feature for your tickets. Wizarding World spans both theme parks so you’ll want the ability to travel between both parks, which, by the way, is done via the Hogwarts Express Train - a major attraction.

Multi-day passes offer a big discount. The longer you stay, the cheaper your tickets get per day. A 1-day ticket is the most expensive.

Fun Fact! Universal Orlando is price-controlled, meaning prices are the same whether you book online, by phone, or through a travel agent.

Universal does all of its discounting in-house. As your travel agent, I ensure you get the most value by providing insider advice and watching for any future discounts.

Universal Orlando Express Passes

For those wanting to maximize their ride time, Universal Orlando offers Express Pass. Express Passes grant priority access to attractions, but come at an additional cost, ranging from $100 to $200 per day per person.

Consider your patience level and desired pace before taking this option.

Universal Premier Hotels includes Express Pass for free when you include theme park tickets as part of your package.

It may work out better to book a stay at a Premier hotel than to purchase Express Passes separately. I help clients determine this every day. Click here to have me do this for you.

There are single-park and multi-park Express Pass options plus the option to skip the line once-per-ride Express Pass Base), or skip the lines as many times as you want on each ride (Express Pass Unlimited).

The Premier Hotels include Express Pass Unlimited for free.

Accommodations: Choosing Your Universal Orlando Hotel

Universal Hotels: Immerse yourself in the magic with on-site hotels, offering perks like Early Park Admission and Express Pass options. Prices vary greatly depending on your chosen hotel tier.

Universal’s Cabana Bay Beach Resort

Value hotels like Endless Summer start around $88 per night, while Premier hotels like the Royal Pacific Resort can reach $600 per night or more.

Remember, location and amenities influence the price tag.

See my Guide to Universal Orlando Hotels here.

Partner Hotels: Opt for more budget-friendly options just outside the parks. Expect rates ranging from $100 to $200 per night. Most are third-party chain hotels and some even offer a free breakfast.

I recommend the Drury Inn & Suites Near Universal Orlando because the amenities offered here are even better than some of the Universal hotels. Features like a free breakfast buffet, free transportation to the theme parks, free snacks, and Early Park Admission are all included with your stay.

Fueling Your Magical Adventures: Food and Beverage

Quick Service Dining: Yes, there are a lot of theme park favorites like burgers and pizza, but the Wizarding World of Harry Potter has Three Broomsticks and The Leaky Cauldron, both heavy on Harry Potter theming. Expect to spend $10-$20 per person per meal. The Quick Service options in the Wizarding World of Harry Potter are some of the most popular at Universal Orlando.

Table Service Dining: Indulge in themed restaurants like Hard Rock Cafe, The Palm Restaurant, Cowfish, and NBC Sports Grill. Prepare for $25-$35 per person per meal at Universal table service restaurants.

Snacks and Drinks: Budget $5-$10 per person for snacks and beverages throughout the day. I recommend investing in a Coke Freestyle refillable drink mug. A single refillable mug is $18 but the more you purchase, the cheaper they get. For example, if you buy 2 mugs, the price drops to $16 each. You get unlimited free refills throughout the day. To activate the cup on a different day, the cost is $10.99

Beyond the Essentials: Souvenirs and Special Experiences

Souvenirs are one thing people do not sufficiently plan for. They are everywhere and no one, and I mean no one, will be able to resist the temptation to buy something. Some of the most popular items: Interactive Harry Potter Wands start around $50. Butterbeer mugs range in price from $13 to $45. T-Shirts and casual apparel start around $35. Allocate $50-$100 per person for souvenirs, or adjust based on your willpower. Remember, resisting the allure of Diagon Alley's shops can be nearly impossible, even if you’re not a Harry Potter fan!

Approximate Cost of a Universal Orlando Vacation Package

When you book your vacation with me, you get expert, insider advice that can save you time and money. I’m a licensed and certified Universal Travel Agent. There’s no additional cost to you - Universal pays me to ensure you have a great vacation. Contact me today to get the best price and the best advice.

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Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas Now in Miami

Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas has arrived in Miami, Florida for its inaugural activities.

The cruise line welcomed the world’s largest ship to its new homeport ahead of its maiden voyage set to depart on Saturday, January 27.

Icon of the Seas arrives in Port Miami for the first time.

Where Does Icon of the Seas Go

The seven-night Eastern Caribbean sailing includes visits to Royal Caribbean’s private island, Perfect Day at CocoCay, Basseterre, St. Kitts and St Thomas, and the US Virgin Islands.

The seven-night Western Caribbean stops at Costa Maya, Mexico; Honduras, Cozumel, Mexico; and of course Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Following its maiden voyage, Icon of the Seas will operate week-long Caribbean voyages sailing roundtrip from Miami.

How much does Icon of the Seas cost?

A seven-night voyage on Icon of the Seas starts at around $1,759 per person for an inside stateroom, $1,929 per person for an Outside View and $2,179 for a Balcony Stateroom. Prices vary by date and itinerary.

Icon promises an all-encompassing lineup of experiences that combines the best of every vacation—from the beach retreat to the resort escape and the theme park adventure—making the first-of-its-kind adventure the way to get away for every type of family and vacationer.

Across eight neighborhoods that are destinations in themselves are firsts and next-level favorites for everyone day and night, including thrills like six record-breaking waterslides at Category 6 and the Crown’s Edge experience at 154 feet above the ocean, and new ways to chill with seven pools like the first suspended infinity pool at sea.

The game-changing experiences also include a stay-all-day neighborhood designed for families with young kids, more than 40 restaurants, bars, and lounges; and deck-defying entertainment across air, ice, water, and theater.

Starting Jan. 27, vacationers can get away on Icon and island hop in the tropics at any time of the year.

Icon’s sister ship, Star of the Seas will be coming to Orlando (Port Canaveral) Florida in 2025.

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AVERAGE NIGHTLY RATES FOR DISNEY WORLD HOTELS

There are several rate seasons that Disney World uses to determine the nightly cost of a hotel room, mostly based on demand.

It’s important to know that Disney World is price-controlled. Whether you book it yourself, through a travel agent, or even a travel wholesaler, the price is going to be the same for everyone.

Don’t stress over nightly rates

Don’t drive yourself crazy over prices. In the end, Mickey gets your money. And that’s ok! We want him to show us a good time.

Think big picture when it comes to Disney packages

There are so many variables that affect the price.

For example, you might find a week with a lower hotel rate, but ticket prices cost more, or airfare is higher. It seems that if one vacation component is cheaper, the other costs more.

Instead, do this…

1. Decide on the time of year that you want to go. Traveling when you want has more value. If you don’t like heat and humidity, don’t come in August just to save a little money. That would be a poor value because you’re going to be uncomfortable.

2. If price is your primary concern, avoid holidays and spring break.

3. If your package is coming out too high, try a different hotel category or try a Disney Good Neighbor [off-property] hotel.

Average Cost of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Average nightly rates for Disney value priced resorts

• All Star Movies $144

• All Star Music $144

• All Star Sports $130

• Art of Animation Family Suite $604

• Art of Animation - Little Mermaid Standard $285

• Pop Century $316

Average nightly rates for Disney moderate priced resorts

• Caribbean Beach $271

• Coronado Springs $260

• Gran Destino Tower $328

• Ft. Wilderness Cabin $505

• Ft. Wilderness Campsite $95

• Port Orleans Resort French Quarter $268

• Port Orleans Resort Riverside $265

Average nightly rates for Disney Deluxe Resorts

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort $509

• Beach Club Resort $613

• Boardwalk Inn $646

• Contemporary Resort $608

• Grand Floridian Resort $729

• Polynesian Village Resort $704

• Wilderness Lodge Resort $533

• Yacht Club Resort $621

Average nightly rates for Disney Villa Resorts - Deluxe Studios

• Animal Kingdom Lodge - Jambo House $448

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village $490

• Bay Lake Tower $688

• Beach Club Villas $622

• Boardwalk Villas $610

• Boulder Ridge Villas $513

• Copper Creek Villas $512

• Grand Floridian Villas $808

• Old Key West $486

• Polynesian Villas $680

• Riviera Resort $521

• Saratoga Springs $481

Average nightly rates Disney Villa Resorts - 1 Bedroom Villas

• Animal Kingdom Lodge - Jambo House $937

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village $917

• Bay Lake Tower $1,344

• Beach Club Villas $1,092

• Boardwalk Villas $921

• Boulder Ridge Villas $879

• Copper Creek VIllas $983

• Grand Floridian Villas $1.254

• Old Key West $722

• Riviera Villas $1,206

• Saratoga Springs $722

Average nightly rates for Disney Villa Resorts - 2 Bedroom Villas

• Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village $1191

• Bay Lake Tower $2,122

• Beach Club Villas $1,876

• Boardwalk Villas $1,948

• Boulder Ridge Villas $1,633

• Copper Creek Villas $1,684

• Grand Floridian Villas $1,951

• Old Key West $1,189

• Riviera Villas $1,698

• Saratoga Springs $1,189

Related

• Current Walt Disney World Room Offers

• Walt Disney World Hotel Brochures

About Darren:

Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.

🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy

Recent Updates

See my Orlando travel updates and tips:

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Las Modified: July, 2022

Tags: Disney World Hotel Room Prices, Disney World Hotel Rates, Disney World Hotel Costs, How Much Disney World Costs, Disney Room Rates, Gran Destino Tower Room Rates

Things to do at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort

For too long I overlooked this resort opting for places like Pop Century, Port Orleans, and the Polynesian but Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is a classic Disney World vacation experience and I’m so glad I finally gave it a try. Actually, it’s one of the best Disney World vacations I’ve planned and I am not an outdoorsman or a camper.

Even if you’re a hotel buff like me, I say that’s all the more reason to try Fort Wilderness. I promise that you’ll have a uniquely Disney World experience here.

In this article, I’ll share some of my favorite things to do while at “Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground.”

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort - Wilderness Cabins

If you are like me and don’t have an RV it’s no problem, there are a number of places that rent them, even here in Orlando. A quick Google search will bring up quite a few. They can even deliver them to Fort Wilderness for you and set them up.

Or you can do what I did and book a Wilderness Cabin.

First of all, these cabins are very cozy inside but also spacious, and have the ability to accommodate up to 6 guests.

They have a living room, a kitchen with full-size appliances, a separate bedroom with a queen bed, and bunk beds.

But my favorite feature is the BBQ grill on the deck and the picnic table. 

There’s something about being able to relax in your own vacation home right on Disney property, it’s absolutely wonderful.

Sure Disney’s hotels are wonderful, but you’re limited to 2 queen beds and maybe a balcony. But in a cabin, you have your piece of land to call home.

While the theme parks are a blast, there’s absolutely nothing wrong with taking a little time off and having a BBQ and maybe moseying over to the evening sing-a-long with Chip ‘n’ Dale. You’ll definitely want to plan an evening or two where you can just relax in the wilderness - the way Disney intended.

Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort isn’t about the parks. It’s about being on vacation. Theme parks can be secondary because there are so many fun things to do here.

Cost of Wilderness Cabins

Now the big question everybody asks is, “How much do the Fort Wilderness Cabins cost per night?”

Unfortunately, there is no easy answer. It has to do with things like the time of year or if you want a room and ticket package. Generally speaking, Wilderness Cabins range in price from about $450 - $650 per night.

OrlandoParksGuy: Travel agent for Disney World, Universal Orlando, and Orlando area cruises

One of the best-kept secrets here at Walt Disney World is the Tri-Circle-D Ranch. It’s part attraction and part working horse stable.

The name is a reference to an old Mickey Mouse Club spin-off called The Adventures of Spin and Marty where the boys camped at the Triple R Ranch. 

You can stroll through the stables to visit Cinderella’s ponies and the working horses of Walt Disney World - there are about 90 in all.

Don’t miss the antique calliope, it was purchased by Walt Disney himself for the opening of Disneyland in the 1950s. There’s also a little museum dedicated to Walt Disney’s love of horses. There are some great memorabilia pieces and photos inside.

The Tri-Circle-D Ranch also offers horseback riding and pony rides for little ones. Horseback riding requires advance reservations and is actually located in a separate barn at Fort Wilderness located at the Outpost.

Horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides

There are horse-drawn carriage and wagon rides offered at the resort. Advance reservations are recommended by calling 407-WDW-PLAY. These tours can be booked starting 60 days in advance. As your travel advisor, I’m also happy to make the reservation for you. 

These horse-drawn rides take you on a tour through Ft Wilderness. This is a great way to see the Fort, especially during the fall when many of the campers set up elaborate Halloween and Christmas displays at their campsites.

Campers at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort started an unofficial tradition of setting up magical Halloween and Christmas displays around their campsites.

During the Christmas season, there’s even a horse-drawn sleigh ride available - but since this is Florida, the sleigh is on wheels! So, just use your Disney imagination there. 

Onsite General Stores

There are two general stores at the Fort: The Settlement Trading Post and The Meadow Trading Post.

Both offer select grocery items, mostly essentials like milk, eggs, bread, and other necessities that you might need to set up your vacation cabin.

If you’re a Disney nerd, you might consider Disney merchandise to be an essential part of your shopping list, and don’t worry, there’s plenty of that too.

I like they have a number of Ft. Wilderness logo gear as well. These items can’t be purchased anywhere else at Walt Disney World.

Now, if you’re wondering about how you can have a BBQ, at your cabin, the Meadow Trading Post and Settlement Trading Post carry charcoal, firewood, and even smores kits.

Golf cart rentals at Disne’s Fort Wilderness Resort

How to Rent a Golf Cart at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

I saved the best for last. The one that you must do at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort is to rent a golf cart. Even if you have your own vehicle, I say ditch the family car and spring for a golf cart. You really can’t drive your car around the resort anyway because there isn’t any place to park other than your cabin or campsite.

Golf carts cost about $80 per night for a 24-hour rental period. I recommend reserving a golf cart in advance by calling 407-824-2742.

They do sell out. Now, if you forgot to make your reservation, you can join a waitlist at the check-in desk. You’ll receive a text if one has been made available for you.

As your travel advisor, I can arrange a golf cart rental for you as well.

You must have a driver’s license and be a guest at Ft Wilderness to rent a golf cart because it is billed to your campsite or cabin.

You’ll see golf carts everywhere at the Fort. I think driving around in our golf cart was the most fun we had during our entire stay.

We, meandered around each night just to enjoy the scenery and the fresh air. We even spotted some wildlife like deer and wild turkeys.

I recommend taking a drive around to explore the resort and check out some of the RVs - some are quite impressive.

But you can also drive it to the pool, the general stores, and even to the Magic Kingdom boat launch at the Settlement and the bus depot at the Outpost.

Transportation at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort

Fort Wilderness has internal buses just like Port Orleans and Caribbean Beach. There are two main transportation hubs at Fort Wilderness: the Outpost and the Settlement. They are on polar opposite sides of the resort.

Boat to Magic Kingdom from Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground

The Outpost is the main bus stop for the theme parks (except for Magic Kingdom). You’ll need to walk, drive your golf cart, or take the internal shuttle to the Outpost if you want to visit EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, or the water parks. 

The Settlement is all the way in the back of the resort complex and it’s where you’ll find the restaurants, the Hoop Dee Doo dinner show, a general store, and a boat dock for Magic Kingdom transportation. 

Magic Kingdom can be accessed by boat or you can take a bus from the Settlement depot.

View fullsize

Map of Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (click or tap to enlarge).

Just make sure a Magic Kingdom bus is running, sometimes it isn’t which means you’ll need to take a boat or take a bus to the nearby Wilderness Lodge Resort and transfer there.

You can call the front desk for current transportation availability.

When going to Magic Kingdom, I recommend taking the boat. It’s a scenic ride that passes by Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort and Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

The boat ride is about 10 -20 minutes depending on whether or not goes express.

Some boats will stop at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and/or Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Whether or not the boat runs express varies by time or day and even by season.

If the boat is making stops at other resorts, add about 8 minutes per stop to the time it takes to reach Magic Kingdom.

Other tips for Fort Wilderness Resort

Now of course this isn’t everything there is do to at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort. 

You’ll also want to check out

• Hoop-Dee-Doo-Musical Review is the longest-running show in America. Reservations are recommended and can be booked starting 60 days in advance. 

• Rent canoes and kayaks

• Go on an off-road segway tour (to book call 407-WDW-PLAY)

• Spend an afternoon at the pool and water slide

• Watch Disney movies and under the stars

• Join the fun at Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Campfire Sing-A-Long - no reservation required.

Nestled on 750 acres of pine and cypress forest, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground evokes the timeless beauty of the American frontier and its totally unique way to enhance your Walt Disney World vacation.

Every day I help people plan magical vacations to Walt Disney World Resort. I’d be happy to help you too.

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Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

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Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.

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