Sometimes you can’t help but visit Walt Disney World on crowded days. There are holidays, summer break, cheer competitions and marathons, these days the list is pretty long, just look at our crowd calendar. In recent years we have found that the parks here at Disney World have been busier and it is hard to find times when it is not crowded. With that said, don’t let the chaos and the crowds get to you! We have some tips and ideas for what you should do when it’s crowded at the Magic Kingdom.
Book Fastpasses in Advance
Regardless of whether it’s going to be a busy day or not we recommend ALWAYS getting your Fastpasses in advance. If you are a resort guest you can book them 60 days in advance and non-resort guests it’s 30 days. In order to do this, you simply need a My Disney Experience account which is completely free. Also, remember you need to have valid tickets linked to your account in order to book.
Take a Ride on the Train or Peoplemover
Ah, the leisurely 20-minute ride around the park on the train! The train does a loop around the entire park with stops at Main Street USA, Frontierland, and Fantasyland. Not only is it a great way to pass the time but it’s a great way to navigate the park without fighting the crowds.
If the train isn’t really your speed then head over to Tomorrowland for a spin on the Peoplemover.
Get the My Disney Experience App
We can’t stress the importance of the My Disney Experience app enough! If you have the app installed on your phone you have access to the current wait times for ALL the rides at the Magic Kingdom. Once you are logged into the app you can see which rides have the shortest lines and figure out what you want to ride.
Check out the Citizens of Main Street USA
Roaming around Main Street USA are some fun performers that are out to entertain you. You could just stumble across the Main Street Philharmonic marching sharply toward Town Square, the Dapper Dans clicking their heels in front of delighted music lovers, and some of the more eclectic performers the Main Street U.S.A. Actors. So grab some Starbucks and enjoy some crowd watching!
Play Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom
This interactive card game is located throughout the Magic Kingdom. When you sign up start at the Firehouse on Main Street, U.S.A. There you will receive everything necessary to begin 9 exciting quests, including a Sorcerer Key Card. Use the clues on Merlin’s map to locate 20 Magic Portals situated throughout Adventureland, Fantasyland, Frontierland and along Main Street, U.S.A. Upon arriving at the first Magic Portal, hold up your Sorcerer Key Card to unlock and gain access. At each portal, you will have to defeat one of Hade’s henchmen.
Snap your Photo Wish List
When the ride lines are long and you aren’t up for the wait try snapping some pictures to remember your vacation by. If you bought Memory Maker or have an Annual Pass be sure to take advantage of the Photopass photographers located throughout the park. Looking for some inspiration for photos to take yourself? Take a read of Best Disney World Instagram Walls.
Look for Hidden Mickeys
Did you know that Imagineers who built Disney World have hidden Mickey’s throughout the entire place? If you keep your eyes peeled you will start to find them in all sorts of places. If you and your family are looking for some tips on where to find hidden Mickey’s then I recommend investing in one of the guidebooks available. The two we like best is Hidden Mickeys: A Field Guide to Walt Disney World’s Best Kept Secrets and The Hidden Mickeys of Walt Disney World.
Arrive Early and Stay Late
We share this tip a lot around here. First thing in the morning and late at night are the quietest time in the parks even on the super busy days. For example, we go into the parks early Christmas morning and are still able to enjoy low wait times. Late nights in the parks is hard on all those who brought along younger kids. At the Magic Kingdom, it seems about an hour after the fireworks you will find the wait times on rides and crowds will have died down.
Know the Parade & Show Schedules
When the fireworks are happening or a parade most people in the park are going to be piled up watching the main event. If you don’t really care about seeing it or have seen the show in the past this is the perfect time to get on some rides. Wait times are always at their lowest during shows and fireworks, no matter what park you are in!
Eat Off Normal Schedule
Restaurants inside the parks get busy around traditional dining times. The times are 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. for lunch and 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. for dinner. Schedule your dinner for 4 p.m., this will also help you find some of those hard to get reservations.
I have been visiting the parks annually since my parents first brought me at just a year old. Recently I was able to fulfill my life long dream of being a Florida local and moved from the wintery Northeast to the sunshine and fun of central Florida. Now I am hoping to share my Disney knowledge with you so you can have the best vacation possible!
