The Best of Disneyworld in 5 Days: Hotels, Restaurants, Rides and Tickets

You’ve been dreaming of the perfect Disneyworld getaway for years now, and the time has finally come to make those dreams a reality. Five magical days in the most magical place on earth - what could be better? This is your chance to release your inner child, forget about reality for a while, and immerse yourself in the wonder and fantasy of Disney. From Cinderella’s Castle to Space Mountain, there’s a lifetime of adventure waiting for you behind those gates. The food, the rides, the characters, the parades - your senses will be on overload with delight. The planning and logistics to make the most of your trip can seem overwhelming, but don’t worry, I’ve got you covered. Follow this guide to experience the very best of Disneyworld in just 5 short days. By the end, you’ll probably need another vacation just to recover, but these memories will last forever. The countdown starts now - your Disney dream is about to come true!

The Perfect Disneyworld Hotel for Your Budget

The Value Resorts: Cheap and Cheerful

Want to do Disney on a budget? The Value resorts are calling your name. With room rates under $250 a night, you really can't go wrong. Pop Century and Art of Animation are two of the most fun, with giant Disney characters and retro decor. The rooms are basic but spotless, and the pools are surprisingly awesome for kids.

At this price, you may not get monorail access or fancy theming, but the Value resorts have efficient bus service and you're still on Disney property with all the perks - early entry to the parks, free airport shuttle, and the Disney dining plan. The money you save on your room means more to spend on churros and mouse ears!

The Moderate Resorts: A Little Luxury for Less

Feeling fancy but still want a good deal? The Moderate resorts like Caribbean Beach, Coronado Springs and Port Orleans are a perfect middle ground, with room rates from $300 to $500 per night.

The theming gets kicked up a notch here with Spanish-style architecture, pirate ships and Mardi Gras decor. There are food courts and sit-down restaurants, as well as upgraded amenities like spas, playgrounds and some poolside bars. The rooms are more spacious and many have balconies.

You get most of the perks of the Deluxe resorts for a lot less dough at the Moderates. And with the Skyliner gondolas, some even have their own special transportation to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. For a magical Disney getaway without maxing out your credit card, these top disneyworld hotels won't break the bank!

Planning Your 5-Day Disneyworld Itinerary

So you want to do Disneyworld in 5 days, do ya? Ambitious, but we like your style! The good news is, with some strategic planning, you can experience most of the magic without needing a weeklong vacation.

First things first, you'll want to get a 3-day base ticket and add the Park Hopper option so you can bounce between parks. With Park Hoppers, spend your first day exploring the iconic Cinderella's Castle at Magic Kingdom, then head to EPCOT to sample cuisine from around the world at the World Showcase. On day two, start at Hollywood Studios to meet Olaf and ride Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, then head to Animal Kingdom for an African safari adventure on Kilimanjaro Safaris.

For your last two days, explore what else Orlando has to offer! By now, you'll have exhausted yourself by racing from ride to ride attempting to avoid those long lines. Believe me, we've been there.

With some fastpasses booked in advance, you'll have time for character meet-and-greets, parades, fireworks and of course, riding every thrill ride twice! Tackle Big Thunder Mountain Railroad and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom; Test Track, Soarin' and Frozen Ever After at EPCOT; Toy Story Mania, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster and Slinky Dog Dash at Hollywood Studios; and Avatar Flight of Passage, and Expedition Everest at Animal Kingdom.

Walt Disney truly created the happiest place on earth. Now go have some fun—you only have 5 days, so run, don't walk to the magic!

Must-Do Rides and Attractions at Disneyworld

Alright thrill seekers, this is your moment. After saving up for years and enduring a painful flight with kids kicking your seat, you’ve finally made it to the most magical place on earth—and it’s time to hit the rides. These attractions are Disneyworld must-dos you simply can’t miss.

Avatar Flight of Passage

Climb aboard your banshee and soar over the alien world of Pandora on this cutting-edge thrill ride. With mind-blowing visuals and heart-pounding drops, Flight of Passage is arguably the best ride at Disneyworld. Be prepared for a long wait, so head here first thing.

Big Thunder Mountain Railroad

This runaway mine train adventure is perfect for adventure seekers of all ages. Zoom through an old gold mining town aboard an out-of-control steam train for dips, turns and thrills galore. Hold onto your hat and glasses—this ride’s a real scream!

Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith

Crank up the tunes and blast off on a high-speed chase through the LA night. This indoor rollercoaster rockets you from 0 to 60 mph in under 3 seconds, all while Aerosmith’s “Sweet Emotion” pulses through the sound system. Not for the faint of heart!

Toy Story Mania!

Take aim and fire away at this midway-style shootin’ arcade. Climb into a toy cannon and virtually blast at moving targets, balloons and more in a variety of carnival games starring your favorite Toy Story characters. The interactive gameplay and 4D effects make this ride a family favorite.

With a little planning, you can conquer all the must-dos at Disneyworld and still have time for a Mickey Mouse ice cream bar. Strap in, hold on tight and get ready for the thrill of a lifetime! The magic awaits.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of Your 3 or 4-Day Park Tickets

So you scored a 3 or 4-day ticket to the Magic Kingdom—nice work! Now it’s time to make the most of your limited time in the park. Here are some tips to experience as much pixie dust as possible.

To ride the headliners without insane wait times, get to the park at rope drop. Head straight to Seven Dwarves Mine Train, Space Mountain, or Avatar Flight of Passage and you'll be off in under 30 minutes. Once the initial rush dies down, hop in the standby queue for other E-ticket attractions like Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring Aerosmith, or Expedition Everest.

For your other days, take advantage of extra magic hours and park hopping. Extra magic hours allow resort guests extra time in the parks, usually an hour early or a few hours late. Fewer crowds mean shorter lines for the best rides. And with a hopper ticket, you can start the day in one park, then head to another in the afternoon. More time means more rides!

Make dining reservations in advance, especially if you want to eat at Cinderella's Royal Table, Be Our Guest, or other character meals. Walk-up availability is limited, and you don't want to waste precious park time waiting in long standby lines.

Catch the fireworks and nighttime spectaculars. The fireworks and light shows at night are Disney magic at its best. Stake out a spot at least 30 minutes early for the best view (preferably 45 minutes to an hour ahead).

Take breaks when you need them. As much as you'll want to go full tilt sun up to sun down, pace yourself. Take a mid-day break to rest your feet, recharge with a snack, and avoid the hottest crowds. You'll feel refreshed for the evening activities and avoid burning yourself out too quickly before your trip even comes to an end!

With some advanced planning and efficient touring, you can experience the very best of the Magic Kingdom with only a few days in the parks. Have a magical trip!

The Best Quick Service Restaurants in Disneyworld

When you’re tired of overpriced churros and turkey legs, head to one of these quick service joints for a cheap, delicious meal. You’ll be in and out in under 30 minutes with a full belly and money left in your wallet.

Satu'li Canteen in Pandora - The World of Avatar is out of this world. No, seriously, you’ll feel like you’re dining on an alien planet. The colorful details and “bioluminescent” plants will transport you straight to Pandora. Grab a cheeseburger pod or the beef and rice bowl. At under $15 per person, this is one of the best deals in Disney.

Columbia Harbor House in Liberty Square is a fan favorite. This casual seafood spot is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of Magic Kingdom. Head upstairs for a quiet, air-conditioned seating area. The lobster roll, fish and chips, and hummus flatbread are all mouthwateringly delicious. And with most meals under $10, you really can’t beat it.

The Polite Pig in Disney Springs is a popular barbecue joint that’s ideal for families or big eaters. Load up on smoked brisket, pulled pork, or burnt ends by the pound. Sides like mac and cheese, baked beans, and cornbread will leave you stuffed. The outdoor patio seating offers great people watching. And at around $15 per person, you’ll be rolling out of there.

Quick service doesn’t have to mean burgers and fries (though Disney does those well too!). With unique options like Satu’li Canteen and Columbia Harbor House, you can experience flavors from around the world without shelling out big bucks or wasting precious park time. Fill up on these wallet-friendly feasts so you have plenty of energy left for riding Space Mountain 10 times in a row!

Top Table Service Restaurants for Families and Couples

If you’re looking for an upscale yet whimsical dining experience, the Table Service restaurants at Disney World are tough to beat. Here are a few of our favorites for families and couples:

Victoria & Albert’s at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

This is the crème de la crème of Disney dining. With exquisite cuisine and top-notch service, V&A’s is perfect for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The ten-course tasting menu features ingredients from around the world and a stellar wine list. It’s on the pricey side, but worth every penny for a once-in-a-lifetime meal.

Ale and Compass Restaurant

For a more casual upscale option, head to the Ale and Compass at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. They offer New England-inspired fare like lobster rolls, fish and chips, and artisanal flatbreads in a nautical setting. It’s a bit more budget-friendly but still has amazing food and theming. Great for seafood lovers and families with kids.

Liberty Tree Tavern

If you’re craving some good old-fashioned comfort food, the Liberty Tree Tavern is your spot. This colonial-themed restaurant in Magic Kingdom Park serves up family-style meals of roast beef, turkey, pork, and stuffing. It’s all-you-can-eat in a charming historic setting. For a taste of early America and lots of hearty fare, you can’t beat Liberty Tree.

With diverse cuisines, price points to suit any budget, and theming to match the magic, Disney World’s Table Service restaurants are an attraction all on their own. Whether it’s a casual meal with the fam or an upscale dinner for two, there’s something for everyone at the most magical place on earth. Bon appetit!

Ideal Times of Year to Visit Disneyworld

The best times to visit

If crowds aren’t your thing, aim for September or January through February. The weather is pleasant, kids are in school, and you’ll feel like you have the place to yourself! You’ll get on every ride with little wait and actually get a photo with the characters without a 2-hour line. During the off-season, hotels often run deals and packages to entice visitors. You may be able to get a room for 30-50% off!

Of course, if your heart is set on seeing the holiday decorations or your kids will only go when school is out, you’ll have to brave the crowds. But with some patience and planning, you can still tackle it all. Here are some tips:

•Buy a Park Hopper ticket so you can move between parks freely. This way you can follow your must-do list, not the crowds.

•Use the MyDisneyExperience app to book FastPass+ selections for your top rides 60 days before your trip. This will save you hours waiting in standby queues.

•Take advantage of Extra Magic Hours when the parks open early or stay open late for Disney resort guests. You’ll get a head start on the crowds and shorter waits for rides.

•Be at the parks at rope drop. This means getting there at least 30-45 minutes before the scheduled opening time (or earlier for better spots). You’ll be able to knock out several rides before the mass of visitors arrive.

•Take a midday break when the crowds and temperatures peak. Head back to your hotel pool or Disney Springs for a recharge before returning to the parks at night.

•End each night with a spectacular show like Happily Ever After or Rivers of Light. Find a spot at least 30 minutes early, sit back and enjoy the magic!

Following these tips, you'll be whizzing through Space Mountain, savoring Mickey Premium Bars and watching fireworks before you know it. An ambitious 5 days at Disneyworld is absolutely possible if you go in with a plan. Now what are you waiting for? Time to get packing!

Packing Tips and Essentials for Your Disneyworld Vacation

When packing for your Disney World vacation, don’t forget the essentials! You’ll be walking miles every day, so comfortable shoes are a must. Pack more than one reliable pair in case it rains. A reusable water bottle will keep you hydrated in the Florida heat. And sun protection like sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat are non-negotiable.

Beyond the basics, here are some other useful items to throw in your suitcase:

• Poncho or rain jacket - Afternoon showers are common, so be prepared for storms. A poncho will keep you dry without weighing you down.

• Bandages/blister pads - All that walking can lead to sore feet and blisters. Be prepared to treat any ouchies so you can keep going!

• Phone charger - You’ll be snapping pics, posting to social media and using the My Disney Experience app constantly. Bring a portable charger so your phone doesn’t die mid-day.

• Autograph book - If character meet and greets are on your agenda, an autograph book is a must. The characters will happily sign and interact with fans of all ages.

• Glow sticks/light up toys - For any nighttime parades or fireworks shows, pack some glow sticks or light up toys. They’ll make the experience even more magical.

• Ziploc bags - Great for storing maps, tickets, chargers and anything else you need to keep dry or organized in your backpack.

• Hand sanitizer/wipes - With thousands of people around, germs are inevitable. Sanitizer will give you peace of mind after touching handrails, doorknobs and shaking hands with characters.

• Extra camera battery - You’ll be snapping pics nonstop, especially at nighttime shows and parades. An extra battery means your camera won’t die at a pivotal moment.

By packing these essentials and extras, you’ll be prepared for any situation at the Most Magical Place on Earth. Now the only thing left to do is enjoy your vacation and make lifelong memories with loved ones! Have a magical trip!

Disneyworld Vacation Cost Breakdown: Hotels, Tickets, Food and More

So you want to do Disneyworld in 5 days, do ya? Well hold onto your Mickey ears, because we’re about to plan the Disney vacation of your dreams—on a budget. Here’s the lowdown on how much this magical experience will cost you.

Hotels:

You’ll want to stay on-site at a Disney resort for the full experience. Prices range from $100-$800/night. The Value resorts (All-Star/Pop Century) are most budget-friendly at $100-$250/night. The Moderates (Coronado Springs/Caribbean Beach) hit the $250-$450 range. For luxury, you can’t beat the Deluxe resorts (Grand Floridian/Beach Club) at $450-$800/night.

Park Tickets:

A 3-day base ticket for one park per day will run you $300-$500 per person. The more days you add, the more you save. A 5-day ticket is around $400-$600 per person. The Park Hopper option (visiting multiple parks in one day) adds $50-$100 per ticket.

Food:

Disney dining plans provide a fixed number of meals and snacks for one upfront price. The Quick Service Plan includes 2 meals and 2 snacks per day starting around $50/person. The Standard Dining Plan offers 1 meal, 1 snack, and 1 table-service meal (character meals/dinner shows) for around $90/adult and $30/child. Expect to pay $10-$15 for a quick-service meal, $15-$30 for a table-service meal, and $3-$10 for a snack per person.

Extras:

Don’t forget extras like souvenirs ($10-$50), stroller rentals ($15/day), and parking fees ($25/night). Budget at least $50/person for random extras.

In total, you're looking at $3,000-$5,000 for a family of four over 5 days, depending on your hotel and dining choices. But with some savvy planning, you can experience the magic on a budget. Now start practicing your “Mickey!” yell and get ready for the vacation of a lifetime!

Other Must-Do Attractions in Orlando

Orlando has no shortage of fun attractions outside the theme parks. If you have an extra day or two, check out some of these must-do spots.

Gatorland

No trip to Florida is complete without seeing some alligators up close and personal. At Gatorland, you can take an airboat ride, see alligator wrestling shows, and walk right up to the gator pens. Just don’t stick your fingers in—those jaws have some chomping power!

ICON Park

This new entertainment complex has it all: a giant Ferris wheel, escape rooms, arcade games, bars, and restaurants. Walk around, grab a drink, and ride the massive Orlando Eye Ferris wheel for panoramic views of the city. Pro tip: go at night for the best light show.

Fun Spot America

If you’re looking for thrill rides without the theme park prices, Fun Spot is your spot. They have rollercoasters, drop towers, bumper cars and more. Buy tickets for the rides individually or get an all-day wristband. It’s open late and lit up at night, so you can head here after the parks close for an evening adrenaline rush.

WonderWorks

WonderWorks is billed as an “amusement park for the mind.” This interactive science museum has over 100 hands-on exhibits exploring natural phenomena and the human experience. Release your inner child and spend a few hours learning through play. It’s fun for both kids and kids at heart.

SEA LIFE Aquarium

Right next door to WonderWorks, the SEA LIFE Aquarium is home to thousands of sea creatures including sharks, penguins, octopuses, and clownfish. Stroll through the ocean tunnel and you’ll feel like you’re walking under the sea. A perfect educational yet entertaining attraction for marine life enthusiasts of all ages.

With so much to experience, you’ll never run out of fun in Orlando! Squeeze in a couple of these extra attractions between your theme park hopping for a well-rounded Florida getaway. The only downside is that five days may not feel like enough!

Conclusion

So there you have it, your cheat sheet for experiencing the magic of Disney in just 5 enchanted days. From thrill rides to character encounters to world-class dining and entertainment, you've now got an insider's guide to doing it all without missing a beat. With the help of this itinerary, you'll be living your own fairy tale adventure in no time. What are you waiting for? It's time to stop dreaming and start planning - your Disney dream vacation awaits! The memories you'll make here with friends and family will last a lifetime. Now go have the time of your life, you deserve it! See you real soon!