6. Clever scheduling

Image: Disney

PROS:

One of the most reliable methods for reducing lines is to schedule smart by not following crowd trends. Most families follow a very predictable schedule when they arrive at Walt Disney World, arriving around breakfast time for an in-park meal, filling up attraction lines until they eat at a standard lunch time, then standing in more lines until regular dinner time, fireworks, and a quick park exit.

Smart scheduling can help you avoid traditional crowds. Arrive early and take your meals at unusual times. In many cases, it’s better to skip breakfast in the parks entirely by eating in your room unless you’re planning a special character meal for one day. Most guests don’t like zig-zagging through the parks and visit attractions in a circular fashion. If you are willing to walk, you can reduce wait times by following a less predictable pattern crossing the park when lines swell. A favorite tool of many readers are touring plans, though more and more guests are becoming aware of these and they may frustrate guests who prefer more spontaneity.

CONS:

It can sometimes be difficult to get the family on board with wacky scheduling. You might be up for 100,000 steps of walking, but Aunt Cher may not even be up for a stroll down Main Street. Kids who are used to eating on a strict routine may need to have some snacks on hand to adapt to eating at different hours. You will likely do a lot more walking than the average guest. If you can work with these parameters, clever scheduling definitely works.

7. VIP tours

Image: Disney

PROS:

Earlier we mentioned that anyone who tells you there’s a way to completely avoid Walt Disney World lines is probably selling something. That is technically true, even for our one exception—in this case, it’s Disney themselves doing the selling.

If you truly want a line-free Walt Disney World visit, your best bet is to invest in a VIP tour experience. It’s easy to assume such experiences are only for celebrities and the super-rich. In truth, if you have the means and time to save up for a VIP tour experience even for just one day of your Walt Disney World vacation, you will be in for a very-worthwhile treat.

Walt Disney World offers several varieties of VIP tours. Some of them only focus on specific rides while others offer an all-encompassing experience of the parks. During your tour, you will be escorted by a specially assigned Cast Member who will take you for the day. You will not only get to enjoy all the biggest attractions in that park with no waits (your tour guide will take you straight to the front of the line), but you will also likely get some really fun insider information on park trivia. It is seriously an amazing experience that cannot be beat.

CONS:

It goes without saying, but VIP treatment is EXPENSIVE! A Walt Disney World vacation is already a pricey endeavor, so saving up for a VIP tour on top of that can seem insurmountable for the average family. However, if it is a dream of yours or a loved one to enjoy the ultimate Disney day with special treatment, no waits, and more magic than you can imagine, a Walt Disney World VIP tour is a must-do experience. The pre-packaged VIP tours that focus on classic attractions, thrill rides, or single parks are likely to prove more affordable than a custom all-access version.

What’s your favorite way to beat lines at Walt Disney World?