most expensive disney vip tour

Guide to Disney Private VIP Tours

Here’s What You Need to Know About Private VIP Tours at Disney World

Are you interested in a Walt Disney World vacation with no lines and the highest level of customization? Surprisingly, there is a way to make it happen. Disney Private VIP Tours will allow you to avoid crowds, learn about Disney World’s history and inner workings, and be shuttled between rides and theme parks like a celebrity. Plus, an experienced and knowledgeable guide will take care of the logistics, so you can relax and enjoy yourself. Our guide to Disney Private VIP Tours will explain how this premium experience works.

What is a Private Disney VIP Tour?

A Disney Private VIP Tour is the ultimate way to experience the magic of Walt Disney World. Your personal guide will take you behind the scenes, show you hidden secrets, and help you make the most of your time in the park. There’s no need to worry about waiting in line, either; with a private guide, you’ll be able to skip the lines and enjoy exclusive access to rides and attractions. Best of all, your guide will tailor the tour to your interests, ensuring you have a truly personalized experience. So whether you’re a first-time visitor or a theme park veteran, a Disney Private VIP Tour is the perfect way to make your Disney dreams come true.

The following are some of the personalized services you will receive on a Disney Private VIP Tour:

• Make your pre-arrival arrangements
• Pick your own start and end times
• Your choice of visiting one or more theme parks on a particular day
• Enjoying your favorite rides and attractions without waiting in line
• Door-to-door transportation all day long
• Your VIP Tour Guide provides expert insight throughout your tour and handles all logistics for you

If you’re looking for the ultimate Disney experience, a private tour is the way to go!

Who Can Book Private Disney VIP Tours?

It is a common misconception that you must be a celebrity to book a Private Disney VIP tour. However, that’s not true. The rich and famous certainly take private tours, but everyone can do the same. The only requirement is that you are willing to pay the cost of a Disney Private VIP Tour, which is not cheap. Another thing to consider is that these tours are extremely popular and do sell out in advance. So if you’re set on having a private tour guide all to yourself during your next trip to Disney, make sure you act fast!

How Do You Plan a Disney Private VIP Tour?

When it comes to planning a Disney VIP tour, the easiest and most efficient way is to work with an experienced Disney travel agency such as The Vacationeer . They can handle all the customization and coordination for you, ensuring that everything is perfect for your group. And, because they’re familiar with how Disney works, they can often get you access to things you won’t know about on your own.

Ready to Be a Disney VIP?

Beyond helping secure your Disney VIP tours, the services of The Vacationeer include making your hotel and dining reservations and booking your theme park tickets and transportation arrangements. But it doesn’t stop there.

The Vacationeer can also help you find the ultimate in luxury if that’s what you’re looking for. For example, they can guide you to the best Five Star Hotels at Disney World , make reservations at Disney’s Michelin Guide restaurants , and book tee times at Disney World golf courses . They can even make your stroller rentals , Disney Character Dining reservations , childcare and babysitter arrangements, and more. It’s like having your very own personal assistant for Disney World !

So why not contact The Vacationeer for the most magical (and hassle-free) vacation experience possible? Click HERE to get a free quote and book your private Disney tour today!

The other option is working directly with the Disney VIP Tour Services team . You’ll be able to pick out exactly which experiences you want and then work out the details with your private tour guide. Either way way you choose, you’re in for a truly magical experience!

How Do Rides Work on a Disney Private VIP Tour?

A Disney Private VIP Tour is the perfect way to see everything the parks offer without waiting in line. You and your group will be escorted through the back entrance of the park and given instant access to the rides and attractions through either a side door or a Lightning Lane entrance. Plus, your tour guide will work with you to customize your itinerary so that you can make the most of your time at the parks. Whether you want to focus on rides and shows or simply take in the sights and learn about Disney World’s history, a Disney Private VIP Tour allows for total flexibility.

How Many Tour Guides Are on Disney VIP Tours?

A typical Disney Private VIP Tour will have just one knowledgeable and efficient tour guide. However, additional personnel may be needed for tours involving celebrities or other special guests to deal with the complexities that can arise. Regardless of the group size or celebrity status (or lack thereof), all of Disney’s tour guides are friendly and accommodating. You can rest assured that these well-trained Cast Members are among the best since Disney handpicked them for this important role.

Disney VIP guides are easily recognizable in their dapper plaid vests, and they know all kinds of Disney history and trivia that they love to share with guests. They will take you and your group around the park, acting as a virtual express pass so you can skip all the standby lines. Plus, if you ask nicely, they might be able to get you access to special areas or join you on rides. So if you’re looking for a highly personalized and magical VIP experience at Walt Disney World, a Private VIP Tour is the way to go.

How Many People Can Join a Disney World VIP Tour?

A Disney VIP Tour allows you the freedom to choose who you want to bring along on your tour. You don’t have to worry about being matched up with other people you don’t know because you get to decide who’ll be in the group.

The maximum number of people allowed on each tour is 10 , including infants. This is the perfect tour for groups of friends or family who want to experience the magic of Disney together. It’s also an excellent luxury option for couples who want to be pampered at the happiest place on earth.

You will be escorted around the park by your own private tour guide, who will ensure you have a VIP experience throughout your trip. With the help of your guide, you’ll get the most out of your time at the park and see all the best attractions. The Disney Private VIP Tour is a perfect choice for those looking to share a truly magical and intimate experience with their loved ones and friends.

How Much Do Private Disney VIP Tours Cost?

Private VIP Tours at Disney offer freedom and flexibility that you can’t find with other tour options. You’ll be able to choose which parks you want to visit and plan your itinerary with the help of your private guide. Best of all, you’ll feel like a VIP as you’re escorted around the parks without waiting in line. There is, however, a high price tag associated with VIP service.

As of January 2023, Disney Private VIP Tours prices start at $450 per hour and can go as high as $900 per hour . There is a minimum 7-hour booking requirement for all private tours. To put it into perspective, a 7-hour Disney Private VIP Tour costs between $3,150 and $6,300 before gratuities. Tours are usually the most expensive during holidays, school vacations, and three-day weekends, while midweek and off-season are the least costly.

The Disney World VIP tour price is fixed hourly, regardless of how many people are in your group. In other words, the price remains the same whether you have two or ten people in your tour group. This allows groups to split the cost and make the trip more affordable. It’s an excellent option for families or friends who want to experience Disney World together or those who don’t mind paying more for luxury experiences . Using a rewards credit card is another good way to offset some of the cost, allowing you to earn points that can be used toward future travel.

Note : Theme park admission is not included in the tour price, so you must purchase park tickets separately. Park Hopper tickets are necessary if you plan to visit multiple theme parks during your tour. If you visit only one park, you’ll only need a single-park ticket. The Vacationeer can help you purchase everything you need – including Tour, park tickets, hotel and dining reservations, and more!

Are Meals Included on Disney Private VIP Tours?

The cost of a Disney private VIP tour does not include meals but may include a few snacks . You’ll want to keep this in mind when budgeting for your day. Quick-service restaurants are usually the best option when you’re trying to save time. You can also plan your meals around the tour schedule by eating before or after the tour. The tour guide usually provides complimentary snacks and drinks throughout the day. These may include bottled water, popcorn, and Mickey Ice Cream Bars — a nice bonus to help keep you going until meal time.

Is Transportation Included on Disney Private VIP Tours?

One of the great things about booking a Disney Private VIP Tour is that efficient and friendly private transportation is included in the price. A Disney Cast Member will pick you up at your hotel and whisk you to the park in a comfortable shuttle.

When you take a Disney Private VIP Tour, you’ll get access to parts of the park that most people never get to see. Your tour guide will drive you around to all the different locations, using backstage entrances or Lightning Lane entrances to get into the parks and onto your chosen rides. It’s a fantastic opportunity to get a peek behind the scenes!

If you want to go to another park or resort during the day, the shuttle will take you there too. Other park guests will wonder how and why you are emerging from a secret doorway, strutting into a ride pavilion with a plaid-vested guide, hopping into shuttles, and zooming off down the road. Some guests will wonder if you are a celebrity visiting Disney World …or just on a VIP Disney Tour!

This door-to-door service means you can relax and enjoy your Disney experience without worrying about how you will get around. You’ll get to see all the fantastic work that makes Disney the world’s most magical place without worrying about logistics. So if you’re looking for a truly unique and hassle-free Disney experience, book a Disney Private VIP Tour today!

Are Guests Expected to Tip Their Disney Tour Guides?

If you’re considering taking one of the VIP tours Disney World offers, you may wonder if tipping your tour guide is expected. While gratuities are never required, they are greatly appreciated by tour guides. Remember that Disney tour guides are Disney employees (Cast Members) and receive regular salaries. However, they also rely on tips to supplement their income. For this reason, it is customary to tip your tour guide at least 15-20% of the cost of the tour , depending on the level of service provided. If you intend to tip your guide, it’s best to bring cash for this purpose; you will likely not be able to add the tip as part of your primary payment (as you might be accustomed to doing at a restaurant, for instance).

What Time Do Disney Private VIP Tours Start and End?

Disney VIP Tours have no set schedule since you set the timetable . As long as your tour lasts seven consecutive hours, you can begin and end whenever you want. This means that you can choose to start your day at rope drop and hit all the major attractions before the crowds arrive. Or, if you prefer, you can sleep in and enjoy a leisurely breakfast before starting your tour. But however you choose to spend your seven hours (or more), a Private VIP Tour is the perfect way to experience all that Walt Disney World has to offer.

Do Private VIP Tours Include Disney’s Shows, Parades, and Fireworks?

A Disney Private VIP Tour offers guests incredible access to all the best Walt Disney World offers. A friendly guide in a plaid vest will treat you like a celebrity, take you around the park, and give you priority access, including at shows, parades, and fireworks. These perks alone can give you back hours of your day, helping to make the VIP tour worth the cost .

One of the most significant benefits of a VIP tour is the guaranteed reserved viewing areas for the Magic Kingdom’s Festival of Fantasy daytime parade and the nightly fireworks show. You’ll also enjoy premium seating for Disney’s best shows . Whether you’re seeing the Festival of the Lion King or Finding Nemo: The Big Blue and Beyond, you’re sure to have an unforgettable time on your Disney VIP tour.

What Is The Fine Print for Private Disney VIP Tours?

The following details may be overlooked in the fine print:

• The price of the VIP Tour at Walt Disney World Resort does not include admission to the theme parks. Therefore, the purchase of theme park tickets is required to participate in any tour.
• Disney Park Pass reservations are also required to enter the parks.
• Guests participating in VIP tours must show appropriate government-issued identification and undergo security screenings and bag checks.
• Reservations for Disney Private VIP Tours are highly recommended because they are limited and likely to sell out. Guests can make reservations 180 days in advance.
• The duration of Private VIP Tours must be at least seven continuous hours.
• Your party may include up to 10 Guests, including infants.
• If you cancel a Private VIP Tour without at least 48-hour notice, you will be charged a cancellation fee equal to 2 hours at the booked rate.
• Capacity constraints and availability may impact a booking.
• Cellphones, cameras, and video equipment are not permitted backstage.
• All guests under 17 must be accompanied by a paying and participating parent/guardian.
• Information and pricing are subject to change without notice.

It is important to reiterate that Disney Private VIP Tours do not include admission to the theme parks. Separate ticket purchases are required, which can be handled by The Vacationeer . Let The Vacationeer handle all the logistics for you, from tour customization, hotel reservations, dining reservations, theme park ticket reservations, and more. Click here to get started.

How Is a Private Disney VIP Tour Different From Other Disney Tours?

Disney Private VIP Tours are the way to go for those who want luxury and VIP treatment on their Disney tour. You will be pampered and given personalized attention from the moment you book your tour until the moment it ends. It is more expensive than other tours, but you will definitely feel like a VIP.

On a Disney Private VIP Tour, your group will consist only of people you know – no strangers! You will also have a say in what you see and do on the tour. You will customize your itinerary according to your preferences, and your guide will be with you every step to ensure you skip the lines and have a magical experience.

In addition to Disney Private VIP Tours, several other Disney tours are available to guests. These tours offer a unique behind-the-scenes look at some of the most popular attractions at the Walt Disney World Resort. For example, the Keys to the Kingdom Tour at Magic Kingdom takes guests on a guided park tour, with stops at some of the most iconic locations, including Cinderella Castle and Main Street, USA. Guests also have the opportunity to explore backstage areas and learn about the history of the park.

Similarly, the Behind the Seeds tour at EPCOT gives guests a closer look at the park’s inner workings, including the greenhouses where many plants and flowers are grown. Guests also have the chance to meet some farmers and scientists working in the greenhouses.

Other Disney tours include the Caring for Giants tour at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, which focuses on the care and training of the elephants at the park, and the Wilderness Back Trail Adventure at The Campsites at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort, which takes guests on a hike through some of the most beautiful scenery in Florida.

No matter what your interests are, there is sure to be a Disney tour that is perfect for you. But if you’re looking for a genuinely unforgettable Disney tour, book a Disney Private VIP Tour today! You won’t regret it. Contact The Vacationeer to book your Disney tour today!

How to Book a Disney Private VIP Tour?

There are two ways you can book Disney Private VIP Tours:

• Contact the team at Disney VIP Tour Services
• Let an experienced Disney vacation planner like The Vacationeer do the legwork

The latter option is often more convenient, as The Vacationeer can work with you to do your pre-arrival planning, pick a flexible start time that works best for you, and plan your visits to multiple theme parks in one or more days. In addition, they will help you choose the best attractions so you can skip the line and enjoy them more efficiently. No matter which option you choose, a Disney Private VIP Tour is sure to make your trip even more magical.

Contact The Vacationeer to Reserve Your Disney VIP Tour!

It can be challenging to plan a Disney vacation. Thankfully, the Disney Vacation Planners at The Vacationeer are here to help. You’ll be in touch with only one travel professional throughout the process — no more waiting on hold or being bounced from person to person to get answers.

Your dedicated vacation planner will handle all the booking windows, payments, transportation, tickets, and reservations, so you can focus on packing your bags! And because The Vacationeer employs some of the best Disney travel agents in the business, they know Walt Disney World inside and out and will give you the most up-to-date information, including recommendations and insider tips and tricks .

Click HERE to contact your personal planning assistant and start the Disney Private VIP Tour process today!

We hope you have enjoyed reading our guide to Disney Private VIP Tours. You might also be interested in our article about VIP Experiences at Universal Orlando . Have a great time!

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At some point, in hour five of your day at a Disney park, you’re probably tired of standing in lines. The magic of Disney theme parks is undeniable, but when the sweat sets in and your feet begin to ache, you may be wondering if there’s another way.

The Disney VIP tour allows you to skip the lines with a dedicated tour guide and a custom itinerary. But, of course, it’s pricy, so let’s take a closer look at the Walt Disney World VIP tour, how much it costs and whether it’s worth it.

What is the Walt Disney World VIP tour?

Disney offers a variety of enhanced experiences for those willing to shell out extra money. This includes group tours and behind-the-scenes expeditions; however, its most premium product is the personalized VIP tour. The VIP tour isn’t just limited to Walt Disney World — you can also book these private tours at Disneyland and other Disney parks.

The VIP tour at Disney grants you your own Disney tour guide who’ll whisk you from ride to ride without waiting in long lines. In addition to this, you’ll also get special access to restaurant reservations and entertainment seating, including fireworks.

Disney VIP tours do not include park admission. You’ll have to pay for this separately.

You’ll tell your tour guide what you’d like to see and do, and they’ll plan the day. You can even park hop with the VIP tour, which means you’ll be escorted to another park in a private vehicle.

» Learn more: How to plan a trip to Walt Disney World

Disney VIP tour cost

The Disney VIP tour is costly and doesn’t include park admission. The rate for a tour depends on the season and the crowd levels. So just how much is the Disney VIP tour? Prices range from $450 to $900 per hour, and you must book for a minimum of seven hours. The price includes up to 10 people, including infants.

Be aware that cancellation policies differ across parks.

At Walt Disney World, canceling with less than 48 hours' notice will incur a cancellation fee of two hours at your booking rate.

At Disneyland, VIP tours are nonrefundable if canceled less than four days in advance.

» Learn more: How to go to Disney World for cheap

Are Disney VIP tours worth it?

The Disney VIP tour is expensive. Although unlimited front-of-the-line access and guaranteed seating are nice, you’ll really need to budget for an expense like this. Let’s break this down using Walt Disney World as an example.

The cheapest rate you’ll pay for a Disney VIP tour will cost you $3,150. In exchange, you and up to nine of your friends will receive seven hours of unlimited front-of-the-line access, a personal tour guide, premier access to dining reservations and dedicated entertainment seating.

At this rate, the total cost of the tour will be $315 per person. So it’s unlikely that you’ll want to book a VIP tour for multiple days unless you’re trying to squeeze in as much activity as possible.

Use a credit card that’ll maximize your bonus points on your Disney vacation.

If you’re a large group with a relatively limited amount of time, a tour can help maximize your vacation. It’s probably best for family reunions, bachelorette parties or other family group trips for special occasions. These are the kinds of people who will be able to maximize the Disney VIP Tour.

You should probably skip the Disney VIP tour if you're on a budget, traveling in smaller groups or can afford to spend multiple days at Disney.

Disney VIP tour vs. Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane

When comparing costs in the following examples, let’s say you’re booking the VIP tour for just one day.

In October 2021, Disney introduced the paid Genie+ system, which replaced the now-defunct (and free) Fastpass Plus program. Genie+ operates similarly, with the ability to book individual return times on most Disney rides.

At Walt Disney World, this experience costs $15 per person per day.

Sadly, Genie+ doesn’t include some of the most popular rides at each Walt Disney World park, including Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance and Space Mountain. Instead, the fast lane for these rides is priced separately and available a la carte via Individual Lightning Lane.

You’ll need to pay per person, per ride, for attractions included in the ILL. Costs vary according to demand but can be as high as $15/person. In addition, you can only purchase ILL access once per ride, per day. So there’s no way to use the fast lane for Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance continually, for example.

» Learn more: How to book the new Star Wars hotel on points

Under the old Fastpass system, a return time didn’t guarantee you a front-of-the-line spot. Instead, you’d experience a shorter, separate line from the main queue.

Now let’s say that your party of 10 has chosen to head to Magic Kingdom and Hollywood Studios for the day. Naturally, you want to skip as many lines as possible, so you’ll pay for Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lane attractions.

Genie+ comes out to $150 for the day for all 10 of you. It’s a little more challenging to predict ILL pricing, but let’s say it’s an average of $11 per ride. Everyone rode all four ILL available, two at Magic Kingdom and two at Hollywood Studios, which means you’ve paid $440 for ILL rides.

Altogether, you paid $590 to take advantage of Genie+ and ILL, which will have granted you shorter lines at most rides.

There’s a massive difference between paying $3,150 for a VIP tour or $590 — one option is five times the price of the other. But, of course, you can also choose not to spend any additional money at all, in which case you’ll pay for park admission and elbow it out with everybody else.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

The best benefit of the Disney VIP tour? Time saved

Consider the range of benefits you’ll receive when comparing a Disney VIP tour vs. Genie+ and ILL. Disney VIP tours give you a whole host of special perks, including one that’s almost impossible to find — time.

You’ll save time moving between parks in a private car. You’ll save time waiting for a good seat for the fireworks and save time in the Lightning Lane lines because a VIP tour jumps you past those who have paid for that luxury.

In this case, the Disney VIP tour makes a compelling example for those with limited time, especially if you can max out the tour group with 10 people. If you only have a day or two to experience the parks, why would you spend it waiting in the vast lines?

This is especially true when you consider the already high costs of a Disney World vacation, which can climb into the thousands of dollars for a big family and multiple days at the parks.

» Learn more: Best Disney World hotels to book with points

How to book a Disney VIP tour

You can start booking a VIP tour up to 60 days in advance.

For Walt Disney World, bookings can only be made by phone. So you’ll need to call the VIP tour office at 407-560-4033. The office is open from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. daily.

If you’re looking to book a Disney VIP tour at Disneyland instead, you can book by email at [email protected] or call the office at 714-300-7710.

» Learn more: How to budget for a family trip to Disney

If you want to book Disney’s VIP tour

There’s no doubt that a Disney vacation can be magical, but you’ll need to pay up to experience all that pixie dust. A Disney VIP tour is undoubtedly a splurge but can make sense for those looking for as much convenience as possible.

Before you book, make sure to do the math on costs and whether it is affordable. Otherwise, stick to options such as Genie+ and Individual Lightning Lanes to help re-create the experience at a fraction of the cost.

Photo courtesy of Walt Disney World.

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Disney VIP Tours: What You Need To Know: Cost, Perks, and Types

Robin Hutson

February 20, 2023

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It’s not just about skipping long lines in California or Florida. Here’s what to expect booking Disney VIP tours.

I had so many questions about hiring a VIP tour guide at Disney World.

• How do private tour companies differ from the official Disney tours? 
• When are the services worth it?
• What is actually included?
• What is the cost of a Disney VIP tour?
• How much gratuity to pay your Disney VIP guide

Here’s my best effort at answering questions regarding Disney VIP tour guides you may be considering for your Disney World vacation , which is definitely the indulgent and desirable “Enchanted Extra” in Disney speak, or “Expensive Extra” in my speak.

Read on for Disney’s private tours, non-Disney private tours and when to use each. There’s a time and place for each kind. Looking for a Disneyland VIP guide ? Read about our experience in California.

Different Types of Disney VIP Tours

I have used both private companies and the official tours from Disney. Disney World offers more options because there are more parks, more group VIP tours, and more unofficial tour companies in the market.

The most exclusive option is the Disney Private Premium VIP Tours where the “plaid vests” escort you around the park like a celebrity. You’ll use backstage areas to maximize your time park-hopping in less time and have access to all Lightning Lanes (the expedited priority line at rides) with your guide. It’s not truly front of the line access, but it’s close, and your wait times will be minimal.

If you plan to use a non-Disney tour company, stick with a company that has been around a few years and check their Trip Advisor reviews. We only book the best private companies for our clients that we use for our own families.

Be wary of any tour company that seems too good of a deal or whose promises include things like “Any ride you want” which indicates bending Disney’s rules or worse, exploiting Disney’s disability passes, the lowest of the low.

Disney VIP Tours Cost?

Disney World Private Premium VIP Tours cost significantly more than the non-Disney VIP tour companies.

The official Disney World Private Premium VIP Tours vary from $425 to $900 per hour with a seven-hour minimum. The dynamic pricing surges during three-day weekends and holidays. Best hourly rate is midweek outside of the high cost of Spring Break and Christmas season.

Disney allows guests to tour up to 10 continuous hours, and those hours beyond the first seven can be added while on your tour. You do not have to book your total hours in advance beyond the minimum seven. That brings the total Disney VIP tour cost between $2,800 to $4,200 for the experience, before gratuities.

Disney VIP Tour Tips and Gratuities

It is critical to incorporate your guide’s tip into your tour budget. A minimum of one hour’s rate should be given, and more if you can offer it. It is easy to bring cash, but most guides will share their Venmo account to make it easy to pay at the end of your tour since you cannot use a credit card.

VIP Tour Maximum Party Size?

All Disney VIP tours are designed for parties of no more than 10 people. Disney will require a second cast member guide for parties larger than 10. Infants, unfortunately, are included in that headcount of family members.

That second guide will stay close to the first group, but it offers a change for families to divide up by thrill level, too. Also, the 10 guests registered for the tour must be the same 10 guests throughout the tour. No changing family or friends within the parks allowed.

What is the Disneyland VIP tour cost?

Just like a Disney World VIP tour, here’s what to expect for a Disneyland VIP tour (Read our review of a tour from start to finish). They cost between $425 and $850 per hour with a 7 hour minimum. You can bring up to 10 people, including infants.

Non-Disney companies run from $200 to $350 per hour, typically with a six-hour minimum, bringing the total from $1200 to $2,500. The cost per hour for all companies varies due to the demand of the season.

The holiday week of Christmas and New Year’s Day is the busiest time of year. VIP services are most useful and in demand, so book early. The second busiest time is in March when Florida public schools are on Spring Break. Big states like Texas often share the same week, making it one of the toughest weeks to get hotel and dining reservations.

VIP Disney World Planning Services

Don’t stress, it’s a vacation. Luxe Recess is the leader in planning luxury Disney vacations, especially for those families who aren’t Disney die-hards. Read more about our services and fees. We’ll plan a five-star Orlando adventure for your family.

Disney World VIP Tour FAQs

What exactly does a disney vip tour guide do compared to a non-disney guide.

This is where the experience differs between the official Disney VIP Tours and the non-Disney companies. 

Join the  Luxury Disney World  Facebook group if we can answer questions about your next Disney vacation.

Pre-arrival and dining reservation assistance.

Disney’s Private Premium VIP Disney Tours only offers assistance for the day of your tour. They can assist with park tickets and reservations and dining, but they can only procure a dining reservation that was available on the public site. They also do not begin booking these until 9AM, and you could be booking your hard to get table as of 6AM that day.

Private companies will offer more hand holding in vacation planning, sometimes for an additional fee. This will include ticket booking, as well as park and dining reservations.

The day of your VIP Disney Tour

Your Disney guide can pick you up at your hotel or meet you inside the parks. I usually discuss the advantages of each option with my clients.

The Disney guides have access to all Lightning Lanes and can put you in the expedited lines to reduce wait time. The guides stay with you in line until you board the ride, so we would also get the first seats of each ride. Some rides have secret entrances that the Disney guides use at Magic Kingdom, but I don’t want to spoil the surprise!

When you are ready to move to the other parks, you can use backstage entrances where a VIP vehicle is yours for the duration of the tour. We were met with a snack basket by another guide outside our van to grab some chips.

After certain rides, our guide would meet us with bottles of water, Mickey bars, and Mickey pretzels. Not all guides do this, but the ones I request do. We did a 10-hour stint this summer in the crazy heat, and those snacks and waters made it physically possible.

People rarely book sit down meals during their tours. It’s a day for ordering quick service meals using the mobile app. There is a VIP fireworks viewing area for Magic Kingdom if you time your tour to conclude when the fireworks begin. I can help you map all of this out.

The Non-Disney VIP Experience

Our non-Disney guide introduced herself by phone and asked us about our ride priorities to create a loose plan for our tour. She offered to arrange private transportation or guide us on the best parking options.

Our non-Disney guide used her detailed knowledge of the rides, their duration, their wait time patterns, and locations to maximize our time so that we saw as much as possible. She asked what we had never done and weighed in one rides we should try at least once.

While she didn’t have Disney’s line access, there are definitely patterns to learn when you do this every day that gives you far greater expertise than a typical Disney park goer, even an enthusiast passholder.

In addition to a park plan, there are several concierge-type experiences that our guide offered. At each ride, she parked our strollers and waited for us with our stroller at the exit. She would go get waters, popcorn, or iced tea while we were on a ride and had them waiting for us.

Our VIP guide took pictures of us with her phone, and she extracted my camera from around my neck a few times so that we now have proof that I was actually at Disney World with my family, a wonderful perk for me that lasts long after the tour.

Towards the lunch hour, she took our orders, set us on rides, and then we met her at the Columbia Harbor House where she waited for us with our plates of salmon and broccoli at the table. My husband thought this service was worth its weight in gold.

The perks of a true Disney World expert

They were, of course, many moments where our guide’s park knowledge surpassed my own, and I loved it. On the Buzz Lightyear ride, we were playfully competitive shooting lasers at Zurg’s various targets.

She sat with me and showed me where to shoot my laser gun. By the time we had gone through the first room, she had maxed out the score at 999,999. Sit on the left side. Now I know. Lots of little insider tricks of hers made the rides more fun.

What if you already know the Disney parks really well?

There were many intangible perks to using a guide, too. I still found Disney VIP Tours different because I was able to enjoy the day without being the family navigator, planner, and boss. I could truly check out and not be in charge. This gave me the opportunity to let the experiences reach my own inner six-year-old much more easily. I smiled a lot more. Worth every penny.

Another benefit is how the dynamics shift when a neutral party is involved and in charge. If you are traveling in a group where more than one person wants to take charge, a tour guide smooths the tension. Especially for multi-generational trips where there may be too many cooks in the kitchen.

After we finished our day with our guide, we pulled into the Four Seasons Orlando , my daughter gave our guide a big hug, and I was so grateful to experience Magic Kingdom park in a way that felt like a real vacation for me.

When to splurge for Disney’s Premium Private VIP tours for ultimate backstage access

Ride access is more challenging now, and even the best Genie Plus users will adit it is harder now to get ride access. So if you are going to ride all of the new rides, ride all of the best rides, or try and combine more than one park in a day, you need a VIP tour.

With the Premium Private VIP tours, you are paying for their VIP Lightning Lane access for any ride (formerly the FastPass line) to avoid long waits. These Lightning Lanes are at most of the rides at all of the theme parks, especially guests’ favorite attractions.

Younger children’s energy will put a ceiling on the special access you have paid for, and some attractions offer no Lightning Lane, so you are still might wait in line for things, even with a VIP escort and the magic access they offer.

If you have small children and you are still traveling with strollers, I think the private guides can give parents a major perk of a much needed break leading the family around Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom with a pro. You’re tired. You deserve it. Make this the best day for all of you.

Which parks and attractions work best with Disney VIP guides?

Truthfully, all parks are on the table now given that Epcot, where guides didn’t use to visit, is now the hot park to take people on the latest Guardians of the Galaxy coaster. (It’s that good!)

Magic Kingdom’s number of rides and roller coasters puts it in its own league compared to the other Walt Disney World Resort parks. It has more Lightning Lane experiences than any other park, and the layout is vast and can be overwhelming for newbies. The timing of all the attractions and crowd formations is not easy to learn if you’ve only been a few times. And Hollywood Studios has many great rides and a very confusing layout, so I never suggest people visit their first time without a guide there, either.

In our four park whirlwind tour with our Disney guide, we got to ride the following rides. Rise of the Resistance, Smuggler’s Run, Star Tours, Flight of Passage, Toy Story Mania, Slinky Dog Dash, Space Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, Tower of Terror, Haunted Mansion, Jungle Cruise, Pirates of the Caribbean, and the Kilimanjaro Safaris, Mickey and Minnie’s Runaway Railway, Expedition Everest, Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, just to name a few.

If I were organizing a multi-generational family vacation to Disney World, I would also use the services of a VIP tour. To assign the leadership to a knowledgeable nonmember of the family keeps everyone happy.

People who go to Disney once and hate it simply don’t know what they were doing. It is a complicated trip. The goal is to have fun, and you’ll have a lot more fun and better memories when your kids aren’t seeing you stressed trying to figure out where to go or what to do when you don’t have a clue.

I would also book a tour if I dreaded the idea of going to Disney and wanted the “one and done” approach. Warning : I thought I was going to be one of those people, but several thousand dollars later, Disney has the last laugh.

Need an expert to take over the planning? We  plan your Disney World vacations . I’ll share what VIP experiences are worth every penny and tell you what to skip.

Headed to Universal Studios? Check out why the Universal VIP Tours are worth every penny, and we book those, too!

Disneyland Hotel Club Level: Celebrating Walt In Style

These luxury portugal resorts were designed for families in every detail, 17 thoughts on “disney vip tours: what you need to know: cost, perks, and types”.

A VIP tour sounds like a great way for Mom to be able to sit back and enjoy the time as well and not have to worry about planning or feeling like you are going to miss something. Also like the idea of having one with a group so there is no question of who is in charge!

We are going to Disneyworld Orlando in December and would like a VIP Guide. Do you have a person/company you can recommend please? Thanks

That is all outlined in the above article. ?

I really really enjoyed this article as I have long wondered what these tours did and now finally know. I’d love to try one – sounds so much less stressful than the degree we had to take in Disney Studies for our trip!

Honestly I had no idea these tours existed before reading your article. It sounds like an amazing way to save yourself (and your family) some stress if you can afford it. I know we would have loved this option a few times we went to the park when our kids were younger and when we traveled with my parents. It would have made things a lot easier.

You missed a few perks of using Disney’s Premium service.

We’d love to hear more! What else besides the pixie dust Fast Passes did you enjoy?

One of the best perks for us involved them transporting us around property. We park hopped all four parks going to just the rides on our list. We were loaded into their white vans and transported via backstage to the different locations saving us a ton of time. We maximized our time and never felt rushed.

Yes, that’s true in that it can make a big difference in parking hopping multiple times in one day. I can’t imagine my kids handling more than two parks in a day, but that might be just be my own preference projecting. If getting on rides was my priority, I would probably prefer to do the Ultimate day of thrills and spend the other thousand dollars saved elsewhere on food and spa and extend my stay at the Four Seasons or Waldorf!

So interesting! There is SO much strategy to navigating the parks; I can see why having a Cori could make a HUGE difference. Thanks for sharing!

Yes, Paula! I consider myself savvy but Cori helped us use our time on a whole new level.

I am reaching out to anyone who would like to share with our family a VIP private tour (up to 10 people) we are a family of 3 so 7 of you would like to share $450.00 an hour for 8 hours at Disneyworld – we want to schedule a private tour on 6/16/2017 from 2pm to 10pm somewhere during this timeframe Pandora and elsewhere – Anyone interested email me at [email protected]

Patricia, you should join the Luxury Disney Facebook group and ask there. The link is in the article.

We splurged for a private VIP tour a couple of years ago when we took our kids to Disneyworld for the first time. We started out at the Magic Kingdom and managed to fit in 10 rides in 90 minutes! Many of these rides had wait times of at least 30 minutes. The pace slowed down at the other parks since the rides are more spaced out geographically but it was very stress free having our guide drive us to the different parks and lead us to the fastest routes to get where we needed to go. We were able to get to every ride on the kids’ wishlist in 1 day and ended up the day in a prime reserved section for the night show at Hollywood studios.

That sounds like it was an incredible vacation! Would you do it again?

We decided to take a last minute trip to Disney, taking our niece for her first time. Since we are only 1 month out and have nothing planned, would you recommend Disney Private VIP tour or MyVIP?

How old is your niece? Is the goal to see the most in the shortest amount of time? Or just someone to maximize your time arranging so you can enjoy and not plan?

Comments are closed.

Disney World VIP Tour Guides (cost, tips, + a review)

By: Author Heather Thomas

Published: August 5, 2021 Updated: October 17, 2023

If you ever thought that Disney VIP Tours were only for celebrities and lottery winners, you’re not alone.

At one time we kind of thought that, too.

But an interview awhile back on the WDW Prep to Go podcast opened up our eyes to how this amazing private tour service might just fit into the travel budgets for lots of Walt Disney World guests.

So, in the name of research, we spent a day with 2 fantastic Disney VIP Guides checking out how it works.

(And before you ask, the experience was purchased with cold hard cash; nothing was comped. We went into the experience the same way any family visiting Disney World might.)

Here’s what we learned.

In this article

All the details

First of all, the price (at first glance) is not cheap, so don’t freak out when you see it:

The cost for reserving a Disney VIP Tour Guide runs between $425 and $850 per hour (busier times of the year will cost more), with a minimum duration of 7 hours.

You’ll need 1 guide for every 10 guests in your group, and infants DO count towards the 10.

So, on the “low” end, you are looking at a total of around $3000 for up to 10 people.

And that does not include your park ticket.

Everybody in your group will need a valid theme park ticket, and if you are planning on multiple parks during the day, you’ll need to have the Park Hopper option, too.

So, yes, that is expensive and may seem out of reach, but don’t say “no way” just yet.

We have some scenarios that make the cost seem a lot more affordable. More on that below.

How to book

Using a travel agent.

Whether you already have a travel agent OR you just want help with booking a VIP Tour, using a travel agent is a fantastic option.

They are experts in the park and if you’ve booked your trip through them, they’ll be able to help you weave the VIP experience into the rest of your trip.

Remember, these tours aren’t cheap. It would be silly to accidentally double up on something or waste time on a non-VIP day doing something you could have easily done with the guide.

Let your travel agent help you coordinate all of that!

Interested in connecting with a travel agent for help booking a VIP Tour? Get a quote now.  

On your own

You can also book guides up to 180 days in advance by calling (407) 560-4033.

In some instances, you can even book them same day, although we don’t recommend that since that would leave you very little time to plan out how you’ll spend your day.

Disney mentions on their website that space is limited; however, in reality, they have a vast network of guides and backup guides and are able to accommodate nearly all requests. They aren’t in the business of turning away guests requesting this experience.

What happens after you book?

If you booked through a travel agent, they’ll work with Disney and you to put together a plan for your time with the guide.

If you’ve booked on your own, you’ll receive an email confirmation shortly after booking that will list out all the details of your booking, including the cancellation policy which is a liberal 48 hours in advance with no penalty. If you cancel within 48 hours, you pay the equivalent of 2 hours/guide.

From that point, you’ll be asked to email Signature Services (which is the name of the department in charge of things like these tours) the list of the people that will be attending and a list of attractions you’d like to see.

That plan isn’t set in stone, however. You’ll be able to tweak it as you go, but it helps them get a feel for how their day will look.

What does a day with a guide from Disney’s VIP Services look like?

Try to imagine the most magical day ever at Disney World and that is pretty much what your time with a VIP Guide looks like.

You are in total control of the day, and as long as your request doesn’t break any rules or go beyond the scope of their job, your VIP Guide will try to make it happen. Like magic.

If an attraction has a Lightning Lane, you’ll have access to all of those with your VIP guide.

Want to ride Slinky Dog Dash multiple times? You can do that.

And Rise of the Resistance (which is notoriously difficult) is no problem either because your VIP Tour Guide can get you on without having to worry about snagging a Boarding Group .

Feel like stopping for a snack or a break in some AC? You’re with an expert that knows all the best places.

Want to watch fireworks without having to fight the crowds? Yep. That’s an option, too.

Officially, this is how Disney describes the services offered:

• Pre-arrival planning
• A flexible start time, picked by you
• Visits to multiple theme parks in one or more days, if desired
• The ability to enjoy some of your favorite attractions efficiently, even repeatedly
• VIP viewing areas for parades, select stage shows and nighttime spectaculars
• Shared insight from your highly knowledgeable VIP Tour Guide throughout your tour

See what we mean? An entire list of magic.

Two ways to make Disney VIP Tours “affordable”

Stay fewer days and use the money saved to book a vip guide.

For many years, suggesting guests consider adding a VIP Tour to a trip frankly wasn’t something that was on our radar.

But then we heard something that changed our entire perspective.

In a trip report interview on the WDW Prep to Go podcast , a guest was traveling to Disney World with her parents. For that trip, her parents set the budget and told her to plan the trip however she saw fit as long as she stayed within the allotted dollar amount.

Knowing that they wouldn’t be able to do a long trip, she instead opted to shorten the trip and use the money saved on hotel rooms, food, and park tickets to pay for a private Disney VIP Tour Guide for 2 days.

Not only did she stay within the budget , they still saw and did everything they wanted to because of their VIP Guide.

Mind blown.

The lesson learned here is that a VIP Tour becomes way more affordable when you realize that having a guide for a day (or more) means you’ll be able to get the same amount of stuff done in a less amount of time.

Split the cost across 2 (or more) families

When you book a VIP Guide with Disney, you get to choose the people that will be in your group, and as long as you stay within the 10 person/guide ratio, you’re free to put together your group however you’d like.

So, if you’re traveling with multiple families or couples, you can easily split the cost.

Even just splitting with one other family can be a huge savings and make a day with one of Disney’s VIP Tour Guides much more affordable than you might have thought.

(Click chart to view it larger.)

Who should consider booking a Disney VIP Tour?

While we think that anybody that can should give it a try (because it is just an overall amazing experience), we definitely think that there are a few times when it really might make sense:

Families short on time

If your time at Disney World is limited but you still want to see and do as much as you can, this is a fantastic option for that.

With a VIP Tour, you could easily hit most of the headliners in all 4 parks in 1 day, or split out your fun over 2 or 3 days instead of 7 or 8 days.

People staying offsite

Remember how we said up above that splitting the cost makes it more affordable?

Since lots of families share villas or houses they’ve rented offsite, that is the perfect opportunity to share the cost of a VIP Tour Guide at Disney World, too.

Plus, staying offsite is a great way to save some money on your trip, which would then free up some of your budget for extras, like a VIP Tour Guide!

Groups traveling together

Between conferences and sporting events and trade shows, there are lots of times groups of people travel to the Orlando area when (gasp!) Disney isn’t always the main focus.

But that doesn’t mean you can’t still have a lot of Disney fun, and since you can split the cost with others in your group, it can make it quite affordable to add on a day of magic.

Families considering lots of “extras”

If you are considering adding a bunch of extras to your trip to give you a better view or go on more rides (things like After Hours Boo Bash or Disney Very Merriest ) you may find that it makes more sense to instead work with VIP Services and a VIP Guide.

Not only can your VIP Guide assist you with gaining access to the attractions, they also have access to VIP viewing locations for all the nighttime shows.

Tips from the experts

After spending 7+ hours with Disney VIP Guides, we were able to put together a list of their top tips and suggestions for people booking Disney VIP Tours.

Here’s what they had to say:

1. Wear matching shirts

If you were ever going to wear matching shirts, Disney World is the place to do it. On our last experience with a VIP tour, our group of 11 had matching shirts, and we were told multiple times by both our guides and the Cast Members working the attraction entrances how much easier it made it for them to do their jobs.

2. Make sure kids know height requirements

Even though you’ll be with a VIP Guide, you’ll still have to follow all the height requirement rules. So if you know you have little ones that aren’t going to be tall enough to ride certain attractions, don’t wait until you get there to let them know, and definitely don’t leave it to the VIP Guides to do the dirty work. It can be hard for them to build any sort of relationship with the kids if they are seen as the bad guy.

3. Follow the rules

Despite what you might think, unless your name is Beyoncé, you’ll still be standing in the Lightning Lanes. Only when safety is a concern are celebrity guests ushered in and out through back ways. Don’t ask your guide to break the rules or to let you skip the Lightning Lane because that’s not something they can do.

4. Don’t try to sneak extra people into your group

The rule is 10 people per guide, so if you have 11, you’ll need to get an additional guide. Don’t try to sneak an extra person into your group or think that 1 more person won’t matter. The VIP Guides have rules that they must follow, and if you try to have more than allowed, you’ll be asked to narrow it down to 10 or pay for an additional guide.

5. Start your time with your guide at the first attraction of the day

It may seem like a good idea to have your VIP Tour Guide pick you up from your resort (after all, driving you around is part of their job), BUT the clock starts ticking as soon as you meet up with them. Instead of wasting time driving to your first attraction, opt to meet them there.

6. Eat quicker meals

Lunch at any Quick Service location that has Mobile Order is a fantastic way to minimize the time you spend eating, so you can maximize the time you spend riding.

7. Think about tipping

Though the rules on this are a bit fuzzy and tour guides will tell you they don’t need to be tipped , you should spend some time thinking about what you want to do, especially since any tips will need to be in cash and it could be a lot of money.

In the end, we ended up tipping about 10%, but have heard reports of people tipping much more and less than that. Be sure to plan ahead so you’re not scrambling to figure it out when you’re there.

Our day going VIP

Hands down our day spent with 2 fantastic VIP Guides was one of the most fun days I’ve ever had at Disney World.

But it didn’t start out that way.

Note: Our adventure with a VIP Tour Guide was in the before-times (aka pre-pandemic).

Off to a rocky start at Epcot

Originally our plan was to have a lovely breakfast at Garden Grill and then meet up with the guides at the podium just outside the restaurant.

But, because we were a group that know how to party be on time, we were early to breakfast and then done way ahead of schedule.

With an hour to kill, we decided to head downstairs from Garden Grill to take a whirl on the not-so-much-a-thriller known as Living with the Land.

Only today, “Living with the Land” was a lot more like “Shipwrecked with the Squash” or “Marooned with the Melons.”

Don’t get me wrong, the first few minutes of our voyage were amazing. In fact, all was going great until just past the farmhouse.

That’s where our boat came to a screeching halt, right by the part where they loudly say “Here at Epcot, we’re learning to reduce the need for pesticides by using natural predators like ladybugs and wasps to control pests.”

Over and over and over we listened to that spiel as we slowly crept forward.

As we waited (and regretted those 2nd and 3rd refills of water we had at breakfast), we stressed out as our hour buffer before meeting our guides slowly dwindled away.

Once we knew there was no way we were going to get off that boat and back upstairs by noon, Shannon picked up her phone and called Signature Services and told them the problem.

And as expected, they were amazing!

Not only did they contact our guides for us, they also changed the meeting place to the exit of Living with the Land which was a huge relief. The guides also reset our tour starting time since the delays weren’t our fault.

Not long after (and right when we had just started a rousing game of Rock, Paper, Scissors to determine who was going to swim to safety to secure emergency supplies like Diet Coke and chocolate), help appeared and the Cast Members working at Living with the Land pushed our boat to the safety of the Aquaculture room.

There we were able to climb out and wind our way out through the greenhouses to our new meeting place where our our 2 guides, Carson and Lyssa, were waiting.

After a few short introductions (and a much needed restroom break), we were off!

Let the attractions begin!

Our goal for the day was to knock out most of the main headliners in all 4 parks.

Ambitious? Maybe. But if ever there was a time to try it, today with our VIP Guides was the day.

To start our journey, we started our day at everybody’s favorite glider-based Disney attraction: Soarin’.

As was the procedure at all of the attractions, one of our guides would always lead the way to let the person working the FastPass+ line (now called Lightning Lane) know how many people were coming through with them. This is where the matching shirts came in so handy!

It was so easy for them to say “11 people coming through – they all have on shirts that look like this!” and then they’d point at our cute shirts.

At Soarin’, we were quickly through the line and we were even able to request the top row middle, which are the best seats in the house.

The entire time we were in line our guides were chatting us up and we were peppering them tons of questions.

Have I mentioned yet just how lovely our guides were? They were not just regular Disney-friendly, they were top-tier Disney-friendly.

Our guides waited for us at the exit and then, since our next stop was Test Track, instead of walking out the “regular” exit, they took us out the back door of Soarin’ where they had 2 vans waiting for us – and they drove us over to Test Track!

Of course, since we were backstage, we couldn’t take any photos, but just know if you’re into Disney stuff like that, it was very, very cool. And, not having to walk over there saved so many steps on what was going to be an extra-long day.

Lesson learned: Having the vans gave us a safe spot to stash stuff – like our bags – if we didn’t need them. That was a nice perk when you’re just hopping out for a couple rides!

After a trip around the backside of the World Showcase, our guides parked near Test Track. We made our way from backstage out to the front of the attraction and before we knew it, we were in the preview room making our cars and then out racing around the track.

After we were done there, we headed over to Frozen Ever After where we had the perfect number for our own boat which made for an adorable photo. There may also be video of the whole boat singing, but we’ll keep that for ourselves.

With the Epcot headliners done, we headed back to our carriages white vans so we could continue on to our next stop, which was Hollywood Studios.

Meeting some *REAL LIFE* winners at Hollywood Studios

We were all really looking forward to Hollywood Studios because we were meeting up with a lovely family that had won a WDW Prep contest that gave them the chance to tour with us (and our VIP Tour Guides) in the new Toy Story Land.

Considering that at this point it was the middle of the afternoon, having the guides there to get us into the FastPass+ lines instead of having to use the long standby lines was a huge blessing because I’m 99% sure that Andy must live on the sun as hot as his “backyard” is.

Seriously. Toy Story Land is brutally hot in the middle of the day.

Before we could make our way to the sun Toy Story Land, we had to get parked.

Our VIP Guides expertly navigated to a lot that was kind of back by Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster and Tower of Terror. Upon our arrival, we were met by other VIP Guides with iced down water and snacks – something we all desperately needed.

Then, since we were entering a new park, we were required to have our MagicBands scanned, but instead of having to go all the way to the front of the park, they used an iPad and scanned them right there in the parking lot.

Lesson learned: Being able to bypass the front gates is one of the perks (and time savers) of entering the parks with a VIP Guide. We only had to go through security and the turnstiles once (on our first park) and then every park after that, somebody either met us to scan our MagicBands or our guides took our MagicBands and scanned them for us while we were busy having fun on an attraction.

One of our guides needed to step away for a few minutes. While she was gone, another lovely guide stepped in to help our crew. All of that was totally seamless and very well choreographed.

After meeting up with the winners, we headed into Toy Story Land where we Rode Slinky Dog Dash, Alien Swirling Saucers, Toy Story Mania, and then Slinky Dog Dash one more time.

After we were “Toy Story Land”ed out we took a group photo with the lovely winners and then said our goodbyes. fyi – after telling 1 of our guides we wanted a group pic, this photo was choreographed between our guides and a PhotoPass photographer.

At that point we were a little bit ahead of schedule so we decided to give Tower of Terror a ride on our way back to the vans.

After finishing up at Tower of Terror we were ready for our next destination:  Pandora!

By now we were getting hungry and we were all ready to sit down for a bit which fit perfectly into our original plan of an early dinner at Satu’li Canteen.

So, to maximize our time, we all took out our phones and did Mobile Order on the ride over so that we wouldn’t have long to wait for our food once we arrived.

Dinner & Animal Kingdom

The parking here put us right behind Pandora. Like, RIGHT behind one of the walls there so it took just a minute to walk from the vans into the park.

There were no lines at Satu’li Canteen, but the seating there is always kind of a hassle, but have no fear –

Our lovely guides snagged us 2 tables in the air conditioning, which meant by the time our mobile orders were done we had a place to sit.

Our guides grabbed their dinner, too, and then we all relaxed and enjoyed the air conditioning for a bit.

After eating, we decided we should do Na’vi River Journey first (to give our stomachs a bit longer to rest) and with our stomachs full, we all headed that way.

Of course, we couldn’t leave Pandora without a stop by Flight of Passage, so that was next.

Lesson learned: one thing we didn’t really account for was how much harder it is on your stomach to do thrill rides back-to-back. Even things that didn’t usually bother us were a little iffy after riding so many attractions. If you’re prone to motion sickness when riding attractions, you might want to take that into consideration when mapping out your day!

After Flight of Passage we said “Eywa ngahu” (which Google tells me is Na’Vi for goodbye) to Pandora and we were off to our next stop: Magic Kingdom.

Ending the night with a BANG!

As we pulled up to Magic Kingdom, our guide reminded us to grab our stuff, which was a harsh reminder that we wouldn’t be coming back to our royal carriages  the handy vans again.

Our first stop here was Big Thunder Mountain which was followed up by Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and then Space Mountain and, because we had some time left before Happily Ever After, Buzz Lightyear’s Space Ranger Spin.

By the time we were done with Buzz, it was 15 minutes until the fireworks were set to star which made me very nervous that there wouldn’t be any space left, but our guides assured us there would be.

And, of course, they were right.

They led us to a roped off area in the middle of the Hub, at the perfect distance from the castle.

The spot was partially full of other families and groups and their VIP Guides, and even though the crowds outside the ropes were shoulder to shoulder, we had plenty of room.

Knowing that our time with our guides was up, we all hugged and thanked them before the fireworks started.

At that point in the day, we were all close to (or over) 20,000 steps and exhausted, so a few tears of gratitude for our VIP Guides might have been shed and of course, Happily Ever After always brings us to tears so we were a puddle of sappiness by the time it was all over.

And just like that, the fireworks ended and our time with our VIP guides was done.

I’m not going to lie, it only took a few hours to get very used to having somebody lead the way, so to suddenly be left without that was a little disorienting.

But, we sucked it up and slowly made our way with the rest of the crowds towards the front of the park – exhausted, but still grinning ear to ear.

Do you have any questions about booking a VIP Tour? Let us know in the comments .

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Wednesday 7th of June 2023

How much was your tip

Scott Bonar

Sunday 5th of December 2021

What is a good guideline for tipping the tour guides?

Shannon Albert

Friday 24th of December 2021

About 10% is a good guide. Have had to make a quick ATM stop to make that happen since it's a lot of cash to have on hand.

Wednesday 6th of October 2021

Hi!! We are doing a vip tour on Friday - thanks for this article, it was helpful to know more of what to expect.

So, how exactly does the “waiting in line” part work? Do you actually wait in the fast pass/lighting/whatever we want to call it lines or do you just go on up to the front and hop on? My husband was under the impression you walked right onto the rides….just wondering how that really works!!

Thursday 5th of September 2019

Love all your advice, Shannon! Quick update on VIP Tour Pricing: between Christmas and New Years is $750 per hour (still 7 hour minimum).

Thursday 30th of May 2019

Awesome tips! How many attractions should I prioritize for 2 adults, a 5 and a 7 year old girl with 7 hours across Animal Kingdom, Hollywood and Magic Kingdom? I have 17 listed... Thank you!

Disney Private VIP Tours

Making our kingdom yours.

Explore the parks* with your own VIP Tour Guide during a customizable experience filled with attractive benefits.

The team at Disney VIP Tour Services will plan the most efficient, enjoyable way for groups up to 10 Guests to see and do the things on your list. Just tell your personal VIP Tour Guide what you'd like to see, and they'll customize your day to your desire!

After being picked up in a private vehicle from your Walt Disney World Resort accommodations or branded partner resort accommodations, enjoy unparalleled hospitality and experience some of your favorite attractions alongside a VIP Tour Guide.

Some of the personalized services include:

• Pre-arrival planning
• A flexible start time, picked by you
• Visits to multiple theme parks* in one or more days
• The ability to enjoy some of your favorite attractions efficiently through most Lightning Lane entrances
• Shared insight from your highly knowledgeable VIP Tour Guide throughout your tour

*All VIP Tours require valid theme park admission, which is not included in the price of the tour

Pricing and Reservations

• Pricing:  Ranging from $450 to $900 per hour, depending on the season (valid park admission is required for each park visited on tour and is not included in the price of the tour).
• Reservations: Call (407) 560-4033 to book. Guests under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Learn when advance reservations can be made.

Know Before You Go

• All VIP Tours require valid theme park admission, which is not included in the price of the tour
• Disney VIP Tours participate in full security screenings (including bag checks) during your Disney VIP Tour. Guests should be prepared for screenings with their appropriate government issued identification.
• Disney Private VIP Tours at the Walt Disney World Resort are very popular and may be limited in availability. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Learn when advance reservations can be made.
• All Private VIP Tours must be booked for a minimum duration of 7 continuous hours, and your party may include up to 10 Guests, including infants.
• Entertainment offerings are subject to availability and may be restricted by capacity constraints at the time of booking.
• You will incur a cancellation fee equal to 2 hours at the booked rate per tour if you do not provide at least 48-hour notice when cancelling any Private VIP Tour.
• No cameras, video equipment or cellphones may be used while in backstage areas.
• Guests 17 years and under must be accompanied by a paying participating parent or guardian.
• Pricing and information are subject to change without notice.

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Walt Disney World just announced a new VIP tour with an unbelievable price tag

It's the most expensive tour yet!

• Marie Rossiter
• January 31, 2019

Walt Disney World is known for creating magical experiences. Even the most die-hard Disney fanatics (including yours truly) know that a vacation to the House of Mouse isn’t easy on the wallet. In fact, many families save for years just to go on a once-in-a-lifetime trip.

Still, there are those people who adore Walt Disney World where money is no object. And, the resort knows how to cater to those people with touches of extra magic that only a lot of dollars can buy. Which leads to the resort’s latest announcement of a new VIP experience called the World of Dreams tour.

VIP tours at Walt Disney World are nothing new, with a typical 7-hour day guided experience costing between $2,975 and $4,375 for parties up to 10 people. However, the newest tour takes the VIP experience to a new level — including its price tag. With the World of Dreams tour’s price tag ringing up at $12,000, you may wonder what you get for that kind of money.

The World of Dreams tour accommodates up to six people for up to 12 hours in a single day. VIP guests get to fully customize their day across the entire resort, including all four theme parks, restaurants and more. The big selling point of this VIP experience is a tour of the Cinderella Castle Suite in the Magic Kingdom. Access to this restricted area is rare and typically reserved for contest winners or A-list celebrities. So, for many Disney fans with money to burn, that may seal the deal.

Other highlights of the World of Dreams tour could include:

• Front of line attraction access (yes, you get to cut in line!)
• Backstage access at all theme parks
• Special transportation
• Special viewing locations of theme park nighttime spectaculars
• Three meals for the day, including select alcoholic beverages
• Access to any restaurant on Walt Disney World property, no reservations required

How the World of Dreams tour goes is entirely up to the guests. And, if one day of this tour isn’t enough, VIPs can add on additional days for “only” $10,000 a day.

Guests can book the World of Dreams VIP tour by calling Walt Disney World reservations at (407) 560-4033. The reservations must be made at least a week in advance to set up tour activity requests.

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From our partners

Disney Private VIP Tours

Walt Disney World® Resort

Set off on an adventure that includes door-to-door service and an array of personalized perks.

Making Our Kingdom Yours

The team at Disney VIP Tour Services will plan the most efficient, enjoyable way for groups up to 10 Guests to see and do the things on your list. Just tell your personal VIP Tour Guide what you'd like to see, and they'll customize your day to your desire!

After being picked up in a private vehicle from your Walt Disney World Resort accommodations or branded partner resort accommodations, enjoy unparalleled hospitality and experience some of your favorite attractions alongside a VIP Tour Guide.

Some of the personalized services include:

• Pre-arrival planning
• A flexible start time, picked by you
• Visits to multiple theme parks* in one or more days
• The ability to enjoy some of your favorite attractions efficiently through most Lightning Lane entrances
• Shared insight from your highly knowledgeable VIP Tour Guide throughout your tour

*All VIP Tours require valid theme park admission, which is not included in the price of the tour

Pricing and Reservations

• Pricing:  Ranging from $450 to $900 per hour, depending on the season (valid park admission is required for each park visited on tour and is not included in the price of the tour).
• Reservations: Call (407) 560-4033 to book. Guests under the age of 18 must have parent or guardian permission to call. Learn when advance reservations can be made.

Know Before You Go

• All VIP Tours require valid theme park admission, which is not included in the price of the tour
• Disney VIP Tours participate in full security screenings (including bag checks) during your Disney VIP Tour. Guests should be prepared for screenings with their appropriate government issued identification.
• Disney Private VIP Tours at the Walt Disney World Resort are very popular and may be limited in availability. Advance reservations are highly recommended. Learn when advance reservations can be made.
• All Private VIP Tours must be booked for a minimum duration of 7 continuous hours, and your party may include up to 10 Guests, including infants.
• Entertainment offerings are subject to availability and may be restricted by capacity constraints at the time of booking.
• You will incur a cancellation fee equal to 2 hours at the booked rate per tour if you do not provide at least 48-hour notice when cancelling any Private VIP Tour.
• No cameras, video equipment or cellphones may be used while in backstage areas.
• Guests 17 years and under must be accompanied by a paying participating parent or guardian.
• Pricing and information are subject to change without notice.

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I've gone on 10 Disney World VIP tours that cost up to $900 an hour, and I swear they're worth it

• I'm a Disney fanatic who's lived less than five minutes from Disney World for the last six years.
• A VIP tour , which costs up to $900 an hour, offers experiences not available to everyday guests.
• I've been on 10 (and counting), and each tour guide makes the experience so special and unique. 

You get to spend a perfect park day with nine of your closest friends.

I moved to Orlando in 2017 to live closer to Disney World . Fresh out of college, there were many experiences on my Disney bucket list, and a VIP tour was always at the very top. 

Five years later, I've been on 10 tours — each more fun than the last — and I swear they're worth it.

Each VIP tour lasts for a minimum of seven hours, and up to 10 guests can take part in the experience. Tours cost $450 to $900 an hour for the whole group, depending on the season, and don't include park admission. 

Although they're pricey, it's an absolute blast to be able to share this experience with fellow Disney lovers, or even with friends and family visiting the parks for the first time.

Ride more rides than ever before.

As a Disney local, even a quick trip to the parks can take some serious planning.

In some cases, I have to purchase Genie+ Lightening Lanes (expedited line passes) if I want to ride a specific attraction like the newest coaster Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind . 

But on a VIP tour, all guests in the group bypass lines, which means more time riding, and less time waiting. Plus, the stress of planning the day and making it onto all the best rides is removed.

No more scheduling down to the second. You simply let your guide know which attractions and experiences are most important to you and your group, and the day is taken care of.

Visit all four parks with ease.

Before the coronavirus pandemic, park-hopping (visiting more than one theme park in a day) was easy at Disney World .

Today, because of the new reservation system, guests with park-hoppers tickets have to wait until 2 p.m. to go from one Disney park to the next.

But on a VIP tour, the guide takes you from park to park whenever you're ready, which I love. 

Plus, transportation is included in the day. Guides drive large vans that fit the entire tour group and utilize backstage entrances to ensure that everyone has as much time as possible in the parks.

Snacks are included in the cost of the tours.

I'm a bit of a Disney foodie , so snacks are always important to me. You'll never go hungry on a VIP tour as there's always some type of snack available. 

Whether you crave a Mickey-shaped pretzel or an Olaf strawberry-lemonade bar, the guides take care of it. Once our guides even treated us all to our favorite Starbucks drinks.

Plus, guides can grab your snack while you're on an attraction, so it's ready and waiting when the ride ends.

VIP tour guides have a wealth of Disney knowledge.

Disney VIP tour guides are typically huge Disney fans themselves, and they have the best little-known stories and information to share.

They have endless knowledge about the history and current happenings in the parks — like the latest attractions , Easter eggs, and hacks .

You get exclusive swag for your Disney collection.

I have a huge collection of Disney merchandise , but commemorative buttons and pins are among my favorite pieces.

Disney VIP tour guides give out lanyards, buttons, and pins so a bit of the tour can be added to your collection.

Even better, these exclusive trinkets are not for sale and are only available to people who've been on a tour.

The experience is tailored to each group.

The best part is that no two Disney VIP tours are the same.

Some people want to see all four parks, and others want to stay at their favorite — or even ride the same attraction on repeat all day. Some guests just want to stroll and chat with their guide.

It's a Disney experience that's completely tailored to your favorite things.

This story was originally published on January 14, 2023, and most recently updated on January 18. 2024. 

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Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, all reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, which ridiculously pricey disney world experiences are worth the cost.

It’s not a secret that a Disney World vacation is very expensive , even without any extra additions or frills. But if you’ve got some cash left in your planning budget, could it be worth it to add on an EXTRA experience to your Disney trip?

And if you DID want to add on an extra something to your trip, which of Disney’s many additional experiences are actually worth their hefty price tags?  We’re going to take a look at 8 experiences or things you can buy at Disney World that really could be worth the cost. Vacation planners and budgeters, proceed with caution:  These expensive additions are seriously tempting!

We already know that you can have an awesome time in Disney World without these extras, but if you’re looking for a way to add a little more magic to your vacation, here are some great options to consider. Not all of these experiences will be worth the cost to everyone, but we’ve broken down the prices, what’s involved, and who we think will enjoy them based on our own experiences.

Let’s dive in!

Behind-the-Scenes Tours

There are several options for behind-the-scenes tours in each Disney World park. During these tours (which have various themes and focuses), you’ll get to learn more about how things really work in Disney World.

The tours range in price from around $20 per person  (for the Behind the Seeds tour in EPCOT) to the very exclusive VIP tours that can cost up to $850 per person per HOUR. We’ll explain more about those VIP tours, but first let’s look at some of the more reasonably priced options.

The Wild Africa Trek is in Disney’s Animal Kingdom , and it’s sort of like a personalized and interactive version of the Kilimanjaro Safaris attraction. If you love that ride, we think this is the tour for you. It’s a 3-hour experience, which includes walking on a grassland path, crossing a rope bridge, and riding in a safari vehicle over Animal Kingdom’s savanna. You’ll see animals like rhinos, giraffes, hippos, and crocodiles.

A private tour guide will share knowledge about the animals and the theme park’s conservation efforts. A picnic lunch on the savanna is also included. This tour costs $199 per person . In our experience, this tour is well worth the cost and time if you’re someone who loves seeing and learning about animals. The extras (like lunch and crossing the rope bridge) are fun, and it’s a good chance to learn more about the animals who live inside Disney World.

If you’re more interested in aquatic animals, maybe you’d prefer the EPCOT Seas Adventures Aqua Tour , which is a snorkeling experience inside the Seas in EPCOT. Guests will get to snorkel for about 30 minutes inside a large saltwater tank with more than 65 species of marine life.

The whole experience is about 2.5 hours, and it also includes a behind-the-scenes tour of the Seas pavilion with a guide who teaches guests about the inhabitants there and how Disney maintains their habitats. This tour costs $145 per person .

For those looking for a tour that’s not quite that expensive, you can check out some options like the Caring for Giants tour in Animal Kingdom. The hour-long tour takes guests to see the African elephant herd and learn about their day-to-day care. You’ll get to see the elephants up close, from about 80 to 100 feet away. This tour costs $35 per person .

Fans of EPCOT’s Living With the Land attraction need to check out the Behind the Seeds Tour , which takes guests through 4 greenhouses and a fish farm in EPCOT. A guide teaches guests more about the fruits and vegetables that are grown there, as well as details about the latest techniques and innovations that take place in this park. This tour is $29 per person .

We’ll also mention the Disney World VIP Tours here because they definitely fit the “ridiculously expensive” profile. The private VIP tours range in price from $425 to $850 per hour (depending on the time of year), and they have a minimum requirement of 7 hours. That means these tours could run you between $2,975 to $5,950 for 1 day, and park admission is not included. Each tour can take up to 10 guests.

Included in the VIP tours is a personal guide to tell you all about Disney World as they walk you through the parks, a private vehicle to transport you to and from the parks, and a pass to skip the line at each ride.

Although we’d love to skip all the long lines at our favorite attractions, we’re pretty sure that most people (including us) can’t justify that price for a single-day tour. For $5,950 (the upper range of the cost), you could plan a decent week-long Disney World vacation instead of booking this tour.

But the other tours on our list are much more reasonably priced, and they’re a great way to experience some of your favorite parts of the Disney World parks in a new way!

Learn more about all the Disney World tours here.

Certain expensive meals.

If your favorite part of a Disney World vacation is the food (we totally get that), it might be worth it to make a reservation at one of Disney World’s high-end restaurants . Some meals really are worth their very large price tag, and we’ve got a few specific ones in mind that you could try out.

One of our all-time favorite things to eat in Disney World is the Oak-grilled Filet Mignon at Jiko — The Cooking Place , which is a restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge . This dish — and most of the dishes at Jiko — are simply exquisite, with stunning flavors that come from very talented chefs. The Filet costs $54 and comes with a side of the delicious mac ‘n’ cheese.

Another great option for steak lovers is Le Cellier in EPCOT . Some of our favorite items here are the Le Cellier Filet Mignon (served over a truffle mushroom risotto) and the Canadian Cheddar Cheese Soup . Both are delicious dishes with rich and luxurious flavors. The Filet is $59 , and the soup costs $13 .

For seafood lovers, Takumi Tei in EPCOT might be a good option if you’re looking for a splurge meal. They have several options for sushi (ranging from $18 to $40 for a roll), and there are some dishes featuring sea bass, salmon, and prawns. The most expensive items here are still for landlubbers, with the Takumi Gyuniku Artisan Beef (a Japanese A-5 Wagyu Tenderloin) costing $120 .

Check out our Restaurants page to see more options for fancy restaurants in Disney World along with reader reviews of these spots.

Click here to see the BEST Disney restaurants at every price point.

Chef’s table experience at victoria & albert’s.

For serious foodies, you can check out the Chef’s Table Experience at Victoria & Albert’s restaurant , located at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort . This experience is an exclusive table located near an open kitchen, so guests can talk with the chefs and sommelier between courses and learn more about the food and preparation.

The meal is up to 11 courses and takes about 3 hours to complete. You’ll dine on luxury dishes like caviar, Maine scallops, and Japanese beef. Wine pairings are also included.

Such a deluxe experience paired with luxurious food doesn’t come cheap, though. The meal costs $350 per person . Note that if you’re not quite ready to shell out that cash, you can make reservations for the normal Victoria & Alberts dining room, although the meals there are still not exactly budget-friendly. The tasting menu costs upwards of $200 , and it’s more if you add on wine pairings.

This restaurant definitely qualifies as seriously expensive, but our readers have generally reviewed the food as incredibly delicious. If you have room in the budget and want a truly high-end dining experience (maybe for a very special occasion?), this can be a great choice.

See guest reviews of Victoria & Alberts here.

Magic kingdom fireworks dessert parties.

If fireworks in Magic Kindom are a priority for you, you may want to consider a Fireworks Dessert Party . These events guarantee guests a good view of the show, which means you won’t have to save your seat hours before the fireworks even begin.

There are a few different options for these parties, with varying perks and prices. The Enchantment Pre-Party and After-Party both cost $99 per adult and $59 per child . These include a reserved spot in the Plaza Garden to watch the fireworks (standing room only) as well as some treats, snacks, and drinks before or after the show (depending on which party you choose).

Enchantment Eats and Seats takes place on the  Tomorrowland Terrace Patio , and it’s a bit more expensive at $114 per adult and $69 per child . Guests can watch the nighttime show while sitting down and eating their treats, which is why this one is a little pricier.

The fanciest party is over inside  California Grill  at the Contemporary Resort. It’s the  Contemporary Celebration at the Top . It includes an hour-long cocktail party with small plates and drinks and then a viewing party from the terrace of California Grill. This one is $129 per person .

Whichever party you choose, you’ll get guaranteed good views of the fireworks along with some treats and snacks to enjoy. The parties can be especially worth it during very busy times when it’s more difficult to find a good viewing spot with all the crowds.

One of the things to consider, though, is that Enchantment (the Magic Kingdom fireworks show) also features impressive projections on the buildings along Main Street, U.S.A.

These would be more difficult to see from the Plaza Garden (where guests at the pre- and after-parties watch), and they’re impossible to see from the Tomorrowland Terrace Patio or the California Grill terrace. So if seeing those projections is important to you, you may just want to buy your own snack and find a spot on Main Street, U.S.A., to watch the show.

See which dessert party is MOST worth the cost here.

Certain merchandise.

Disney merchandise can get incredibly expensive, especially once you start looking at those Disney x designer brand collaborations. We regularly see $300 purses in the parks, and one time we even spotted a $1,000 Mickey ear hat !

Some people might think that souvenirs like that are too expensive to even consider . However, if you find something you really love (and you’re able to fit it in your budget), even the priciest items could be worth their cost.

For example, we saw a Minnie ears headband designed by Vera Wang that was selling for $600 in the parks and online. $600 for a Disney accessory could seem a little crazy to some people, but the ears still sold out quickly from what we saw. If you’re a huge Disney fan and want to add a touch of Disney to your wedding, these ears could be the perfect accessory for a bride.

Other items that tend to sell out quickly include some of the Disney Dooney & Bourke bags . A new collection featured Orange Bird for EPCOT’s Flower & Garden Festival , and this mascot is a favorite among some EPCOT fans. For those who really love Orange Bird and want a high-quality purse, the $200 to $300 price tags could definitely be justified.

So if you’re passionate about a certain Disney souvenir, consider working out a budget and buying that item when you’re in the parks! If it’s something you really love and especially if you’ll use it often or display it in your home, it could be well worth your investment.

Check out one of the MOST exclusive (and expensive) souvenirs in Disney World.

Staying at a deluxe resort.

Deluxe resorts are the top tier of Disney World hotels, and a stay at these resorts starts at anywhere from around $430 to upwards of $1,000 per night (and even significantly more at peak times).

Here’s a breakdown of the starting rack rate price at each Deluxe hotel:

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge — $450/night 
• Disney’s Beach Club Resort — $522/night  (EPCOT area hotel)
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn — $574/night   (EPCOT area hotel)
• Disney’s Contemporary Resort — $531/night   (Magic Kingdom Monorail hotel)
• Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa — $747/night   (Magic Kingdom Monorail hotel)
• Disney’s Polynesian Village — $633/night  (Magic Kingdom Monorail hotel)
• Disney’s Wilderness Lodge — $439/night  (Magic Kingdom area hotel)
• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort — $522/night   (EPCOT area hotel)

These hotels are known for luxurious amenities, fancy rooms, and some awesome perks. If you’re going to spend most of your time in the parks and don’t want to plan a huge budget for your hotel, we typically recommend Disney World’s Value or Moderate resorts . But for those looking for a truly luxurious experience, a Deluxe hotel might just be the answer.

For one thing, many Deluxe hotels have awesome transportation options. Three of them are located very close to Magic Kingdom and are even on the Monorail loop, making them only a short walk or ride away from the most iconic Disney World park. And a few Deluxe hotels are located within walking distance of both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Location is a huge bonus, but you also get some special perks when you stay at Deluxe hotels. You can take advantage of Extended Evening Hours , which allows guests to stay in certain parks for up to 2 hours after closing time on select days. This is a great time to get on rides that usually have long lines and enjoy a much emptier park atmosphere.

The fancy hotels also usually have some of the best restaurants, like ‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Resort , Steakhouse 71 at Disney’s Contemporary Resort , and Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge . Keep in mind that you can still visit these restaurants, even if you don’t stay at the hotel where it’s located. It’s also worth noting that there  are  often discounts available, or you can rent points to stay at Deluxe resorts for less using companies such as David’s DVC Rentals .

Check out our definitive ranking of Disney World’s Deluxe resorts.

Park hopping.

A regular Disney World ticket (for 1 park per day) costs $109 right now. But if you wanted to add the option to park hop — or visit multiple theme parks in one day — it would cost an extra $65 per day, which makes your single-day ticket $174 . Note that daily ticket prices change for multi-day trips, which means the price for a ticket on each day goes down if you book a longer vacation. For example, the 2nd-day park hopper ticket costs $144, the 3rd-day ticket costs $131, etc.

If you’re hoping to pack more into each day of your vacation, adding Park Hopper to your ticket would allow you to see and do more in a single day. You could start the day off in Magic Kingdom and then head over to EPCOT in the afternoon to check out the current festival going on there .

And Park Hopper also opens up the possibility of eating at a restaurant in a different park from the one you’re visiting that day. So if you’re in Disney’s Hollywood Studios for the day but you wanted to have corn dog nuggets from Casey’s Corner in Magic Kingdom for dinner, you could do that!

This is also true for nighttime shows. Maybe you’re heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom during the day, but that park usually closes earlier than the other 3. So just hop on a bus to EPCOT to watch the nighttime spectacular Harmonious while you munch on snacks from World Showcase.

Although you can absolutely work out a schedule to do everything you want with only 1 park per day, it’s a nice luxury to have Park Hopper as an option in case you want to hit multiple parks in one day. Just remember that right now Park Hopper is limited to after 2PM . So you can only switch parks after that time each day.

See the BEST Park Hopping combos for your next Disney World trip.

For  star wars fans.

There are enough expensive experiences just for  Star Wars fans that we’re grouping them into one category here. Whether it’s a customizable droid , a $400 lightsaber , or a $6,000 stay at the new Star Wars hotel , there are specialty  Star Wars  experiences for just about every price point.

A couple that we want to highlight here include the build-your-own lightsaber experience at Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge and a visit to the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser hotel .

The build-your-own lightsaber experience is located at Sa’vi’s Workshop in Galaxy’s Edge. During this experience, you’ll customize your lightsaber by choosing the hilt, accessories, and Kyber Crystal for your saber. You can choose the color and “element” for your lightsaber (elements include Peace & Justice, Power & Control, Elemental Nature, and Protection & Defense).

The experience (including your lightsaber) costs $219.99 plus tax . For some, that’s a bit too much to justify for what you get. But die-hard Star Wars fans could really enjoy the whole experience, and you’ll get to bring home a customized souvenir that you love. If you have plans to display (or even use) the lightsaber, the price might be completely worth it.

And we’ve got to mention the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser here, which has been a hot topic lately due to its incredibly high prices. The Starcruiser costs up to $6,000 per room (which sleeps up to 5 adults) for the entire experience. The cost can vary depending on which room you book and the time of year, and the price is per room, not per person.

We’ve written all kinds of posts about the Starcruiser with details about the rooms , food , experiences , and more . But essentially, this is a cruise-type experience where you’re immersed in the  Star Wars universe and can take part in the storyline for 3 days and 2 nights. You’ll meet classic characters (and some new ones!), play Sabacc, eat food themed after planets mentioned in the films, and more.

To make the most of your experience, we highly recommend getting very involved in the storyline. You can choose to be part of the Resistance or the First Order, and you’ll be asked to complete tasks and secret missions to aid your side.

If you love escape room–type activities and the Star Wars universe, this experience is tailor-made for you. It is incredibly expensive, but it might be a once-in-a-lifetime trip for some people. Even as casual  Star Wars fans, we had a great time at the Starcruiser because we enjoy immersive experiences and getting involved in a story.

Click here for our take on whether Starcruiser is WORTH the cost

That’s it for our list of ridiculously pricey Disney World experiences that might actually be worth the cost! Keep in mind that these will be 100% worth it for some people and absolutely not worth it at all for others. What you love is going to be different from what other people love, and that’s why we included a pretty wide range of activities here.

Whether you’re off on a Wild Africa Trek, dining at the Victoria & Albert’s Chef’s Table, or boarding the Halcyon (the name of the Star Wars Galactic Starcruiser ship), we hope you enjoy your next splurge at Disney World.

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Which of these expensive experiences sounds worth it to you? Let us know in the comments.

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One Reply to “Which Ridiculously Pricey Disney World Experiences are WORTH the Cost?”

We experienced a private VIP tour in September 2021. Was the best $4800 ever spent at Disney World! Our guide, Jacob, was fantastic! We rode every ride we wanted to, including Ratatouille, which wasn’t officially opened. In January 2022, we went to our first Fireworks Dessert Party at MK. Again, fantastic. The desserts were so decadent! We were escorted to a viewing area about 20 minutes before the show. Money well spent.

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Disney VIP Tours: Everything You Need to Know  

• By Bailee Abell
• March 14, 2022

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When it comes to  experiencing Disney luxury , there aren’t very many experiences better than a Disney VIP tour. We love to picture ourselves strutting down Main Street, U.S.A., coffee in hand, sporting trendy sunglasses and a handbag, and accompanied by one of the “plaids” — a Disney VIP tour guide and theme park extraordinaire. 

A VIP tour is one of  the most luxurious Disney theme park experiences  money can buy (outside of the super-exclusive Club 33, of course). Available at  Disneyland  and  Walt Disney World , Disney’s VIP Tour Services provide guests with  a private tour of the theme parks , including skipping the line for every ride, backstage access, and as much park hopping as you want. 

But how much does a Disney VIP tour really cost, what are the perks, and what should you keep in mind when booking? We’re covering it all right here.  

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Disney VIP Tour Cost  

Per Disney, a VIP theme park tour offers you priority access to attractions, hassle-free planning of your day at the parks, and VIP service from your own personal guide, which helps with all your needs and entertainment. Tours start at $2,975 for a minimum of seven hours.   

Typically, up to 10 guests can take a VIP tour with one tour guide. You can add more people to your tour, but the price will increase, as a second tour guide will need to accompany your group.  

The price will vary depending on the season, too. At both Disneyland Resort in California and Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, a Disney VIP tour starts at $425/hour for a minimum of 7 hours.  

However, if you’re looking to book a  Disney VIP tour  during peak seasons like Christmas and New Year’s or Spring Break, then you can expect the price to be much higher than the minimum. A 10-hour tour during the busy season, for example, could cost $8,500. Due to popularity, you should book your tour ASAP.  

Even with the steep price tag, valid theme park admission (i.e., a Disney theme park ticket or Annual Pass) is required to take a VIP tour. This is something to factor into your budget if you’re considering booking.  

Disney VIP Tour Benefits  

Without a doubt, one of the best perks of a VIP tour is feeling like a VIP. Have you ever seen a Disney Cast Member dressed in plaid taking a group of guests to the front of the line at an attraction, or even placing a VIP order at Starbucks? The same Cast Members who accompany celebrity guests also accompany guests who book VIP tours. So, if you want to feel like a celeb at Disney and you have some serious cash, book a Disney VIP tour.  

The tour guides are more than Disney park experts — they are some of the kindest, most accommodating Disney Cast Members you will ever meet. Disney hires them for a reason, and when they are not booking tours, many of them are working in Guest Relations to make magic for everyday guests. 

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Annemarie Bohn (@annemarie_mvptravel)

A VIP tour is also a fantastic option if your time at the theme parks is limited. If you are only planning to be at Disney for one day — or you are taking a quick trip — and you want to get on as many rides as possible, a VIP tour could be a great way to go.  

But even if you’re willing to spend the money and are seriously looking into booking a VIP tour, we wouldn’t recommend it for a first visit to the Disney theme parks. The Disney parks offer an exceptional kind of magic for guests. And because many VIP tours offer backstage access and bring guests through the parks in a rushed, exciting way, they aren’t always great for a first visit.  

A VIP tour is an incredible way to get as much done as possible in a single day, but if you’ve never been to Disneyland or Disney World before, we’d suggest taking everything in on your own before splurging on the VIP treatment.  

Tips for Booking a VIP Tour at Disneyland or Walt Disney World  

Book during the slower season  .

Is there a “slow season” at Disney anymore? We’re not so sure about that, but we are sure about VIP tour pricing.  Disney VIP tour services  start at $425 an hour and can be as expensive as $850 an hour, depending on the time of year you book. If you have flexible travel dates and you want to save as much money possible on a VIP tour, give Disney a call and ask for more details on booking during the “off-season” — or, at least, booking during a time when you can get a tour for the lowest price available.  

Get a big group together  

A VIP tour will cost you the same amount whether you’re a group of 10 or flying solo, so get a big group together if you want to make the experience more cost-effective. This is a convenient tip if going on a VIP tour is on your Disney bucket list, but you don’t have thousands of dollars to burn.  

For example, a seven-hour tour for eight people could cost under $500 per person if divided equally, whereas the same tour for three guests could cost under $1,000 per person. No matter what, Disney VIP tours are expensive, but they can be more attainable the more people you invite to the experience.  

Know your must-dos  

Your  Disney VIP tour guide  will be an expert on the theme parks — that’s a given. They’ll share secrets and history, fun facts, and an all-around great time with you throughout the entire day.  

Extra experiences are bound to come up during your VIP tour, but it doesn’t hurt to have some of your must-dos in mind as you head into your day. Want to ride Space Mountain as many times as possible? Looking to get the full Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge experience? Needing a Disney fairytale-themed day? Your Disney VIP tour guide can make it happen.  

Other Tours to Consider  

If you want a tour of the theme parks with a much more laid-back feel, then we’d recommend trying one of Disney’s other tours. At Disneyland, the  “Walk in Walt’s Disneyland Footsteps” Guided Tour  allows guests to explore Walt Disney’s life through Disneyland, the original theme park and the only Disney park that Walt himself opened.  

Similarly, Magic Kingdom offers the  Disney’s Keys to the Kingdom Tour , offering an in-depth look at Magic Kingdom’s history and a glimpse at “secret locations you’ve always wondered about. Neither of these guided tours is considered a private VIP tour, so you will likely be with other guests. Still, they are great for anyone who wants a closer, more historical perspective on the flagship theme parks at Disneyland Resort in California or Walt Disney World Resort in Florida.  

Follow for More Disney Tips  

We’re all about splurging on a Disney vacation for luxury experiences that feel truly magical. For more tips on how to elevate your next trip to the happiest place on Earth,  follow us on TikTok  and subscribe to our newsletter.  

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Most Expensive Disney World Experiences & Their Prices 2023

Photo Credit: Walt Disney World.

Whether you're a first-timer or a seasoned Disney pro, you can always count on the ever-ready and enthusiastic Disney cast members to sprinkle some pixie dust and make your vacation a memorable one.

For those of you looking to take your Disney experience to the next level, Disney World has got you covered with a plethora of top-of-the-line expensive offerings that will make you feel like royalty. So, get ready to be impressed and splurge on some extra magic, because at Disney, the possibilities are endless!

Get ready to break open that piggy bank, because we've rounded up a list of the most expensive experiences at Disney World.

In this article:

Private VIP Tours

Planning the ultimate Disney day can sometimes feel like a full-time job! Sure, snagging those coveted Genie+ ride reservations can be a little stressful with those early morning wake-up calls, but let's face it—they're totally worth it for the best attraction selections.

But let's say you're the type of Disney-goer who just wants to kick back, relax, and not have to worry about any of the planning. Here is the magical solution: Disney VIP Tour services! These folks will take care of all the heavy lifting for you, from getting you and your guests into the attractions of your choice to customizing your entire day at the Happiest Place on Earth.

But the Disney magic doesn't stop there! Not only do you get to experience all the wonders of Disney World, but you'll also be picked up from your Disney resort in a private vehicle. Talk about feeling like a celebrity!

Disney VIP Tour services will by your side during the day, ready to share all the most fascinating and fun Disney facts as you breeze through the park and skip the lines to your favorite attractions. It's like having your own personal fairy godmother making all your Disney dreams come true!

Of course, this level of luxury does come at a cost. The private VIP tours typically range from $450 to $900 per hour, depending on the season. Keep in mind that park tickets are not included in the tour. But for the ultimate stress-free Disney day, it's a price guests may be willing to pay for a truly unforgettable experience.

Fireworks Cruise

Watching the fireworks show at Magic Kingdom's Cinderella Castle is an iconic Disney World experience, but what if we told you it could get even better? With Disney Firework Cruises, you'll never have to worry about snagging a good spot or battling the crowds. Instead, you get to enjoy Happily Ever After or EPCOT Forever from the water, like a true VIP.

And let's be real: seeing the fireworks show from a 25-foot boat is next-level magical. You'll feel like you're in your own private world of wonder, with a front-row seat to all the action. Plus, the cruise includes assorted snacks and soft drinks, so you won't have to worry about going hungry during the show.

All this luxury doesn't come cheap: prices start at $399 plus tax, so it's definitely a splurge but actually is not so pricey if you fill-up the full boat. But for a once-in-a-lifetime Disney experience, it's worth it. If you're ready to take your Disney vacation to the next level, hop aboard a Disney Firework Cruise and get ready to be amazed!

Chef's Table at Victoria and Albert's

Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog.

When it comes to satisfying your taste buds, Disney World is the place to be. And we're not just talking about the Instagram-worthy cupcakes and drinks (although they are pretty amazing) but about Victoria & Alberts, the epitome of elegance and culinary excellence.

This place has some serious bragging rights, including the prestigious AAA Five Diamond Award. And let's be real: any meal here with Chef de Cuisine Matthew Sowers is guaranteed to be an unforgettable experience.

But if you really want to take things up a notch, go for the Chef's Table. You'll get an up-close and personal look into the heart of the kitchen and see all the culinary magic happening right before your eyes.

The prix-fixe menu starts at $425 per guest, and if you're feeling fancy, you can even add wine pairings for an extra $200 per guest. So if you're ready to indulge in some of the finest cuisine Disney World has to offer, book the Chef's Table at Victoria & Alberts and prepare to have your taste buds blown away.

Disney World Senses Spa

Let's face it: a Disney vacation can be brutal on your feet. All that walking in the Florida sun can really take its toll, no matter how much fun you're having. And while finding the right shoes can definitely help, there's another way to give your tired soles some much-needed pampering.

You can head over to the Senses Spa, located inside the Grand Floridian Resort, and treat yourself to a refreshing facial, a soothing massage, a body wrap, or even some aromatherapy. Trust us, your feet will thank you for it.

If you're looking to indulge in some serious relaxation, you can splurge on these luxurious treatments. Massages, body treatments, and facials at the Senses Spa range between $180 and $295, but can you really put a price on pure bliss?

Wild Africa Trek

There is no better experience for animal lovers than Walt Disney World's Kilimanjaro Safaris. Yet, Disney's Wild Africa Trek offers an even more thrilling adventure, where you can explore the breathtaking lands of Africa and get up close and personal with its majestic inhabitants.

The best part? This private 3-hour long tour will take you deep into the Safi River Valley, where you'll feel like you're one with the wildlife. But before you hop on board, you'll get to immerse yourself in the safari experience by walking through a grassy path and even crossing a rope bridge. Talk about an adventure!

When hunger strikes, you won't have to settle for just any theme park fare. You'll get to indulge in some delicious African-inspired eats, like marinated tandoori shrimp, garlic and leek hummus with pita, a tasty chicken wrap, fresh fruit, and more.

Plus, you won't have to worry about capturing every moment on your camera—a trained photographer will be on hand to snap all the exciting moments for you.

All of this costs $199 per person. So what are you waiting for? Get ready to embark on the adventure of a lifetime with Disney's Wild Africa Trek! This might be the expensive Disney World experience I would want to try most.

Fairy Tale Weddings

Photo Credit: Disney Dose.

Are you ready for a fairy tale wedding that would make Cinderella herself jealous? Well, hold onto your glass slippers, because Disney World has got you covered.

For a cool $40,000 ceremony fee, you can say “I do” in the most magical setting imaginable—right in front of Cinderella's Castle in the heart of the Magic Kingdom. And who wouldn't want to get hitched with a castle as their backdrop?

But that's not all: Disney has got all the bells and whistles to make your big day truly unforgettable. Choose from a grand entrance in a Cinderella coach, a romantic horse-drawn carriage, or even a vintage car down Main Street, U.S.A. Whatever your dream wedding looks like, Disney will make it happen. So if you're ready to start your happily ever after in the most enchanting way possible, head to Disney World and let the magic unfold.

Beachcomber Shacks

Picture this: you're lounging poolside, drink in hand, soaking up the sun and feeling all your worries melt away. Sounds like paradise, right? Well, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park takes this level of luxury and relaxation to a whole new level with their Beachcomber Shacks. The standard Beachcomber Shack has everything you need for a day of uninterrupted bliss: towels, lockers, cushioned loungers, attendants, and ice-cold water all day long.

But if you're looking to kick things up a notch, opt for the Premium shacks. These come equipped with a dining table, fans to keep you cool, a mini fridge to chill your drinks, a flat-screen TV to keep you entertained, and even outlets to keep your electronics charged up. Talk about living the dream! It will set you back $375 to $500, depending on the season.

So if you're ready to indulge in some serious poolside pampering, book a Premium Beachcomber Shack at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon water park and get ready to live your best life.

Ferrytale Fireworks: Magic Kingdom Fireworks Dessert Parties

Magic Kingdom's firework show is definitely on another level. While there are no bad seats in the house for this jaw-dropping event, if you wanna kick it up a notch and indulge in some sweet treats while beating the crowds, the Ferrytale Fireworks Dessert Cruise is the way to go.

This will cost about $99 per adult and $69 per child, but think about it: you get to kick back, relax, and savor some delicious sweets after a long day of trekking through the parks. It's a little slice of heaven! Plus, you'll collect dessert pics that will leave your friends drooling.

Be sure to read our guide on everything you need to know about Walt Disney World's Fireworks !

Private Surf Party at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon

Surf's up! If you're looking for a seriously epic party, Disney's Typhoon Lagoon has got you covered. You can host a private surf party with a base price ranging from $1,200 to $1,500 depending on the time of day. You'll have access to their state-of-the-art wave pool for a whopping three hours and 100 waves! You can invite up to 25 surfers and spectators at an additional price, and adding on waves costs extra.

If you want to capture every epic moment, Disney's ESPN Wide World of Sports Gameday Photographer can hook you up with photography add-ons. All that surfing is going to work up an appetite, so you have the option to add on a dining package, including beverages, snacks, finger foods, and platters. Be sure to read our guide on Disney's Typhoon Lagoon for everything you need to know about the water park, including attractions, dining, and pool options.

If you're searching for a way to take your Walt Disney World vacation to the next level, these splurge-worthy experiences are sure to deliver that extra bit of magic you're looking for. While they may come with a higher price tag, the Disney memories you'll create will be priceless.

Everything You Need to Bring to Walt Disney World

During your Disney trip, you want to make sure you have everything you need for the day so you can focus on the magic. Read our guide to everything you need to pack for Disney World to make sure you are well-prepared!

How Much Does it Cost to Go to Disney World?

Between ticket prices, hotels, dining, and more, there are several factors that determine how much your Disney World vacation will cost. In our guide to how much it costs to go to Disney World , we'll break down everything you need to consider when planning your trip.

Is It Worth It to Park Hop at Disney World? Everything You Need to Know!

In our guide to park hopping at Disney World , we'll walk you through what park hopping is, how much it costs, transportation between parks, and more. We'll also discuss some tips for making the most out of this offering!

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If there is no monorail how do you get to the park. Mainstreet..also what’s the price per day at magic Kingdom

How has the park changed forever after covid what are the changes

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Visit Exclusive Suite in Cinderella Castle on Disney World's New Over-the-Top Private Tour

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

The iconic image of Walt Disney World isn't a mouse, a ride, a character or even a Dole Whip . It is Cinderella Castle beaming at the end of Main Street USA for the young and young at heart. It's the backdrop (or star) of Disney World parades, shows, festivals, fireworks and countless family vacation photos. And now, there's an over-the-top Disney VIP tour that will take you inside the six-person suite nestled high in Cinderella Castle. Cue all the inner Disney-geek fandom!

And yes, this new tour is expensive. Very expensive.

Before I drop the price hammer and crush magical castle dreams into piles of pixie dust, here's what we have learned about this new tour by calling Disney's VIP tour line.

The new offering is up to 12 hours of a highly-personalized, guided Disney World experience that includes front-of-the-line access to rides across all four Disney World parks, meals (no reservations required), being whisked from park to park, prime viewing of shows and parades, special access to most things Disney you could dream up and, the pièce de résistance, a visit to the suite in Cinderella Castle. Details were light, but the main highlight was crystal clear.

There are already Disney VIP tours that include many of the elements above, but access to the suite in the castle previously couldn't be bought. You pretty much had to win a grand prize in a Disney contest or otherwise be invited. (My invitation is clearly lost in the mail, but I haven't given up.)

Now, the dream crushing reality: this 'World of Dreams' VIP Tour is valid for up to six guests and costs $12,000 for 12 hours of all-access magic. That breaks down to $166.67 per hour per person if you fully maxed it out. And sadly, those numbers do not include park admission or taxes. Additional days of this level of special access can be booked for a 'discounted' rate of $10,000. Hey, at least it isn't $32,000 for one person, like flying in the Etihad Residence will cost you.

For comparison, a 'regular' Disney VIP private tour without special castle access costs around $425 - $625 per hour (depending on the time of year) and is valid for up to 10 guests with a seven-hour minimum. Of course, there are also much more economical Disney special access add-ons available, such as the $1.07 per minute early morning access to Fantasyland that runs from 7:45 - 9am on select dates (and includes breakfast).

But if you want to explore Cinderella Castle beyond the entrance and dining room that are included when you dine at Cinderella's Royal Table , find five other equally Disney-crazy friends and start saving.

There's no guarantee that Cinderella herself will be hanging out in the castle's suite, ready to pour you a cup of hot tea when you visit, but for $12,000, maybe dreams really can come true.

Bottom Line

For most of us, this new tour's price won't get us any closer to inside Cinderella Castle than before. But for others, at least now there's a chance. I've certainly gotten a few dollars worth of Disney daydreaming out of this new offering. I mean, what would you do if you could do almost anything at Disney World for 12 full hours?

If you do spend five figures on a tour at Disney World, be sure you are paying with a credit card that awards a bonus on entertainment spending . And, if you are looking for a sixth to join your magical day, give me a call.

To continue your once-in-a-lifetime (after the lottery winning process) theme park planning:

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• This Disneyland Meal Costs $15,000
• Is Disney Club Level Worth It?
• Best Money You Can Spend at Disney is Getting Better
• Is the Disney VIP Classics Tour Worth It?
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Disney VIP Tours: The Ultimate Disney Splurge

Disney VIP Tours are one of the most amazing and most expensive ways to see Walt Disney World.

Have you ever wished there was a way to get to the front of every line at Disney World?  

Of course you have!  It’s the dream of every Disney lover out there!

I’m excited to tell you that THERE IS A WAY!  It’s called a Disney VIP Tour !

But fair warning:  it’ll cost you.  But it’s worth every single penny.

What are Disney VIP Tours?

During a family trip to Disney world, we decided to splurge on a Disney VIP tour.  

I’d read quite a bit about tours at Disney World – there are several outside groups that offer Disney tours, and there are also several different tours offered by Disney itself.  

The outside Disney groups that offer tours are less expensive, and I know there are many people who love them – but for me, it felt wrong to use a group that wasn’t 100% affiliated with Disney World. Because of this, we only looked at tours directly offered by Walt Disney World.  

There are several types of tours offered by Disney World that range in price and what they include.  Many of these tours have been suspended, due to the pandemic, but the VIP Tours have resumed.  

According to the Walt Disney World website, on a Disney VIP Tour you can: 

Customize the perfect itinerary for your group with enough time to explore the attractions and sights. Enjoy some of your favorite attractions efficiently. Learn from our Disney VIP Tour Guides who have been hand-picked and expertly trained to plan the perfect itinerary for you and your family.

But this doesn’t adequately describe what happens on a Disney VIP tour.  

During a Disney VIP Tour experience, you can ride whatever your heart desires for the length of your tour.  

A Walt Disney World Expert guides you through your day, providing VIP transportation from your Lake Buena Vista area hotel directly to the parks.  

Disney VIP Tour guests get to “skip the line” and hop onto any attraction they want (except for the Rise of the Resistance, which you must get a boarding group to experience ).

Just an FYI:  We were not paid for this review and did not receive these services for free from Disney in exchange for this review. I simply want to share this experience with you all, as there seem to be very few reviews out there for the Disney Private VIP Tour.  

It deserves to be reviewed, as this was by far the most AMAZING thing we’ve ever done at Disney World.

Disney VIP Tour Basics

Here are the important details about Disney VIP Tours:

Tour Length:  Minimum of 7 consecutive hours.

Tour Cost: $425-$625 per hour, depending on season.  You must have park tickets, which are not included in this price.  If you’d like to visit multiple parks with your guide, you must have park hoppers.  Disney Park Pass Reservations are also required for VIP tour guests.  

Number of People Allowed: Each tour accommodates up to 10 guests per 1 tour guide.  Every person is counted as a guest, including infants and children under 3.

Tour Includes:  

• Flexible start time, chosen by you
• Access to “skip the lines” for every ride in every park except Rise of the Resistance 
• Private transportation between parks.  Pick up and drop off from your Disney Resort Hotel is possible as well.
• VIP viewing areas for parades, select stage shows, and nighttime spectaculars (when available)
• Parades, stage shows, and nighttime spectaculars are almost non-existent right now at Disney World due to social distancing requirements.  Because of this access to these things are subject to availability and may be restricted by capacity constraints.
• You must provide more than 48 hours notice to cancel a Disney VIP Tour.  If you cancel within that 48-hour window, you will be charged a cancellation fee equal to two hours at the booked rate of the tour.  
• You may not video or photograph anything in the backstage areas. 
• Guests under 18 years old must be accompanied by a paying adult to participate in any tour. 
• Prices can change at any time without notice.  
• Masks are currently required at all Disney properties, and are required while on VIP tours as well.
• Guests still have to meet Disney height requirement for rides.

Disney VIP Tours cannot be booked online.  You must call to book a VIP tour.  The number is: 407-560-4033

Our Private VIP Tour Experience

Our VIP tour took place prior to 2020, so covid restrictions were not in place. 

We chose to start our Disney VIP tour at 1pm on the second to last day of our Disney trip, and meet our tour guide in the Magic Kingdom.  He was a couple of minutes late, but immediately introduced himself to us as Matthew and he seemed energetic and ready to go!

Prior to our trip, we’d sent over a very loose itinerary of what we hoped to accomplish beforehand, so he had an idea of what we’d like to do.  

We wanted to start with Mine Train, so we went directly to the Fastpass line.  Matthew said hello to the cast member working the line and showed him that we were with him, and we were immediately let into the Fastpass line.  As we waited the 5 minutes or so to board, Matthew talked to us about our plans.  

He knew we wanted to visit Magic Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot, but he noticed we didn’t have Animal Kingdom included.  He asked why, and we explained that we have a child with a severe peanut allergy and avoid AK due to the fact that some of the animals are fed peanuts and there could be residue along rails/etc in the Safari area of the park.  

He suggested that we go there to ride Flight of Passage, and assured us that we could enter and exit the park through a back entrance that would avoid any contact with the Safari area.  We were really excited about this, as we’d not expected to get to ride Flight of Passage.

We rode Mine Train together – we are a family of five, and Matthew rode with us.  On this first ride he rode with my husband, but as our kids got to know Matthew a bit they quickly started asking if they could be the one to ride with him.   

He was incredibly friendly and kind to the kids, and we all felt comfortable with him in short order.  After riding Mine Train once, we got right back in the Fastpass line to ride again – this time, Matthew rode with our youngest.  

Within the next hour, we rode Thunder Mountain twice, and Space Mountain twice.  My youngest isn’t a Space Mountain fan, so she and I rode the Tomorrowland Speedway while the others were riding Space Mountain.  

My older two were thrilled to get to ride both tracks of Space Mountain.  Before our tour, I didn’t even know that there were two tracks that are slightly different for this ride!  One has bigger hills, while the other is faster.  This was just one of the many neat little Disney facts we learned while on our private tour with Matthew.

When we’d ridden everything we wanted to at Magic Kingdom, Matthew took us through a back exit in Tomorrow Land and we all piled into a very nice, very new SUV.

There was another Disney cast member waiting by the car who knew us by name and asked if we’d like a cold bottle of water – which we all did.  

It was a very nice touch, and we were excited to head to Animal Kingdom next.  We drove around the back of the Safari area, and Matthew shared lots of interesting information about the park while we were in the car.

We pulled up to a back entrance for The World of Pandora, parked, and stepped through the back door of a gift shop – which spit us out right at the Fastpass line for Flight of Passage.  

We were all completely blown away by this ride, and immediately asked Matthew to take us on it again.  Right back through the Fastpass line we went – and we were able to ride twice within about 30 minutes.  It was AMAZING – one of the best moments of our entire trip.

We also rode Nav’i River Journey and Dinosaur before heading back to the car and back into “our” SUV.  This time, our destination was Hollywood Studios.  

We parked behind Tower of Terror, and headed straight for Rockin’ Roller Coaster.  This was my middle daughter’s first time on this ride, and she absolutely LOVED it.  

Next up was Star Tours – and Matthew actually took our kids on this one without us, while my husband and I stopped and enjoyed a beverage at Baseline Taphouse.  

Toy Story Mania was up next, and Matthew shared some awesome tips on what to aim for and how to score the most possible points on this ride.  My husband and son are in a constant competition to “win” on this one, so it was really neat to get those insider tips.

We headed back towards our SUV, but decided to hop on Rockin’ Roller Coaster one more time before heading to Epcot.

Back in the SUV we went, and we made the short drive to Epcot.  After parking behind Japan, Matthew led us to Test Track, which we rode twice, and then we headed for Frozen Ever After.  

At this point, it was closing in on the end of our 7 hour tour, and we had Matthew drive us back to our cabin at Fort Wilderness.

All in all, during our 7 hour VIP tour, we rode 18 rides and went to all 4 parks.  We never waited more than 15 minutes for anything – and for most rides, we waited less than 10.  

Matthew was absolutely wonderful, and we all enjoyed our time with him – my daughters thought he was the best thing ever.  It was ABSOLUTELY an experience that I would recommend!

My personal tips for Disney Private VIP Tours

Once we experience our Disney VIP Tour, we figured out a few things that other people might find helpful to know in advance.  

Book with another family and cut the cost in half

We could have had an additional 5 people on our tour with us for no additional fee.  Next time, we’ll try to plan our vacation with family friends, book this tour, and split the cost between us.  This is a great way to get this amazing experience for a little less!

Be prepared to tip in cash.  

While the payment for the tour can be paid using a card (and must be paid in full one day prior), tips need to be given in cash.  It’s customary to tip your guide for outstanding service – we chose to tip 1 hours worth of pay, which is fairly standard.

Be sure to keep an eye on the clock.

While our guide was wonderful at making sure we got to every single attraction we wanted to ride, we did not make it clear that we wanted our tour to be exactly 7 hours, which is the minimum.  Including the ride back to our cabin, our tour went over by 15 minutes, and we were charged for this additional time.  

After the initial 7 hour minimum, guests are charged for each additional 15 minute increment.  This charge came through after we arrived home, and I called Disney about it – they explained the charge, and were very kind to remove it since we were unaware that we would be charged for the ride time back to our cabin.  

If we ever do this tour again (which would be a dream come true), I’ll do a better job of explaining that we wish to keep the tour right at 7 hours.

Keep in mind that you do not go to the very front of the Fastpass line with your tour guide – you simply have unlimited access to Fastpass lines.  

We did have to wait in the Fastpass line, just like everyone else who had a Fastpass.  The difference was that we could do it for every single ride during our time with Matthew.  Since Fastpass lines are only currently available to those with a Disability Service Pass, I’d imagine these lines are actually shorter now.  

Allow for at least a little bit of time to eat!  

We were so focused on riding, we didn’t think to stop and eat.  We didn’t have a table service meal scheduled for our tour day, but we’d planned to stop for a quick service meal at some point during our tour.  

That didn’t happen – we were having too much fun to think about food!  I didn’t even realize it until we stopped for a bathroom break at Hollywood Studios, and Matthew disappeared for a minute … to grab himself a pretzel.  

I felt bad when I realized we’d been going so fast we didn’t give our guide time to grab food!  We did learn, though, that the cream cheese filled pretzels at Hollywood Studios are one of the best snacks on property!  

Bottom line – The Disney VIP Private Tour far exceeded our expectations.  

I won’t lie – it’s incredibly expensive.  I was worried that we wouldn’t think it was worth the expense…. but it was worth EVERY SINGLE PENNY.  

Would we do it again?  Absolutely.  

Will book a Disney VIP Tour every trip?  No.  

This is definitely a bucket list/splurge experience that won’t be a part of every vacation we take to Walt Disney World.  But if you’re looking for the ultimate way to make your Walt Disney World experience incredible, a Disney VIP Tour is the way to go!

Have you ever booked a Disney VIP tour?  What were your thoughts?  Share with us in the comments!

This post was written in collaboration with Bethany Edwards.

Juliette Lienemann

Monday 29th of November 2021

We just booked a day for a VIP tour in January 2022-and I came across your post while doing some research-so helpful-thank you! To clarify, I assume everyone had the "park hopper" option in order to access all 4 parks in one day? Or maybe the better question is-can the VIP tour include all parks, even with a reservation at just one? Thanks again!

Louise Emery

Tuesday 30th of November 2021

Yes, your assumption is correct. All participants need park hoppers to access all 4 parks in one day. And yes, since you're only allowed to reserve one park per day, you only need the one park reservation at the park you will start at when on a VIP tour. The Tour Guides should take care of reserving the rest.

Fairytale Wonders

Sharing our love of Disney & Travel

Private VIP Tour at Walt Disney World

Your guide to walt disney world’s most expensive and exclusive tour – a private vip tour .

Through our travel agency (Wish Upon a Star with Us Travel) Brittany and I, along with her parents, were able to take a private Walt Disney World VIP tour. We had the most amazing experience and want to share all of the details with you! 

What is a Private VIP Tour?

A VIP tour is a private guided tour at Walt Disney World. A VIP Tour will take your experience to the next level. It includes a first class level of service, skipping the lines and getting whisked away in a luxury vehicle; all with your own private guide for the day. Entrances to the parks and waiting in line for attractions? Don’t worry about those! Your guide will escort you through private entrances to select rides and drop you off “behind the scenes”. This allows you to save time when moving around the parks AND makes you feel like a VIP.

Have you ever wondered how the Hollywood elite visit Disneyland and Walt Disney World? Well this is it!

The Basics:

• Completely customized itinerary for your family
• Highly Knowledgeable Disney VIP Tour Guide
• Flexible start time with a minimum time required (see below)
• Backstage access
• Ability to skip the lines for just about any experience at Walt Disney World
• Private vehicle to take you where you please
• Private VIP access to special firework viewing areas

VIP Tours Include: 

• Pre-planning services 
• Skip the line access
• Transportation once your tour starts
• VIP guide 
• Some snacks and bottled water

VIP Tours Do Not Include:

• Park Tickets
• Parking 

 Things to Know

• All VIP tours require a valid theme park ticket and a Park Pass reservation. If you plan on doing multiple parks in your VIP tour, you will need to have a Park Hopper ticket. Upon arrival at your first park of the day you will scan your ticket/MagicBand and be set for the rest of the day!
• All private VIP tours have a minimum tour duration of 7 continuous hours. You can add extra time onto this, up to a maximum of 10 hours.
• Private Disney World VIP tours allow up to 10 guests per guide including infants. If your party is larger than that, you will need to book a second VIP tour guide.

How much does a Private VIP tour cost at Walt Disney World? 

The prices change depending on the season, but guests can expect to pay $425 to $850 an hour. During peak travel times (like the winter holidays and spring break) expect that price to be at or near the top. If you want to keep costs on that lower end, we recommend traveling during non-peak times. Prices can vary by the week, but we generally recommend September, January, and February as some good off-peak times.

• Do I need to tip my Disney VIP Tour Guide?

You are not required to tip, but it is customary. The general recommendation would be to tip 10-20% of your tour cost. 

• The level of service you will experience on a Disney World VIP tour is second to none. The day is designed around you and your family. If you want to ride Dumbo all day, then that is what your guide is going to make happen. Want to get from one section of the park to another? Backstage entrances and otherwise Cast Member-only areas become your golden ticket to getting across the parks effortlessly. That gets you to riding your next attraction quickly!

Our Disney VIP Tour Experience

During our VIP tour we chose to visit 3/4 parks. We felt like we got to do so much because of how fast we got to attractions! Our guide picked us up at the Polynesian, where we were staying. He escorted us to a black SUV that was waiting to whisk us away. This is something I had never experienced at Walt Disney World before! I will warn you, once you experience a Disney VIP tour you won’t want to go back to the normal way of experiencing the parks! These tours will change the way you want to experience the parks going forward.

Being the Disney veterans we are, we knew exactly which rides we wanted to hit and the order. If you are family that hasn’t experienced Walt Disney World or maybe has not been in quite some time, a VIP guide is right there ready to help make recommendations. Not only that, but throw out that park map; your guide is going to escort you in the quickest way possible to those rides so there is no worry about navigating the parks. This is extremely helpful to my traveling families, especially those who worry about missing something during their visit to Walt Disney World. 

Hollywood Studios

We headed to Hollywood Studios first, where we were dropped off at the back side of Sunset Boulevard. We were greeted by Cast Members holding baskets full of snacks for us! Chocolate, starbursts, chips, you name it! They also scanned our MagicBands for entry to the park. We grabbed some snacks and bottled water and headed into Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster through a back entrance. The first time walking into a Disney park not through a main entrance is a surreal experience, one I hope many of you get to experience firsthand for yourselves. No photos are allowed in any of these backstage areas so it’s not something many ever get to see. 

After doing the highlights at Hollywood Studios, we headed over to Epcot. We hopped back in our SUV and entered through a backstage area near Test Track. Ever wondered how they fix up those cars? A lot of it is done right there behind the ride. We could see them working on some of the cars in their own little shops! After Test Track, we exited once again and drove to a back entrance of the World Showcase to ride Frozen. It’s pretty cool to get to see what the other side of the parks look like. During these tours, you really do get to see how Disney makes some of the magic come to life. Again we drove instead of walking across the park to get to Soarin’, getting to see yet another backstage area.

Animal Kingdom

After leaving Epcot, we ended our day with going over to Animal Kingdom. Our plan was to finish out our tour with a ride on Kilimanjaro Safari and Flight of Passage. We actually ended up having time to do Flight of Passage twice! When our guide parked near Festival of the Lion King, we got to see yet another backstage area. We even saw some performers doing their warm ups for the show! All throughout the day, our guide also shared tips and fun facts with us.

Ready to Plan a Walt Disney World VIP Tour?

All in all, we had probably the most magical day at Walt Disney World we could have ever asked for. There was no stress, no planning, no worry. With how much planning I do for my clients on a daily basis, I can definitely say this is by far the best way to experience a truly-hassle free day at Walt Disney World. 

If those price points aren’t in your budget but you still want an expert’s help in planning your amazing visit to Walt Disney World, you can fill out a contact form here . Whether or not you are planning to do a VIP tour, we strongly encourage having a Travel Advisor in your corner. We help with all the other details, like selecting the perfect resort for your family, transportation, park details, and will even help with setting up your VIP tour itself. I help hundreds of families a year make the most of their vacations and I want to help you do the same! My planning services are complimentary for all guests who book through their trip with me.

For more information about Private VIP Tours at Walt Disney World, you can click here to visit Disney’s webpage.

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Disney’s most exclusive tour: 12 parks and a private jet for $115,000

If you thought the $5,000 star wars hotel was expensive, consider this 24-day tour around the world.

Disney raised eyebrows when it debuted an interactive Star Wars-themed hotel that would cost upward of $5,000 per couple for a two-night stay.

Now, the entertainment giant is about to start selling spots for a private jet experience that costs nearly 50 times as much. Adventures by Disney, which provides fans with guided trips around the world, is bringing back its “Disney Parks Around The World” trip, starting at nearly $115,000 a person.

The 24-day, six-country, 12-park private jet experience stops at the company’s properties in California, Tokyo , Shanghai , Hong Kong , Paris and Florida as well as some non-Disney landmarks including the Taj Mahal and Great Pyramid of Giza. The company promises “access to extraordinary opportunities not available to the public.”

And if the tour is anything like the nearly identical (but slightly cheaper) version that the company offered last year, it will sell out quickly. That trip departed Sunday and lasts until Aug. 1 of this year. .

This nice gentleman met us at baggage claim to collect our luggage and escort us to our private transport to the Disneyland Resort to begin our #ABDAroundTheWorld adventure pic.twitter.com/nyypOTk161 — LaughingPlace.com (@laughing_place) July 9, 2023

Some staffers from the Disney fan site Laughing Place are on the trip; writer Alex Reif has been posting reports each day, starting with a pre-trip rundown of the amenities he received in advance. They include luggage, Bose headphones and an iPad.

Reif has been documenting details from the mundane (rapid covid tests for all on the first day) to photos of the buffet and insider experiences such as visiting Walt Disney’s original office at Walt Disney Studios. The tour hasn’t left the United States yet.

“A lifetime of wishes and dreams has led to this,” he wrote in the first-day story .

The company has scheduled two of the journeys for 2024, one leaving June 16 and the other departing July 28. Each can accommodate 75 people on a “VIP-configured” Boeing 757 that comes with an in-flight chef. A physician will accompany the group for the entire trip.

Disney is wildly expensive. Superfans gave their 7 best tips to save.

“Disney fans love exclusive things ... they like to have a Disney résumé,” said Sue Pisaturo, owner of the Disney travel planning company Small World Vacations . “This would be the height of a Disney résumé.”

She compared the segment of superfans to those who buy fine watches, designer sneakers or Birkin bags.

“Disney has that same level of experience collection,” Pisaturo said. She added: “This is mind- blowing for a certain demographic that wants it and can afford it.”

Representatives for Disney did not respond to questions about the tour.

Real-life ‘White Lotus’: Workers share rich guests’ wildest demands

A detailed itinerary promises VIP tours and expedited access to rides at many of the parks, and reserved seating for fireworks shows. In some cases, tour participants will enter before official opening times and get behind-the-scenes looks at the monorail transportation system in Florida and Disney’s test kitchen. Tours of Walt Disney Studios and the Lucasfilm campus are also included.

Despite the length of the trip, the pace does not sound leisurely. On day 15, travelers have access to a sunrise photo opportunity at the Taj Mahal. They fly to Cairo the next day, then Paris the day after that. The tour starts in Southern California and ends in Central Florida.

There are some additional costs and fine print to consider: Transportation to California and from Florida is not included, and the prices only applies if two people are traveling together. Going solo? Tack on an extra $11,495. Young kids are not allowed; the minimum age is 12.

If all of that sounds fine, congratulations. But you still might not be able to go. Bookings open June 12 for Adventures by Disney customers who have taken three or more trips; two days later, all past tour company guests can book. Then members of Golden Oak — a luxury community at Walt Disney World — have an opportunity. And then , on June 19, anyone with the money can snag a reservation if spots remain.

Disney misread Star Wars fans. Now it has an expensive flop on its hands.

Bookings for the costly trip are opening up not long after the company announced it was pulling the plug this fall on Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser, the hotel and role-playing experience. Disney has been eliminating thousands of jobs to cut billions in costs. And the announcement about the tour comes as fans continue to complain that they feel priced out by high costs and fees for things like line-skipping privileges.

Tom Bricker, founder of Disney Tourist Blog , said in an email that the company has a long history of catering to the super wealthy with products and experiences that are out of reach for even the upper middle class.

“The difference now is that there’s much more visibility into these expensive and niche offerings, and they end up further validating fan complaints about price increases and other grievances as a result,” he said. “There seems to be a heightened sense of scrutiny around everything Disney does.”

Still, Pisaturo said one of her travel agents who sells a lot of Adventures by Disney has some interested clients waiting for the booking dates to open. Based on her experience as a Disney travel agent for decades, she said there are lots of affluent fans who could afford the trip.

“If you add it up, I’m not going to say it’s a bargain,” she said. “But if you add it up, what you’re getting, it’s not that outrageous.”

More travel news

How we travel now: More people are taking booze-free trips — and airlines and hotels are taking note. Some couples are ditching the traditional honeymoon for a “buddymoon” with their pals. Interested? Here are the best tools for making a group trip work.

Bad behavior: Entitled tourists are running amok, defacing the Colosseum , getting rowdy in Bali and messing with wild animals in national parks. Some destinations are fighting back with public awareness campaigns — or just by telling out-of-control visitors to stay away .

Safety concerns: A door blew off an Alaska Airlines Boeing 737 Max 9 jet, leaving passengers traumatized — but without serious injuries. The ordeal led to widespread flight cancellations after the jet was grounded, and some travelers have taken steps to avoid the plane in the future. The incident has also sparked a fresh discussion about whether it’s safe to fly with a baby on your lap .

Everything you Wanted to Know About Adventures by Disney Tours But Were Afraid to Ask

T here are some amazing family tour operators that plan over-the-top vacations, but one of our favorites is Adventures by Disney (AbD).

Put aside everything you think you know about the company, because their tours do not revolve around the famous mouse. What they do focus on is family fun with minimal effort, as in, you let them do all the work while you enjoy a magical vacation.

If you have never been on an Adventures by Disney tour, we are here to answer your questions and convince you this is the trip you’ve been looking for. Let’s get started.

*Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission if you click a link and purchase something we have recommended. Please check out our  disclosure policy  for more details. Thank you for your support!

What is Adventures by Disney?

Adventures by Disney is the private tour company operated by Disney. They create guided small group trips to both domestic and international destinations. Their selection of tours includes short escapes, river cruises, land-based excursions, and expedition sailings.

When did Adventures by Disney start?

Adventures by Disney launched in 2005, and at the time they only had two itineraries – Wyoming and Hawaii (before Aulani was open).

Today they offer 48 different adventures, covering exotic locales like Japan and Egypt, and domestic spots like Alaska and the Grand Canyon. New for 2024 are Morocco, Colombia, and an Adriatic Expedition that sails from Venice to Croatia and Montenegro.

How much do Adventures by Disney cost?

Let’s be honest, these tours are not inexpensive, but then again, most higher-end luxury group travel isn’t. The least expensive adventure is around $2499 per person (based on double occupancy) and the most expensive is $114,995 per person (for their around the world adventure on a private jet). The average price for an Adventures by Disney trip is $6999 per person.

However, there’s a lot that’s included in your travel package. Travelers can expect high-end accommodations, fabulous guides, admission to attractions, transportation for the entire trip, VIP treatment, and private tours, sometimes to places no one else goes.

With more than 90% of your meals included as well as tips for the drivers, bellman, housekeeping and more, it’s rare to spend much money unless you share my shopping addiction. AbD takes care of every detail from luggage transfer to food allergies and more.

Does Adventures by Disney include airfare?

With Adventures by Disney, airfare to the destination is not included. It is one of the only things you will have to pay for separately. If there are internal flights on the tour, their cost will always be included. Transfers are also included to and from the airport at the destination.

Is food included in Adventures by Disney?

Mosts meals are included on your tour, however there may be days when you are out exploring or off the ship and need to cover your own food. On our Costa Rica itinerary every meal was covered.

How many guests are on a typical Adventures by Disney tour?

Land adventures have a maximum of 44 people. Everyone participates in the same activities, with the exception of the days when they offer junior adventure activities.

On our Costa Rica trip with Adventures by Disney , people could opt out of the river rafting or zip lining and choose to spend time in town or go for a walk on a hanging bridge. Alternate activities are offered on some days, but not all.

River Cruises are run in partnership with AmaWaterways. These ships can have up to 160 people on board. Expedition cruises are operated in conjunction with Ponant. Each day there are a variety of activities to choose from, so even if your family wants time apart, that’s an option.

What I’m saying is that these are smaller tour groups. You are not going to love everyone, but odds are you will find a few people you enjoy. Our kids were excited to have other kids their ages traveling with us. When they didn’t want to hang out with us or their siblings they could spend time with other kids in the group.

What are the benefits of Adventures by Disney?

Where to begin. For us, one of the biggest benefits of an Adventures by Disney vacation is not having to worry about all of the little things. This is a huge time saver, especially for the trip planner in your family.

They take care of scheduling transportation, meals, activities, and attractions. All you have to do is show up.

Another plus is there’s always an Adventure Guide whenever you need them. Every tour has two highly trained Disney Guides (up to six guides on the cruises). They are your concierge for the trip from the organizational details to your photographers.

Guides can help with everything from basic necessities (like where to get medicine nearby) to entertaining junior adventures on the bus when traveling for the day. By the end of your trip they will feel like family (it’s true, we are still in contact with our guides years later)!

What is the best age for an Adventures by Disney trip?

Disney recommends that children be at least 5 years of age for most of their land adventures and river cruises. However, I would say it really depends on the destination.

For Costa Rica, we had a 7 year old on the trip and there was a lot of bus travel and complaints about this. He was also afraid to do some of the activities like zip lining and river rafting (I don’t blame him!), so you really have to know your child. Some kids will be ready for an adventure at 5, but I think 8 years and older is really the sweet spot. 

If you are not booking early and have some flexibility with your date, your travel agent can also tell you what age children are already booked on the dates you are considering. This often helps with built in new friends. 

What is the most popular Adventures by Disney itinerary?

It may come as no surprise that one of the most popular destinations is Italy. AbD has four different Italy trips on offer, but its Rome, Florence and Venice tour ties with the England/France one, followed by Costa Rica.

The most popular AbD itinerary domestically is Southern California (Backstage at Disneyland and Disney Studios), followed by Arizona/Utah.

Special Tips for Booking an Adventures by Disney Vacation

• Book early – The earlier you book your trip, the more money you can save. Adventures by Disney are priced on a tier system based on how many travelers are already booked on that specific date.
• Travel in shoulder season – Check the rates for your trip at different times of the year. Less demand often means deals for you.
• Research airfare – If you have flexibility, find flights first before booking your AbD tour. This way you can find the cheapest airfare and look for an adventure that matches that time frame.
• Don’t be locked into a destination – Some destinations are simply cheaper than others. If you have flexibility, you can save some money by choosing to travel somewhere that doesn’t cost as much.
• Plan a return trip – AbD also has a bounce back offer. If you book your next adventure within 45 days of your return, you will receive a discount on your next adventure.

Are Adventures by Disney worth it?

100% yes. This is an adventure of a lifetime and it’s so nice to just show up and enjoy a destination. There is minimal Disney influence, but it has all of the attention to detail you’ve come to expect from a Disney product.

Don’t expect character meet and greets or souvenir shopping, but you will occasionally find some Disney movies on the bus and little touches here and there. It is truly a joy to take an Adventures by Disney vacation because you will not have to lift a finger.

How to book Adventures by Disney vacations?

As you can see, there are a lot of questions that go into planning the perfect Adventures by Disney vacation. We recommend using Sandy Nussbaum-Giercyk, Earmarked Agency Owner and a Disney Master/Travel Concierge. She has traveled on 13 Adventures by Disney trips and she can help you navigate every last detail.

When working with Sandy, you will pay the identical rate as booking with Disney, and have a single point of contact. As a bonus, Sandy will pay your guide gratuities, one of the only things not included with your tour.  Please reach out to S [email protected] or 877-EZDIS-EZ (393-4739) and tell her I sent you. She has a special gift for people I send her way!

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