January 11, 2021

10 Reasons to Go to Disney World Now

Having just written 10 Reasons to Avoid Disney Word, I'd now like to offer counter points as to why now is the perfect time to go to Walt Disney World. You may not agree, but at least, it will be food for thought that may make you change your mind.

1-  Lower Crowds.  At the current 35% estimated capacity of "normal" times, this could be a perfect time to go! Having had the experience of being there during a storm season and pending hurricane, it was delightful to be able to walk onto an attraction with little or no wait. Imagine three rides in a row on 7 Dwarfs Mine Train. Yes, it is possible. Read more here.

2- Scheduling Your Trip is Less Difficult. If having a park reservation and ticket is all you really want to think about, you can get away with that. There's no Fast Pass Reservations to worry about. Even advanced dining reservations (pre-booking) for restaurants may not be necessary. Just walk up to whatever looks good. You might be able to risk it now. 

3- Rise of the Resistance. With lower numbers of guests, your chances of getting on Disney World's hot new ticket may actually increase.  (Or maybe not since the parks have shorter hours.) The same could be said for Slinky Dog Dash or Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway. Or Flight of Passage or...

4- Shorter Park Hours. Ever have a trip where it seems like all you did was go to the parks? Even if you have other intentions, it's all too easy to spend the entire day making sure you get on those must do attractions. Perhaps with shorter hours you can now get up later or have the excuse for taking the evening to go to the pool at the resort, explore the grounds, or get a good night's sleep before doing rope drop the next morning.

5- It Can Cost Less. Since there are now lines everywhere to get into stores, buying merchandise you really don't need may not be as desirable as in older days. Is it worth a 15 minute wait in yet another line to but some mass produced cheaply made product that comes from China? Maybe not. Are there fewer table service locations available? You may save money my eating at counter service locations instead.

When it comes to dining in Mexico,
better food is (unfortunately)
found outside the pyramid!

6- Epcot is Under Construction. Before all those new attractions open, perhaps being in the park is a good thing. If you go during a "Taste of" festival instead of the full-bore ones, there might be fewer booths, but there's also easier choices with less options and less people. Chances are, there will be a festival when you visit. (Isn't that what this park is really about now?) Plan it right, and you'll get on the new Remy's Ratatouille Adventure before the official opening and all the crowds arrive.

Jack Sparrow welcomes in 2021!

7- Spontaneous Character Interactions. If standing in line for a character meet and greet is not for you, a "Character Cavalcade" or casual remote distanced character viewing may be just the thing. This can significantly lower the frustration level for adults with kids in tow. (Got this photo on Tuesday from my sources.)

8- COVID Stress. Sometimes, enough is enough, and we need a break from the real world for our sanity's sake. Being cooped up comes with a downside that few will honestly talk about. A Disney vacation can give you and your family some fun.  I support being safe and doing it wisely for the benefit of others, but no one can tell you what's best for you family. Especially not government officials that don't even practice what they mandate.

9- Stay Off Site. From the loss of resort perks, everything from no Extra Magic Hours, Mickey's Now Less Magical Express, and more, the fewer resort extras may mean this is the time to financially downgrade to an equally great off-site property. If you've been breaking the bank to take your family because your hotel accommodations have to be on property, this could be the year to start a new tradition! 

10- You Want to Go. Only you know when is the best time for your family. Trust your gut instincts after doing a bit of investigation. Go and have fun! There's few places like the World!

(Photographs copyright Mark Taft.)


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