Planning a Disney vacation is exciting, but if it’s your first time, it can also feel overwhelming. Disney is huge, constantly changing, and filled with little details that can make or break your trip. After helping families plan their vacations and experiencing the parks myself, these are the things people always tell me they wish they knew before going.

1. Not All Parks Are the Same — Plan Your Days With Intention

Disney World has four theme parks and each one offers a totally different experience. Magic Kingdom is classic Disney, Epcot is food and culture, Hollywood Studios is thrill rides and Star Wars, and Animal Kingdom blends wildlife with big attractions. Not every family needs a full day in every park. Knowing your priorities ahead of time makes your trip smoother and more enjoyable.

2. Arriving Early Is the Ultimate Hack

The first two hours after a park opens are the least crowded. You can often ride more in the morning than you will all afternoon. Even just arriving 30 minutes before the posted opening time can completely change your day. Families always tell me how surprised they are by how much calmer and easier the morning feels.

3. Genie+ Isn’t as Complicated as It Looks

Genie+ gets a bad reputation for being confusing, but once you understand the basics, it’s a powerful tool. The biggest tip: book your first Lightning Lane right at 7 AM. From there, set timers for every two hours to grab your next one. The system rewards consistency, not luck. Most first-timers say they were nervous about it, but end up loving it once they get the hang of it.

4. Dining Reservations Open 60 Days Out — And Some Restaurants Go Fast

Popular restaurants like Cinderella’s Royal Table, Space 220, or Ohana can fill up quickly. Most families don’t realize reservations open 60 days before their arrival. If you miss a reservation, don’t stress — people cancel all the time. Checking the app the night before or morning of your desired day often gets great last-minute openings.

5. Midday Breaks Prevent Meltdowns (For Kids and Adults)

Disney days are long, and the heat can be intense. The happiest families I see are the ones who take a midday break, even if it’s just an hour back at the resort. Naps, pool time, a meal, or simply cooling off can reset everyone. Most kids (and many adults) struggle without it — and that’s totally normal.

6. You Don’t Need to Do Everything to Have a Great Trip

This is the biggest thing I wish every first-time guest knew. You’re not supposed to see and ride every single thing. Disney is meant to be enjoyed, not rushed like a checklist. Pick your top priorities and treat everything else as a bonus. The more you slow down, the more you notice the magic around you.

7. Magic Happens in the Small Moments

Sure, the rides are amazing, but the moments families remember most are usually the smaller ones — the spontaneous character meet, the parade you didn’t plan for, the taste of a Dole Whip, the fireworks reflection in your child’s eyes. These are the real core memories. Leave room for them.