Top Ten Attractions NOT to choose for FastPass+

There is a lot of information available about what attractions to choose with your Fast Pass+ selections.  Because guests are currently limited to three selections per day, it is a good idea to know what is essentially a waste of a FastPass+ option.  Here are my top ten, and the logic behind it.

1. Lights, Motors, Action Stunt Spectacular - Hollywood Studios
The queue merges before reaching the main stadium - no reserved seating, no anything.  Be sure you're in line 15-20 minutes prior to showtime and you won't have an issue getting a seat.


2. Muppet Vision 3D - Hollywood Studios
This is a theater style show and will accommodate a large number of guests.  Most of the time, everyone in line gets in for each show. Don't waste a fastpass here - you won't need it.

3. It's A Bug's Life - Animal Kingdom

 This attraction has a large amount of seating.  Keep an eye on the wait times (busiest midday), but most of the time the attraction will accommodate all guests in the queue.

4. Dumbo - Magic Kingdom
The interactive waiting area on this attraction makes it an idea place for little ones to burn off some energy while parents take a rest.  Kids and parents will enjoy waiting for a few minutes here.

5. Illuminations: Reflections of Earth - EPCOT
You can see this show from anywhere around the World Showcase.  Find a spot early and sit on the ground or find a bench.  Especially if you have kids in strollers that can sit and you don't have a medical reason where you'd need to sit too.

6. Spaceship Earth - EPCOT
The line is longer early in the day as it is often the first place that people stop.  However, by late morning, the wait is often 10 minutes or less.  Not worth losing a FastPass for!

7. Mickey's Philharmagic - Magic Kingdom
This is an auditorium show.  Often, all guests in the queue will get right in at the start of the next show - no need for FastPass.

8. Captain EO - EPCOT
This is an auditorium show.  Often, all guests in the queue will get right in at the start of the next show - no need for FastPass.

9. Journey into Imagination with Figment - EPCOT
This attraction has lulls several times a day where there is very little wait.  Check wait times.

10. American Idol Experience - Hollywood Studios
This is an auditorium show.  Often, all guests in the queue will get right in at the start of the next show - no need for FastPass.  Check wait times.

There is definitely a strategy to using the FastPass+ system to your advantage.  As it continues to change and evolve, we will see more and more need for the strategies.  Keep in mind that you can modify your FastPass selections until the END of the window of time.
Katie

Top Ten Sweet Snacks in Disney World

Snacks are one of the best features on the dining plan.  We love to stretch them to meals, and to really feel like we got a bargain, but Disney does some of the best sweets around, and it is just nice to have a treat.  Check out these top ten sweet snacks that all qualify for the dining plan.

1. Dole Whip - Adventureland, Magic Kingdom and Captain Cook's at the Polynesian.  I prefer the vanilla/pineapple twist or the Float. Worth the wait in line. 

2. Cupcakes - almost everywhere.  The Resort Bakeries have some amazing concoctions, like the Oreo Bon Bon cupcake at the Boardwalk.  Another favorite is the Darth Vader cupcake at Starring Rolls in Hollywood Studios during Star Wars Weekend.  Chocolate, peanut butter - worth going to the Dark Side.

 3. Schoolbread - Kringla, Norway, Epcot.  Disclaimer: I don't like coconut but this is something of a legend so I feel compelled to include it for those who do.  Authentic pastry with Norwegian flair.

4. Mocha Float - Auntie Gravity in Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom.  I admit, my kids had ice cream for breakfast during our last trip so I could get one of these first thing after I had tried one. 

5. Karamel Kuche - Germany, Epcot - This shop is a Werthers heaven.  All sorts of treats from popcorn to apples to cookies, made with Werthers.  Many items are on the dining plan.

6. Mickey Bars - many snack carts in the parks - Of course, the icon Mickey bar - Mickey shaped Vanilla ice cream dipped in chocolate.  TRY to eat just one during your trip.

7. Rice Krispie Treats - everywhere.  Resorts, food courts, gift shops - these are probably the most popular take home treat at Disney World.  There may be a bit of pixie dust in the recipe- they're that good.

8. Frozen Lemonade or Coke- Animal Kingdom - This isn't the hard plastic cup that you scrape lemon flavored ice with a spoon - this is the slushy and refreshing drink that makes waiting for that 3:45 parade tolerable.  Near the Boneyard.

9. Ice Cream Sandwich - Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom - these are not pre-packaged.  Homemade cookies, with a good amount of ice cream (flavor options available), large enough to share.  Trust me on this one...



10. Itzakadoozie pops - many snack carts in the pops.  This rainbow twist popsicle is refreshing and will make you feel like a kid again.

Regardless of how you spend your snack credits, be sure to use them throughout your trip.  Many people have quite a few left because they save them.  Well, there's always the Rice Krispie Treats!

Katie

Top Ten Attractions to FastPass+

FastPass+  allows onsite guests to book their FastPass reservations 60 days prior to their check in date and schedule the rides that are most important to them, essentially guaranteeing a ride with a shorter wait!  Instead of running across the park to pick up a paper fastpass like Disney visitors had to do years ago, you can now pre-book and know that you have an appointment to beat your 12 year old at Buzz Light Year's Space Ranger Spin on Tuesday at 11:55 am. 

My recommendation is that you book your FastPass+ attractions after 11 am and before 3 pm.  During this time of day, the lines are longest, so this is the best time to use your FastPass+.

Through your SmartPhone, you can change these as many times as you'd like, even in the moment. There is a strategy to this, however, and here are my picks for the Top Ten Attractions to FastPass+.

1. Flight of Passage - Animal Kingdom Park
This ride is EPIC and not to be missed!  It's like no other ride at Disney Parks, and the lines are proof that it is worth waiting for, but why wait if you can get a Fastpass? Height requirement is 40" - If small guests don't make the cut, try Na'vi River Journey instead.

2. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train - Magic Kingdom Park
Join the dwarfs as they mine for jewels and experience some mild twists and drops right in the heart of the Magic Kingdom.  With a height requirement of 38", this is a great option for families with kids ready for coasters, but not some of the bigger options.  Special effects are amazing! 

3. Frozen Ever After - EPCOT
Can't get enough of Elsa and Anna, or wish that you could just "Let it go?" - Olaf and Sven are waiting for you on this re-imagined Maelstrom track full of snowflakes and warm hugs.  Long lines make this worth a fastpass, and stop by and see your favorite Frozen Sisters just before or after your ride in Norway. NOTE: This is a tier 1 attraction and can't be pre-booked on the same day as Soarin' or Test Track.

4. Toy Story Mania - Hollywood Studios 
This line gets long and stays long all day, everyday.  It is a fun attraction that puts you IN the game.  Trust me, you won't want to wait standby for this one.  Lines have gone down with the addition of the third track, but still worth a Fastpass! NOTE: This is a Tier 1 attraction and can't be pre-booked on the same day as Rockin' Roller Coaster.

5. Kilimanjaro Safari - Animal Kingdom
A misleadingly long line, in true Disney fashion.  This breaks the rule of WHEN to schedule FastPass+ selections- the animals are typically most active early in the morning.  Also check out the new Sunset safari after dark and enjoy the Savannah by sunset.

6. Enchanted Tales with Belle - Magic Kingdom
This Fantasyland Attraction is truly magical!  I won't spoil the surprises, but if you have children ages 2 - 12, this is a must do. 

7. Soarin' - EPCOT
This is a favorite attraction for people of all ages.  Truly an immersive experience, notice the sights and the smells that this attraction inspires.  Height Requirement is 40" - NOTE: This is a tier 1 attraction and can't be pre-booked on the same day as Frozen Ever After or Test Track.

8. Rock 'n Roller Coaster - Hollywood Studios
  If you're a thrill seeker, and over the height requirement, check this out.  One of those attractions that just makes you scream with laughter, and its over almost before it started.  For such a short ride, there is quite a long line. 48" height requirement.  NOTE: This is a tier 1 attraction and can't be pre-booked on the same day as Toy Story Mania.

9. Peter Pan's Flight - Magic Kingdom
A classic!  See Captain Hook and Peter Pan battle it out as you soar over Neverland!  Due to the slow loading of this ride, lines are always very long.   Worth a fastpass for families with young kids and Disney lovers alike!

10. MOUNTAINS - Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom
Okay, so I cheated a bit on this one, but if you're a coaster fan, the mountains are where it's at.  Space Mountain, Splash Mountain, Big Thunder Mountain Railroad, and Expedition Everest are worth your time.  These each have height requirements, so check them out prior to booking. 

ºoº Expert Tip! After you have entered the line for your THIRD Fastpass of the day, you can book additional fastpasses, one at a time, for the remainder of the day!  Check out the options on this list, or re-ride your favorites based on availability.  I still recommend riding standby during the first couple hours of your day as lines are shorter.  ºoº

Fastpass advice specific to your family and itinerary planning is part of my FREE service.  Contact me today for information at a quote!  Katie@HiHoVacations.com

Wishing you short lines and pixie dust!
Katie

Welcome to Disney's Top Ten!

I'm so glad you're here!  This is the place to find the short version of everything Disney has to offer.  Disney World, Disney Cruise Line, Adventures by Disney, Disneyland, and Aulani -  you'll find it all here.  Please share with your friends, post comments on the bests that YOU have discovered, and most of all, enjoy planning your MAGICAL trip! 

I've been a student of Disney for most of my adult life.   About three years ago, I was given the opportunity to begin working with Hi Ho Vacations as a Disney Travel Planner.  Since then, I've helped hundreds of families make the most of their Disney vacations (and planned several trips for MY family as well).  There is a TON of information available about Disney Destinations.  My goal is to provide a quick and easy read for those who want to have the best experience but don't have the hours to spend pouring over guidebooks and websites. 

If you are looking for help to plan YOUR Disney trip to any of its destinations, I'd love to help you.  My service is 100% free and 100% magical!  Please feel free to email me at Katie@hihovacations.com.  I'd love to help you save time, money, and add some pixie dust to your vacation. 

Your planning starts here!!