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Can You Disney Without A Phone?

Writer: HeatherHeather

Have you ever "winged it" at Walt Disney World? Is it possible to still do the parks, without planning and driving yourself nuts? Yes absolutely!


Whether you are traveling a great distance or a local, you can Disney without being face planted in the phone and having every moment planned.


Heather from the WDWAO Team in a blue jacket, smiling beside Mickey Mouse in a colorful magician costume against a red curtain background, creating a cheerful mood.
Heather from the WDWAO Team with Mickey Mouse
Three people pose playfully with claw gestures, smiling near a stone sculpture in a lush garden. Text on a shirt reads "THE NORTH FACE."  The three people are Dan, David and Heather from the WDWAO Team.
Heather with Dan & David, on an impromptu visit to Disney's Animal Kingdom, with zero plans!


I know it seems crazy nowadays, but it is very possible to make a park reservation and walk into the Disney Parks, with your phone in your pocket, zero dining reservations and no lightning lanes. I can hear the gasps and the panic on some of you already. Breathe!





I know some of you have to have everything planned, that’s fine. It used to be simpler and many of us, long for that more simple time to return.


Four people on a roller coaster raising their hands, looking excited. Dark background, ticket and "Expedition Everest" text visible.
Riding Expedition Everest with Park Buddies!


So, you have chosen your park and you are now there at opening. Aim for your favorite ride or work your way around?


Lines too long? Check out some shows. Or just take in the sights, sounds and smells of the park. There is so much to do and to see!


Don’t rush, just be in the moment with your park buddies or solo for yourself. See a PhotoPass photographer, and get the photos!


Lack of plans means enjoying what is around you, available, and just being there.





Heather Maximising PhotoPass Photographers whilst "Hans" Solo

I have seen people so over plan, that they are fighting with technology and loved ones. That isn’t a vacation, it’s a chore!


Heather from the WDWAO Team smiling in a hoodie at night, holds a glowing lantern with a fairy silhouette. String lights and street lamps illuminate the scene.
Heather Solo at Epcot

Try just tucking the phone way and simply going to the Parks. Don’t worry about Lightning Lanes, and save the money. Try the quick serve dining, you can still order with a lovely cast member. Try the walk up at a restaurant as sometimes there is availability. This is especially the case when you’re solo.




There are no real tips for winging it! Literally, it’s just going and enjoying being there. Try it sometime, as it can be freeing to disconnect from the phone, timelines, and madness.


Is this something that you've tried? Or would be willing to try?


3 Comments


Tina
Feb 11

We often wing it for the festivals

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Guest
Feb 11

I make spreadsheet before I go and just check it in the morning for dining reservations and show times. I could do without my phone if I had to

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Dan
Dan
Feb 11

This makes me very nervous Heather! I get so little time at Walt Disney World, because I live in the UK. So I like to have some plans, to make the most of my vacation. I can see that this is a good strategy for those that visit often though.

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