It's no secret that a once-in-a-lifetime family Disney World vacation can get expensive - even before the cost of living crisis. That’s why we’re here to help extend Disney’s magic to your pockets.
Disney World 2023 parkgoers will know '
The Magic is Yours' offer replaced the traditional Disney Dining Plan for the 2023 holidays. If you're new to this offer, it entails up to $1,200 on dining and merchandise and $100 spending money, as well as a Disney 14-day Magic Ticket for the cost of a 7-day entrance. The offer expired on 29th September 2022, however, if you're still looking for a
Walt Disney World holiday, we can still offer huge savings for both 2023 trips and beyond.
For those lucky enough to secure 'The Magic is Yours' package, we've listed some creative ways to use your credit, ranging from theme-focused days to exploring the latest attractions landing just in time for arrival!
Have a Star Wars Themed Day
Disney World allows you to live out your childhood dreams in any way you wish. And for those with a love for Star Wars, you can find galactic-sized attractions that in Disney’s own words, are unlike any other experience at their resorts. Here's our pick of where to use 'The Magic is Yours' credit to bring the far, far away galaxy a whole lot closer to reality.
Disney Hollywood Studios: Star Wars Galaxy Edge
First, punch it to hyperdrive and head over to Star Wars: Galaxy Edge in Disney's Hollywood Studios. You'll find yourself transported to Planet Batuu, with its barren land, crumbling rock walls, and imposing space station. But hurry, the Resistance needs your help! Hop on the epic intergalactic ride Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance to restore order to the planets.
Savi's Workshop & Droid Depot
After saving the galaxy, consider rewarding your heroic efforts with a memorable souvenir. Check out Savi's Workshop, where expert Gatherers guide you in building your very own lightsaber.
And do you know what else a Jedi needs? A BB for life. Visit Droid Depot to craft your own robotic sidekick to keep you company on your space missions.
The Milk Stand & Oga's Cantina
During a day out at theme parks, staying hydrated is essential, and on this side of the cosmos, it's customary to choose between blue and green milk from The Milk Stand (for the record, it's blue for the win). For a bite to eat, look no further than Oga's Cantina - the famous bar in
A New Hope where bounty hunters, galactic smugglers and the odd Jedi hang out. Here you can treat yourself to themed cocktails such as the Bespin Fizz, Jedi Mind Trick, or the alcohol-free Jabba Juice. Oh, and a resident robot DJ will also serve you some extra-terrestrial ambience.
Tattooine Traders
Every Jedi needs to look the part, and this desert planet-cum-shop brims with Star Wars apparel. Eagerly seeking a Storm Trooper helmet to stay undercover? Searching for a protective lightsabre to swot any Sith? Or simply after a Star Wars mug? You're in luck, even if you don't like sand...
Visit the Newest Attractions
When the world went on pause during 2020, so did many of Walt Disney World’s projects. However, with world tourism now revived Disney is going full steam ahead with new attractions. Here's one of our favourite new restraunts to use 'The Magic is Yours' dining credit...
Space 220
Now that you've satisfied your Star Wars fantasy, it's time to satisfy your hunger. And you can do just that at one of Disney’s newest restaurants: Space 220. Both Disney fans and space enthusiasts alike have waited light years for this immersive experience.
You can find Space 220 at Epcot, after a short elevator ride to the stars. As you begin to ascend, watch the bird's eye view of Epcot Centre shrink below you, an illusion created by a digital screen.
Once you've landed in the Centauri Space Station, 220 miles above Earth, you'll enter a spacious dining room with sweeping views of the cosmos.
What's more, the atmosphere depends on the time of day. The Earth is bathed in sunshine in daylight, while nighttime affords starlit galaxy views. The graphics are so convincing, you’ll feel lost in space. Terra-bolognese, galactic salmon, and blue moon cauliflower are some of the extraterrestrial cuisine's most unique dishes.
Help Your Kids Meet and Become Their Heros
You can use your dining and merchandise voucher or contribute your spending money to any of the following magical moments to help children meet and become their Disney heroes.
Character Dining
A true Disney moment is their beloved Character Dining experiences. A twist on the traditional 'meet and greet', here you dine and rendezvous with your favourite Disney personalities. Many Disney parks and resort restaurants host character dining for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
This uniquely unforgettable experience does come at a price, however, with some research and know-how, you can reward your kids with an exciting dining experience at a reduced fee.
Firstly, breakfast is usually the cheapest option when booking Character Dining. For many, breakfast Character Dining is also the most convenient as you'll still have your whole day to explore the activities in the parks. Plus, more venues host breakfast Character Dining than dinner meet-and-greets, allowing you greater variety.
Secondly, it's important to note that some Character Dining is more expensive than others. One of the most cost-effective deals is at Disney Polynesian Village Resort's 'Ohana. Serving a buffet-style breakfast, your children rub shoulders with Lilo and Stitch's fun-loving characters. Magic Kingdom's Crystal Palace is another affordable fan-favourite dining experience with Winnie the Pooh and his friends.
However, suppose your little one is bursting to meet a Disney princess. In that case, Cinderella's Happy Ever After dinner at the Disney Grand Floridian Resort is a much cheaper option than its costlier counterparts in the Disney parks.
Alternatively, if your kids prefer the encounter of meeting characters instead of a sit-down meal, then the Grand Floridian Cafe's Wonderland Tea Party is a great option. Your kids will sit at a table with Alice in Wonderland's incredibly bonkers but lovable characters for guaranteed laughs.
Become Royalty at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
Want to be a princess or knight for the day? Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique will transform your children to resemble royalty and chivalrous warriors. Offering a range of packages for 3 to 12-year-olds, Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique might just be the highlight of your little one’s day.
Located in Disney’s Magic Kingdom, plan ahead and book a reservation for this trendy makeover. The costumes are beautifully crafted with intricate detailing. With the addition of hair styling and face gems, you'll want to bring your cameras too!
Interactive Family Dinners at Hoop-Dee-Doo Revue
Being at the hub of entertainment, why not watch a live show? Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue is a family-friendly dinner show based in the Wild West’s backcountry. Dishing out barrels of laughter, animated acting, and sing-along songs, the show is a surefire hit.
A cheeky perk for accompanying adults over 21 years is the unlimited free beer, wine and sangria. Between breaks, staff serve delicious meals of smoky BBQ ribs, macaroni and cheese, or classic southern fried chicken. The strawberry shortbread dessert rounds up a fine night of comedy gold.
Buy Merchandise That Matters
Now, it's almost bordering illegal to leave Disney without a souvenir. But unless you're a Star Wars fan, knowing where to secure your ideal Disney takeaway can be overwhelming. However, how about taking home unique merchandise that's exclusive to Walt Disney World, such as those mentioned below...
Mickey Ears
Mickey Ears don’t discriminate, as anyone can don a pair of mouse ears to celebrate being in the Happiest Place on Earth. Disney releases new Mickey Ears each year in various styles and materials. From the original textured ears to sequined and themed bedazzled creations, you’ll find the perfect ears to match your mood, outfit, or humour. Whichever you choose, there's no Mickey Ears like those found at Disney World.
Personalised Disney Ornaments
Want an annual reminder of your Disney moments? Disney’s Christmas ornaments will not only send you a flurry of memories, but they will add cheerful flavour to your Christmas tree. What’s more, you can add a personal touch to the decorations by engraving your family’s names on them. Guests love to purchase these for themselves but also as thoughtful gifts for friends and family.
Souvenir Popcorn Buckets
It’s no secret that popcorn accompanies movies. For those rainy movie days back home, the Disney popcorn buckets will transport you right back to sunshine and good times at Disney World. This reusable popcorn bucket is a Disney staple, allowing guests cheaper popcorn refills around the parks. It’s so cute, you can use it as a snack box, container, or simply as a popcorn bucket after your Disney holiday.
Maximise Your Spending Money
Quite frankly, Walt Disney World can be expensive, and food costs add to that ever-increasing budget. Luckily, ‘The Magic is Yours’ vouchers help significantly when taking your family on a lifetime trip. We have sourced some helpful suggestions of eateries where your money can stretch the most.
Columbia Harbour House
This New England nautical-themed diner offers one particular item on the menu that you could easily share. The Trio Platter comprises three fried shrimp, two chicken strips, two pieces of fried fish with hushpuppies and a generous portion of fries (or either rice or beans). For under $15, you could feed two mouths.
The chicken strips with chips are an excellent find. For adults, $10.29 gets you four chicken strips and chips, while the kids' meal of two chicken rations with chips goes for $7.99.
Woody’s Lunch Box
To start your day, Woody’s Lunch Box offers a Breakfast Bowl for $8.79. A hearty dish of scrambled egg and crunchy potato balls with spring onion and smoky gravy sets you up for the morning. Why not return to buy a $9.99 stringy three-cheese sandwich for lunch?
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn
Another food joint that gives you all the taste for a small price is Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn’s Mexican restaurant. Fashioned in an old saloon in Frontierland, this cafe’s menu bursts with variety. For $22, you can get two entrees, both different versions of tacos. Children’s tacos sell for $7.49 each.
Earls of Sandwiches
You’d be hard-pressed to find anything on the menu for over $10. From toasted sandwiches, salads, and wraps, to breakfast bowls, take your pick at this extensive menu in Disney Springs. Load your belly with decent portions and superior taste, and use that energy to explore Disney all day.
PS. Please note these food prices are correct at the time of this article's publication.
Don’t Forget the Free Stuff
An obvious fact, yet still something people forget given all that Disney offers. Make sure you don’t miss out on these incredible free things to do at Disney's parks and resorts.
Disney BoardWalk
The enchanting Disney BoardWalk frames an artificial lake, an area reminiscent of an upmarket seaside resort town. Entrance is free in this happening shopping and dining quarter. The place comes alive at sunset, with theatrical performances by jugglers, fire-eaters, and dancers.
Soak up the electric atmosphere as you wander around the promenade. Watch boats sail on the lake and admire the dimming twilight against the dazzling nightlights.
During the day, you can hop on a Friendship Boat for free. Cruise the lakes with your family as your ride from Epcot to Hollywood Studios and back. On another note, if you have a Disney refillable mug, the BoardWalk Bakery allows free refills of soft drinks and hot beverages.
Monorail and Skyliner
Like Disney BoardWalk’s Friendship Boat, the Monorail and Skyliner linking the parks and resorts are free too. The Monorail has three routes, each displaying great views of some Disney parks and resorts. The inner route is reportedly the most scenic, with close-up outlooks of the Magic Kingdom.
Or, if you favour a private pod with your family while you hover from above, head to the Skyliner. These glass cabins hold up to 10 people and are wheelchair friendly. Dart between different Disney parks and resorts using the Skyliner as your preferred choice of transport.
Sing Around the Campfire and Watch a Free Movie
A spectacular event that you’ll regret missing. Disney resort guests are welcome to the nightly campfire sing-a-long while roasting marshmallows. Bring your own marshmallow stash, or you can buy them at the Fort Wilderness Resort’s Meadow Trading Post.
As you warm up around the crackling fire, Chip and Dale come to visit. After the excitement bubbles down, spread a blanket, and watch a Disney classic on the outdoor screen. Similar free campfire and movie combo nights occur at Disney’s Beach Club, Grand Floridian, and Port Orleans-Riverside resorts.
Disney Springs
A shopper’s paradise, Disney Springs has it all. Brimming with eateries and retail establishments, it seems like you need deep pockets to visit this boutique area. We can prove you wrong with our list of entertaining free things for you to do at Disney Springs.
Keep your children occupied at the Lego Imagination Centre, featuring impressive sculptures made from Lego blocks. The play area contains hundreds of Lego pieces as a construction space for your children. You may access the room without buying anything, but the Lego bricks remain in the building.
As Florida experiences year-round warmth, the interactive water sprays will cool you off any time of the year. While simple to some, young children love the surprise of squirting water as they splash around in the fountains.
Finally, there are some free shows held at certain Disney Springs restaurants and bars. The Irish Raglan Road offers free live shows of Irish dancing and Celtic music both inside and on the patio. The Front Porch Bar hosts blues evenings, although admission is for over 21-year-olds.
Still need to book your Walt Disney World holiday? We can offer huge savings for both 2023 trips and beyond. 
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