Walt Disney World Arrival Day Tips

You’ve counted down the days, packed the matching shirts, and survived the airport shuffle. Now you’ve arrived in Orlando, and you’re officially on vacation. But here’s a tip: don’t sprint to the parks just yet.

Arrival day is your golden opportunity to ease into the magic and shift into vacation mode. Your arrival day sets the tone for the rest of your trip. Let’s talk about how to make that first day feel like a vacation, not just a travel day.

Transportation to Disney World from the Airport

After a long flight, you don’t want to be figuring out transportation on the fly. I recommend prescheduling private transportation with Away We Go, a service that’s comfortable, dependable, and—bonus—doesn’t involve waiting in a crowded shuttle queue or juggling bags in a rental car parking lot. It’s the perfect way to start your vacation on a high note.

Let Go of the Luggage

Bell Services is your best friend. If your room isn’t quite ready when you arrive (which is common if you’re getting in before 3 p.m.), hand over your bags and head off with just your essentials. No need to sit in the lobby or haul suitcases to lunch—Disney has you covered.

Pro Tip: Keep swimsuits and sunscreen in a day bag so you can head straight to the pool without waiting for your luggage.

Should You Head to a Water Park?

Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel in 2025 get complimentary admission to Disney’s water parks on their check-in day. If your flight gets in early, and your crew is full of energy, this can be an amazing start.

But be honest with yourself: are you really ready to jump into wave pools and body slides right after traveling?

My advice: Only plan a water park visit if you’re arriving before noon and everyone’s had a good night’s sleep. Otherwise, save it for later in your trip when you’re feeling refreshed.

Settle In and Soak Up the Resort

Every Disney resort has its own personality. Whether you’re in the tropical escape of the Polynesian or the nostalgic charm of Port Orleans Riverside, take time to explore.

Things to Look For:

• Campfires & Marshmallow Roasting – Most moderate and deluxe resorts offer this in the evenings. It’s a sweet (free!) way to wind down.
• Movies Under the Stars – Bring a blanket or towel and enjoy a classic Disney movie in the open air.
• Resort-Specific Activities – Animal Kingdom Lodge has wildlife viewing. Caribbean Beach has beaches and hammocks. Pop Century has giant yo-yos and trivia by the pool. Ask for an activity sheet at check-in!
• Resort Pool – There’s nothing quite like the first splash of Florida sunshine. Most Disney resorts have fantastic themed pools, and the kids will be thrilled without setting foot in a park.

Hidden Gem Tip: Deluxe resorts often have beautiful walking paths or quiet lounges where you can grab a drink, sketch with your kids, or just enjoy a little calm before the park whirlwind begins.

Treat Yourself: Spa Time, Even on Day One

Travel is tough on the body. If you’re staying at the Grand Floridian, consider booking a massage or facial. Even if you don’t go full spa, a pedicure can be a relaxing way to transition into vacation mode.

Couples’ idea: Do you have older kids, or are you traveling with grandparents? While the kids splash in the pool or catch a movie, book side-by-side massages or a drink in the lounge. This is your vacation too.

Order Groceries Now, Thank Yourself Later

A little planning goes a long way when it comes to snacks, drinks, and breakfast options in the room. Place an Instacart order to be timed after you arrive. They will deliver to bell services, and you can pick up your groceries when you’re ready. Think juice boxes, fresh fruit, granola bars, and maybe a bottle of wine or two.

Pro Tip: Bring a few foldable, reusable grocery bags in your suitcase. They come in handy for pool days, park snacks, or last-minute repacking.

Staying on the Monorail Line? Make It an Evening Adventure

If you’re staying at the Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, or Contemporary Resort, take advantage of the monorail and explore!

• Grab a Dole Whip at the Polynesian
• Enjoy lunch or dinner at Steakhouse 71 (Contemporary)
• Pick up souvenirs at each resort’s boutique
• Watch the fireworks from the Grand Floridian’s marina

We call it a Monorail Crawl—no need to drink your way through it. This is all about dining, shopping, and soaking up the magic in a low-key, fun way.

Kid-Friendly Tip: Each resort has a pressed penny machine—let your kids collect one from each stop. It’s a fun (and inexpensive!) souvenir.

💡 Arrival Day Tips You Might Not Have Thought About:

• Snap “Before” Photos – Take photos of everyone fresh off the plane, before the Mickey bars and sun do their thing. You’ll love looking back at the transformation.
• Charge Those Devices – Use the downtime to make sure MagicBands, phones, and cameras are fully charged and ready for Day 1.
• Prep Your Park Bags – Lay out your park clothes, pack your bag, and make sure those Minnie ears are easy to grab. Mornings are much smoother when you’re not digging through luggage.

Easing Into the Magic

The truth is, your arrival day doesn’t have to be action-packed to be magical. In fact, some of the sweetest Disney memories are made in the quiet moments: splashing in the pool, laughing over dinner, or watching fireworks from your resort.

So slow down, settle in, and let the magic find you.

At Where To Go Travel Co, my goal is to make your dream vacation as seamless and stress-free as possible, from start to finish. From coordinating your flights and ground transportation to making park plans and arranging special extras like dessert delivery or spa appointments, I’ve got your arrival day covered.

✨ Ready to start planning? Let’s make your arrival day—and every day after—something magical.

✨ Take the Disney Resorts Quiz!

Not sure which resort is the best fit for your family? Take my quick and fun Disney Resorts Quiz to discover your perfect match based on your travel style.