Disney World Splurges That Are Totally Worth The Money

Disney World vacations are expensive.  There’s just not much getting around that. 

Between park tickets, accommodations, and food, just the basics can set you back A LOT of money. 

But in addition to the essentials, there are so many other things available at Disney Parks that it’s just hard to know which ones to do and which ones to skip. 

We’ve splurged on some extras during a few trips and had some wonderful experiences.

Here are four things I recommend spending the extras money on when at Disney World:

1. Mickey Ears

Mickey Ears are the ultimate symbol of Walt Disney World.  It’s the quickest and best way to join in the magic and express your individuality. 

There are tons of different options available, so you’re certain to find one that appeals to your specific tastes.  

You can get Mickey Ears on headbands, baseball hats, all sorts of things in every Disney Park and just about every gift shop on Disney property. 

My family likes to opt for the classic Mousketeer Ears, with our names embroidered on the back.  

Our favorite place to buy them is in The Chapeau, a quaint little shop located on Main Street in the Magic Kingdom, that has a fantastic selection and some pretty amazing employees!

2. Memory Maker

Pictures are a HUGE part of the Disney Experience, but lugging around a professional camera all day does NOT sound like fun to me. 

Sure, I have my phone and take great snaps throughout the day, but there’s something about having pictures with a perfect background and amazing lighting that really captures the trip. 

Disney World has amazing photographers with top of the line equipment throughout the parks at locations ideal for pictures. 

With a Memory Maker Package, all you have to do is let the photographer scan your magic band and snap your picture.  Every Disney PhotoPass picture taken by a Disney photographer is available for unlimited download with a Memory Maker Package. 

When we got back from our last trip, there were so many amazing shots that I never would have been able to capture with my cell phone camera.  It’s definitely worth the money!

3. Disney Dining Packages

Dining at Disney World can be amazing, when done right. 

During the first trip we took with our kids, we made no reservations and did not opt to eat at any table service restaurants in the parks.  This was a huge mistake! 

I spent most of our trip stressing about what we were spending.  We missed out on some amazing dining at WDW. 

During our next trip, we stayed on property and purchased a dining package.  HUGE difference! 

We enjoyed some fantastic meals and never once had to worry about it. 

It eliminated so much stress for me that I don’t ever plan on visiting WDW again without a dining package, no matter the price.

4. Fireworks Experience

No one does fireworks quite like Disney World!  They are truly amazing, and the perfect end to a magical day in any of the parks. 

In the last few years, WDW has started offering special party packages that include dessert and premium views of the shows. 

We attended the Pirates and Pals Fireworks Cruise at the Contemporary Resort, and it was amazing! 

The evening started out with a private party for about 60 people at the Contemporary.  Unlimited desserts and snacks were available, and a special visit from Captain Hook and Mr. Smee was a highlight of the party. 

After about an hour, we were led out to a pair of boats, that would take us on our cruise.  Each boat had a “pirate” host who entertained us with songs and jokes until we reached our viewing destination. 

We enjoyed the fireworks show out on the water with amazing views and NO CROWDS!!! 

Once we got back to shore, a special visit with Peter Pan was waiting for us.  It was truly a magical night, and something we felt like was worth every penny.

Those are my current four favorite splurges at Walt Disney World.  They were fantastic, but we have had a few experience that we would NEVER do again.  You can read more about those HERE – 9 Things I Regret Doing At Disney World.

Want to make sure you’ll have everything you need while you’re in the parks?  Check out my post on Things You Can Buy On Amazon Right Now to Pack the Perfect Disney World Bag! 

We love Disney Dining, but hate breakfast reservations.  Read all about why in my post Why I’ll Never Book A Breakfast Reservation At WDW Again!

People always tell you the perks about visiting Disney World.  Learn about the pitfalls, read 8 Things No One Tells You About Disney World!