Club Level at Disney World sounds like a splurge, and it definitely can be. But on our recent stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, I actually booked Club Level partly because I thought it might save our family money on food.
We were celebrating our daughter’s 6th birthday, so I also wanted the stay to feel a little extra special.
Here’s the math:
Regular Savanna View room: $473 Savanna View Club Level room: $691 Actual cost of upgrading to Club Level: $218
For that extra $218, our family of four ate almost everything we wanted for essentially two days in the Club lounge.
What We Actually Ate
We started our check-in day with breakfast in the Kilimanjaro Club lounge: ham quiche, biscuits and gravy, oatmeal, pecan cinnamon rolls, fruit and more, plus specialty coffees like cappuccinos and mimosas for the adults. The kids also had special beverages with gummy worms.
For comparison, breakfast at Boma at Animal Kingdom Lodge is currently $39 per adult and $23 per child. For our family of two adults and two kids, that’s $124 before tax and gratuity for one breakfast.
After breakfast, we headed to Typhoon Lagoon, taking advantage of the complimentary water park admission Disney Resort guests receive on their check-in day.
Rather than buying lunch at the water park, we returned to Animal Kingdom Lodge. The Club lounge had ham and cheese roll-ups, Uncrustables, Boma Style olive salad, the BEST curry noodles, vegetables and several types hummus with breads, fresh fruit and other snacks, which was more than enough for us to call it lunch…especially by adding several Mickey Ice Cream Bars and Mickey Ice Cream Sandwiches 🙂
Then we spent some time sitting on our balcony with wine and the kids’ special gummy worm drinks watching the animals on the savanna have their lunches before heading to the pool.
The room! I provided the surprise birthday decorations on the bed, and Disney Housekeeping left a surprise card for Lilly.
The view from our balcony
And then there were the snacks.
Our family ate at least six Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars during the stay. 😂 At Disney prices, that’s nearly $40 in Mickey bars alone!
Dinner, Drinks & Dessert
That evening, the lounge offered BBQ meatballs, African Shrimp Pearl Couscous, South African-style chicken corn chowder and other warm selections, which was plenty for us to use as dinner.
One thing I thought was especially cool was that several of the dishes served in the Club lounge are similar to offerings you’ll find downstairs at Boma. Dinner at Boma is $58 per adult and $34 per child ages 3 to 9, so dinner there for our family of four would have been $184 before tax and gratuity.
Now, I’m definitely not saying the Club Level evening spread is the same thing as eating the entire Boma buffet. But for us, it completely replaced the need to purchase dinner that night.
Wine and beer were still included, so we grabbed drinks to go and headed down to the pool. The kids rode Animal Kingdom Lodge’s awesome water slide and joined the dance and playtime activities hosted by a Disney Cast Member.
Later we came back for desserts and after-dinner drinks, including liquor and cordials (They had Amarula!).
After eating breakfast, lunch, snacks, dinner and dessert, the grand total we spent purchasing food that day was:
$8.
On what you ask? One kids’ pizza from the Mara that the kids split after the pool games and before dessert. 😂
And We Weren’t Done Yet
The next morning, we went back to the lounge for another full breakfast, along with specialty coffees and mimosas.
Using Boma as a comparison, breakfast for our family of four would cost about $124 before tax and gratuity.
Two breakfasts?
$248.
Remember what we paid to upgrade our Savanna View room to Club Level?
$210.
So the comparable cost of two Boma breakfasts alone was already $38 MORE than our entire Club Level upgrade.
And we hadn’t just eaten breakfast.
That $210 also gave us lunch, dinner, at least $40 worth of Mickey bars, other snacks, desserts, specialty coffees, mimosas, wine, beer, liquor and specialty drinks for the kids.
So, Did Club Level Save Us Money?
For our family, ABSOLUTELY.
Could we have packed sandwiches, brought our own snacks and ate the least expensive quick-service meals? Of course.
But that’s not how we wanted to vacation at Disney this time.
We were already booking a Savanna View room for our daughter’s 6th birthday. The question was whether it made sense to spend $210 more for Club Level or book the $480 room and pay separately for all of our meals, snacks, coffees and drinks.
After experiencing it, I’d happily spend that $210 again.
For us, that extra $210 didn’t just buy Club Level access. It replaced a significant amount of packing, preparing, and spending we would have done anyway and made our daughter’s birthday stay feel like a splurge at the same time.
That’s a Disney math equation I can get behind.
If you’re considering Club Level for your next Disney World vacation, Horizon Explorers Travel Co. can help you compare the actual room rates for your dates and figure out whether the upgrade makes sense for your family.
Published by Alicia, Owner & Travel Advisor, Horizon Explorers Travel Co.
One of the most exciting milestones after booking a Disney Cruise is when your booking window opens.
It’s also one of the moments that can feel the most overwhelming.
Suddenly you’re deciding between Port Adventures, specialty dining, nursery reservations, princess experiences, spa treatments, and more—while wondering what will sell out first.
The good news? Not everything disappears immediately, and knowing what to prioritize can make the entire process feel much less stressful.
As a Disney Cruise specialist, I help families navigate these booking windows every day. Here’s exactly what you should know before your reservation day arrives.
What Is a Disney Cruise Booking Window?
Your booking window is the first day you’re able to reserve many onboard activities before your cruise.
The exact date depends on your Castaway Club status.
Castaway Club Level
Booking Window
Pearl
123 Days Before Sailing
Platinum
120 Days Before Sailing
Gold
105 Days Before Sailing
Silver
90 Days Before Sailing
First-Time Guests
75 Days Before Sailing
(Disney occasionally updates these timelines, so always verify your booking date in your Disney Cruise account.)
My Priority List
If you’re wondering what to book first, here’s the order I recommend.
1. “it’s a small world” Nursery Reservations
If you’re traveling with a child under three who will use Disney’s nursery, make this your first stop.
Availability is limited and popular sailings can fill quickly.
2. Port Adventures & Castaway Cay Cabanas
If there’s one excursion your family absolutely wants, don’t wait.
Some of Disney’s most popular Port Adventures disappear quickly, including:
Alaska glacier excursions
Private Tours
European sightseeing tours
Snorkeling adventures
Popular beach excursions
And if you’re dreaming of a private cabana on Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay, book it immediately if it’s available to your Castaway Club level.
These are among the hardest reservations to secure on Disney Cruise Line and often sell out almost instantly.
View from Cabana #6
3. Adult Dining
Disney’s adult-exclusive restaurants are incredibly popular.
These include:
Palo Brunch (A favorite!)
Palo Dinner
Remy
Enchanté
If you’re deciding between brunch and dinner, I’d choose Palo Brunch almost every time. The menu is incredible, the atmosphere is relaxed, and it’s one of my favorite experiences onboard. It is also usually the first to fully book out!
4. Princess & Special Character Experiences
Disney offers a few reservation-only character experiences that families should know about.
Royal Gathering (FREE)
This complimentary event allows guests to meet several Disney Princesses during one scheduled experience. The princesses there change and you won’t know who you are meeting until you arrive.
Reservations are required, but there is no additional cost.
If your children love princesses, this is one of the best reservations you’ll make…and the spots go FAST.
Royal Court Royal Tea (Additional Cost)
This premium princess tea experience includes storytelling, music, keepsakes, treats, and interactions with Disney Princesses.
It’s one of the most expensive children’s experiences offered onboard- but many families consider it a once-in-a-lifetime memory. We loved it with out kids, but probably wouldn’t do it again as the surprises shared and stories told wouldn’t be as exciting to experience a second time.
Olaf’s Royal Picnic (Select Sailings on the Disney Wish)
Available on select sailings, this Frozen-themed experience includes Olaf, Anna, Elsa, treats, entertainment, and special gifts for children.
Like Royal Tea, reservations are limited and require an additional fee.
Disney occasionally offers other specialty character dining or premium children’s experiences depending on the ship or itinerary, so it’s worth checking what’s available for your sailing when your booking window opens.
5. Beverage Tastings
While Disney offers a variety of beverage seminars—including wine, bourbon, whiskey, tequila, and champagne tastings—the Mixology Seminar is consistently one of the first to sell out.
If you’re interested in learning to make Disney-inspired cocktails while sampling several creations, book this one early.
6. Spa Appointments
Many guests rush to reserve spa treatments before their cruise—but in many cases, you don’t need to.
I typically recommend booking ahead only if:
You want the Rainforest Pass which allows you into the Rainforest room (length of cruise pass or day passes are available)
You want a very specific appointment time.
You have your heart set on a sea-day massage.
You want a treatment on the first evening of your cruise.
If you’re flexible, it’s often worth waiting until you’re onboard.
Disney frequently offers discounted spa specials throughout the cruise, and you can sometimes save money by choosing a less popular appointment time.
Outdoor area of Rainforest Room on Disney Wish
Inside one of the Rainforest Room sauna areas on the Wish- it has the BEST view!
7. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
Appointments are limited, especially on shorter cruises.
If your child dreams of becoming a princess, prince, or pirate, reserve this experience as soon as your booking window opens. Notably, on Pirate Night they only do pirate makeovers, and adults are also able to book for the occasion!
8. Specialty Photo Sessions
Most complimentary photographers throughout the ship don’t require reservations.
Disney occasionally offers premium portrait sessions that do.
One of my favorite examples is the Haunted Mansion Parlor portrait experience currently offered aboard the Disney Treasure and Disney Destiny.
These beautifully themed portraits are unlike anything you’ll find elsewhere in the fleet and make incredible keepsakes for Haunted Mansion fans.
They’re also one of the more expensive photography experiences Disney offers, so if this is something you’ve been looking forward to, reserve it early.
Also, keep in mind you must purchase your photos either before the cruise via an unlimited download package or while onboard. It is cheaper to purchase a photo package before you board via the app (Day 1 – Add Activities – Onboard Fun – Photo: Unlimited Package. Pricing will vary based upon cruise length and ship).
What Doesn’t Need a Reservation?
One of the biggest misconceptions about Disney Cruise Line is that everything requires advance planning.
Thankfully, that’s far from true.
You’ll still enjoy plenty of Disney magic without making a single reservation, including:
Broadway-style shows
Rotational dining
Character meet-and-greets throughout the ship
Deck parties
Fireworks at Sea (on eligible sailings)
Pools
Kids clubs
First-run movies
Live entertainment throughout the ship
Loads of activities including cooking demonstrations and tastings on available sailings
Don’t Forget Online Check-In
Your booking window is different from Online Check-In.
When Online Check-In opens, you’ll:
Upload your travel documents
Add payment information
Complete required travel forms
Select your Port Arrival Time
The sooner you complete Online Check-In, the better your chances of securing an earlier arrival time.
My Best Tips
✔ Log into your Disney Cruise account before your booking window opens.
✔ Have a prioritized list of your “must-do” experiences.
✔ Booking windows typically open just after midnight Eastern Time, so be ready if you’re hoping to reserve something especially popular.
✔ Don’t panic if you don’t get everything you wanted. Guests change plans all the time, Disney occasionally releases additional inventory, and your travel advisor can continue checking for availability.
Ready to Plan Your Disney Cruise?
One of my favorite parts of being a Disney travel advisor is helping families navigate all of these decisions before they ever step onboard.
Whether you’re deciding between stateroom categories, wondering which experiences are truly worth it, or simply trying to make sense of booking windows, I’m here to help make the planning process simple and stress-free.
Ready to start planning your Disney Cruise vacation? I’d love to help!
Everything you need to pack for a magical Disney Cruise vacation, plus my favorite family packing tips after years of traveling with kids.
Planning Your Disney Cruise Starts Before You Board
One of the questions I hear most often from clients is, “What should I pack for a Disney Cruise?”
The good news is that packing for a Disney Cruise Line vacation is much easier than many people expect. Most cruises have a relaxed atmosphere, Disney provides many of the essentials onboard, and with a little planning you’ll have everything you need for a stress-free vacation.
Whether you’re sailing aboard the Disney Wish, Treasure, Destiny, Dream, Fantasy, Magic, Wonder, or Adventure, this guide will help you pack confidently so you can focus on making memories instead of wondering what you forgot.
Disney Cruise Packing Checklist
The Essentials
Before leaving home, make sure you have:
Passport or required travel documents
Disney Cruise Line booking confirmation information
Port Arrival Form (printed)
Government-issued photo ID (if applicable)
Credit card (especially Disney Visa if you have one and want the onboard discount at the shops)
Health insurance card
Travel insurance information
Copies of important documents stored digitally
AirTags or another luggage tracker
Medications
Pro Tip: I always recommend placing an AirTag inside every checked suitcase. It’s inexpensive peace of mind and makes locating luggage much easier if there are delays – especially if you are flying to your cruise embarkation terminal location.
Warmer Weather Clothing
A good rule of thumb is to pack one outfit per day, plus one extra outfit just in case.
Suggested clothing includes:
T-shirts
Tank tops
Shorts
Casual dresses (with biker-type shorts underneath – those outdoor areas get WINDY and you can easily have a Marilyn moment if you know what I mean!)
Lightweight pants
Pajamas
SUBs (Socks, Underwear, Bras)
Workout clothes if you want to check out the onboard gym or attempt the Castaway Cay 5k!
Comfortable walking shoes
Flip-flops or sandals
Light sweater or sweatshirt (the theaters and restaurants can feel cool)
Rain jacket or lightweight poncho
Polished Cruise Casual
Cruise Casual
Swimwear
If you’re cruise is exploring hot places like the Caribbean, Mexico, the Mediteranean, etc, then you’ll likely spend plenty of time enjoying the pools and splash areas.
Pack:
Swimsuits
Rash guards for children
Cover-ups
Water shoes
Sunglasses
Hat
Reef-safe sunscreen
Goggles
Disney provides pool towels, so there’s no need to pack your own.
Dinner Attire
One of my favorite parts of a Disney Cruise is dinner each evening. Not only is the food fantastic, but dinner is an experience. Between the immersive restaurants, themed entertainment, and opportunities for beautiful family photos, it’s one of the highlights of every sailing.
Disney Cruise Line does not require formal attire in the main dining rooms. Most evenings are considered cruise casual, and you’ll see everything from polos and sundresses to shorts and nice sandals.
Most 5-night and longer itineraries also include a Dress-Up Night, Semi-Formal Night, or Formal Night (depending on the itinerary). These nights are completely optional, but many families enjoy the excuse to wear something a little more special.
You know that fancy outfit you only wore once? This is the perfect opportunity to wear it again!
I recommend packing:
Polo shirts
Button-down shirts
Khakis or chinos
A sport coat or suit (optional, but perfect for Formal Night)
Sundresses or cocktail dresses
Nice sandals or dress shoes
Jewelry and accessories
A light sweater or wrap for the restaurants and theaters
If you’ve reserved an adult-exclusive dinner at Palo Steakhouse, Remy, or Enchanté, I definitely recommend bringing a dressier outfit. These restaurants have a more elegant atmosphere and make for a wonderful date night onboard.
Don’t Forget the Kids
Kids love dressing up, too!
If your children enjoy feeling fancy, pack one dressier outfit for Formal or Dress-Up Night (and yes – that can mean princess/knight outfits!). It makes the evening feel even more special, and those photos often become some of our favorite vacation memories.
Fancy Dinner Night on the Disney Magic
Formal Night also means extra-fancily dressed characters
Make Dinner Even More Magical
One thing our family loves doing is coordinating our outfits with the restaurant we’ll be dining in. It’s completely optional, but it adds an extra layer of fun and makes for some fantastic photos.
Here are a few ideas:
1923
Classic Disney elegance calls for timeless outfits. Neutral colors, navy, cream, black, and gold photograph beautifully against the restaurant’s glamorous Hollywood décor.
Fancy Night dinner in 1923 Restaurant: Kids
Fancy Night dinner in 1923 Restaurant
Arendelle: A Frozen Dining Adventure
Think icy blues, whites, silver, or even subtle Frozen-inspired outfits. Kids especially love dressing as Anna or Elsa if they’re comfortable wearing costumes to dinner.
Plaza de Coco
Bright colors fit right in! Florals, embroidered tops, colorful dresses, and vibrant shirts complement the festive atmosphere.
Plaza de Coco Outfits
Worlds of Marvel
Marvel shirts, Avengers-inspired DisneyBounds, or superhero colors are always fun. You’ll see plenty of families embracing the theme without wearing full costumes.
Tiana’s Place
Greens, golds, and New Orleans Mardi Gras-inspired attire make for beautiful photos. A floral dress or linen shirt also feels right at home here.
Themed outfits aren’t necessary, but if your family enjoys Disney, they’re a fun way to make each dinner feel unique.
Pirate Night
One of the most anticipated evenings on many Disney Cruise itineraries is Pirate Night.
Whether you wear a full pirate costume or simply throw on a pirate-themed T-shirt, joining in the fun makes the evening even more memorable.
Some ideas include:
Pirate shirts
Pirate dresses
Eye patches
Pirate hats
Temporary tattoos
Pirate accessories
Good news: Disney Cruise Line typically provides every guest with a pirate bandana, so everyone can join the celebration- even if you don’t pack a full costume.
Pirate Night
Halloween on the High Seas
If you’re sailing during Halloween on the High Seas, don’t forget to pack:
Family Halloween costumes
Disney-themed costumes
Trick-or-treat bags for children
Halloween shirts for casual days
One of my favorite things about these sailings is seeing families get creative with coordinating costumes. It’s completely optional, but it adds so much fun to the experience.
Kid Costumes
Very Merrytime Cruises
For holiday sailings, consider packing:
Christmas pajamas
Holiday shirts
Matching family outfits
Festive accessories for holiday photos
Matching Christmas Pajamas
Meet Santa on board!
Disney Door Decorations
Decorating your stateroom door with magnets has become a favorite Disney Cruise tradition.
Popular decorations include:
Family name magnets
Disney character magnets
Dry erase board
Fish Extender (more on this in a future post!)
Banners held with magnets
Celebration magnets for birthdays or anniversaries
Remember, only magnetic decorations are allowed. Tape, adhesives, and command strips are prohibited and if damage is done to the door, you will be charged.
Day Bag for Port Adventures
Bring a backpack or tote for excursions.
Include:
Wallet
Sunscreen
Water bottles
Portable charger
Camera
Medications
Sunglasses
Hat
Snacks for children
Disney provides towels when leaving the ship for Disney-operated destinations.
Electronics
Don’t forget:
Phone charger
Apple Watch charger
Camera batteries
Portable battery pack
Kindle or e-reader
Charging cables
USB charging hub
Toiletries
Disney supplies shampoo, conditioner, and body wash, but many guests prefer bringing their favorites.
Pack:
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Hairbrush
Razor
Makeup
Hair products
Prescription medications
Motion sickness medication
Contact lenses
Lip balm
Aloe vera
Traveling with Kids
If you’re cruising with little ones, consider packing:
Favorite stuffed animal
Blanket
Tablet loaded with downloaded movies
Headphones
Coloring books
Refillable water bottles
Favorite snacks
Night light
A few familiar comforts can make bedtime much easier after exciting days onboard.
Nice-to-Have Items
These aren’t necessities, but experienced cruisers often swear by them:
Magnetic hooks (many staterooms’ walls and/or ceilings can support a heavy duty magnetic hook to hang bags, coats, hats, etc.)
Pop-up laundry hamper
Waterproof phone pouch
Reusable straws
Zip-top bags
Wrinkle-release spray
Small first aid kit
Refillable coffee mug
Laundrey detergent pods/sheets if you will be doing laundry while onboard
Alicia’s Favorite Family Packing Tips
After years of traveling with my husband and our two kids- including Disney cruises, Alaska, Disneyland Paris, Europe, Walt Disney World, and beyond- I’ve discovered a handful of packing tricks that consistently make our vacations easier. Some are Disney Cruise-specific, while others have become staples on every trip we take.
These are the tips I recommend most often to clients planning their own adventures.
Maximize Your Stateroom Storage
Disney Cruise staterooms are thoughtfully designed, but every extra bit of organization helps—especially when you’re traveling with kids.
Collapsible Storage Cubes
One of my favorite ways to keep our stateroom organized is with collapsible storage cubes. They slide perfectly under the bed and become the perfect place to stash toys, souvenirs, extra shoes, or anything else that tends to accumulate throughout the cruise.
I especially like cubes with a clear window so you can quickly see what’s inside without unpacking everything.
Bathroom counter space is limited, so vertical storage is your best friend.
We hang a shoe organizer using strong magnetic hooks attached to the metal ceiling or walls of the stateroom. It keeps sunscreen, toiletries, brushes, medications, charging cables, and other small items organized and off the counter.
Important: Use strong magnetic hooks designed for this purpose. Avoid hanging organizers over the bathroom door, as Disney may charge for damage caused by over-the-door organizers.
Before our trip, I pack folded clothes directly into the hanging shelf. Once we arrive at our stateroom, I simply unzip my suitcase and hang the organizer in the closet.
No unpacking.
No piles of clothes.
Everything is immediately organized.
I prefer a model with just a few shelves. It leaves room underneath for shoes or luggage while still folding compactly enough to fit inside a large suitcase.
Disney Cruise Line offers complimentary self-service beverage stations with soda, coffee, tea, water, and juice.
Instead of making multiple trips throughout the day, bring a large insulated tumbler or reusable cup. Your drinks stay colder longer, you make fewer refill trips, and it’s especially nice when relaxing by the pool or watching a movie on Funnel Vision.
Pack an Extra Suitcase (Without Packing an Extra Suitcase)
This is hands-down my favorite travel hack.
We place a smaller carry-on suitcase inside our larger checked suitcase before heading to the airport. We check the larger suitcase, which means we’re only managing one checked bag on the way to our destination.
When it’s time to head home, we simply pull out the smaller suitcase and suddenly have an extra piece of luggage ready for souvenirs, gifts, and everything we couldn’t resist buying during our vacation.
It’s especially helpful after a Disney Cruise—those onboard shops have a way of tempting all of us!
I also recommend placing an AirTag inside every checked suitcase for extra peace of mind.
Compression Bags Are a Game Changer
Compression bags have saved us countless times.
While they’re especially useful for destinations that require bulkier clothing- like Alaska, Europe, or ski vacations- they’re also great for longer Disney cruises when you’re packing more outfits.
Even better, bring the small portable vacuum with you so you can compress everything again before heading home. You’ll be amazed how much extra room you create for souvenirs.
If you’re unsure whether an item is permitted, it’s always best to check Disney Cruise Line’s prohibited items list before departure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to bring beach towels?
No. Disney Cruise Line provides towels for the pools and for use at Disney destinations like Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay.
Does Disney provide shampoo?
Yes. Basic shampoo, conditioner, and body wash are provided in every stateroom.
Can I bring bottled water?
Yes. Many guests bring bottled water or reusable water bottles to stay hydrated throughout their cruise.
Should I pack a jacket or sweater?
Yes! Even if you’re sailing somewhere warm like the Bahamas or Caribbean, I always recommend packing a lightweight sweater, cardigan, or light jacket.
The theaters, restaurants, and lounges can feel surprisingly cool with the air conditioning, especially in the evenings. It’s one of those items you may not use every day, but you’ll be glad you packed it when you’re enjoying dinner or watching a Broadway-style show.
Do I need magnets for my stateroom door?
You don’t need them, but they’re a fun Disney Cruise tradition and make it easier to spot your stateroom in long hallways.
Is there laundry onboard?
Yes. Every Disney Cruise ship offers self-service laundry facilities as well as valet laundry services for an additional charge. I use them for almost every trip and bring my own detergent to save money. If you forget detergent, no problem. Disney sells it within the laundry facility area.
Final Thoughts
Packing for your Disney Cruise doesn’t have to be stressful.
With a little preparation, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy magical entertainment, incredible dining, beautiful destinations, and unforgettable family memories.
If you’re planning your first Disney Cruise—or your fifth—I’d love to help make the planning process just as enjoyable as the vacation itself.
At Horizon Explorers Travel Co., I help families choose the right ship, stateroom, itinerary, and onboard experiences while providing personalized guidance every step of the way.
From selecting the perfect sailing to answering those last-minute packing questions, I’m here to help you sail with confidence.
Ready to Start Planning?
Whether you’re dreaming of the Caribbean, Alaska, Europe, Halloween on the High Seas, or a Very Merrytime Cruise, I’d love to help you find the perfect Disney Cruise vacation for your family.
Request your complimentary quote today and let’s start planning your next adventure!
Published by Alicia, Owner & Travel Advisor, Horizon Explorers Travel Co.
When people ask me about Disneyland Paris, it’s usually followed by one of two questions:
“Is it worth visiting if we’ve already been to Walt Disney World?”
Or…
“Which hotel should we stay at?”
After spending four nights exploring the parks with my family, staying at both the Castle Club at the Disneyland Hotel and the Empire Club at Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel, I can confidently say:
Disneyland Paris isn’t just another Disney park. It deserves a trip of its own.
Its blend of European charm, incredible attractions, and beautiful hotels makes it one of the most unique Disney destinations in the world.
When in France…
Our Itinerary
We spent four nights at Disneyland Paris before continuing on to Paris.
2 nights at the Disneyland Hotel Castle Club
2 nights at Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel (Empire Club)
2 days in Disneyland Park (one with the Premier Pass)
2 days in Walt Disney Studios Park
It gave us enough time to experience nearly everything without feeling rushed.
Why We Split Our Stay
I almost always recommend splitting a stay if your budget allows.
The two flagship hotels each offer something completely different.
Disneyland Hotel Castle Club
If you’ve ever dreamed of staying inside a Disney fairytale, this is it.
The newly renovated Disneyland Hotel sits directly at the entrance to Disneyland Park. From the Castle Club lounge, breakfast each morning with Disney princesses felt special and elegant before stepping straight into the park.
One of my favorite surprises was the afternoon tea and snacks served in the lounge. It became the perfect place to recharge before heading back out for the evening.
But the real magic happened after dark.
Instead of standing shoulder-to-shoulder on Main Street, we watched the nighttime spectacular from the Castle Club viewing area with an incredible view of Sleeping Beauty Castle. It was one of those moments that reminded me why Disney vacations can be so special.
If you’re celebrating a honeymoon, anniversary, birthday, or simply want the most luxurious Disney experience in Europe, Castle Club is worth considering.
Castle Club robes and slippers are complimentary to guests staying at at the Castle Club level (and how cute are the kid sizes?!)
Disneyland Fireworks from the Castle Club
Disney Princess Experiences
Our daughter participated in My Royal Dream, and it quickly became one of the highlights of the trip.
The experience includes professional hairstyling, makeup (facepaint), accessories, and a beautiful princess gown before finishing with a private photo session.
We also enjoyed A Disney Royal Encounter, which felt much more intimate than the princess meet-and-greets many guests are used to in the U.S. parks.
If you have a little prince or princess, these experiences book VERY quickly and are absolutely worth planning ahead. Pro Tip: If you can’t get a spot then concierge services for the Castle Club can often help get that impossible-to-get reservation.
Photoshoot by Disney after My Royal Experience Makeover.
Why We Loved Empire Club
After two nights immersed in royal elegance, moving to Disney Hotel New York – The Art of Marvel gave us an entirely different experience.
Empire Club includes its own private lounge with breakfast, refreshments, and evening snacks.
The atmosphere is sleek, modern, and much more relaxed than the Disneyland Hotel.
Marvel fans will love the artwork displayed throughout the hotel, exclusive character encounters, and the overall design. Even if you’re traveling with someone who isn’t a superhero fanatic, the hotel feels upscale rather than overly themed.
It also offers an easy walk to Walt Disney Studios Park.
Marvel Hotel Lobby
Our Favorite Attractions
If you’re coming from Walt Disney World, don’t skip attractions simply because they have familiar names.
Many are dramatically different.
Some of our favorites included:
Big Thunder Mountain, located on its own island and arguably the best version in the world.
Pirates of the Caribbean, with a longer and more immersive storyline.
Phantom Manor, a unique take on the Haunted Mansion with an entirely different backstory (My FAVORITE of the different park versions! You simpy must read the backstory before you ride).
Crush’s Coaster, one of the most popular attractions at Disneyland Paris.
Spider-Man W.E.B. Adventure, which was a huge hit with our family.
Avengers Assemble: Flight Force, my personal favorite thrill ride.
Avengers Assemble: Flight Force
Frozen Character Meet and Greet (Must get in virtual queue as soon as it opens!)
Dining Highlights
Disneyland Paris surprised us with the quality of its dining.
Our favorites included:
Lumière’s
An elegant character dining experience inside the Disneyland Hotel that feels much more refined than many Disney buffets.
Royal Banquet
A beautiful buffet featuring Disney royalty and royal-inspired décor. It was one of our favorite meals of the trip.
La Forêt Secrète
The most memorable dinner we’ve ever had at a Disney destination. Chef Jean Imbert has created an experience inspired by Disney storytelling that feels worthy of a Michelin recommendation.
Regal View
The newest Princess-themed restaurant offers gorgeous theming and excellent character interactions.
Regal View
Lumière’s
La Forêt Secrète
Tips That Made Our Trip Better
If you’re planning your first visit, here are a few things I’d do again:
Stay at least three or four nights if you want to experience both parks comfortably as a family.
Split your stay between hotels if your budget allows.
Reserve dining and must-have experiences as early as possible.
Consider Premier Access, especially if you want to experience the newest attractions efficiently.
Take advantage of the hotel lounges if you’re staying Club Level. We found ourselves using them every day.
Don’t compare everything to Walt Disney World. Disneyland Paris has its own personality, and that’s exactly what makes it so special.
Final Thoughts
Before visiting, I wondered whether Disneyland Paris would simply feel like a European version of Disneyland.
It doesn’t.
It has its own atmosphere, its own storytelling, and some of the most beautiful Disney spaces I’ve ever experienced.
Would I go back?
Without hesitation.
If you’re already planning a European vacation, I genuinely believe Disneyland Paris deserves a place on your itinerary. And if you’d like help deciding which hotel, dining experiences, or room category are right for your family, I’d love to help you create an itinerary that makes the most of your visit.
When people think about planning a Disney vacation, they often think the hardest part is choosing a destination.
In reality, that’s usually the easy part.
The challenge is knowing how to make the most of your time, your budget, and the experiences that matter most to your family.
That’s why I started Horizon Explorers.
I believe planning a vacation should feel exciting, not overwhelming. Whether you’re dreaming of sailing with Disney Cruise Line, walking down Main Street, U.S.A., or watching your children experience a destination for the very first time, thoughtful planning makes all the difference.
Here on The Compass, I’ll share practical advice, destination guides, planning tips, and the little details that can transform a good vacation into an unforgettable one.
You’ll find articles about:
Disney Cruise Line
Walt Disney World
Disneyland
Disneyland Paris (Anaheim)
Adventures by Disney
Aulani
Family travel planning
Cruise tips
Packing advice
Seasonal events
And a few favorite destinations beyond Disney.
I’m so glad you’re here.
Wherever you’re headed next, I hope The Compass helps you travel with confidence.
Horizon Explorers Travel Co. 