Every generation has its quirks when visiting Disney parks, and Baby Boomers have a certain charm all their own. Boomers' go-getter attitude and determination to be the early birds for rope drop is truly admirable, but we've got some major Boomer mistakes at Disney that we need to address. We'll take you through the biggest Boomer blunders at Disney and give some tips to ensure everyone has a smoother and more enjoyable time on their Disney vacation!
In this article:
Sticking to the Same Foods
The Disney Parks are an absolute food paradise for all the foodies out there! With an incredible array of options, Disney fans can satisfy any craving that their hearts and stomachs desire. From comforting classics to fine dining experiences, Disney has it all for your taste buds to embark on a culinary adventure.
But sometimes, Boomers prefer to stick with what they know best. While Disney offers a variety of dishes to please even the pickiest eaters, it's important to remember that your taste buds are also on vacation and deserve a chance to explore new flavors. So, step out of your comfort zone and try something new! It may turn into your new favorite.
Failing To Plan
The classic Boomer approach to Disney parks is to treat it like a casual day out, with no game plan needed. But when it comes to Disney, you need to have a plan. Take advantage of the Disney app (which will grant you access to insider tips and help you personalize your very own itinerary), make a plan for experiencing more popular rides, and secure dining reservations ahead of time.
Let's leave the “just show up and go,” mindset in the rearview mirror. Embrace the power of planning!
Neglecting Character Experiences
Disney parks are an absolute treasure trove of your favorite childhood characters, guaranteed to put a smile on your face from ear to ear. But snapping a picture with them isn't just for kids—it's for everyone! So grab those Mickey ears, strike a pose, and show your favorite pal some love.
You can even bring them a little gift! Imagine their joy and excitement when you present them with a small token of appreciation, like a card or keychain. It's a surefire way to create a magical moment and make your encounter even more special.
Whether you're reuniting with Mickey, hugging Goofy, or having a heart-to-heart with Cinderella, don't miss the chance to capture those priceless memories. Let your inner child shine, embrace pure joy, and make every moment count at the happiest place on earth!
Avoiding Cast Members
We understand that asking for help can be a challenge, but the Cast Members at Disney are the real magic-makers! Remember, the Cast Members have the inside scoop and can help you navigate the parks like a pro. They are all throughout the park waiting to make your day even more enchanting.
Don't let frustration or confusion get the best of you. Reach out to these wonderful folks and let them work their Disney magic! They can assist you, answer your questions, and make sure you have an unforgettable time.
Resisting Technology and Mobile Apps
Underestimating the wonders of technology, Boomers tend to stick to the familiar and the tried-and-true. Their mantra is often, “If it ain't broke, why fix it?” However, by dismissing important tools, like the Disney apps (My Disney Experience Mobile App for Disney World and the Disneyland Mobile App for Disneyland), you can miss out on a lifeline that unlocks the magic within the parks.
The Disney app is a game-changer, saving precious time and offering an array of essential features. From in-park navigation to attraction wait times, show schedules, park hours, Lightning Lanes, Photopass, and even contactless Disney Dining at select locations, this app is your ultimate companion.
Say goodbye to getting lost with a map or wandering aimlessly when you have a powerful tool to organize your plans and optimize your vacation to the fullest. Embrace the marvels of technology and let the Disney App be your guide.
Ignoring the Power of Comfort
Boomers might roll their eyes at the notion of a Disney park bag or well-researched walking shoes, thinking they don't need all that extra stuff. But after one leisurely stroll around EPCOT's World Showcase under the scorching Florida sun, they'll change their mind in a flash.
When it comes to a day at Disney, don't just wing it. Embrace the power of comfort and a well-packed Disney park bag! Fill it with essentials like sunscreen, hats, water bottles, and maybe even a portable fan. Trust us, you'll be happy when you're well-prepared by reading our Disneyland packing list and Disney World packing list and enjoying the park to the fullest.
Overlooking Disney Shows
Disney is no ordinary theme park—it's an experience like no other. Not only does it boast some of the best restaurants and state-of-the-art rides you'll find in any theme park, but it also offers a wide array of shows that will entertain and delight visitors of all ages. Don't skip over these experiences!
Disney offers up dazzling parades, mesmerizing fireworks, and incredible live stage shows that will leave you breathless, like “The Festival of the Lion King” or the awe-inspiring nighttime spectacular “Fantasmic!”
As part of its interactive shows, Disney also invites the audience to participate, bringing the fun to a whole new level. Don't miss the popular “Turtle Talk with Crush,” where you can have a chat with the coolest turtle under the sea. And for a taste of the Wild West, the wildly popular Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is a must-see.
Not Utilizing Lightning Lane Multi Pass
Waiting in lines is a classic theme park experience, no matter where you go. Boomers may think, “How will Disney be any different?” While some waiting is inevitable, Disney has a tool called Lightning Lane Multi Pass that makes the process much more convenient.
If you're hoping to spend as little time as possible waiting in lines, it just makes sense to embrace the power of Lightning Lanes. So, don't write off this invaluable resource! With Lightning Lane Multi Pass, you'll have access to lightning-fast planning and even the ability to skip the line for select attractions.
Leave those long lines in the dust and make the most of your Disney adventure. Embrace Lightning Lane Multi Pass and get ready to maximize your fun while minimizing your wait time!
Underestimating Costs
Remember the good old days when a dollar stretched farther than a rubber band? Unfortunately, times have changed. Before embarking on your magical Disney vacation, it's crucial to be aware of the prices of merchandise and food.
In the land of Disney, a simple bottle of water can cost guests $3.75 per bottle. Be in the know, and keep those costs in check as you embark on your park adventures by planning ahead, as a bottle of water is not a Disney souvenir you want to buy in the parks!
Budgeting isn't a buzzkill—it ensures you have a stress-free and financially savvy Disney vacation. So, get your spreadsheet ready, calculate those expenses, and make every dollar count! Here's how much a vacation to Disney World costs and how much a Disneyland trip costs.
Not Making Advance Dining Reservations
It may seem tempting to just waltz up to a restaurant and expect to be seated, but if you skip making advanced dining reservations at Disney, you might find yourself without the dining plans you envisioned.
Rather, take advantage of the ability to make dining reservations up to 60 days in advance. If you want to score a table at a popular location and ensure you have the dining experience of your dreams, plan ahead and secure those reservations ahead of time.
Avoiding these boomer mistakes will ensure a smoother, more enjoyable Disney vacation. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and experience magic like never before!
You Can Skip These Rides at EPCOT During Your Next Disney World Trip
During your visit to Disney World, there is only so much time in the day with much to do and see. We will take you through some considerations for deciding which attractions to skip, suggest which ones we would pass on, and also tell you the can't-miss rides for your next trip to EPCOT.
Top 10 Rides You Cannot Miss Out on During Your Disneyland Trip
During your Disneyland trip, there are certain classics and new rides that a trip to the happiest place on earth would not be complete without. Read our list of the top 10 can't-miss rides at Disneyland that will give you a bit of everything, from thrill rides to water rides and more.
Avoid Eating at These 10 Disney World Restaurants
With the variety of dining options across the Disney World parks, some are better than others. We will take you through our list of the Disney World restaurants that aren't our favorites to help you have the best dining experience possible during your next trip. Make sure to also check our our Top 10 Disney World sit-down restaurants!
What a completely stupid and worthless article.
If you cannot figure out the apps – how can they help you? I do not even know how to put an app on my phone – then how do you hold onto the phone and not loose it when you are holding onto a bar on the ride. Failure is likely.
What an absolute load of garbage. Sure, let’s keep this generational war alive and well, ya dolts.
I don’t know why you had to make this about a particular generation. Its insulting. You could have written the exact same article and made it helpful advice to make Disney parks more enjoyable without picking on any particular generation but you instead had to imply that its only “Boomers” (how I’ve come to hate that term) who need the advice.
Advance reservations. Not advanced. Please go back to freshman english.