Get the Best Disney Deals

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If you are going to Orlando for a Walt Disney World Vacation or Anaheim for a Disneyland vacation in the age of COVID, you'll find things work a bit differently than your last trip. Be sure to check-in at the Know Before You Go page, as well as the pages described below.

NOTE: Disney opens for out-of-state visitors, changes protocol for vaccinated guests.

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Walt Disney World Resort

1. View current theme park reservation availability. Yes. you can't just go whenever you'd like. Check the aptly named Theme Park Reservation site for the info you'll need.

2. Make a park reservation. Disney has a site dedicated to just this, with availability, pricing and other info you'll need.

3. Buy your tickets. The ticket site has the scoop on Park Hopper and Water Park options, as well as Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom and The Magic Kingdom.

4. Use the Disney Park Pass System. If you already have a valid theme park admission, you can use the Disney Park Pass System to make a park reservation.

Consider also: How to Have an Affordable Disney Vacation

For now, you can't just pop in at a Disney property. However, there are Disney resources online to keep you informed. 

Disneyland

Currently, the Disneyland site has this message for potential guests: "Please be aware that until further notice, only California residents may visit the parks, and in groups no larger than 3 households, in line with current state orders. Proof of residency may be required."

1. View current theme park reservation availability. Yes. you can't just go whenever you'd like. Check the aptly named Theme Park Reservation site for the info you'll need.

2. Make a park reservation and buy your ticket. Disney has a page with the option to reserve and purchase a ticket for 1 Park Per Day Tickets and Park Hopper Tickets.

3. Check the Theme Park Tickets site. You'll find additional info for Disney California Adventure Park and Disneyland Park.

4. This page has it all. In fact, visit this Theme Park Tickets page and click on Theme Park Tickets for a pop-up with links to what you need.

Consider also: How Much Will Disney's New Line-Skipping Cost?

Leave the Park

You probably already realize this, but you don't have to stay on Disney property to enjoy the parks. You'll typically save money by staying at other Orlando-area hotels and commuting in every day. Here are some tips to help you save money by staying offsite.

• Look for deals: If you're a member of AARP or AAA, track down any deals or discounts you'll get at local hotels, as well as discounts for buying park tickets through them. Costco vacation packages include nearby resort and hotel options. During COVID, the fastpass has been suspended. If it is in effect when you visit, use it when possible to make up for not having early or late access afforded to those staying at Disney properties. Explore the availability of park hopper access, too.

• Choose a vacation rental: You don't have to stay in a hotel. Check Airbnb and VRBO for great deals on homes near Orlando.

Consider also: Is There an Airbnb Stay in Your Travel Plans?

• Arrange transportation: Even if you're only a few minutes from the park, you'll need a way to get back and forth. If you're flying there, compare the cost of renting a car to using a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft. Some hotels will also shuttle you back and forth every day.

For now, you can't just pop in at a Disney property. However, there are Disney resources online to keep you informed. You can also work with a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations. Disney World announced last week that it will not require masks for guests outdoors. Right now, the best way to enjoy Disney and find good deals is to keep up with the changing information by consulting Know Before You Go and picking the time that works for you!