Is It Weird To Do A Solo Trip To Disney World?
When I told friends and family I was planning a solo trip to Disney World, they looked at me like, ‘That’s weird”, but I didn’t let that sway me from taking the trip.
After joining social media groups that shared their experiences of a solo trip to Disney World, I knew I wasn’t alone. Now that I am back from my trip, I have experienced why many people go to Disney World solo!
In this post and my podcast episode, I will share many reasons why going on a solo trip to Disney World is NOT weird. Get excited because you are in good company if this has been on your bucket list!
Solo Trip To Disney World
I hope this inspires you to plan your trip and be excited to travel to Disney World solo. Before, I thought that since my kids were grown and my husband didn’t like to go as much as I did, Disney trips were a thing of the past.
But then I found that this is a common way for travelers to experience Disney, going solo! Because it is common, this tells me I’m not weird, and even more, I’m not alone!
Is It Fun Going To Disney World Alone?
Absolutely! As someone who enjoys solo travel, I love the freedom it brings. There’s something special about setting your own pace—whether riding Space Mountain three times in a row or leisurely strolling down Main Street, U.S.A., without worrying about anyone else’s schedule.
While I enjoy traveling as a couple or with family, going to Disney alone is an entirely different kind of fun. I get to choose what I want to eat, experience my favorite rides and activities, and soak in the magic in a personal and stress-free way. It’s a completely different experience—one that’s both exciting, incredibly relaxing, and fun!
Go At My Own Pace
From the moment I was dropped off at the airport, I could go at my own pace. It felt so different—not managing kids (no matter their age), keeping track of anyone, or constantly checking to ensure we were all sticking together. It was just me, and that was a refreshing change.
One of the things I wanted most from this trip was the freedom to make all the decisions myself, and it was so fun! If I was tired, I rested. If I wanted to ride more attractions or wander through the parks, I did. If I felt like skipping a big meal and snacking on treats all day instead, done! It was all about what made me happy in the moment, and I loved every bit of it.
For years, I’ve put everyone else first, which is okay! However, this trip was a chance to focus on what I wanted—to slow down, soak in the magic, and explore Disney World in a way that felt right for me. And honestly, it made the experience feel brand new in the best possible way.
Simple and Faster Access For Solo Travelers
Being a solo traveler at Disney World comes with many perks, like eating treats and getting on rides. I never had to worry about finding a big table or coordinating with a group. Sometimes, I got a yummy snack and ate on a bench or sat on a low wall, enjoying the atmosphere.
One thing I didn’t try but want to do next time is snagging a last-minute dining reservation or walking into a restaurant as a solo guest. Since I only need one seat, I imagine it would be easier to get in without much of a wait.
Regarding rides, single-rider lines and mobile ordering make things much more convenient. While there aren’t as many single-rider lines as there used to be, most parks still have at least one (though this can always change). I’ll take a single-rider option any day if it gets me on a ride faster!
Before my trip, I noted which attractions had single-rider lines and which required a virtual queue. Virtual queues through the Disney app are no longer in place, but things are always changing, so it’s worth checking for updates before your trip.
I didn’t plan my ride schedule down to the minute, but I knew in advance which attractions were most important to me. I also skipped Lightning Lane because, as a solo traveler, I didn’t feel like I needed it—I could move through the parks at my own pace without worrying about long waits.
Total Disney Immersion
Disney does an incredible job of fully immersing visitors in its world, making it easy to see why so many people return time and time again. It’s not just about the rides—it’s about stepping into a place where every detail is designed to make you feel like part of the magic.
From the moment you enter each park, you’re surrounded by storytelling and music. The atmosphere feels completely separate from the real world, which I love. Whether watching a parade, meeting your favorite characters and getting a photo, or catching a show, every experience is crafted to make you feel like you’re inside the magic rather than just observing it.
For some, the appeal is nostalgia—reliving or making new memories. For others, it’s about the little details: the hidden Mickeys, the themed food, the way cast members go the extra mile to make every visit special. Even something as simple as people-watching on Main Street can be an experience.
Disney immersion means different things to different people. Still, for many, it’s about feeling transported—leaving stress behind and stepping into a world where fun, wonder, and excitement are the only things that matter.
How Much Does It Cost To Go Solo To Disney World?
Like most trips, pricing a Disney vacation for a solo person versus a family will be quite different, even for a couple. I will give you a breakdown of my recent trip and suggestions to help you decide which type of trip you want to plan.
Breaking Down the Costs
For my three-day, four-night trip, I spent under $2,500, including tickets, food, merchandise, and my hotel stay. I’ll break down more below, but keep in mind that Disney trips vary widely depending on factors like hotel choice, shopping habits, ticket upgrades, and dining preferences.
One way I saved money was by using my Disney credit card, which earns points that are transferred to a Disney gift card. I used those rewards to cover the cost of the After Hours Event, a special ticketed experience I really wanted to try.
When it comes to travel, I don’t nickel and dime every little thing, but I do take advantage of opportunities like credit card points and rewards. If I am going to use a credit card anyway, I may as well take advantage and earn points and rewards.
I’ve learned that constantly chasing the ‘cheapest deal’ isn’t always the best deal. My time, comfort, and overall experience are far more valuable than saving a few bucks.
Disney Accommodations
I decided to try a hotel on the Disney World property that I had not stayed at before. I didn’t need a fancy room but wanted a fun experience. Because I am an artist, I decided to stay at the Art of Animation.
For the time of year I went, mid-January, and the type of hotel, being more economical, it was pretty reasonable. I also chose this location because I wanted to try the Skyliner. The last time I was at Disney World, it did not exist. I have stayed at properties with boats, ferries, and buses, so I was looking forward to this mode of transportation for a few parks.
Transportation
I have been a fan of Southwest Airlines for many years. If I can fly with them, I will. I got their credit card several years ago, and I built up points every month. Most trips I take are from my points, so with this trip, I didn’t pay for an airline ticket. I was also grateful that there was a direct flight to Orlando!
Once I arrived at the Orlando airport, I ordered an Uber. Some say Lyft is better there, but I am used to using Uber. The last time we visited Disney World, we took the Magical Express charter bus, but it no longer exists.
I saw many recommendations for Mears transportation, but I didn’t like making multiple stops and waiting an hour or more to reach my destination. I talked to a cast member on the phone well before my trip, and she was kind enough to advise that share riding was the fastest and best price. That turned out to be true. Uber was simple and easy to use.
Once dropped off at the hotel, I could use Disney transportation. I used the bus and the Skyliner on this trip, but I also experienced boats for other hotels we stayed at while at Disney World.
Modes of Transportation at Disney World
- Monorail – Transports to Magic Kingdom, EPCOT parks, and select resorts
- Disney Skyliner – An Aerial gondola system linking EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and resorts
- Buses – Complimentary Disney buses travel between all resorts and parks
- Boats & Ferries – Water transportation available to and from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and select resorts
- Walking Paths – Scenic walking routes between select parks and the resort
- Minnie Vans – Lyft-powered private car service for direct travel (extra cost)
- Ride Share – Lyft, Uber, etc. (extra cost)
Food and Restaurants
I made a list of foods I had read about in travel books or seen in videos and wanted to experience. Since I don’t like eating big meals, I decided to eat smaller snacks each day and work down my bucket list.
It was so much fun deciding what and when I wanted to eat—and I didn’t have to share with anyone! Plus, I decided not to overdo it but to worry about what I ate—all in moderation.
I listed what I ate in each park highlight, which I share below.
Things To Do Alone At Disney World
I’m so glad I decided to go on a solo trip because there were plenty of things to do as a solo traveler, and I didn’t feel alone or out of place. Walking around and looking at things I had never noticed before was exciting! Plus, many changes were made since I last visited Disney World.
Magical Experiences Beyond the Rides
I loved that I could ride the same rides repeatedly to sit back and enjoy the scenery. The train, the people mover, and Small World are enjoyable for sitting back, relaxing, and taking in everything.
Since I was at the park during an ‘After Hours’ event, I decided there was no pressure to ensure I got on specific rides.
As I walked around the parks, I found many photo opportunities. I had a great time taking photos with some of my favorite characters, and I look forward to taking many more! I felt like these photo opportunities were a bonus activity since I didn’t have that on my list of things to do.
Here is a list of ideas for fun selfies for you:
Magic Kingdom
📍 Cinderella Castle – The iconic must-have selfie spot
📍 The Purple Wall (Tomorrowland) – A popular backdrop
📍 Behind the Castle – Less crowded and still magical
📍 Main Street, U.S.A. Balloons – Grab a colorful shot with the castle behind you
📍 Tron Lightcycle Run Entrance – A futuristic, neon-lit selfie moment
EPCOT
📍 Spaceship Earth – Classic Epcot “golf ball” photo
📍 Bubblegum Wall (Near Spaceship Earth) – A creative backdrop
📍 World Showcase (Each Country’s Landmark) – Eiffel Tower in France, Torii Gate in Japan, etc.
📍 Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind Entrance – A fun selfie spot
Hollywood Studios
📍 Millennium Falcon (Galaxy’s Edge) – Channel your inner space traveler
📍 Hollywood Tower Hotel (Tower of Terror) – A spooky and iconic selfie
📍 Toy Story Land Entrance – Colorful and fun, with Woody in the background
📍 Echo Lake with Gertie the Dinosaur – A unique Disney photo op
📍 Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway Entrance – A classic selfie spot
My Disney World Experience
It was a big decision for me to go to Disney World solo and navigate on my own. I have done other trips on my own, so I’m not sure why, at first, I thought this would be different. It is probably because I have always gone with family.
I felt guilty about being there without them, but I quickly reminded myself that having fun and exploring on my own was good for me! Here is how my experience went.
Pre-Trip Planning
- I researched the best time to visit that worked with my schedule and landed mid-January.
- I chose to stay at the Art of Animation Resort, partly because I’m an artist and thought it would be fun and partly because it was a reasonable price for a solo trip.
- I looked into what reservations I needed to make. Since I wasn’t planning any special dining and Disney resort guests didn’t need to reserve park days at that time, the only reservation I had to consider was for the virtual queue. I also skipped Lightning Lane and Park Hopper since I was happy sticking to one park per day.
- I planned my packing in advance and challenged myself to travel with only a carry-on—which sounds a little crazy for Disney, but I made it work!
My Park Days & Highlights
🎉 Day 1: Check-in, Blizzard Beach, After Hours 🎉
Once arriving at the hotel, and I was early, I was greeted by a cast member who answered questions and gave me direction for ckeck-in. I was lucky and got a room and was able to drop off my luggage.
When I booked, Disney offered a special Blizzard Beach ticket for either check-in or check-out day. I had never been, so I changed, grabbed the Disney shuttle, and went and checked it out. January isn’t the best beach time of year, but it was nice that it wasn’t crowded.
I returned to my room to rest and prepare for my After Hours event. It was fun to get the included yummy treats, ride the walk-on rides, and watch the fireworks at the castle. I could enter at 7 p.m. with my ticket, but the After Hours didn’t start until 10 p.m. and went until 1 a.m.!
🎉 Day 2: Magic Kingdom 🎉
After enjoying this park the previous night, I was excited to get up and see everything in the daylight. There was no pressure with getting on rides since I did many the night before.
However, I did make sure I got in the virtual queue for Tiana’s Bayou Adventure. I got lots of pictures with characters, relaxed and people watched while riding the train and people mover, and enjoyed many of the rides, especially the ferry in Liberty Square since it will be closing soon. I did at least 75% of the rides, and the ones I didn’t go on, I have done many times with my family.
- Treats I tried – Mickey Mouse Cinnamon Roll (Starbucks-Main Street, U.S.A.), Creamy Bacon Macaroni and Cheese Tots (The Friar’s Nook-Fantasyland), Sweet and Spicy Chicken and Waffle Sandwich (Sleepy Hollow), Cookies (Main Street Confectionery)
- My favorite rides – Walt Disney World Railroad, Liberty Square Riverboat, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Under the Sea, People Mover, Tron.
- Solo-friendly experiences – Character photo opportunities, easy to find space at fireworks show
🎉 Day 3: EPCOT 🎉
I took the Skyliner to EPCOT, which was a pleasant experience. Once off, I headed straight to France to hop on the Ratioulli ride and enjoy a crepe. The only ride I needed to plan around was the new Tron ride, which at that time we needed to enter through the Virtual Queue (but recently dropped).
I tried to make the day as relaxing as possible and have fun exploring the different countries and their food. Since I have been to EPCOT before with the kids and we had already done an ‘Eat Around the World‘ Challenge, I wanted to make sure I found some new suggestions to try.
- Treats I tried – Chocolate Crepe with Berries (Crepes A Emporter in France), Mickey Ptezel and Cheese Dip (found in all parks), School Bread (Og Kafe in Norway), Pork and Veggie Egg Rolls (Joy of Tea-China)
- My favorite rides – Soarin’, Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, and Tron ?
- Solo-friendly experiences – Single rider line at Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure, Soarin’ is easy to get on solo, I had them call for party of one to fill a group and was able to bump up. It was a nice park to roam and explore on my own in the different countries and trying different foods.
🎉 Day 4: Hollywood Studios 🎉
I was excited about this park; I have some favorite rides here. Riding the Skyliner to Hollywood Studios and arriving for early park entry worked well. Get to the Skyliner station early to get to the park before early entry. The lines can be long, but they still organize and flow fine.
I decided to go to the Rock’ n’ Roller Coaster first. I could walk on the ride two times—I love that ride! Then, I went to the Haunted Mansion next to it and walked onto that ride. It was a strange experience being the only person on the ‘elevator’ ride.
Then spent the rest of the day exploring areas that I hadn’t seen before since it had been a while since I visited, as well as experiencing Muppet Vision since it will be leaving soon.
- Treats I tried – Ronto Wrap (Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge), Carrot Cake Cookie (Trolley Car Cafe), Lunch Box Tart (Woody’s Lunch Box).
- My favorite rides – Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, Slink Dog Dash, Mickey and Minnie Runaway Railway
- Solo-friendly experiences – Single rider line was available for Millennium Falcon Smugglers Run, Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster (which I didn’t use because of early entry), Rise of the Resistance, plenty of shows where it’s easy to find a place to sit.
🎉 Day 5: Heading Home 🎉
It was nice to take my time waking up on the last day. I got packed, walked around the resort again, and took more photos at the Art of Animation.
I called an Uber when I was there and had an uneventful ride to the airport. I had a great week, but was ready to return home.
Solo Travel at Disney
- What was it like exploring solo in park –
- I enjoyed being to go wherever I wanted to explore, relax, jump on a ride, or snack. I only needed to consult with myself.
- If something was funny or a memory from a past trip came up, and I didn’t have a family member to laugh or reminice with, I reminded myself that I could send a text, take a picture, or send my thoughts in a Snap.
- What I loved about going alone –
- There were so many people I never felt alone. I enjoy the alone time.
- Appreciating doing things that made me happy and not feeling guilty.
- I didn’t feel overwhelmed. If I did I could
- The challenges I faced –
- I read about using white noise to drown out sounds from neighbors in hotel. Since I was staying in a more compact room with neighbors, I brought my white noise machine. I was so grateful that I did. I’m a light sleeper and my neighbeor had a fussy baby.
- I felt I planned well, and the week went great.
- Safety & confidence going solo to Disney –
- If I need anything, cast members are available.
- I felt safe and knew that I could get help if needed.
- Solo Perks –
- Easier Dining – Walk-up availability is much better when you’re a party of one.
- Flexible Schedule – You can do what you want, when you want, without worrying about keeping up with others.
- People-Watching – Disney is one of the best places for this! Get a coffee or snack, sit back, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Disney World Advice For Solo Travelers
- Would I do a solo Disney trip again?
- For sure! I’m excited to go back, create a different itinerary, and stay at a different resort.
- Disney changes things, and every trip can be different.
- My biggest takeaways from the experience
- Disney is great for kids of all ages 4-94!
- Just as many adults, solos, and seniors seem to visit as families with young kids.
- I had a new appreciation for those using scooters. Reading experiences shared by others in social media groups, and seeing the struggles of them trying to get around in park, I was more sensitive to giving them the room they needed.
- It’s a great vacation for solo travelers
- Encouragement for those considering a solo trip
- This is a great destination for a first solo trip. You are never truly alone and I feel it’s safe. Take usual precautions when walking alone, etc., but there are always help and kind people nearby.
🔈 Click Here: Podcast Episode #9 – Solo Trip To Disney World 🔈
Final Thoughts On Doing A Solo Trip To Disney World
I’m so happy I took this trip and got to experience Disney World on my own. It was freeing, fun, and exactly what I needed. I’d totally do it again, maybe with a different schedule or focusing on different parks next time.
While I may not have planned another solo trip to Disney World yet, this experience was the perfect springboard for more solo adventures. I’m excited to explore other theme parks, take more cruises, and keep checking off all 50 states!
If you dream of your own Disney trip, whether solo, as a couple, or with the whole family, I’d love to help you plan an itinerary that makes your journey stress-free and unforgettable!
