8 Things To Do on Your Disney World Arrival Day to Kick Off Your Vacation
Just arrived at Walt Disney World, but don’t want to use a park ticket? No sweat. If you’re wondering what to do on arrival day at Disney World, this post is for you!
There are so many ways to kick off your vacay the moment you drive under that iconic “Welcome to Walt Disney World” sign.
Here are (8) fun, stress-free things to do on Disney arrival day — plus our favorite insider tips to make your first day smoother.
Book Your Trip To Walt Disney World
1. Head to Disney Springs
Disney Springs is one of the BEST ways to kick off your Disney vacation — no ticket required.
Stroll, shop, eat, and soak in the atmosphere.
- Sample wine from around the world at Wine Bar George
- Browse the World of Disney store for Minnie ears, mugs, or toys.
- Catch live music and entertainment.
- Stay for the drone light show.
2. Enjoy Complimentary Water Park Access
If you are staying on property, Disney resort guests can enjoy complimentary water park admission on check-in day.
Note: Disney currently has two water parks. Typically one is operational at a time.
For example, Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon Water Park operating hours are from 10 am to 6 pm.
Since we usually get to our hotel around 2 pm, we haven’t been able to take advantage of this perk, but it may work for you!
As a resort guest, you also get complimentary towels, so no need to rent or bring your own.
3. Cool Off at the Pool
You’ve been traveling all day — you deserve to relax!
The best way to jumpstart your vacation is to jump in the pool.
Pack your swimsuit in your carry-on backpack so you can head straight to the pool while waiting for your room.
Alternatively, check out the splash pads and water play areas at your resort.
Whether you splash with your toddler or sip a drink poolside while people-watching, this is the easiest way to reset and officially say, “We’re on vacation!”
4. Grab a cup of Joffrey’s Coffee
For all my Joffrey’s Coffee fans, the first order of business is grabbing a cup of coffee, an iced latte, or a sweet treat like jumbo glazed donuts.
Resorts like Caribbean Beach Resort conveniently have a Joffrey’s right on property.
6. Explore Your Resort (and Get Settled In)
Your resort has so much to offer beyond just a place to sleep. Take a walk around and get familiar with where everything is:
- Locate ice machines, laundry facilities, the food court, and bus stops.
- Grab a map from the front desk because knowing where these are ahead of time saves headaches (and unnecessary extra steps) later.
- Browse the gift shop and take note of souvenirs you might want to purchase later.
- Discover fun extras, like the arcade at Coronado Springs or the hammocks by the lakeside beaches.
7. Join a Resort Activity
Most Disney resorts offer a variety of fun, family-friendly activities right on property.
Look for:
- Movies under the stars
- Marshmallow roasting
- Kids’ crafts and games
Check the resort activity board or ask the front desk when you check in for the schedule.
8. See Fireworks Without Entering a Park
Did you know you can watch the fireworks from outside the Disney theme parks.
Some resorts and restaurants have amazing viewing spot such as:
- Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood at Gran Destino Tower in Coronado Springs offers incredible views of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios fireworks.
- Watch from the beach at the Polynesian — it’s one of the most relaxing ways to end the night.
- If you time it right, you can catch the EPCOT fireworks while riding the Skyliner.
Other Disney Arrival Day Tips
Here are some additional tips to ensure your arrival goes smoothly.
1. Place Your Grocery Order
Skip the overpriced snacks on property and stock your room with essentials. Place an Instacart order on arrival day.
Need help deciding what to buy? We’ve created the ultimate Disney grocery list — just add to cart and you’re done!
We’ve even included toddler-friendly snacks and meal prep tips in our Toddler Planning Bundle — perfect for families who want to save money and avoid meltdowns.
Grab the Disney with Toddlers Vacation Planning Bundle here!
2. Bring Cash
Bring singles for tips — for Mears Connect drivers, waitstaff, bell services, and grocery deliveries. A little kindness goes a long way (and keeps the day running smoothly).
3. Unpack Your Suitcases
Take 15 minutes to hang up your clothes, fold the rest into drawers, and lay out park outfits for tomorrow. This small step makes your mornings SO much smoother — especially with toddlers in tow.
4. Go Easy on Yourself (and Your Schedule)
Arrival day is full of moving parts. Your plane might be delayed, your room may not be ready exactly at check-in time, and everyone is probably tired.
Our family used to go directly to Magic Kingdom the day after we arrived, but now we prefer visiting EPCOT. This way, we can sleep in a bit after a long travel day, stroll around the World Showcase, and enjoy nibbling on our favorite treats.
Whatever you do, pack your patience and stay flexible. You’re officially on Disney time — and the magic has already begun.
Final Thoughts
You don’t need a park ticket to start your Disney vacation. With pools, fireworks, shopping, and resort activities, there’s plenty to do.
Which of these arrival day activities will you try? Or do you have your own must-do arrival day tradition? Tell us in the comments. We love hearing how other families start their trips!
