Disney's ticket program is called "Magic Your Way." It's fairly simple--the more days you buy your ticket for, the less you pay per day. Choose the number of days carefully, unless you've purchased the expensive "No Expiration Date" option. If you're not planning on visiting more than one park a day, don't purchase the "Park Hopper" option. Same thing with "Water Parks and More," buy only if you're going to use it.
Sign up for the free monthly email newsletter at MouseSavers.com. Sent on the 15th of each month, it is full of useful information on the parks, including the latest discounts. It also contains a special link to a Disney authorized ticket agent, where you can buy Disney tickets at a discount. Mouse Savers asks that the link not be shared; it's only available through the monthly newsletter. Mouse Savers also warns its subscribers if there are rumors of Disney raising ticket prices, so you can purchase them before the price goes up.
Take advantage of any clubs that you're a member of that may offer discounted tickets. AAA, AARP, and other organizations often offer Disney discounts for tickets and discounted rooms as well. Members of the U.S. Armed Forces should also check to see if military discounts are available.
Check the latest Disney promotions. In 2009, Disney offered a free ticket for your birthday, while in 2010, it's a free ticket for volunteering. Disney will also sometimes offer discounts if attendance has been down. Check the official Walt Disney World website to see if any are being offered when you're planning to travel.
All over the Orlando area you'll see booths with signs that proclaim "Free Tickets." Chances are it's a timeshare pitch. It's possible to get great discounts or free tickets by taking a timeshare tour. However, be warned, they're very high pressure for an on-the-spot decision. You won't be given your tickets until the pitch is over, so you're using valuable time from your vacation. If you have the resolve to say no, then this might be an option for you. But, for people who are easily talked into things, it might be cheaper in the long run to just purchase tickets.
