Purchase tickets from Disney websites in advance using the Internet. The prices will be lower than if you wait until the day of arrival. Research optional means to obtain discounts through travel agents who specialize in Disney vacations. These companies offer discounts on tickets purchased online ahead of time, or can put together package deals that include your hotel and entrance to the theme park. Have a credit or debit card available to make the purchases online. Many discounted passes allow entrance to multiple Disney parks in the city, including California Adventure in California and four Walt Disney World theme parks in Orlando. These are generally knows as "park hopper" passes.
Join an automobile club such as AAA (aaa.com) before purchasing tickets to Disney theme parks. AAA offers reduced rates on admission for both single park or park hopper tickets and annual passports. When purchasing with AAA, parking is free at Disneyland, which can be a considerable savings. Disney World purchases through AAA have various specials such as a "Kids Eat Free Orlando" card or discounts to special Disney events. AAA vacation planners can also put together packages that include lodging and park entrance.
Purchase an annual pass to Disney theme parks (ticketstore.disney.go.com). The passes are valid every day of the year, and include extra benefits such as free parking and discounts for restaurants and merchandise. Residents of California or Florida receive additional discounts and the ability to pay in monthly installments. You will need to provide proof of residency, and your ID will be checked upon entrance each time you visit. Plan ahead and check blackout dates, as well as limited times of day. Resident annual passes are limited to 170 days that are pre-selected by the park.
Research alternate means to obtain discounts, such as EBay auctions (ebay.com) to purchase unused tickets from individuals whose plans may have changed after buying the passes in advance. Use caution when bidding with unknown sources, and never buy partially used tickets, as they may no longer be valid. Another option for getting reduced rate or free Disney tickets is to attend a timeshare presentation by companies wishing to sell shared ownership properties in the area. These will require that you commit to staying for the duration of the presentation and a sales pitch at the end.
