How to Visit Disney for Cheap

Book lodging at a time share resort such as West Gate, although there are dozens of options in Orlando (see Resources). It is possible to reserve a spacious condo with a kitchen for under $50 per night. In return for your attendance at a 2-hour, hard sell presentation, you will get beautiful accommodations and two free 1-day tickets per room to the park of your choice.

Upgrade your free tickets to 4 day tickets at any Disney ticket booth. In 2009, your base ticket has a value of $79, and you can upgrade for $146 per ticket. Do not waste money on park hopper tickets because you will be able to visit one of the four parks each day.

Park at Downtown Disney to avoid the $12 per day parking fee, and utilize the free buses that run to all of the parks. Plan to arrive at the lot 1 hour before the park opens so you can be there right at park opening.

Eat breakfast in your condo, and pack nonperishable snacks to carry into the park. Snack during the morning so that you do not have to eat lunch until late in the day. Return to Downtown Disney to eat a large, late lunch. Both Wolfgang Puck Express and the Earl of Sandwich offer huge portions that can be shared between two adults for under $10 in 2009. Replenish your snack supply to carry you through the afternoon, and then share a large dinner in the park at a counter service restaurant.

Buy one souvenir. You can find a Christmas ornament, commemorative pin or the iconic Mickey ear hat for less than $15. If your kids would normally choose stickers, a shirt or a stuffed animal, purchase it elsewhere before your trip and surprise them with it in the park.