10 Walt Disney World Terms You Need To Know

If you're planning your first Walt Disney World vacation, then you've probably noticed that it can sometimes feel like learning another language. Between "Lightening Lanes", "rope drop", and "Park Hoppers", it can feel like you might need a translator to make sense of it all.

The good news? Once you understand a few key terms, navigating your Walt Disney World vacation becomes much easier. Here is a list of 10 terms that every guest should know before arriving at the Most Magical Place on Earth!

1 - "Lightening Lane"

A Lightening Lane is Disney's skip-the-standby-line service. Instead of waiting in the regular queue, guests can reserve a return time and enter through a much shorter line. This service is available for an additional fee as an add on for your vacation.

There are two main types of Lightening Lane access. Lightening Lane Multi Pass allows guest to reserve a time for a variety of participating attractions throughout the day. Lightening Lane Single Pass is purchased individually for select higher-demand attractions that are not included with the multi pass. Examples of these might be Seven Dwarfs Mine Train in the Magic Kingdom or Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind in EPCOT.

Why it Matters: Understanding how Lightening Lanes work can be the difference between riding your favorite attractions or waiting for hours in lines.

2- "Rope Drop"

"Rope Drop" refers to arriving at the parks before it officially opens and heading straight to the most popular attractions as soon as guests are allowed to enter. This is a technique used to help lower your wait time for some of the higher=demand attractions.

The term comes from the actual rope that once separated guests from different sections of the park before they opened.

Why it Matters: "Rope Drop" is one of the best free strategies for minimizing wait times.

3- "Virtual Queue"

A virtual queue is Disney's system for joining a line for select attractions without physically waiting in a standby queue. When available, guests use their My Disney Experience app to secure a boarding group and return when their group is called.

Why it Matters: Brand new attractions as well as some more popular attractions will sometimes use this option to allow guests to enjoy their time in the park doing other activities instead of waiting in long lines. These virtual queues can fill up quickly so understanding how they work can help you avoid missing out.

4 - "Memory Maker"/"PhotoPass"

Disney PhotoPass is Disney's photography service, with photographers located throughout all of the parks to capture your vacation memories. Memory Maker is the add-on package that gives guests access to unlimited downloads of their PhotoPass photos and attraction pictures. You'll find PhotoPass photographers at iconic locations like Cinderella Castle, EPCOT's World Showcase and many character meet-and-greets.

Why it Matters: Memory Maker can be a great value for families who want professional quality photos without constantly having to hand their phone to a stranger. Plus, some PhotoPass photos have extra "magic" what can only be captured by these photographers.

5 - "Park Hopper"

A Park Hopper ticket allows guests to visit more than one theme park in the same day. For example, you may want to enjoy your morning in Magic Kingdom and then later in the evening visit EPCOT.

Why it Matters: Park Hopper tickers offer flexibility for your vacation.

6 - "Early Entry"

Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels receive Early Entry, a perk that allows access to all four theme parks before regular park hours. Even 30 extra minutes can make a huge difference when it comes to riding some of the more popular attractions.

Why it Matters: This is one of the most valuable and time saving perks of staying on property at Walt Disney World.

7 - "Mobile Order"

Mobile Order allows guests to order their food in advance at select locations using the My Disney Experience app. Many quick-service restaurants throughout Walt Disney World offer this feature.

Why it Matters: Mobile Ordering can save valuable time, especially during busy meal periods.

8 - "Disney Bubble"

The "Disney Bubble" may not be an official Disney term, but it is one you will hear often. It refers to the feeling of being completely immersed in the Disney vacation experience - from the resorts and theming to transportation to the parks and entertainment - without needing to leave Disney property.

Why it Matters: Many guests choose to stay on property specifically to enjoy the "Disney Bubble" experience.

9 - "Rider Switch"

Rider Switch (also known as Rider Swap) allows adults traveling with children to take turns riding attractions that smaller children either cannot ride due to height restrictions or simply do not wish to ride. One adult waits with the smaller child while the other rides, then they switch without both waiting through the full line. To use, simply ask the cast member at the front of the attraction and they will be able to assist you.

Why it Matters: This option allows families to enjoy more attractions together without doubling their wait time.

10 - "MagicBand+"

A MagicBand is a wearable wristband that can be used for park entry, Lightening Lane access, resort room entry, PhotoPass photography and so much more. MagicBand+ is the current generation of these wristbands with updated features will sync to shows and attractions and sometimes even interact with them.

Why it Matters: MagicBands simplify your vacation and reduce the need to pull out your phone or wallet throughout the day.

Disney planning can feel overwhelming at first, but learning a few common terms will help you feel much more confident before your vacation. The more familiar you are with Disney's planning tools and terminology the easier it becomes to spend less time stressed and more time making magical memories.

If you're looking for help making your next Walt Disney World vacation feel easy and elevated, allow me to help! Email ashleyrice@ifyoucandreamittravel.com to get started today!