What to Expect on a Make-A-Wish Disney Trip

What to expect on a make a wish disney trip – What to expect on a Make-A-Wish Disney trip is a journey of magic, filled with wonder and unforgettable moments. It’s a chance to escape the everyday and immerse yourself in a world of Disney dreams, where wishes come true and memories are made that will last a lifetime.

From the moment you step into the park, you’ll be greeted with warmth and personalized attention. Make-A-Wish families are treated like royalty, with special accommodations and services designed to create a truly magical experience. The trip is carefully planned to ensure that every wish is granted, with opportunities to meet beloved Disney characters, experience thrilling rides, and enjoy world-class dining.

The Magic Begins

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants wishes to children with critical illnesses, offering them moments of joy and hope. For many children, a Disney trip is the ultimate wish, a chance to escape from their everyday struggles and experience the magic of Disney.

Planning Your Trip

Make-A-Wish works closely with families to plan the perfect Disney trip. The process begins with a wish coordinator, who will help the child and their family explore their options and choose a destination.

Connecting with Make-A-Wish

To make a wish with Make-A-Wish, families can contact their local chapter or visit the Make-A-Wish website. They will need to provide information about the child’s diagnosis and medical needs, as well as their interests and preferences. The wish coordinator will then work with the family to plan a wish that is safe, feasible, and meaningful.

Planning with a Wish Coordinator

Once a wish is granted, the wish coordinator will guide the family through every step of the planning process. They will work with the family to:

• Choose a Disney destination
• Determine the length of the trip
• Book accommodations, transportation, and park tickets
• Arrange for any special needs or accommodations
• Plan activities and experiences

Disney Destinations Available Through Make-A-Wish

Make-A-Wish offers trips to various Disney destinations around the world. These destinations include:

• Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida: This is the most popular destination for Make-A-Wish trips, offering four theme parks, two water parks, and a variety of other attractions.
• Disneyland Resort in Anaheim, California: Home to two theme parks, a shopping and dining district, and a luxurious hotel, Disneyland offers a more intimate experience than Walt Disney World.
• Disneyland Paris: Located in the heart of Europe, Disneyland Paris offers a unique blend of American and European culture. The park features a classic Disney theme park, a shopping and dining district, and several hotels.
• Tokyo Disney Resort: This destination offers a unique Japanese perspective on Disney magic. The resort features two theme parks, a shopping and dining district, and several hotels.
• Hong Kong Disneyland: This park offers a unique blend of Asian and American culture. The park features a classic Disney theme park, a shopping and dining district, and several hotels.

Unique Experiences at Each Destination

Each Disney destination offers unique experiences that can be tailored to the child’s interests. For example, at Walt Disney World, children can meet their favorite Disney characters, ride thrilling roller coasters, and enjoy world-class dining. At Disneyland, children can experience the magic of the original Disneyland park, visit the Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge land, and enjoy a variety of dining options.

Each destination offers something special for every child.

The Disney Experience

The Disney experience for Make-A-Wish families is designed to be magical and memorable. The organization works closely with Disney to ensure that every aspect of the trip is tailored to the child’s wishes and needs, creating an unforgettable experience for the entire family.

Special Accommodations and Services

Make-A-Wish families receive a range of special accommodations and services designed to make their Disney trip as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

• Priority Access: Make-A-Wish families often receive priority access to attractions and shows, minimizing wait times and allowing them to experience more during their visit.
• Personalized Experiences: Disney Cast Members go above and beyond to personalize the experience for each child, often incorporating their favorite characters, themes, and activities into their day.
• Dedicated Support: Make-A-Wish volunteers and Disney staff are available to assist families throughout their trip, providing guidance, answering questions, and ensuring their needs are met.
• Accessibility Services: Disney parks are designed with accessibility in mind, offering a variety of services for guests with disabilities, including wheelchair rentals, accessible restrooms, and assistive listening devices.

Disney Parks: Attractions, Shows, and Dining

The Walt Disney World Resort in Florida and the Disneyland Resort in California offer a wide variety of attractions, shows, and dining experiences to cater to all ages and interests.

Magic Kingdom

The Magic Kingdom is the quintessential Disney park, filled with classic attractions, beloved characters, and a fairytale atmosphere.

• Attractions: Popular attractions include the iconic “It’s a Small World,” the thrilling “Space Mountain,” and the whimsical “Peter Pan’s Flight.”
• Shows: The Magic Kingdom is home to several spectacular shows, including the “Festival of Fantasy Parade” and the “Happily Ever After” fireworks display.
• Dining: From casual quick-service restaurants to fine dining experiences, the Magic Kingdom offers a variety of options to suit every taste and budget.

Epcot

Epcot is a park that celebrates the world through its diverse pavilions, showcasing different cultures, cuisines, and entertainment.

• Attractions: Epcot features thrilling rides like “Test Track” and “Mission: SPACE,” as well as educational experiences like “Soarin’ Around the World.”
• Shows: The World Showcase Lagoon hosts several spectacular shows, including the “Disney Harmonious” fireworks display and the “Epcot International Festival of the Arts” celebrations.
• Dining: Epcot boasts a wide array of dining options, from authentic international cuisine to innovative fine dining experiences.

Hollywood Studios

Hollywood Studios is a park that celebrates the magic of movies and television, featuring immersive experiences, thrilling rides, and live entertainment.

• Attractions: Popular attractions include the immersive “Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge,” the thrilling “Twilight Zone Tower of Terror,” and the interactive “Slinky Dog Dash.”
• Shows: Hollywood Studios features live shows like the “Fantasmic!” water spectacular and the “Indiana Jones Epic Stunt Spectacular!”
• Dining: From casual dining to upscale restaurants, Hollywood Studios offers a diverse range of dining options.

Animal Kingdom

Animal Kingdom is a park that celebrates the beauty and wonder of the animal kingdom, featuring immersive experiences, thrilling rides, and educational encounters.

• Attractions: Animal Kingdom features attractions like the “Avatar Flight of Passage,” the “Kilimanjaro Safaris,” and the “Expedition Everest.”
• Shows: The park hosts several live shows, including the “Festival of the Lion King” and the “Rivers of Light” water spectacular.
• Dining: Animal Kingdom offers a variety of dining options, from quick-service restaurants to fine dining experiences, often with a focus on African cuisine.

Character Interactions, What to expect on a make a wish disney trip

Character interactions are a key part of the Disney experience, allowing guests to meet and interact with their favorite Disney characters.

• Character Meet-and-Greets: Throughout the parks, guests can meet and take photos with beloved characters like Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and princesses.
• Character Dining: Some restaurants offer character dining experiences, where guests can enjoy a meal while interacting with Disney characters.
• Character Parades and Shows: Character parades and shows feature a variety of Disney characters, providing opportunities for interaction and entertainment.

Beyond the Parks: What To Expect On A Make A Wish Disney Trip

While the theme parks are the heart of any Disney trip, the magic extends far beyond their gates. From vibrant shopping and dining districts to luxurious resorts and exciting water parks, there’s a world of experiences waiting to be discovered.

Disney Springs

Disney Springs is a sprawling entertainment, dining, and shopping complex located just outside the theme parks. With over 150 shops and restaurants, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. From upscale boutiques to unique souvenirs, you’ll find everything you need to bring home a piece of Disney magic.

Disney Resorts

Staying at a Disney resort offers a unique and immersive experience, allowing you to truly embrace the Disney magic. Here are some benefits of choosing a Disney resort:

• Exclusive Amenities: Disney resorts offer a wide range of amenities, including swimming pools, restaurants, and character appearances. Many resorts also have unique features, such as water slides, lazy rivers, or even private beaches.
• Convenient Access to the Parks: Disney resorts are conveniently located near the theme parks, with complimentary transportation options available. This allows you to maximize your time at the parks and avoid the hassle of parking or driving.
• Extra Magic Hours: Guests staying at Disney resorts enjoy early park entry, known as Extra Magic Hours, giving you an advantage in experiencing popular attractions before the crowds arrive.

Disney Water Parks

For a day of fun and thrills, head to one of Disney’s two world-class water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. These parks offer a variety of attractions for all ages, including thrilling water slides, lazy rivers, and wave pools.

Making Memories

Your Make-A-Wish Disney trip is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and it’s crucial to make the most of every moment. This section provides tips to help you capture memories that will last a lifetime.

Packing for a Magical Trip

Packing for a Disney trip requires careful consideration, especially for families with special needs. Here’s a list of essential items to pack for a Make-A-Wish family:

• Comfortable Shoes: Walking is inevitable at Disney, so pack comfortable shoes for everyone, including slip-on options for easy on and off. Consider packing multiple pairs to switch between and ensure proper foot support.
• Lightweight Clothing: Disney parks can get hot, so pack lightweight, breathable clothing in layers. Opt for moisture-wicking fabrics that will keep everyone cool and comfortable.
• Rain Gear: Florida weather can be unpredictable, so pack ponchos or rain jackets for everyone. Umbrellas can be cumbersome, so consider using a stroller or wheelchair for cover.
• Sunscreen and Hats: Protect everyone from the sun with high-SPF sunscreen and wide-brimmed hats. Reapply sunscreen frequently, especially during peak hours.
• Reusable Water Bottles: Staying hydrated is essential, especially in the Florida heat. Pack reusable water bottles and refill them at water fountains throughout the parks.
• First-Aid Kit: Pack a basic first-aid kit with essential items like bandages, pain relievers, and any medications needed.
• Snacks: Pack snacks to keep everyone energized throughout the day. Consider healthy options like fruit, granola bars, or trail mix.
• Entertainment: Pack books, games, or electronic devices to keep everyone entertained during downtime or travel.
• Special Needs Equipment: Pack any necessary special needs equipment, including wheelchairs, walkers, or medical supplies. Check with Disney in advance about accessibility features and services available.
• Camera and Charging Equipment: Capture those magical moments with a camera or smartphone. Pack extra batteries or charging equipment to ensure you don’t miss any photo opportunities.

Managing Crowds and Maximizing Time

Disney parks can be crowded, especially during peak seasons. Here are some strategies for managing crowds and maximizing time, especially for families with limited mobility:

• Utilize Early Entry: Take advantage of early entry options for guests staying at select Disney hotels. This allows you to experience popular attractions with fewer crowds.
• Use Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane: Disney Genie+ is a paid service that allows you to book Lightning Lane passes for select attractions, reducing wait times. Consider utilizing this service, especially for popular attractions.
• Plan Your Day: Before your trip, create a detailed itinerary for each day, prioritizing attractions and shows. This will help you make the most of your time and avoid unnecessary waiting.
• Take Advantage of Rider Switch Service: This service allows one adult to wait with a child who is too young for an attraction while the other adult rides. This saves time and ensures everyone gets to enjoy the experience.
• Use Accessibility Services: Disney offers various accessibility services for guests with disabilities. Check with Guest Relations for details on wheelchair rentals, assistive devices, and other accommodations.
• Take Breaks: Don’t try to do too much in one day. Take breaks throughout the day to rest and recharge. Consider heading back to your hotel for a swim or nap, especially during the hottest hours.

Capturing Memorable Moments

A Make-A-Wish Disney trip is a special occasion, and it’s important to capture those precious moments. Here are some tips for capturing memorable moments:

• Plan Photo Opportunities: Before your trip, research popular photo spots and make a list of must-have pictures. This will help you ensure you capture all the key moments.
• Use Disney PhotoPass: This service allows you to capture professional photos with Disney characters and at various locations throughout the parks. Photos are available for purchase or included in certain packages.
• Take Advantage of Character Meet and Greets: Meet and greet opportunities with beloved Disney characters are a highlight of any Disney trip. Capture these moments with photos and videos.
• Document the Journey: Keep a journal or scrapbook to document your experiences, thoughts, and feelings throughout the trip. This will help you preserve the memories and share them with loved ones.
• Use a Variety of Media: Capture memories using a variety of media, including photos, videos, and even audio recordings. This will provide a multi-sensory experience when you revisit those memories.

A Make-A-Wish Disney trip is more than just a vacation; it’s a transformative experience that leaves a lasting impact on everyone involved. It’s a reminder that even in the face of adversity, hope and joy can prevail. The magic of Disney, combined with the unwavering support of Make-A-Wish, creates a truly special journey that will be cherished for years to come.

FAQ Resource

How long does a Make-A-Wish Disney trip typically last?

The length of a Make-A-Wish Disney trip varies depending on the individual wish and family needs, but it usually ranges from a few days to a week.

Are there any age restrictions for Make-A-Wish Disney trips?

While there’s no official age restriction, Make-A-Wish focuses on granting wishes to children with critical illnesses, typically between the ages of 2 and 18.

What kind of medical support is available during the trip?

Make-A-Wish works closely with medical professionals to ensure that all necessary medical support is provided throughout the trip, including access to healthcare facilities and specialized equipment.

Can families bring along siblings on a Make-A-Wish Disney trip?

Yes, Make-A-Wish encourages families to bring along siblings to share in the magical experience. They understand the importance of family bonding and making memories together.

What are some of the most popular attractions for Make-A-Wish families?

Popular attractions for Make-A-Wish families include iconic rides like Space Mountain, Haunted Mansion, and Pirates of the Caribbean, as well as character meet-and-greets, parades, and fireworks shows.