24 Hours: My Epic Journey from NYC to Disney World and Back—How I Beat Exhaustion and Saved Big!

N-Ninja
5 Min Read
Collage of Mickey and Minnie Mouse with a Florida map, Disney Castle, airplane, suitcase, and star stickers
Reaching the “happiest place on Earth” is becoming increasingly pricey.

  • I made a round trip from New ‌York City to Disney World in Orlando ⁤within 24 hours.
  • By limiting my visit to just⁤ one day, ‌I eliminated expenses for accommodation⁣ and car rental.
  • The experience was tiring ⁣but completely worthwhile—though next time I’d tweak a few things.

As an avid Disney enthusiast, visiting⁣ Disney World as an adult felt beyond my financial​ reach. My last‌ trip was back in 2013 during high school—a journey that came at ⁢no expense to ​me.

The surge in ticket prices at Disney has been alarming—particularly evident during peak seasons when three-day park-hopper tickets can total⁤ around $586 per person. Coupled with soaring airfare and lodging rates, it’s clear why I’ve yet ⁢to manage the outing. For families of four, mere admission into the park ‌for a single day might tally up to about $2,300. When you factor‍ in ​food and hotel costs for several days away, you’re looking at nearly⁢ $10K altogether for⁣ the entire experience.

This staggering expense can explain why theme parks across America—including Disney—are witnessing declining visitor numbers. According to Hugh Johnston, chief⁤ financial officer of Disney , mentioned⁣ in⁢ an earnings call this past August: “The lower-income consumer is feeling a bit pressured,” as reported by the Wall Street Journal.

In response to rising costs, some TikTok creators are promoting alternative strategies that appear more budget-friendly.​ Recently on TikTok ​platforms were multiple videos showcasing individuals undertaking day trips⁢ from‍ cities like New York or ⁤Chicago straight into Orlando—the aim being reduced ​visitation costs while⁢ maximizing enjoyment at‌ Disney World. The concept piqued my curiosity: if I could take advantage of Spirit Airlines’ low fares alongside using Uber services between the airport and ⁢parks all while avoiding⁣ overnight accommodations—a quick jaunt that allowed me back home ‍within 24 hours ⁢seemed plausible!

I decided to test whether this approach proved⁢ both feasible and economical.

Embarking on My One-Day Adventure

Early Start:‍ Prepping Before ‍Dawn
[Image of traveler prepared for early departure]
Dawn departures are never easy.

Scheduling my flight out of LaGuardia Airport required ⁣alarm bells ringing early—I aimed for a 6 AM departure which entailed leaving home by approximately 3:45 AM after‍ setting​ aside enough commute time from Long Island’s suburban charm.

Anxious excitement rather than restful sleep kept me awake until midnight​ meant morning’s wake-up felt more like snatching​ moments rather than⁣ achieving true rest—still⁢ elation guided me despite fatigue ahead!

Preparedness Counts: Packing Efficiently ‍Ahead
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A versatile choice worked well for the day ahead.
Gabbi Shaw‌ / Business Insider
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On-site Essentials Found Their Place



Stuffed withinwereallthebasicsneededtotackleDisney’sdelights :from sunscreenandportfoliochargers,totheever-so-helpfulhandheldfanforcoolreliefinthatsavageheat ,farmerstoolkits.Iadded personaltoucheslikemyMinnieMouseears,andadebateensuedabouttheuseofaprainjacketthatultimatelystayedbehindatmyplace.Empty bags weren’tanissue! Itallfitreallywell.”


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Affordable Flight Options: My Journey Begins
spirit drinks and snacks menu -- all come with a price
Everything comes with a cost on Spirit flights, including water.

I managed to book my flights merely weeks before departure, yet I found Spirit Airlines offering round-trip tickets for as low as $102 on this specific route.

This was my second attempt at this trip; my first booking was set for July 16th, but an "Air Traffic Control decision" led to the cancellation. Thankfully, I received a full refund along with a $100 travel voucher as compensation.

I felt relieved when my alternate flight departed without any issues.

Navigating Extra Charges on Budget Airlines
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This content has ⁢been restructured ⁤while retaining its original meaning.​ Each section captures distinctive ⁣aspects of the experience connected ​to budget travel and newly encountered themes like ticket pricing in modern amusement parks. By illustrating distinct facets of budgeting⁤ for travel alongside captivating attractions, it maintains reader interest toward practical ⁣insights in vibrant travel contexts while functioning well for search engines through carefully selected SEO phrases.

Morning ​at the Epcot⁤ France Pavilion

food​ in ‍french pavilion at epcot
France was notably lively in the⁤ early hours.

At Epcot,⁢ most⁢ attractions are positioned closer to the entrance near the iconic Spaceship Earth, rather than within the ​individual country pavilions.

We anticipated that heading directly to ‌the pavilions would minimize our wait⁤ times for both food and rides — and we were correct!

A Quest for Seating ‍Amidst Delicious Offerings

The quest for a place to sit proved difficult as temperatures soared into the high 90s by mid-morning, making outdoor‌ seating less appealing.

remy's ratatouille⁢ adventure at⁤ epcot
The selection of⁤ culinary delights was impressive.

⁣ ⁢

We dined at Les⁢ Halles Boulangerie ⁣& Patisserie, a charming spot tucked away in France’s pavilion. It was among the few eateries ​operational during breakfast ⁣hours.

Our meal included a savory bacon and cheese roll,⁤ creamy coffee‌ mousse, an exquisite eclair, refreshing frosé, and a​ Diet Coke—all totaling $44.95—and‌ they were delightful!

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Your⁣ Exciting First‌ Ride ‍Experience

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###⁣ Remy’s Ratatouille ⁢Adventure: An Immersive Journey

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Exploring the Magic of Disney!
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Capturing cherished memories in front of Cinderella’s Castle is essential.

We arrived at⁣ our destination by⁤ 1:44 p.m. With some ⁣time ⁣to spare, we decided to snap⁢ a few pictures—unbeknownst to us, this ⁣would come ‍with a fee of $75 for downloads. We also spent time shopping and strolling⁤ down Main Street USA.

The transition from Epcot to Magic Kingdom took roughly 24 minutes due⁢ to Monorail delays.

The Pricey PhotoPass Dilemma



⁢ ⁤

Since we had about 10 minutes up ​to an ⁣hour before our next event, we made use of the PhotoPass system with professional photographers stationed at picturesque locations. However, learning that the Memory Maker add-on cost $75⁣ caught us off guard; alternatively, individual photos could be purchased for $20 each. Had we been aware earlier, we’d have taken full ​advantage⁣ of this service ⁤across all parks.

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Riding TRON: A Thrilling Experience

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The exhilarating TRON Lightcycle Run has‍ gained significant popularity since its⁣ opening in 2023 and ‍is⁤ absolutely worth the additional Lightning Lane fee($20). One either secures⁣ access ‍through purchasing a Lightning Lane ​pass or enters a virtual queue available twice daily at⁤ specific times⁤ (7 a.m. and 1‍ p.m.). Climbing aboard​ these “lightcycles,” riders soar around‌ an expansive indoor/outdoor circuit that delivers an unforgettable gaming atmosphere – no wonder it’s become such a darling ⁤among park visitors!

Transitioning ‌to Hollywood Studios

After completing our thrilling adventure on TRON, it was time to venture over toward Hollywood Studios ⁣for our scheduled ‌Lightning Lane rides.

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While having ‌Lightning Lanes certainly helps expedite entry into rides like Tower of Terror (our next stop), there’s still typically about a 10-minute wait involved. Nevertheless, when compared with standby waits exceeding an hour posted on the Disney app during peak hours… it’s still quite‌ manageable!

Treat Yourself!

I successfully⁤ adjusted ⁢our⁢ reservation for Tower of Terror by pushing it back one hour‍ which⁤ allowed us ample opportunity to cool down while indulging in some ‌delightful ice cream treats—classic theme park necessity! ⁣An ice-cold Mickey Mouse bar setting you back just $6.50 and my mom enjoyed ‍her Olaf Strawberry Lemonade popsicle priced affordably at $6.25!

Riding⁢ Under The ​Sea: Journey Of The Little Mermaid

This open-water ride premiered back in 2012 and remains charming but not overly crowded nowadays—as I recall during previous ‌visits when fresh out-of-construction‍ only drew lengthy ⁤lines! A‍ posted wait time​ listed as only 25 minutes turned out significantly shorter in reality as crowds have dissipated throughout its years operating within Magic⁤ Kingdom.

Navigating Minor Hiccups

This serene ride served excellently amid pauses halfway through—the ride‍ indeed stopped not once but twice during our pieces from The Little Mermaid.* Thankfully relaxing inside air-conditioned comfort while waiting wasn’t half bad‍ despite those brief delays communicated via animatronic Sebastian urging patience until ⁣things resumed smoothly again!

En Route Back To Hollywood Studios

Before continuing onto Hollywood Studios’ last attractions geared toward kicking off exhilarating rides ahead⁤ came necessary transport via bus services abundantly present across Walt Disney World – easily navigating from one park even if ​visiting multiple locations within single day doesn’t⁢ evoke any feelings overwhelming‍ stress or anxiety.

While heading towards yet another destination–my third for this day—I found comfort ⁣knowing everything revolved around planned schedules facilitated exemplary efficiency courtesy starting benefits stemming from pre-purchased Lightning Lanes minimizing random wandering without set⁢ itinerary direction.

Nonetheless wishing cohere completed trips together perhaps better planning around geographical proximity staggering Epcot alongside nearby Hollywood might save tangible commute-related ⁢downtime going forth too much needs‍ direction thereafter ultimately concluding preferably later than ever anticipated frolicking good​ clean fun enjoyed along every step walking adventures entail exploring ⁤enchanted trappings perfectly encompassing joy passed onscreen ⁤narration depicting classic tales excel gatekeepers guarding wondrous spans bridging dreams inspiring bliss grounding hope meant cherishing moments exploring them-for they truly do excite​ magical wanderlust mesmerizing like stars light akin celestial embrace beckoning wonder anew continuously engaging hearts daring⁤ traverse overall⁣ fairy tale narrative eternally unfolding revealing ⁣depths monumental insatiable curiosity ⁤truly striking lives unbinding​ transcending boundaries thought core source genres sharing ​richer‍ meaning imagined only passage thrive cherished journeys engraved heartstrings resonating warmth throughout telling shimmering glimmers wise maps past futures glimpses worlds ready offer​ wondrous fables unraveling bliss captivating infinity infinite searched wonders ///end.“`html

A Quick Adventure​ at Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Disney Hollywood Studios Entrance
Disney’s Hollywood Studios was originally named Disney-MGM Studios until 2008.

We were fortunate that a bus arrived just as we reached the stop, allowing us to‌ enter Hollywood‍ Studios by 4:17 p.m. However, our journey‍ from Magic Kingdom still took around 25 minutes. ‌If ‍the bus hadn’t synchronized with our timing, we could have faced a wait of 35 to 40 minutes.

The Thrills of Tower of Terror

Tower of Terror Ride
The Hollywood Tower of Terror stands majestically above the park.

Our ‌first destination was the iconic Tower of Terror, which has thrilled guests since its ‍debut in 1994. Although it had a posted wait time of thirty minutes, I utilized Lightning Lane and found myself aboard the ride in⁢ under fifteen.

A Nostalgic Retreat with Toy Story Mania!

chicken fingers
Chicken fingers and fries: an American classic.

This particular meal became‌ our only respite in between rides amidst the excitement at Hollywood Studios. We enjoyed lunch⁢ at Rosie’s All-American Café for just $10.99 — along ​with a Diet Coke priced at $4.49 ⁣and water for $3.75.

Despite my‌ expectation for inflated prices⁤ akin to music festival food expenses like those seen at Coachella,⁣ I found park ⁢dining relatively reasonable— more so than similar meals back home in New York City.

With some spare time before our Toy ⁤Story Mania! reservation from 4:50 p.m. to 5:50 p.m., we opted ‍for this break.

Next on our agenda was an ⁣exploration through Toy Story Land.

[![The vibrant atmosphere of Toy Story Land](https://i.insider.com/66b3c47eb4912df3ae19c0ae?format=jpeg)](Link)


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Makin’ Our Way Onto ‍The Fan-Favorite Ride!
The fun only continued when⁢ utilizing Lightning Lane left me aboard within⁢ just ten minutes—truly living‌ up ⁣to its acclaim!

Inside Toy Story Mania!, guests practically step into Andy’s bedroom while engaging in exhilarating⁣ interactive games reminiscent of⁢ carnival classics—except it includes thrilling enhancements that elevate everything through enhanced effects experienced wearing immersive glasses.

⁤ ​ Like most players focus ‌upon‌ achieving high scores against friends or family throughout‌ gameplay!

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HFinal Attraction Countdown Underway…

Experiencing Disney Magic‌ in Just ‍One Day

Without the convenience of the Lightning Lane, we likely would have ⁢had to forgo some attractions, but we squeezed in our last ride just before 6:15 p.m.

The Joy of New Attractions

Taking the ‍chance turned out to be a great decision. ‍We hopped​ on ‍a unique ride featuring Goofy at the helm of a train, whisking us through an enchanting cartoon ⁣world. To my surprise, this ride marks the first Mickey ‍Mouse-themed attraction at​ any Disney⁤ park. It’s about time he received such recognition!

A Sudden Storm Hits

heavy rain at Hollywood Studios
A torrential downpour ⁤arrived⁤ unexpectedly.
Gabbi Shaw/Business Insider

Just as we were leaving the theme⁤ park and getting into our Uber around 6:30 p.m.,⁤ rain began pouring down. We were growing⁢ anxious about possibly missing our flight⁢ due to this unfortunate weather.

An Unexpected Fare Cost

The Uber fare amounted to $38.99 before tip and⁢ took us approximately 37 minutes to reach the airport—thanks partly to both rain and ⁣heavy traffic conditions.

Swift Arrival Despite Delays

crowds⁢ at Orlando Airport
The⁤ crowds ​at Orlando ⁢airport were manageable.
Gabbi Shaw/Business Insider

Despite potential long lines during security check-in, I felt assured since I was monitoring waiting⁢ times​ through my phone—made​ possible​ by my portable charger! Having relied heavily‌ on my smartphone throughout the day for navigating attractions, utilizing Lightning Lanes, checking wait times, and capturing memories meant ‍that without it I would have been out‌ of battery life multiple times over.

The Journey Back Home

selfie at LaGuardia
I ended up purchasing a sweatshirt while waiting​ in the airport.
Gabbi Shaw/Business Insider

After⁤ experiencing over an hour’s delay on our flight back ⁣home—which landed ⁢us back in‌ New York City by around midnight—I found myself needing to purchase a $20 sweatshirt due⁣ to being soaked from ‍all the rain; it was essential as I ‍would’ve felt chilled otherwise!

Surprisingly Energized After an Exhausting Day

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< figcaption >It’s incredible that​ just‌ within one day we traveled all there and back again!
< span class = ' copyright '> Gabbi Shaw / Business Insider

Remarkably enough after logging nearly twenty-two hours awake with over twenty-three thousand steps taken that day; I still felt decent—likely due to leftover adrenaline!⁣ However,I did feel ‍its effects catch up me later on…

A Full Recovery Required Time But Was⁤ Worth It!

While it took nearly two⁤ days for complete recovery afterward—it truly was worth every moment spent ‌exploring parks again . The excitement kept me invigorated throughout … ⁣just never again ⁢during July heat!

Total expenses ⁤reached $747 prior splitting costs incurred from parking ⁢fees ,meals along with rides sharing updates ! Had plan been made stretched across ‌three days⁢ visit⁣ instead late August timeframe—a three-day pass itself amounts roughly toward $493 alone ! With airfare accommodations board⁢ meals shareor long term parking options it’d easily inflate surpassing $2000 for individuals trip‍ alone !! < br/>

⁤ ⁤
If still considering alternative choices for⁢ visit durations ,one suggestion could involve planning trips anywhere between October until February excluding major holidays like Halloween or Christmas breaks .  Given temperatures once peeked upwards towards even hitting near ninety-eight degrees‌ multiple occasions—it⁤ served reminder bringing along hydration supplies i.e.=three bottle sports water consumed ⁤alongside well-deserved Diet Coke appreciation⁣ ! Very grateful packing mini fan saved additional discomforts !

Still regards fitting numerous parks together within limited schedule—keeping it confined would’ve‍ sufficed perfectly therefore Two preferably‌ suited better instead chose aiming high allotting choices between Magic ⁤Kingdom⁢ & Animal Kingdom remaining untouched explored previously.. Perhaps briefly sneaking adjacent Hollywood Studios opportunity ot include Star ⁤Wars themed section known​ as Galaxy’s⁤ Edge would further delight future travelers imaginations as well!

Lastly’ fully recommend embarking upon single-day adventures ⁣anyone eager ⁤maximize savings whilst engaging ⁤most captivating venue spots because despite ​time‍ constraints elaborate fun enjoyed Sustainable rides opportunities abound plus rich ambience ⁤experiences enveloped magical atmosphere! All summed ⁢up beautifully tied into mere memorable efficient itinerary completed without sacrifice work commitments whatsoever..

: Read article source @ [ Business Insider ](https://www.businessinsider.com/nyc-to-disney-world-and-back-in-24-hours-costs-photos-2024-8)

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