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Texas to Walt Disney World drive

Texas to walt disney world road trip planner.

Here's a sample itinerary for a drive from Texas to Walt Disney World. If you're planning a road trip to Walt Disney World, you can research locations to stop along the way. Make sure you check road conditions to double check the weather. Traveling with a dog or cat? Find pet-friendly stops . Camping along the way? Search for RV campgrounds . Find the best hotels, restaurants, and attractions based on the most talked about places recommended by Trippy members.

10:00 am  start at Texas drive for about 2 hours

12:02 pm   Fort Worth eat at Joe T. Garcia's stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:02 pm drive for about 3 hours

day 1 driving ≈ 5 hours find more stops

10:00 am  leave from Shreveport drive for about 4 hours

1:50 pm   Jackson (Mississippi) stay for about 1 hour and leave at 2:50 pm drive for about 3.5 hours

day 2 driving ≈ 7 hours find more stops

9:00 am  leave from Mobile drive for about 3.5 hours

12:44 pm   Tallahassee stay for about 1 hour and leave at 1:44 pm drive for about 3 hours

4:36 pm   Ocala stay for about 1 hour and leave at 5:36 pm drive for about 1.5 hours

7:06 pm  arrive at Walt Disney World

day 3 driving ≈ 8 hours

Where should I stop along the way?

Fort Worth   (43 answers)     Kimbell Art Museum   (9 mentions)     Fort Worth Zoo   (5 mentions)     Billy Bob's Texas   (5 mentions)     Amon Carter Museum of American Art   (5 mentions)     Modern Art Museum of Fort Worth   (5 mentions)     restaurants around Fort Worth:         Joe T. Garcia's         Love Shack     questions about Fort Worth:         Best free things to do in Fort Worth?         Best neighborhoods for 20 somethings to live Shreveport   (20 answers)     R.W. Norton Art Gallery   (2 mentions)     questions about Shreveport:         Best free things to do in Shreveport? Jackson (Mississippi)   (16 answers)     questions about Jackson (Mississippi):         What's going down in Jackson, MS for New Years Eve? Mobile   (26 answers)     questions about Mobile:         Bus pickup/drop off location?         Restaurants Tallahassee   (15 answers)     questions about Tallahassee:         Best free things to do in Tallahassee?         Pet friendly hotel Ocala   (6 answers)

What are some things to do in Walt Disney World?

This section could be endless, so rather than trying to suggest every local activity or attraction, we'll leave it open-ended.

Of course, Trippy is the perfect place to ask questions because there's an entire community of travelers talking to each other and sharing tips and advice. Trippy is where you can get answers personalized for your tastes, budgets, trip dates & more!

For example, here are some questions people have asked about Walt Disney World. Click on any question to see answers from the community!

Click the button below to explore more questions and answers related to Walt Disney World.

Do I really have to go back home?

Yes, even this step is optional, because if you're on vacation who wants the trip to end? It's okay, you can start planning your next trip!

Want to plan the trip back? Get the reverse directions for a Walt Disney World to Texas drive , or go to the main page to plan a new road trip .

You can also compare the travel time if you're flying or driving by calculating the distance from Texas to Walt Disney World . Or get a full Texas to Walt Disney World flight plan .

Don't forget about exploring your own hometown with a staycation. You can also find some cool day trips or get away for a weekend. Maybe try typing in a faraway location like London, Hong Kong, or Sydney, and get inspired for your dream trip around the world.

And if you know Texas well, please help your fellow travelers and answer their questions about Texas!

More info on this route:

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Road Trip! Drive to Disney World!

There was a time when most middle-class American families vacationed by car. At some point airfares became quite competitive and family life got busier, so most families started flying to vacation destinations that were more than a couple of hundred miles away. But don’t discount the idea of driving to Disney World.

Why Drive to Disney World?

Entertainment along the way, bringing stuff from home saves you money, planning and navigating.

First, it can save you a lot of money. See below for details.

Second, a road trip can provide great family memories. The slower rate of travel gives you time to talk and laugh together — and it allows your kids to get a better idea of what a BIG country this is!

A third advantage: you don’t have to rent a car when you get to Disney!

MouseSavers.com reader Kim M writes:

“My husband and I have 3 children and have been Disney fans since before they were born. I wanted to share with you a great money-saver we have used now for over 8 years. Here is what we did to enjoy a fabulous Disney vacation (and continue to do each year now): yes, I am talking about DRIVING to Disney! I know most families say we are crazy, but other friends have joined us now and wish they had done so long ago. We live in Connecticut and it is a drive, but well worth the trip if you plan accordingly. We own a small minivan which did help for space, but you don’t need a van. If you decide to vacation with other families, consider caravaning . Bring walkie-talkies and this way you can have a conversation with the other automobiles. My kids had the best time with this. You can even play games with it – count the different state license plates, etc. …. I pack each of the kids a special Disney-trip bag just for the journey (use your imagination) filled with travel games, books, puzzles, new toys. You don’t have to spend much to fill each bag. Another tip: we used the Harry Potter audiobooks . They were great! My point is that we save on the average $1,000 each trip by driving . I can promise you every one of our friends that now drives has said we were right and it saved them a lot of money which they used on the trip. We all look forward to the drive and have our own games we play in the car.”

MouseSavers.com reader David W writes:

“I’d like to offer some tips and encouragement for those contemplating a driving vacation to Disney. In a word: DO IT! Even though gas prices are astronomical these days, it’s miles cheaper than flying for us. We’ll be taking a party of five, and we estimate our round-trip gas expense to be about $325 (2500 miles @ 25 mpg for $3.25/gal average). That works out to $65/person travel expense. Compare that to *any* flying rate during peak season — we figure the savings is literally in the thousands.”

Several readers have pointed out that a small television/DVD combo can be purchased quite inexpensively and will keep the kids entertained for hours in the back seat. If you install one in your car, please be sure to anchor it very carefully to prevent accidents — remember, if it’s not solidly attached to something, it can become a missile if you stop suddenly! There are LCD flat screens that can be bolted to the ceiling or strapped to the back of the front seats, which may be the safest option. Thanks to mateysrule for suggestions.

There are other ways that driving can save you money, too. A big advantage is that you can take along a lot of heavy things that you would never carry with you on an airplane, such as cases of bottled water.

MouseSavers.com reader Charlotte R from Medina, Ohio, writes:

“We find we save money by driving rather than flying. Besides the obvious (saving on airfare), we save on food and stroller rental . I pack 2 coolers. Instead of using ice to keep our supplies cold I freeze bottled water . Not only do [the bottles] cool the food, we then also have a cold supply of water for the parks. Surprisingly the bottles will stay frozen up to a week when kept in the cooler. I also found you can freeze those “juice bags” for the kids (i.e. Capri-Sun). We have 2 small children (2 and 4) so we take our own double stroller to the park . That way we aren’t having to try to carry and control 2 kids while waiting to get to the stroller rental area, plus the kids are a lot more comfortable. Having our own stroller allows us also to bring in our small cooler with our frozen water & snacks.”

Good choices for food to take in the car don’t require refrigeration and are easy to eat without a table: individual cups of cereal; peanut butter (with bread or crackers), apples, bananas, granola bars, beef sticks/jerky, juice boxes. You can keep milk on ice in a cooler, or consider bringing the small boxes of milk that don’t require refrigeration. These food items can also be used once you arrive in Orlando, to provide breakfast in your hotel room .

“ Plan your drive using online mapping resources like maps.google.com , www.mapquest.com , or www.randmcnally.com . They can give you detailed directions, mileage and time estimates, and alert you to interstate highways versus state roads. You can plan ahead for brief stops for lunch, gas, or simple bathroom breaks. When planning drive times, take into account the loss/gain of an hour if you cross time zones . If Mapquest tells you a drive is, say three hours, that’s actual driving time, but crossing a time zone may make it four ‘clock’ hours. That may be important when scheduling check-ins or making reservations at restaurants. Invest in an inexpensive, portable GPS system for the trip. Even if you have detailed maps, a GPS system can tell you in advance when you’re approaching an important exit, giving you time to make any necessary lane changes safely AND not miss that important turn-off! Hand-held GPS systems can be had these days for less than $200 at most major electronics retailers.”

Road Trip from Houston to Orlando

If If you're up for one of the ultimate Southern highway experiences, look no further than the road trip from Houston to Orlando. From the beautiful Gulf of Mexico to the incredible metropolises and natural landmarks, you're guaranteed to have an unforgettable time.

The 960-mile road trip from Houston to Orlando takes 13 hours of pure driving. Stops include Kisatchie, Apalachicola. and De Soto National Forests, beaches of Destin, Florida, and the cities of Baton Rouge, New Orleans, Lafayette, and Tallahassee.

Check out the sections below for help on planning your road trip, including best route, places to stop overnight and things to see along the way.

How far is Orlando from Houston and how long will the road trip take?

The road trip from Houston to Orlando is about 960 miles and will take you 13 hours of pure driving on without accounting for any lunch breaks or stops for gas.

You could theoretically set off at sunrise and get to Orlando before the end of the day, but a more enjoyable way of doing it would be to split the trip into at least a couple of days.

The great thing about the drive is that it's essentially a straight eastward cruise for most of the way - never straying from the interstate, the route is ideal for inexperienced drivers or those looking to immerse themselves in the scenery as they travel.

If you get caught in traffic leaving Houston on getting into Orlando. this could easily add another couple of hours too. Things can get even more congested near Baton Rouge, which is why many people driving this itinerary prefer to go around this city.

Choosing to do so will lead you through New Orleans instead, which is an adventure in and of itself. If you want to see everything this city has to offer, you may want to devote a few days of your trip just to New Orleans.

Best road trip route from Houston to Orlando

The best road trip route from Houston to Orlando is via Interstate 10 - other than the occasional detour for sightseeing, you'll be sticking to this road for much of the drive until just before you've reached Orlando.

Road Trip Route from Houston to Orlando

Take Interstate 10 out of Houston, passing through Beaumont and past McFaddin and Sabine National Wildlife Refuges. Make a quick stop at Lake Charles, and from Lafayette, detour north to visit Kisatchie National Forest and Alexandria.

Back on the interstate, drive past Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge before going into Baton Rouge via Interstate 12, or circumvent the city altogether by following Interstate 10 through New Orleans instead.

Either way, you'll find yourself on Interstate 10 at Pearl River Wildlife Management Area - follow it past De Soto National Forest and through Choctawhatchee and Holmes Creek Water Management Area, then detour to the coast to see Apalachicola National Forest.

Rest up at Tallahassee, then drive through Twin Rivers State Forest before taking Interstate 75 south at Osceola National Forest. Follow this interstate past Orange Lake and Ocala National Forest, and you'll soon find yourself in Orlando.

Best places to stop between Houston and Orlando

If you stop overnight twice on this road trip from Houston to Orlando, you'll be looking for comfy places to stay and fun things to do. With so many cities to pick from, you have more great hotel options than you can imagine, but here are some of the best ones the route has to offer.

Whether you're flying into Houston or you simply don't have your own transport in the city, renting a car for your road trip is something you'll want to take care of ASAP.

For an easy-to-compare view of rental options for your road trip from Houston to Orlando, take a look at our partner site, RentalCars.com .

Enjoy the city view at Tallahassee

Located in the beautiful Floridian North, Tallahassee is a great place to stay when exploring the final stretches of the drive. Of all the amazing hotels here, the best one would have to be Hotel Duval, with its mind-blowing balcony view of the city .

There's nothing like waking up to an amazing sunrise and beautiful architecture, and that's exactly what you get when you start your day in this hotel's amazing suites.

If the weather isn't ideal for city-gazing on the balcony, you can always relax in the lobby and get to know some of your fellow travelers, hit the fitness area for a workout, or even challenge someone to a game of pool.

If you get hungry, the two on-site restaurants offer spectacular steak and a rich, all-American menu.

Besides being centrally located in the city of Tallahassee, the hotel is extremely affordable, especially when you consider just how much it has to offer - just be sure to book a room well ahead of time.

Experience the very best of Orlando

With a final destination as epic as Orlando, you'll want to top the experience off with an amazing hotel. If you want a stay that can't be beat, Wyndham Bonnet Creek Resort features a water park and six amazing swimming pools for your enjoyment.

As you might imagine, this place is effectively part hotel, part amusement park - regardless of whether you're traveling with family, friends, or a partner, you'll be spending much of your time here at the pools or water slides, basking in the Orlando sun.

Once you decide it's time for a break, the beautiful rooms overlooking the gigantic exterior are the perfect place to rest up before heading out again. Be sure to grab a meal and a drink at the restaurant and bar first though!

As far as entertainment goes, you'll have your pick of countless activities, from exercising at the gym and doing karaoke to mini-golf and even a hot tub for maximum comfort - there's even a spa center on top of all that!

Unsurprisingly, this is one of the most expensive places you could stay while visiting Orlando, but that should come as no surprise considering there is literally no amenity this amazing resort doesn't provide.

Things to see on a road trip from Houston to Orlando

This road trip from Houston to Orlando offers many interesting places to stop and see en route, from museums and state parks, to lighthouses and beaches. You could spend a lot longer than 3 days on this journey if you have the time.

Here's a list of the places you should consider seeing on your road trip from Houston to Orlando:

• Lafayette – One of the earliest major cities on this route, Lafayette is known for its bustling art scene and the various scenic natural landmarks in its vicinity.
• Jungle Gardens – if you've ever wanted to visit China, look no further than the beautiful Chinese garden located near Lafayette.
• Kisatchie National Forest – Located near Alexandria, slightly north of the main route, this gorgeous forest is absolutely worth the detour.
• Avery Island – An 8-mile-long salt dome under the Earth's surface. It's the home of Tabasco hot sauce! Stop here for a tour of the Tabasco museum and factory.
• Beauvoir – Offering guided tours in the home of the ex-confederate president of the Confederate States, Beauvoir also has a garden and a nature trail.
• Biloxi – This city by the Gulf of Mexico is one of the region's defining beach resorts.
• Baton Rouge – One of the ultimate Mississippi River city cities, Baton Rouge, is a bustling metropolis with some of the region's most beautiful architecture.
• New Orleans – A cornerstone of Southern culture and one of the most significant cities in the history of American.
• De Soto National Forest – This scenic forest is one of the best hiking spots in all of Louisiana.
• Perdido Key State Park – Calm waters and white sand make this a nice spot to stretch your legs and enjoy the sunshine.
• Pensacola Lighthouse & Maritime Museum – Located on the Naval Air station in Pensacola, prepare yourself for amazing, panoramic views from the top of this lighthouse – well worth climbing all the stairs to get up there.
• Destin, Florida - one of the best-known seaside resorts in the Florida panhandle with gorgeous beaches and resorts.
• Eden Gardens State Park – A historic site of 163 acres with blooming ornamental gardens, butterfly garden and rose garden for nature lovers to explore.
• St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge – Fishing, bird watching and nature trails. A great pitstop for lovers of wildlife.
• Tallahassee Antique Car Museum – For automobile lovers, the 100,000-square-foot building houses antique cars, trucks and memorabilia for you to enjoy.
• Tallahassee Museum – In the heart of downtown Tallahassee lies this museum featuring a working 1880s pioneer farmstead and a native wildlife of Florida habitat.
• Jacksonville – One of America's largest and most densely populated cities is a must-see during this road trip.
• Paynes Prairie Preserve State Park – Located near Orange Lake, this is the place to visit if you want to see some interesting local wildlife.
• Ocala National Forest – Home to hundreds of lakes, this forest provides a beautiful alternative to Florida's often-crowded beaches.

Best time to go on a road trip from Houston to Orlando

You can do this road trip all year round if you have to, but to guarantee good weather so that you can enjoy the beaches and forests along the way, you should choose to go in the warmer months.

One of the perks of visiting in the summer is that the city is at its liveliest - places like Disney World are packed this time of year, and there are also plenty of bustling attractions to keep the grown ups entertained.

The downside of visiting in the summer is that things can get unbearably hot - and the heat can be exacerbated by crowds at major tourist spots.

If summer is a bit much for you, you can always visit in the winter for a similar atmosphere at a lower temperature - winter holidays tend to result in an uptick in young visitors from December to February, although the nights can and will get too chilly for comfort for some people.

Spring and fall are amazing times to visit if you want to dodge the crowds, but one thing to keep in mind is that fall in Orlando is often plagued by hurricanes. With that in mind, spring tends to be the more conservative option.

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How to Prepare for a Road Trip to Disney World

Every day, plenty of Disney World visitors make the journey to Orlando by car . The whole park is well equipped to handle a large number of vehicles and is well-equipped with disabled parking lots and electric car charging stations. The Magic Kingdom alone has a parking lot big enough for over 12,000 cars.

Flying may be faster, but you can save a lot of money by driving to Orlando, particularly if you are vacationing during the high season or with a large group. Driving also gives you the freedom to bypass the Disney transportation system and use your vehicle to travel between parks, which can help you save time. However, there are a few things everybody should know about preparing for a long drive with kids, where to stop on the way, and where to park when you get there.

Preparing Before the Drive

Before you leave home, your car should be in tip-top shape and ready to travel. Take care of any major or minor vehicle repairs in advance, and also check your tires. Remove any non-essential items from the trunk and passenger areas. In addition to having enough room for your luggage, make sure you have space to bring back souvenirs.

Driving With Kids

If you've got a car full of kids who can't wait to arrive, there are lots of ways to keep them entertained on a long car ride. Firstly, keep plenty of snacks and bottled water on hand, especially if you have young children. This is also a great time for a sing-a-long of everyone's favorite Disney songs via Radio Disney , but there are also Disney-related podcasts that can help keep everyone hyped up. Road trip toys and car games are also a great way to make use of the long hours spent in the car.

Stopping Along the Way

If you are traveling to Disney World from out of state, you can stop by the Florida Welcome Center as soon as you cross the state border. It's not only a good place to stretch your legs, but you can also pick up some brochures and maybe even find coupons for other Orlando attractions. If you cross the border from Interstate 75 or 95, you'll still have a couple of hours of driving to go before you get to Orlando. Keep an eye out for rest stops along the route with restrooms and restaurants. Don't forget to bring lots of change for the tolls if you are taking the turnpike, or you can roll straight through them by paying with a SunPass, Florida's electronic toll collection system.

Parking at Disney

If you are staying at Disney-owned hotel, you'll be able to park overnight at your resort , so drive straight there to check-in and park. Unless you are a Disney Vacation Club Member , every hotel charges a fee for overnight parking which can range between $15 and $25 per night. However, parking at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort is included with the cost of your campsite.

If you are just visiting Disney for the day or staying at a hotel off-property, you'll need to pay for a parking pass, which is good for all four theme parks. Standard parking begins at $25 per day but can cost up to $50 for preferred parking, which means you can park in a lot closer to the entrance. Parking at Disney Springs, ESPN Wide World of Sports, and the Disney water parks is complimentary. For guests with disabilities, there are multiple Disability Parking Lots, which are located near the entrance. If you are parking in one of these lots, make sure you show your handicapped parking placard at check-in, so you don't have to pay for parking.

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Directions & Parking – Frequently Asked Questions

What are the best  driving routes to Walt Disney World Resort?

It's easy to drive to Walt Disney World Resort. We're located southwest of Orlando, off Interstate 4, west of Florida’s Turnpike. View our interactive map for detailed driving directions to Walt Disney World Resort .

Here are some sample routes from major United States and Canadian cities:

Atlanta, GA

I-75 South to Florida’s Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits

I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

Chicago, IL

I-65 South to I-24 East I-75 South to Florida’s Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits

Columbia, SC

I-26 East to I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

I-20 East to I-49 South to I-10 East to I-75 South to Florida’s Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits

Hilton Head Island, SC

US 278 West to I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

Montreal, QC

take I-87 South to I-287 South to I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

New Orleans, LA

I-10 East to I-75 South to Florida’s Turnpike South toward Orlando to Interstate 4 West to Walt Disney World Resort Exits

New York, NY

From 416, take 401 South, 137 to the border to I-81 South, connect to I-83 South, then I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

Raleigh, NC

Toronto, ON

Take I-90 South to I-90 West to I-79 South to US-19-Alt South to I-64 East/I-77 South to I-26 East to I-95 South to I-4 West to Walt Disney World Exits

Washington, DC

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Related Questions

What is the best way to get around Walt Disney World Resort?

What are the best driving routes to Walt Disney World Resort from within Florida?

Which Walt Disney World Interstate exit should I take?

Tips for Making the Drive to Walt Disney World

The great American road trip is back! Many of us are preferring to travel by car, if we travel at all, right now. If you’re considering taking a road trip to Walt Disney World, you’ll want to prepare before your trip. Save yourself some time and some stress and plot your trip ahead of time. To help you with your planning, I’ve pulled together some of my favorite tips for a road trip to Walt Disney World.

Plot Your Road Trip to Walt Disney World Ahead of Time

You may know how to get from point A to point B, but make sure you take time to research what will be along the way. I am a big fan of using Google Maps. Besides planning your pit stops such as filling up for gas or stopping for lunch, it’s a good idea to really familiarize yourself with the route. I’ll share some tips for planning pit stops in just a moment, but what I want to point out here is to just familiarize yourself with the general plan. What are the roads involved? Will there be tolls? What alternate routes are available?

Of course the great news is there’s lots of GPS-enabled apps available. From Google Maps to Waze, you’ll be able to get real-time traffic and other alerts. Although these GPS apps are an invaluable tool, it can be hard to adjust on the fly if you’re not familiar with the route and alternatives. I don’t know about you, but I always worry about having to glance down at my phone to make sure I know what road to turn on or what exit to take when I am not familiar with the roads.

 Plan a Few Pit Stops

One of the advantages of a road trip to Walt Disney World is that you have the comfort of your car. Even if you rent a car you’ll have more space than other means of travel, and you can pack a bunch of stuff like groceries,  bedding, and other comforts that you can’t pack when traveling by plane. But, it takes longer and the active mental focus of driving can strain the driver, so plan out some pit stops for food, gas, and restrooms.

First, I use the Directions function to get direction and a route. Then I look for any large cities or towns along the way. I click on that city, which changes the view in Google Maps, and then I select “Nearby”. From here you’ll able to search for restaurants, gas stations, coffee shops–practically any type of establishment to see what is nearby. Just make sure what you find is near the road you’ll be traveling along.

Most likely you’ll be using a major highway for at least one part of your trip. Here are links to rest areas along some of the highways most people use to travel to Walt Disney World.

• Rest Areas on Interstate 95 in Florida
• Rest Areas on Interstate 75 in Florida
• Rest Areas on Florida’s Turnpike
• Rest Areas on Interstate 4 in Florida

Select Some Podcasts to Listen to on the Road

Chances are you have your favorite Disney music ready to go. I love having a playlist or two ready to go anytime I drive somewhere. But, I also fine that being in the car is the best time for me to listen to a podcast. Here are some suggested Disney podcasts for your listening pleasure.

• Disney Dish with Jim Hill and Len Testa
• Enchanted Ears Podcast – Ep. 115 Interview with Len Testa
• WDW Tales Podcast
• Parkscope Podcast
• Retro Disney World Podcast

Consider a Stop at a Florida Roadside Attraction

You may want to just drive straight through as much as possible to get to Walt Disney World as quickly as possible. But hear me out, the wait times are at an all-time low. Consider making things a little more leisurely this time around. Do something different and stop at a roadside attraction. Here are some of my picks for best roadside attractions in Florida. Of course, a lot of this majorly depends on where you’re heading from, so I am offering a wide variety of options.

The most famous roadside attraction in Florida is arguably Weeki Wachee State Park. With its underwater swimming mermaid show and beautiful natural springs, and a small water park, it is a great roadside attraction. It is, however, southwest of Orlando so it is not on the way to Disney for most travelers. Also, the park is temporarily closed, so be sure to check their website for updates.

If you’ll be traveling through the panhandle of Florida you absolutely must stop at Goofy Golf . This miniature golf course is in Fort Walton Beach and has been in operation since 1959. That’s 12 years before Walt Disney World even opened!

Another must-do if you are traveling through the panhandle is the Florida Caverns State Park . This is perfect for those that love natural beauty. Normally you can explore incredible underground caverns. However, right now this part of the park is closed. You can travel the trails and enjoy the picnic area which are lovely and a great way to stretch your legs and take a break from the road.

Another famous roadside attraction is Silver Springs. Just over an hour north of Orlando, Silver Springs State Park is famous for it’s glass-bottom boats. You can also rent kayaks, canoes, or stand-up paddle-boards. This once privately owned attraction is now a state park. It is an incredible opportunity to see Florida’s natural beauty. It is open to limited capacity right now so be sure to keep this in mind when planning to visit.

Driving along A1A for an hour or two is still on my must-do Florida list, and I was born and raised here. Consider planning some time to travel along A1A, on Florida’s Atlantic coast. While Florida has a network of scenic byways, A1A is the only one designated as a National Scenic Byway. You don’t even have stop anywhere, just the drive itself is scenic enough. But there are plenty of coastal town cafes along the way.

On the east coast, if traveling along I-95 consider making a slight detour to the Ponce Inlet Lighthouse . This lighthouse is a Florida icon and is featured in lots of photography. There is a nominal admission charge which includes access to climb to the top of the lighthouse, and admission to the small museum. The views are spectacular.

Of course, the oldest city in America is quite the side trip when embarking on a road trip to Walt Disney World. Whether you choose to visit the St. Augustine Lighthouse and Museum or Fort Matanzas National Monument , you’re in for a real treat. Both sites are full of history and unique views. If you don’t want to carve out extra time in your travels, consider at least driving through part of St. Augustine on your way. It is truly the most special city in the state.

Tips and Information

• Remember to budget hotel and theme park parking costs.
• Pack sanitizer or wipes, accessible in the cab of your car.
• Keep a few masks accessible in your car for pit stops and fuel stops.
• Pack snacks and fluids.
• Travel on a weekday if possible to avoid higher traffic.
• Please drive safely and make sure your vehicle is in good repair before hitting the road.

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6 thoughts on “ Tips for Making the Drive to Walt Disney World ”

I did a road trip 3 years ago, 2017, with my daughter. I made the point to always stop at Starbucks when possible.

Starbucks reliably have the cleanest and best facilities at home.

It worked very well! The Starbucks along the way we’re always very clean.

One additional suggestion: get good, old-fashioned paper map(s) that cover the area you will be driving. Online maps are good but can be limited. Sometimes you need a broader view.

Drink plenty of water and try to get some healthy food if possible. You could really do yourself in (don’t ask me how I know) if you don’t drink enough and just eat garbage. If it’s a long drive, you are already sitting for a long time. The restrooms on the way are not always the cleanest, and right now it can make you nervous. You want to feel good and be able to hit the ground running from the first day of your trip.

These are great tips, thanks Sonia!

I use GasBuddy app to see who has better gas prices when it’s time to refuel. Works great!

Good tip, thanks Sarah!

Comments are closed.

9 Road Trip Essentials You Must Have for Driving to Disney Alone (Solo Disney Trip)

Can you pretend I’m shaking your hand through the screen? Because am I PUMPED that you are going on a road trip to Walt Disney World all on your own!

Congratulations on taking this first (very brave) step.

Driving to Disney is an experience in itself.

The beautiful scenery rushing past you, loud music (or an audiobook if you prefer) and the slow build of anticipation. 

And then you glimpse the gates of Disney in the distance. The rush is unbelievable.

But you know what can ruin this exhilarating feeling?

Three words: under-packing, overpacking and bad packing.

And that is why I am going to list some road trip essentials for you so your trip to the Magic Kingdom stays…well, magical.

However, if you’re still on the fence about this road trip, let me list a few pros down:

• You can take whatever you want
• You don’t depend on busses or taxis
• You can spend less on food
• You get places much faster
• You don’t have to wait in line for your bags at the end of the day

Now, all I have to do is get you ready for your adventure! 

THIS POST MAY CONTAIN AFFILIATE LINKS. PLEASE READ MY  DISCLOSURE  FOR MORE INFO.  Which means if you click on certain links, I may receive a small commission at no additional charge to you.

1. Car Stuff

This is arguably the most important section of this article. You can do without a clean pair of shoes but not your car papers, you know what I mean?

Just get your car checked before you hit the road. And keep those documents handy in case there’s potential trouble.

This includes:

• Important documents (license, car registration, insurance, etc)
• Some Windshield wipers 
• Windshield wiper cleaning liquid
• Breath mints (What? It’s important)

Save on your Disney World tickets with Tripadvisor TODAY!

2. Entertainment 

So it’s a long road trip with just yourself for company . It doesn’t have to be boring at all! 

In fact, it is the best kind of road trip to Disney World because you can listen to whatever you like, wear whatever you want and basically do anything.

Heck, you can sing to Boyz II Men while driving at 75 miles an hour wearing a charcoal face mask. It’s your vacation!

Here are some entertainment essentials you might need for doing that:

• A music subscription (Apple Music, Spotify, Pandora, YouTube, etc.)
• Headphones (not sound-proof ones because you need to be aware of your surroundings if you’re taking a phone call)
• Good car radio (better get it fixed up)
• YouTube Videos Downloaded (to listen to on your drive)
• Power bank (for when your iPhone runs out of juice)
• Pen and paper (you just never know)
• An incredible podcast

ORDER NOW to secure your ticket reservation in the parks! GET MY DISNEY TICKETS!

Where there’s food there’s home.

Now that might not be a real “quote” but to me, it rings so true.

You may be on the road a hundred miles from home. But as long as your tummy is full, you feel good.

If you’re planning on eating out on the way to Disney , then you may not need everything listed here. 

But if you are on a budget, carrying your food can help. 

• EXTRA LARGE CAPACITY – Extra-large size yet weighs only 1.8 lbs. The Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft sided cooler will hold up to 60 cans of your favorite drinks plus 2-4 ice-packs. Or, with 45 cans you can add 15 lbs. of ice for long lasting coldness. Whether it’s camping, hiking, picnicking, or a BBQ party, this cooler bag easily packs a lot of food, fruits, beer, meat, or even seafood together. It’s large enough to carry all.
• STAYS COLD LONGER – Thoughtful 5 layer insulation design. Exterior surfaces are made of rip-stop 600D Oxford materials plus one layer of waterproof PVC. Interior layers are thicker, reinforced food-grade PEVA materials with seamless ultrasonic welding for 100% leakproof and tear-resistance. A built-in EPE foam middle layer and 210D liner add additional insulation, allowing the Maelstrom Icy Hollow Soft Sided Cooler Bag to keep food or drinks cold for up to 12 hours.
• DURABLE – Maelstrom Ice Hollow Soft Sided Cooler Bags have double-stitched carry options. All pick-up points, the shoulder straps and carry handles are reinforced. This cooler bag can handle more weight than you’d prefer to carry. Capacity: 15.75*10.24*14.17 inches, 10.5 Gallons of ice and drinks.
• DOUBLE-DECKER UNIQUE DESIGN – Great design that can be stored easily. Besides the extra large main bag, Maelstrom designed a foil insulated top compartment to store sandwiches, frozen food, fruits, food essentials or utensils. Because of the reinforced layers, this cooler bag can be folded flat and stowed easily in your trunk or under a car seat. Convenient to carry around!
• VERSATILE – Suitable for all outdoor activities as an all-around soft sided cooler for camping or road trips. It’s the perfect size for food delivery services and a great solution to transport groceries from the store or farmer’s market to your kitchen at home.

Note: I haven’t included a stove here because I am assuming that you can find outdoor barbecues at some rest stops and not carry extra weight. 

• Protein bars
• Pre-cut vegetables and pre-cooked meat
• Seasonings of your choice
• Bread or Wraps (easiest carb to carry)
• Big bottle (1 or 2-liter capacity, at least)
• Aluminum foil (if you decide to barbecue)
• Baby wipes and antibacterial wipes
• Plates, spoons and other cutlery
• Snacks for the road (chips, energy balls, crackers)
• Dishwashing liquid and a sponge (if you are a clean freak like me)
• Knife for chopping
• Can opener if you have canned food
• Airtight plastic containers

Get ALL of the BEST snacks to pack for a road trip to Disney World here!

4. Clothing and Accessories

Who does not want to look cute strutting around Disney ? I mean, the photo opportunities themselves should be enough of a cause.

But you also have to be comfortable while driving so here is what you can take for both occasions:

• Sweat pants
• Comfy shirts
• Five pairs of underclothes
• Two dressy items for the night (or unexpected dates)
• Three cute outfits for Walt Disney World
• Loads of hair ties and clips
• Contacts if you wear glasses (they won’t come off during a ride)

Recommended: Top 5 Ways to Find Cheap Disney World Tickets for Your Vacation!

5. Tech Stuff

In this day and age, who can live without technology right?

Here are a few things you might want to consider packing:

• Your Insurance App
• Camping app (in case you want to)
• Power bank/Chargers
• Universal adaptor (if you need it)
• Camera (optional)
• Combination lock (not very techy but just to be on the safe side)
• Dash camera (as an extra security measure)

Ready to plan your theme park trip? Watch the best vacation planning tips on YouTube. Get started here!

6. Personal Care

Even if you are driving alone, you don’t want to look (or worse– smell) like a bum. 

Make sure you carry these personal care essentials so you look and feel fresh throughout the trip!

• Toothbrush and toothpaste
• Deodorant (SO important)
• Hand sanitizer
• Lip balm (these are a lifesaver)
• Shampoo, soap, body wash (whatever floats your boat)
• Toilet paper
• Dry shampoo (girl, you need this on a road trip)
• Creams you use
• Nail clippers
• Medical items

Read: Ultimate Guide to Packing for Walt Disney World!

7. Sleeping Arrangements

Look, now I don’t know if you’re the sensible kind and want to camp in the car.

You could have watched Friday the 13th way too many times. And while that is a great movie, the characters don’t exactly have a happy ending.

However, this shouldn’t put you off from camping. 

Just make sure you have booked your campsite beforehand and make sure you carry all this stuff.

• Pillows and blankets (if you sleep in the car which is highly recommended)
• Tent (if you plan on camping)
• Sleeping bag 
• Bug spray (for the more adventurous ThemeParkHipsters)

Or my preference which is getting a cheaper hotel room for the night with nice amenities.

Save up to 55% on top Theme Park destinations when booking through your phone! Get Great Deals while you’re on the go with Hotels.com TODAY!

8. Other Items

I wouldn’t take these things lightly. You are traveling alone and you need to be prepared for any kind of situation.

So don’t forget to throw these into your duffel bag! (or you can hide them in your boots like a secret agent, whatever)

• Painkillers
• Antibiotics
• First-aid kit
• Pepper spray
• Swiss Army knife
• Water-proof bags
• Lighter or box of matches

Recommended: Ultimate Florida Packing List: What to Pack for Your EPIC Trip!

9. Audiobooks

An audiobook is what it sounds like: a book you listen to. It is a great way to stay safe if driving particularly.

I look forward to my road trips just to catch up on my favorite stories such as Harry Potter and The Last Apprentice!

Audiobooks tend to be cost efficient and widely available on various sites like  Audible, Spotify, Amazon Prime   and even your local library.

Ready to start planning your next Disney World vacation? Listen to the  latest podcast episode on Apple  or on your  non-Apple  device now!

5 Easy Tips to Know When Packing for Your Road Trip to Disney World

• Get free parking: If you’re a regular at Walt Disney World, you might consider getting an Annual Pass or a Premier Pass . Free parking is just one of the perks you will get.
• Get more out of the journey: People keep saying that the journey is more important than the destination. And you can make that metaphor literal! When you are planning out your route, just look for some spots on the way that you might like to visit.
• Plan and fix beforehand: Speaking of planning, please plan everything out (and I mean everything ). No one likes surprises on the road. Especially not from their car. SO get that fixed too,
• Remind yourself of your purpose: After seven hours of driving and realizing that you are nowhere close to reaching Walt Disney World , your motivation (and good mood) start fading. Put up a huge Disney something somewhere you can see so *cue inspirational voice* it reminds you of your purpose in hard times like this.
• Make reservations or slum it: If you’re thinking of driving to Disney, so are a hundred others. The hotels are going to be booked up completely in the peak season. So, unless you want to camp in the wilderness (for which you also need to make reservations), book well before.

Join the Conversation on the  Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Community on Facebook!

What to Know Before You Drive to Disney World

Now that we have the essentials done. Let’s go through a few of the most common questions when prepping for your road trip to Walt Disney World.

Is it cheaper to fly or drive to Walt Disney World?

Hands down, driving is much cheaper than flying to Walt Disney World. But you need to consider the fact that it is also going to take much longer to get there.

Get Roundtrip Fares UNDER $199 and Save up to $32 off your Fees on Flights Using Coupon Code RT32!

How many days do you need to see all of Walt Disney World?

At the very least, you should set three to four days aside for your Walt Disney World trip.

The parks are huge and there’s so many of them. You need to plan your days well if you want to see it all.

Is 3 Days Enough: How Many Days Do I Need for Disney World in 2023?

How can I avoid the parking fees at Disney World parks?

There are loads of ways you can do that – from buying the Annual Pass to parking at Disney Springs.

However, taking the Disney Springs or hotel route is frowned upon and may cost you more of your time.

Recommended: The Solo Theme Park Traveler’s Guide

Is parking free at Walt Disney World?

Technically no, but it depends on where you park. The theme parks do charge an entrance fee at the parking gates. However, parking at Disney Springs is free.

The resort hotels no longer charge Guests staying overnight a parking fee, but if you’re visiting the hotels for dinner, then parking is free.

Check out my latest theme park adventures on Instagram TODAY!

Let’s Wrap This Up…

A road trip to Walt Disney World can be the adventure of a lifetime. 

Be sure to document the journey with lots of photos and be safe while making your to The Most Magical Place on Earth!

So you can be assured that if you check everything off this list , there is no situation you will be unprepared for.

But it’s not all on me. You still have to make sure that you plan this trip well.

Know what is the best route to take. Check if there are rest stops on the way.

Figure out where you want to spend the night – campsite or creepy parking lot.  Just don’t leave any stone unturned!

You are going on a vacation and it should be as stress-free as possible. And for that, you need to plan well.

But enough with the ‘responsibility’ lecture. I truly hope that you have fun driving to Walt Disney World!

Until next time, Happy Park Hopping Hipsters!

About the Author

My name is Nikky. I’m a wife, a mother, a pharmacist turned theme park blogger, USA Today 10Best Contributor , and a writer who loves ALL things amusement park related!

Traveling alone to the parks has changed my life and I want to show how you can create your own solo theme park memories.

Connect with me on Instagram!

(Original Article Date: March 4, 2021/Updated on March 15, 2024)

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Tips for Taking a Road Trip to Disney World

Julie Elster | 21 January, 2019

When I was a child we drove to Disney World every year. We'd pack up our wood panel station wagon and leave before sunrise to drive from Chicago to Orlando.

While I usually prefer to fly these days, there is something fun and adventurous about packing up the car and taking a road trip. I know my kids sure think so...

So what are the pros to driving instead of flying? What are some of the essentials I should pack? What can I do to keep my kids (and myself) busy on drive? Here I discuss all of those things and more so you can plan your drive to the most magical place on earth.

What are the Pros to Driving?

Financial Pros

Depending on where you live, driving to Disney World may be the best option for you. And there are definitely a lot of financial pros to taking your own car and driving.

Driving is often more cost effective, especially during the peak travel times when airfare is especially high. You can even use apps like GasBuddy to make sure that you are getting the best price on gas for your trip. I also suggest apps like Waze to help keep you out of traffic, and find the best route.

Taking a road trip to Disney World can also save you money on food. You'll be able to pack your own food and drinks for not only the car ride, but also for your trip if you so chose. Since Disney World allows you to bring food and drinks in to the parks, you have the option of packing food to save some serious cash.

Younger Child Pros

Traveling with younger kids can be... difficult. Babies and toddlers often have special needs. They might need a certain kind of milk or formula. They require certain bottles or cups. They might require baby or toddler specific foods.

And that doesn't even begin to cover the gear you need with smaller children. Portable cribs, carriers, strollers, and more.

When you travel in your car you can more easily transport these items. Not only will you not have to rely on rentals or resort cribs, but your child will be more comfortable because they are familiar with their own gear from home.

Teenager Pros

How often do you get one on one time with your teenager? This is a great opportunity to really talk to your teen. Let them sit up front for some of the drive, and enjoy time getting to know your teenager.

When driving you also give yourself more freedom. You aren't relying on Disney World transportation and waiting for buses. You can easily leave the Disney bubble if you are interested in visiting other parks. You can find less expensive restaurants that are outside of Disney. You aren't held to airline schedules on your arrival and departure dates. Basically you are giving yourself a lot more freedom and flexibility.

What Should I Pack?

When you decide to drive to Disney World you'll need to consider packing a little bit differently. Your packing list will probably include more than the usual Disney World gear. Some extras that you might want to consider packing:

• First aid kit
• Jumper Cables
• Hand Sanitizer
• Bottled Water
• Car organizer
• Change/Cash (make sure you have enough for various toll roads you will hit)

These are things that will help keep you organized, prepared, and comfortable. The first aid kit, jumper cables, and fix a flat are hopefully items that wont need. But it's better to be prepared before you hit the road.

A car organizer and trash bags will be a life saver for long trips. Give all of your items a home before you leave. This will help keep your sanity in check before you take off.

Keeping Kids Busy

Nothing is worse than the chant of "Are we there yet?" from the back seat. There are plenty of fun ways you can keep everyone busy and happy during the drive.

Nothing says road trip quite like playing a few car games. You can see how many states you can find on the license plates you see on the road. A good game of I Spy is always a winner in my car. Or you could see how many different animals you spot on your trip.

There are endless road trip games you could play. Follow me on Pinterest to get even more ideas!

I have a Disney Road Trip board dedicated to fun travel games (because there are so many parents out there who are so much more creative than I am, and they have some great travel games.).

I'm all about making great time, but some times the best thing you can do is to stop and stretch your legs.

This is especially true if your travel plans involve little kids.

Make sure your plans include time to stop and check out scenery, grab some food, bathroom breaks, and stopping to stretch your legs.

If you are looking for some fun places to stop along the way (either for the night or for a day stop), here are a few fun suggestions:

• NASA Stennis Space Center
• National Naval Aviation Museum
• Myrtle Beach
• Hilton Head Island (there is even a Disney resort there!)

When You Get to Disney

One of the best parts of having your own car is that you wont need to rely on Disney World transportation to get you around once you arrive.

But you will need to be familiar with the parking rates at Disney once you arrive.

If you are staying at a Disney World resort, you won't be charged for parking at the parks. But, you will be charged the following rates to park at your resort:

• $13/night at Value resorts
• $19/night at Moderate resorts
• $24/night at Deluxe and DVC resorts

When you arrive at the entrance gate a Cast Member will scan your Magic Band.

If you are staying off-site you will be charged to park at the parks:

• $25/day regular parking
• $50/day preferred parking

The waterparks and Disney Springs both have free parking

All parking lots at the parks are themed so you can find your car later. I personally like to take a photo of the sign closest to me with my phone so that I can find my car later.

Parking spots that are farther away have trams that run every 5-10 minutes to take you closer to the park gates. At the end of the day be prepared with that photo of your parking spot. The tram drivers will call out the lot and row numbers so you know where to get off.

Parking at the Magic Kingdom is a little different than the other parks. When driving to the Magic Kingdom you actually will park at the Transportation and Ticket Center. From there you can take the monorail or ferry to the park. If you are going to drive to this park, I suggest you give yourself some extra time.

Bottom Line

Driving to Disney World can be an amazing adventure. Depending on where you are driving from, you can save some serious money. And if you are prepared before you leave, your entire family will have a blast the entire trip.

Drive safe!

Still confused or need help?

I am happy to help! Contact me .

Ready to book your trip and make the drive to Disney? Get your free vacation quote here .

See you at the parks, -Julie

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by Julie Elster | 12 April, 2024

My Biggest Disney World Mistakes: Episode 226

by Julie Elster | 04 April, 2024

The Fit Guy’s Guide to a Disney World Vacation

IT DIDN'T REALLY hit me until our last day at the Magic Kingdom. My two-year-old daughter was scaling the 116 steps of the Swiss Family Treehouse for the second time. I watched her legs—once the doughy consistency of a Mickey Mouse waffle , now corded like the ropes of the treetop walkway. My daughter is strong, I thought.

I would’ve realized this sooner, but visiting four Walt Disney World Resort parks in three days—plus hopping on shuttles, speed-walking to dinner reservations, and enjoying so much pool time—hadn’t given me much space to think.

After that second tree-house run, despite my daughter’s squeals of “Do again!” we met up with my wife and five-year-old son , fresh off Big Thunder Mountain Railroad. I saw it in them, too. We were hot and sweaty and overstimulated, yes, but ready for more.

In 2022, nearly 50 million people visited one of the Disney theme parks in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, according to the Themed Entertainment Association . That’s more visitors than at the Grand Canyon, Yellowstone, and Yosemite combined .

Disney World is no longer just a vacation. It is a family rite of passage—which can lead to pressure to “get the most out of your trip,” something you’ll hear from friends, family, and Disney-fluencers. That often means stretching your dollar , avoiding the crowds, and securing breakfast with Cinderella.

When I began planning our trip, I had another concern: Could my family hang? We’re active, but the parks are huge, the lines are long, and Dole Whips beckon everywhere. So I contacted experts who are not only at the top of their fields but had also recently visited Disney World. They equipped us with a training plan, gear suggestions, and an overall strategy to help us maximize fun and minimize stress.

Do you need to train for Disney? Of course not.

But does attaining a baseline of fitness unlock a higher level of possibility? Consider what Jeff Galloway , the longtime official training consultant for runDisney marathons , told me: “The Disney experience can be absolutely wonderful for adults and kids... but with the right training, it can be even happier.”

And with my fit family’s Disney experience as an n=1, you can do as we did and not just “get the most out of” Disney but conquer it.

JUMP TO: 1. Training | 2. The Hotel | 3. Food & Drinks | 4. The Gear | 5. The Schedule | 6. The Comedown

I AMASSED 57,393 steps during our three park days. (My kids got way more.) I pushed a double stroller with and without 75 pounds worth of kids inside. I carried a diaper bag and sometimes a writhing child. Yet the pre-trip fitness prep plan Jeff Galloway of runDisney made for us worked . In 11 weeks, he has parents ramp up their daily step counts, while kids build mileage via walks. Here’s what the first two weeks entail.

• TUESDAY AND THURSDAY: 3,000 to 5,000 total steps for parents; quarter-mile walk for kids
• SATURDAY AND/OR SUNDAY: 7,000 total steps for whole family (stroller and backpacks for parents encouraged)

TUESDAY AND THURSDAY: 4,000 to 6,000 total steps for parents; half-mile walk for kids

• SATURDAY AND/OR SUNDAY: 10,000 total steps for whole family (stroller and backpacks for parents encouraged)

Want the rest of the plan? Click here .

The Mental Training

Gabriel R. Garza, M.D. , a child psychiatrist for Ascension health care in Austin, Texas, gave me the idea include mental preparation in our Disney training walks. “For small kids, in addition to talking about what you might see at the parks, you’ll want to orient them to what else they’ll experience around the trip,” he says.

So we talked about the airport, the airplane, the hotel, the pools , the lines, the heat, the not getting to do everything we want (because it’s just not humanely possibly) and coming home. It helped—and gave us a way to pass the time during our walks and hikes .

YOU DON'T NEED a hotel with a gym. What you really want is a room with a kitchen option so you can cook and eat there, says Charlie Weingroff, D.P.T., C.S.C.S. , a Florida-based physical therapist who has been to Disney World more than 50 times. Proximity to the parks is nice. Routes for a walk are, too. The hotels below have all the above. The rest, really, is about cost and just how much additional Disney! you can handle.

If you don’t have a rental car to pick up groceries , you can also Instacart them to your room. Here’s what worked best for us at the hotel, focusing on protein and fiber from real food to help us stay full and regular (an unsung vacation essential).

• BREAKFAST: Microwave ¼ cup quick-cooking oats with ½ cup water. Stir in 1 heaping spoonful of peanut butter and defrosted mixed berries. Top with cinnamon, if you want.
• LUNCH/DINNER: Between two slices of whole-wheat bread, pile pulled pieces of a rotisserie chicken, layer on a slice of Cheddar, sandwich-cut pickles , and mustard or mayo. Serve with tons of fruit on the side.

Strawberries, blueberries, cubed watermelon, more pickles, more rotisserie chicken pieces, string cheese, and electrolyte drink mixes stirred into water for hydration are all great options to keep the whole family full and hydrated.

Disney lets you bring in your own food, so load up. Figure 200 calories for kids (400 for adults) every hour you’ll be at the park. Two expert-backed solid options:

“Sliced apples and grapes are clutch, as they’re easy to pack, sweet, and a good source of fiber.” — Darrell M. Gray II, M.D ., gastroenterologist and cofounder, Association of Black Gastroenterologists and Hepatologists

“My kids were fans of Uncrustables. Great? Nope. Better than many other options? For sure.” — Brian St. Pierre, R.D., director, Precision Nutrition, and MH nutrition advisor

For hydration, know this: “Even with a train-up, once at Disney, watch out for heat,” says Jedidiah Ballard, D.O., an ER doctor and MH emergency-medicine advisor. Bring big bottles; refill at the parks’ many fountains. A family water jug, stored beneath a stroller, is also smart for on-the-spot refills.

BEYOND THE SUNGLASSES , water bottles , and obligatory Goofy hat, you’re going to need a few key pieces of equipment.

EXPERTS LARGELY AGREE: If you jam-pack your itinerary, especially on day one, you’ll totally exhaust yourself. There’s a calmer, gentler, and ultimately better way.

• 6 A.M. Or whenever makes sense to wake up, eat breakfast, pack up, and get to a park before it opens.
• 9 A.M. Target must-experience rides* early, stopping frequently for snacks and water.
• 11 A.M. Lunch—early, yes, but you beat the rush, and it works with your start time.
• 1 P.M . Huddle to see if you want to do one or two more rides or head back for pool time/rest/unwinding.
• 4 P.M. Rehuddle to see if you can handle a second park. (The fitter you all are, the greater the chances!)

*Disney now offers individual Lightning Lane (for two rides daily, price varies) and Genie+ (one ride at a time, all day, $25 and up a person). My wife, who self-identifies as Type A, liked the control offered by both options. I’m more go-with-the-flow and prefer to meander throughout the park without staring at my phone. We did Genie+ for one day, as a compromise.

IT'S REAL. “Give your family a day or two to rest before jumping back into the normal schedule,”says Gabriel Garza, M.D., a child psychiatrist and assistant professor at the University of Texas at Austin. To help, buy a board or card game at Disney to take back with you—and start planning your next visit.

A version of this article originally appeared in the December 2023 issue of Men's Health .

Try 200+ at home workout videos from Men’s Health, Women’s Health, Prevention, and more on All Out Studio free for 14 days!

The driving distance from Houston, Texas to Disney World is:

973 miles / 1 566 km.

• Houston to Lake Buena Vista drive
• road conditions from Houston to Lake Buena Vista
• flattest route from Houston to Lake Buena Vista

Map of driving directions from Houston, TX to Disney World

View a map with driving directions using your preferred map provider: Google Maps , Bing Maps , or MapQuest .

More trip calculations

• Driving Time
• Cost Of Driving
• Reverse Drive Distance
• Stopping Points
• Hotels near Disney World
• Flight Time
• airports near Disney World
• airlines flying to Disney World
• Nonstop Flights
• Time Difference

Driving distance from Houston, TX to Disney World

The total driving distance from Houston, TX to Disney World is 973 miles or 1 566 kilometers .

Your trip begins in Houston, Texas. It ends in Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

If you are planning a road trip, you might also want to calculate the total driving time from Houston, TX to Disney World so you can see when you'll arrive at your destination.

You can also calculate the cost of driving from Houston, TX to Disney World based on current local fuel prices and an estimate of your car's best gas mileage.

Since this is a long drive, you might want to stop halfway and stay overnight in a hotel. You can find the city that is halfway between Houston, TX and Disney World .

Planning to fly a plane instead? You might be more interested in calculating the straight line distance to fly from Houston, TX to Disney World .

Houston, Texas

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• airlines serving Houston, TX
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• airports near Houston, TX
• cities near Houston, TX

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• hotels near Disney World
• cities near Disney World

Driving distance calculator

Travelmath helps you find driving distances based on actual directions for your road trip. You can get the distance between cities, airports, states, countries, or zip codes to figure out the best route to travel to your destination. Combine this information with the fuel cost tool to find out how much it will cost you to drive the distance, or compare the results to the straight line distance to determine whether it's better to drive or fly. You can print out pages with a travel map.

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Make-a-Wish surprises 5-year-old with Disney trip

HOUSTON, Texas (KTRK) -- April is World Wish Month , the month-long Make-a-Wish event that celebrates more than 40 years of granting wishes to children with critical illnesses.

One little girl from Houston recently got a big surprise thanks to the Make-a-Wish Foundation - a magical trip to the happiest place on Earth! Five-year-old Stella has been battling cancer, and her ultimate dream was to visit Disney World.

"Make-a-Wish has partnered with Valero to celebrate World Wish Month during the month of April by granting Stella's wish," said Shelly Millwee, President & CEO of Make-a-Wish Texas Gulf Coast and Louisiana. "To be able to grant a wish for a small child that's facing and battling a critical illness is the most rewarding thing you can imagine."

ABC13 caught up with Stella and her family as they received their Disney world send-off in the video above!

Disney is the parent company of ABC13.

Related Topics

• FAMILY & PARENTING
• MAKE A WISH
• DISNEY WORLD

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Texas Rangers vs. Kansas City Royals Preview: How To Watch, Listen, Pitching Probables

The Texas Rangers begin another long road trip with a three-game set at the Kansas City Royals which starts on Friday.  

• Author: Matt Postins

In this story:

The Texas Rangers head back on the road for a 10-game, 10-day trip that starts with a three-game series with the Kansas City Royals.   

The Rangers (17-15) wrapped up their homestand with a 5-4 record, winning series with both the Cincinnati Reds and the Washington Nationals. That gives the Rangers a little bit of momentum as they hit the road.

Texas will be tracking starting pitcher Nathan Eovaldi, who tweaked his groin during Thursday’s start. The Rangers are hopeful he won’t miss his turn in the rotation.  

The Rangers have not faced Kansas City (19-13) yet this season, but the Royals are off to a terrific start after an offseason in which they remade their starting rotation and signed shortstop Bobby Witt Jr. to a long-term extension.

The Royals’ American League Central Division features four teams that are within three games of the division lead, paced by the Cleveland Guardians, who have at times had the best record in baseball.

Here is the preview for the game, with probable pitchers, how to watch, listen and more.

How to Watch, Listen to Rangers vs. Royals

Where: Kauffman Stadium, Kansas City, Mo.

Friday’s Game

Time: 6:40 p.m. CT

Television: TXA 21. Radio: 105.3 The Fan, KFLC 1270. Watch on fubo.tv .

Probable pitchers

Texas Rangers: RHP Michael Lorenzen (2-1, 4.24)

Kansas City Royals: RHP Brady Singer (2-1, 2.62)

Saturday’s Game

Time: 6:10 p.m. CT

Television: Bally Sports Southwest. Radio: 105.3 The Fan, KFLC 1270.

Texas Rangers: RHP Dane Dunning (3-2, 4.13)

Kansas City Royals: RHP Michael Wacha (1-3, 4.24)

Sunday’s Game

Time: 1:10 p.m. CT

Texas Rangers: RHP Jon Gray (1-1, 2.48)

Kansas City Royals: TBA

Rest Of Road Trip

May 6-8: at Oakland Athletics

May 10-12: at Colorado Rockies

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Major Airline Set to Overhaul Disney World Flight Policies

in Walt Disney World

Flying to Walt Disney World on certain airlines may change soon, with a controversial policy up for debate.

Unless you live close to Florida or you love a long road trip, you are likely to fly into Orlando when you come on your Walt Disney World vacation. Orlando International Airport is designed to greet guests with a magical Disney touch, whether you are landing in Terminal A, Terminal B, or the new Terminal C section of the airport. 

With Disney stores and billboards around every turn, guests will know they are moments from the most magical place on earth as soon as they land.

In fact, flying into Orlando for a Disney vacation has become so popular t hat Orlando International Airport broke records in March with most passengers traveling through MCO in a single day . By the end of the year, over 56 million guests are expected to arrive into the sunshine state to hear Orlando mayor Buddy Dyer greet them as they hop aboard the monorail to baggage claim (if you have ever landed into terminal B, you know the feeling.)

Lately, multiple airlines, such as Lynx Airlines (not to be confused with the new and controversial LYNX bus service ), have either shut down entirely or terminated their Orlando route, giving guests fewer options when picking their flights into the city.

Now, Southwest Airlines, one of the popular and more affordable flight options, has shared that big changes are coming, which will change one of their unique policies.

CNBC writes, “Southwest Airlines is considering changes to its single-class, open-seating cabins to drive up revenue, CEO Bob Jordan told CNBC on Thursday, a shift that would be among the largest in the airline’s history.”

“We’re looking into new initiatives, things like how we seat and board our aircraft,” Jordan said in an interview after the carrier’s disappointing first-quarter report.

Southwest Airlines stands out from competitors with its unique approach. Its fleet consists solely of Boeing 737 aircraft, offering a single, streamlined economy-class cabin. While this was initially a pro, the recent string of Boeing 737 accidents may make the airline less desirable to some.

Unlike some airlines, Southwest doesn’t assign seats beforehand. However, they give passengers the option to purchase earlier boarding, allowing them to choose their preferred spot on the plane.

This focus on simplicity extends beyond the passenger experience. Southwest prioritizes streamlining its operations, minimizing costs and complexities throughout its business model.

This approach stands in stark contrast to rivals like Delta and United. These airlines have seen significant growth in their premium cabin offerings, such as business class, and boast strong sales figures for additional services and upgrades. Southwest even allows baggage on board for free, lowering costs for passengers yet again compared to their competitors.

But with Southwest looking to bolster its bottom line and knowing that “Eight U.S. carriers—Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Spirit and United—together brought in $4.2 billion from seating fees in their domestic networks in 2022,” adding a fee for seat selection may be a good start.

Jordan did note that adding this extra charge is something that the airline is heavily considering at this time; however, their free two-baggage policy will remain as is: ” People choose Southwest Airlines because we don’t have bag fees.”

Southwest has been a popular option for Disney travelers specifically, so much so that the airline teamed up with Disney during the theme park’s 50th anniversary to wrap some of their planes. 

While this would be a small overall fee to add to a Walt Disney World vacation, it will certainly add up. Price increases have been spreading over The Walt Disney World Resort, with food and hotel costs going up, and Disney Genie+ costing as much as $35 per day just to use 2-3 Lightning Lane options at Magic Kingdom.

Plus, if you are flying into MCO, gone are the days of Disney’s Magical Express, the complimentary bus service to and from your resort. Now, guests must either taxi, Uber, Lyft, or take a paid bus service like Mears Connect to get to their Disney resort and back to the airport. 

Disney CEO Bob Iger also stated that in 2025, ticket prices for Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom will rise yet again to $190 per day, at their highest. Ticket prices across the board have increased by roughly $5 to $10 per ticket per day.

As Deadline reported just last year, Bob Iger, Disney’s reinstated CEO, acknowledged that fans had valid reasons to feel frustrated as theme park ticket prices steadily increased under the previous leadership. He admitted that this was not the most effective approach to managing the brand.

“I always believed that Disney was a brand that needs to be accessible,” he said. “And I think that in our zeal to grow profits, we may have been a little bit too aggressive about some of our pricing. And I think there is a way to continue to grow our business but be smarter about how we price so that we maintain that brand value of accessibility.”

That way of thinking seems to have gone out the window.

These higher ticket prices may be implemented to offset the upcoming $60 billion theme park and Disney Cruise Line expansion over the next 10 years, which aims to increase capacity and add new stories to the parks.

Do you prefer to fly to Walt Disney World when you visit?