Going solo at Disney
Do what you want, when you want
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to go to Disney all by yourself?
I have done it, and I can say it is pretty amazing. You can set your own pace, wake up when you want, park-hop whenever, and ride single all day.
On my recent live YouTube Disney chat, our topic was solo trips, and it was a great conversation. You can watch it here.
Some reasons going solo is great
You only have to buy one park ticket
Compared to traveling with your whole family, buying a park ticket for just yourself is a downright bargain.
You can go anytime you want
The only scheduling limitation comes from you. So you can pick low-crowd days, or go during your favorite seasonal event.
Slow down or speed up - nobody cares
Want to take a picture of every single Main Street window? Who’s going to stop you??
Or maybe you just want one day at Disneyland Paris. It’s way easier when you set your own pace. (Here’s how I did it)
Carry only your own stuff
Do you normally have to schlep a diaper bag or everyone’s sunglasses/sunscreen/water bottles/jacket/you-get-the-idea?
It’s just you, baby, carry only your phone and your wallet if you want, and fly through the security checkpoint.
It’s a safe place for single travelers
Traveling solo can normally include some risks, but Disney property is one of the safest places you can be, anywhere.
Plus, this is not a pickup joint. Go ahead and sit at the bar without worry.
Tips for solo Disney travelers
It’s OK to talk to strangers
Even though you’re “alone”, there are endless opportunities to connect with others. Go ahead & compliment someone’s Mickey ears. Talk to the cast members. This is a great chance to renew your faith in humanity.
Use the Photopass photographers
All the Disney parks have professional photographers stationed in the most scenic spots, so you don’t have to just rely on selfies. You can buy a photo package, or just hand them your phone to get a picture.
Here’s my post about photo package options at the US theme parks.
Order the kid’s meal if you’re not that hungry
If you usually travel with someone who helps finish your plate, you can save money by ordering off the kid’s menu. Especially for a meal like breakfast, this is a good way to get some substance without overdoing it.
Don’t worry, no one is going to ask where the kid is that you just ordered that meal for.
Eat in the lounge
Another advantage to going solo is that you can often get into a busy restaurant without much wait. The best way to do this is to eat in the lounge.
Many Disney table service restaurants - even in the parks - have lounges. These are first-come first-served, and a party of one can almost always squeeze in. Now’s your chance to get a bite at the Brown Derby, Tiffins, or Trader Sams.
Bring a hat or scarf to save your spot
Counter service can be challenging when there’s no one to hold your spot. Wear a hat or scarf that you can leave on a chair so your table doesn’t disappear while you’re in line or in the bathroom.
Check out my other project: Go Informed Plus
Exciting News: I’ve started a second Substack project for topics beyond theme parks, called Go Informed Plus.
My first (and only, so far) post is a beginner’s guide to Bluesky. Check it out here:
Watch my video conversation about going solo at Disney
Here’s my recent Disney chat with friends Joey and Melanie, where we talked all about solo Disney days.
I love a solo trip! The fact that women can travel to Disney — alone — and feel safe is one of the many reasons it's my favorite destination.
Someday, I’d love to do this.