Mean Mom Alert: Why I’m Never Taking My Kids to Disney

Confessions of a Midlife Travel Blogger: Why I'm Never Taking My Kids to Disney

A week-long trip to the “Happiest Place on Earth” costs a family of four around $5,000. Oh, boy! But it’s more than the price tag. Here’s why I’m never taking my kids to Disney…

My kids have never been to Disney. They’ve never been to Disneyland, and they’ve never been to Disney World. And it’s all my fault. I have intentionally denied my children a childhood complete with pancakes with princesses, mug shots with mice, hellacious sugar highs, and crazy long lines for coasters at the world’s most famous theme park. And I’m never taking my kids to Disney.

But before you call Child Protective Services (or leave me nasty comments), hear me out…

Have You Visited Disney?

Share your favorite photo with me by tagging @sagescott.kc on Instagram and using the hashtag #everydaywanderer

    

Walt Disney Was A True Genius

I’m not dissing the man or his legend. Like Dr. Seuss and Steven Spielberg, Walt Disney was a creative genius. From his cartoon characters to his movies to his theme parks, Walt Disney cleverly created a long-lasting, ever-evolving empire that is beyond impressive. Plus also, he grew up right here in Kansas City where Electric Park served as part of his inspiration for Disneyland.
Disney stock price in April 2022

Disney Stock Has Been a Wise Investment

I’ve been to Epcot Center, Disney World, Disneyland, and Universal Studios. So, this article is written with firsthand experience. And because Disney is a well-loved brand and a well-run company, I’ve purchased shares of Disney stock over the years. Thanks in part to those who love Disney parks and Disney cruises, my shares have appreciated nicely. And that helps me fund the kind of travel experiences I prefer.

Sage Advice:  Whether you choose to vacation at Disney (or not), purchasing a share or two of Disney stock for your kids is a great gift that keeps on giving!

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Mickey Mouse and Minnie Mouse stuffed animals sitting on a bench

It’s Okay If Your Family Loves to Vacation with a Big Mouse Who Wears White Gloves and Red Shorts

Some parents are honest about Santa Claus from the beginning, removing this “magical” aspect of Christmas from their offspring’s childhood. Other parents ensure their kids have a photo with St. Nick every Christmas until they go off to college. 

Just because I’m never taking my kids to Disney, doesn’t mean you should make the same choice for your family. I know plenty of people with fond memories of their visits to Disney parks, including those who coordinate what to wear to Walt Disney World across three generations. And I am always excited to look at my friends’ photographs and listen to their stories when they return from their travels — even  Disney vacations. After all, those who enjoy Disney vacations are helping the stock price continue to climb, so thank you!

Sage Advice:  Just because I’m not into theme parks doesn’t mean you can’t be! After all, Orlando is one of the best warm places to visit in December in the US. And there’s plenty of things to see and do besides Disney with CityPASS Orlando

But I’m still never taking my kids to Disney…

Newschwanstein Castle in Germany

I Want My Kids to Explore the Real World, Not Ride It’s a Small World

While the Disney kingdom may be full of “magic” and Epcot showcases eleven of the world’s 195 countries, I want my kids to explore the real world, not the manufactured, plastic version created by Disney. So I’ll continue to work toward plans to take my kids to New Orleans instead of Disney’s New Orleans Square and to Neuschwanstein Castle, the real-life inspiration for Cinderella’s Castle.

To be fair, I’m also not a fan of Las Vegas or Dubai because they feel like cities of make-believe for adults. I’d rather walk across the Brooklyn Bridge in New York than the replica on the Strip in Las Vegas. And if I want to go skiing, I prefer to visit the mountains rather than a mall in the middle of the desert.

Fun Fact:  With four theme parks, two water parks, ESPN Wide World of Sports, Disney Quest, Disney Springs, and 21 hotels, Disney World is over 25,000 acres. That’s roughly 40 square miles. To put that into perspective, Disney World is nearly two times the size of Manhattan, New York.

Magic Kingdom

And I Want Them to Have Magical Experiences That Aren't Fabricated

From the “enchanting extras” offered at Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort to fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle, it’s easy to appreciate what fans love about a Disney vacation.

But I want my kids to have magical experiences like watching a pod of dolphins frolicking in the Gulf and have their breath taken away by the sun setting behind the mountains. I want their priceless memories to be from real-world discoveries, and I want their heroes to be amazing everyday people from history instead of fictional cartoon creations on a screen.

Sage Advice: Here are 55 things to do in Orlando besides theme parks.

People standing in a long line

Who Wants to Spend Vacation Standing in Line at Disney Parks? 

Yes, many travel experiences come with crowds and lines. Like the time an entire tour bus of people cut off my Mom, son, and I as we queued up for the Eiffel Tower elevator. But, outside of Disney, you often have ways of working around the lines. Plus, at the other end of the line is usually more than a 10- to 20-minute experience. 

There are So Many Other Travel Experiences A Disney Budget Could Buy

Some families save for years to spend just five days at Disney. After all, it is estimated that it costs a family of four anywhere from $4K to more than $10K for a week at Disney.

Yikes!

For the same per person travel budget, my family could go just about anywhere else in the real world for a week. And maybe have money left over!

Cinderella's Castle at Disney

My Kids Can Always Take Themselves to Disneyland or Disney World

Think back to your childhood. There is at least one thing that your parents didn’t allow you to do, see, buy, or experience that you have done with your kids. As my children quickly become young adults, they can choose to save their hard-earned money for a Disney vacation if it’s important to them.

Or not…

My oldest daughter, Juliette, recently took her first self-financed vacation. To make this dream a reality, she worked a second part-time job and saved for over a year. 

Did she fill a void from her childhood by taking herself to Disney

No, she spent two weeks exploring Thailand on her first solo trip. Maybe the apple doesn’t fall too far from the tree? And I don’t mean the big, fake tree that the Swiss Family Robinson Treehouse is built in at Disney.

Related Article:  Confessions of a Midlife Travel Blogger:  My Unique Solo Travel Experience

Have You Taken Your Children to Disney World or Disneyland?

Why or why not? Would you take your kids to Disney again? Share your thoughts in the comments section below.

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110 thoughts on “Mean Mom Alert: Why I’m Never Taking My Kids to Disney”

  1. I absolutely love Disney! But I think it’s because the “magic of Disney” is highly valued in my family. We love the Disney spin on fairy tales and make believe and have many family memories of growing up going to the parks. It’s the nostalgia and the fun.
    My brother in law will spend $100,000 on a car and think it’s worth every penny while I think a car that expensive is a waste of money. On the other hand, he thought a $10 Old Time Photo was a waste of money and I thought it was a steal.
    I completely understand your viewpoint, but the value is in the eye of the beholder. If you don’t value the Disney brand as anything all that special, it doesn’t make sense to spend money on it.
    We also value world experiences and travel which is why we don’t go on multi-day Disney vacations every year (if you live in SoCal there are ways to go for 1 day without it being as expensive as people think).
    All about balance!

    1. I love your perspective, Katie. And while Disney isn’t MY thing, I totally get that it’s special to many others, including your family. Don’t tell your brother in law, but I’d never spend $100k on a car either. 😉

      1. Sage,
        I am a Mom of adult children and a grandmother to a 6 year old girl. I have lived and traveled all over the world with my kids. My question is-why is it either or? Why can’t Disney be one of the real world experiences along with travel to other places? I took my kids to Disney with their cousins, aunts and grandparents when they were little. It was a magical experience and they value the memories- so much in fact that one of my sons went on to work for Disney after college. My point is- why are you making it so that Disney can’t exist as it’s own experience alongside Thailand or Paris or wherever? Why is this such an inconceivable idea? Just curious as a Disney experience doesn’t make it unlikely that they will forego travel to other places- in fact, it may increase their interest.

        1. Hi Stacey! Families and absolutely do both. And, how lucky your adult children and grandaughter are to have a grandmother like you who wants to do both! <3

  2. I would never go there anyways, as real world experiences are way more valuable in my opinion, but I would definitely avoid Disney parks after the worker abuse and terrible wages the staff get paid there. I certainly don’t want to support a company that does such cruel things to the people that actually keep their systems afloat.

  3. Some people commenting are taking things a little extreme. I find whenever Disney people meet someone not as enthralled they always get super defensive of their “dream” and it’s not that deep. As though they know they are wasting their money but just can’t help it. Walt Disney truly was a genius. When people go to Disney, they are paying for a feeling, for an escape. Even though people talk about the rides and seem to go for that- it’s really about the feeling they have when they are there. I feeling you don’t get when exploring the real world, though I prefer to explore the real world. The person above (I think k it was mark) who was like “the world is crappy give me plastic and fantasy” is an odd perspective and also one marred with upper class 1% elitism. But, essentially what he is saying is he prefers to throw money at places and people that can give him a feeling- a feeling of childhood, innocence, fantasy, etc. I grew up middle class and my family did take us to Disney every 4-5 years. I went when I was 3,7,14, and 18. I loved it. However, I will say I don’t remember the lines being what they are now- something like 2 hours plus or minus long. Fast pass when I was 14 and 18 was super cool, where you went and got a physical pass. You could have someone run and get passes while the rest stood in line. They took that away and did a 3 max policy and preferred people staying on property. Now it’s fully paid, which I actually think will be better Han the one now. Anyway- I went a few times as an adult. Once with my young adult sister, I was around 23 and she was I think 18 or 19. We had a blast. No one to plan around, small crowds. Went when I was 30- horrible. So crowded. Went another time soon after that because my husbands family is a Disney family- had a good time. But I do feel the parks are much more crowded in the past 10 years. And for $115+ a day- it is stressful to have a good time. My husband and I spent less money going France, Italy, and Greece- ans we went to Disneyland Paris- than most families spend going to just Disney. We have actually said we will probably take our daughter to Paris and do Disneyland Paris, where the park is not crowded, rather than Disney world. We recently took my 2.5 year old to Disneyland- we were visiting my cousin and my husband hasn’t been to Disneyland in California. I was hesistsnt bc goi my with toddlers seemed crazy and not fun. She had the best time, the parks weren’t super badly crowded, and she was free since she’s under 3. We will probably take her to Disney world a couple times when she’s older. But I’m not planning on taking her a whole bunch bc it’s just crazy to pay that much and be that stressed in huge crowds trying to make sure you have $5000 worth of fun. My in laws are crazy about Disney and I’m sure will constantly pressure us to go- they already have. But going with other people is even more stressful- gramma has to have her “experience” with my kids and you don’t have control over your schedule.
    Overall I agree seeing the world and having varied experiences is the goal. A couple Disney trips during childhood fits in that “varied” definition for me. I’m hoping we can afford to go to Disney world when she’s a little older and has more
    Memory capability. And I’m hoping to take her to Europe and have Disneyland Paris be a stop. Maybe go back
    To California where it isn’t *quite* as crowded. But when we went to California, she also say San Francisco, Berkeley, redwoods, Sonoma, etc. I like being able to tack things on like that. The problem is there’s not a lot to do in orlando so you would to figure that out as far as your vacation. Like maybe go to a beach and then find a cheap flight to Orlando and do Disney a few days idk. I’d actually love to go to Japan and do Disneyland Tokyo a day or two. Anyway- I think it’s great to value experiences. I think it’s crazy people don’t bat an eye at 5-8K for an amusement park- and I think it’s AMAZING the Disney company has that much hold
    On people’s
    Psychology that they will actually argue for days about how they are right to do it. If we do Disney, we won’t spend that much. We will have to pay for admission but whenever we travel we plan out how to do hotels and food so it’s minimal- sometimes using points to get hotels, get gift cards, go grocery shopping snd eat light whatever it is. But I plan on doing a variety of vacations with my kid(s), not just the same thing all the time. When I was a kid my dads family made us all
    Go to the same beach every year and I wish we could have seen and done more things. Same with Disney. But, the fact that people pay so much for a feeling and will
    Argue tooth and nail why they are right to do so really is amazing to me.

  4. Well it’s not abusive to not choose to take kids on Disney trips. Little exaggerated article jeeze. And your reasoning is sound and as a parent you can choose to do other experiences, which are worthy choices. We do love Disney trips as a family. That’s our choice and what we love as well as other added trips too.

  5. News flash…if you are fortunate enough to have the time and money, you can do both. I’ve been to DisneyWorld and Universal a dozen times, a handful of cruises, an African horseback safari, backpacking in England and Scotland, a summer studying at Cambridge University, road trips all over Canada and the US, train journeys throughout Europe. 2020 was going to be the year I ventured into Argentina and Chile to hike Patagonia..I’ll get there some day. Some of that I’ve done solo, some with one or both kids, some with friends, some with just me and my husband. All of it was great, wonderful, awesome. I love theme parks and nature and big cities and charming towns. Enjoying one does not mean you can’t enjoy the others. One of my best travel memories is of my daughter hugging me and squealing with joy as my son caught the “snowflakes” falling at Disney Hollywood Studios (MGM back then), thoussnds of xmas lights twinkling around us. Those same kids stared in awe at the Lincoln Memorial and had to be dragged away from the Smithsonian. Ten years ago my daughter and I ride alongside giraffe and zebra, marvelling at the beauty of South Africa…a few months later we were laughing and marvelling at the fireworks going off in the Magic Kingdom as we rode Big Thunder Mountain. This is the same girl who happily wandered through both the Picasso museum in Barcelona and the mazes of Halloween Horror Nights at Universal Orlando. You aren’t going to ruin your child’s love of culture and nature at a theme park. It’s just another fun thing to do.

    1. Hi Eva! Several folks have commented about enjoying the best of both worlds — the real world + Disney World — and I have to say I would give up taking my kids to Disney another three lifetimes to go on a South Africa safari. What an amazing experience that must have been! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your comment, and what an amazing momma your kids must have! <3

  6. Dr. Sheetrockero

    I just took my wife and two daughters to Disneyland yesterday. We moved back to SoCal last Summer during the pandemic when the parks were closed, and I have been planning our visit for over a year. It was fun, but trying to cram everything into one day is exhausting and stressful. It is really frustrating for me, because I really want them to have the same kind of experience I had growing up.

    I lived near Disneyland as a kid and my whole extended family had annual passes. We would go for a few hours and my Mom would let my cousins, siblings, and me explore the park on our own and meet up at a designated time and place. It was great having that kind of freedom. We could explore some little nook or cranny without the fear of missing out on a major attraction because we could always come back next week.

    I have an intense sense of nostalgia for Disneyland because the park (and all of the associated Disney movies) were a huge part of my childhood. My wife grew up in Eastern Europe. My daughters are now past the target age for most Disney media and grew up far from Disney parks. They don’t share the same kind of nostalgia/ obsession that I have for Disneyland and wanted to call it quits well before I was ready to go home, which led to some family tension.

    Oh well. Maybe they’ll bring back Disneyland annual passes and we can take our time over the course of a year, or maybe I can just let Knott’s Berry Farm be their “Disneyland” since an annual pass there costs about the same as a single day pass to the Disneyland of today.

    (P.S. I completely agree with your reasoning for prioritizing travel to other destinations. My girls have been to Europe and up and down both coasts of the US. Travelling to the Disney parks as a tourist/ outsider is completely exhausting and stressful not to mention expensive. There are a lot of other great alternatives out there.)

    1. Thank you for sharing your story, from your nostalgic memories to current experiences with your kids. And how lucky your daughters are to have the best of both worlds — Disney and world travel! Maybe someday you’ll have grandkids who will share your love of Disney! <3

  7. Seeing the world is overrated. I’ve seen plenty of countries/cultures and I have spoken 3 languages though now those other languages have fallen due to neglect. It’s taught me what I already assumed: that there are horrors and beauties to every culture. I find that Disney has very little to do with the real world. That’s fine by me. The books I tend to read are usually fictions. Disney provides an experience that was never labeled as ‘Come see the real world all rolled up into one location! You’ll never need to travel again!’ What it was in it’s inception is a place a family could go that DOESN’T look like your local state fair. Full of carnies and rip off’s. You know, like the rest of the world. I have a hard time understanding the desire to proselytize against Disney in favor of traveling to the real world (the one I live in). I lump this in with the purists that love vinyl records albums because they provide a ‘pure’ experience, when all they really do is provide an experience consistent with the technology of the time. The no tv for MY kids people. The book people that say only pulp pages between covers are the true way to experience a story and all these technologies take away from the way it was meant to be. This list of categorical extremists is long but they all share something in common. They would NEVER expose their kids to _________ (fill in with your favorite cultural phenomenon you refuse to take part in). People that struggle to define themselves by their high minded differences. Yes, you are all wonderful in the way you view the world. You have found the bell that resonates with your personal frequency. Bully for you. Explaining your disdain of theme parks to others that don’t share your frequency would make one wonder why?

    I took my kids to Disney so that I would experience with them a common touchstone of story and fiction that we can enjoy together. They have their whole lives to experience the world in it’s unvarnished extremes. But I’m glad you don’t go to Disney. I see too many of you there in the first place. I recognize you by the exasperated looks on your faces with every line you have to stand in and at every exit to hear you say ‘was all that worth it?’ or a begrudging ‘well, I guess that was ok’ as you drag your kids to the next attraction you are not so secretly dreading as you look at your cellphone to see if it’s time to leave yet. I agree, if that’s your attitude about ANYTHING you are doing, you shouldn’t do it.

    1. I’m glad there are options for every traveler to do and see the things that resonate most with them and their families. As I said multiple times in my article, while Disney is not something I choose to do with my kids, it’s wonderful if it’s a magical experience for you and your kids.

  8. We are a Disney family we try to go yearly We are in no way a wealthy family we just don’t over indulge throughout the year. I think your pricing is off you can go to disney for a decent price if you plan and research. In 2018 I think it was me and my husband paid for or family of 5 as well as for my aunt, uncle(he had never been is in his 50s) and grandmother for a week, park tickets everyday, meal plan and stayed on disney property and it was around 6,000 for the 8 of us.. I don’t mind the lines and waiting i have 3 kids 8,10,13 and we have have been going since my youngest was 2. Standing in line has taught them patience and that they need to wait for the things they want to do. We do some planning for the main things they want to do and see but for the most part we just go with the flow now.. It’s also has given them opportunities to meet people from all over. For us traveling outside of the US right now is not something we want to do. My husband has to many health issues and Florida is not to far from home .

    1. Patience is definitely a virtue. I’m glad that standing in line at Disney is how your family has chosen to develop that important life skill. I’ve opted to teach my children the same thing, but in other ways. What matters most to me is that the next generation knows a life beyond instant gratification, not how they developed that skill. Good job, Momma!

  9. From my perspective, it’s just one more touristy destination that people can or cannot go to when visiting the US (this is of course, a non-American perspective).

    I don’t have children, but I don’t think my travel destinations would be affected much by them. My wife and I have never been into drinking or gambling, we’re young souls at heart. If you realized just how hard it is to get your hands on an American visa, you would also realize why people who have them try to hit as many tourist spots there asap, since even getting one doesn’t mean you’ll have it more than a couple years. My wife and I got the opportunity to live in Texas for about 2 years due to my job, and we most definitely hit up both Disney World and Disneyland for more like $1000 per trip rather than $5000 (and this includes the Orlando parks too, not just Disney), but we also hit Carlsbad Caves, Grand Canyon, NYC, San Antonio Riverwalk, Skiing in Ruidoso, and several national parks.

    If you go on off season, not only is it a decently priced vacation, I don’t think we stood in line for more than 30 mins at any ride, and we even left early from some parks after seeing everything there is to see. It really isn’t about being real or fake, the point is it’s DIFFERENT, at least for non-Americans, since I’m guessing Americans have theme parks all over the place and have this very Disney culture everywhere.

    1. Now I love theme parks, but I have semi-jokingly in the past said taking your kids to Disney parks is child abuse. Honestly, you are doing nothing for their brains. Disney likes to go on and on about imagination, but it’s THEIR imagination, not your kids’. Meanwhile, a walk through Neuschwanstein actually triggers imaginations. There are no princesses singing about their issues inside.

      So we’ve all been to Disney World once, Universal Orlando once, Disneyland once. In Florida we also went to St Petersburg to check out the Chihuly Museum and the Holocaust Museum. We checked out the college in St Augustine and talked about why there’s a Slave Market, and how much the city has lied about its role regarding that Slave Market. In Southern California we also visited the Space Shuttle Endeavor and the La Brea Tar Pits. We’ve been to Yosemite and Yellowstone. The Rock and Roll Hall of Fame and the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center. We’ve also been to at least a dozen zoos.

      If they want to go to Disney again, they can go when they’re adults.

      1. Sounds like your kiddos have had the best of both worlds — a trip to multiple theme parks plus many “real world” experiences as well!

  10. This is a really new perspective that you have brought to the fore in this post. I visited disneyland with my 3 years old, who really enjoyed it there. But in the same trip we also visited many natural places, doing picnic by the lake etc. and she equally enjoyed that as well. So, I feel it’s important to strike the balance than to stand at one extreme.

      1. Sure seemed like a jab at those who do like it with the adding to your pocket dividend wise statement. I’m reminded of “if you can’t say something nice, don’t say anything at all”…so, it’s fun and romantic for adults too 🙂

          1. Big whoop. You were judgemental and that’s exactly what you meant to be. No apologies necessary, it’s who you are.

          2. I’d love to know what statement you feel is most judgemental in my article. Let me help you with a few that reinforce my position that while it’s not for me, I do NOT judge those who enjoy Disney vacations. Here’s one…”Just because I’m never taking my kids to Disney, doesn’t mean you should make the same choice for your family.”

  11. Disneyland trips are some of my fondest memories and now when I go back as an adult I truly feel like a kid again. There are parts of it (the cost, lines, crowds etc) that are big turn-offs, but there are ways to still experience it during offseason. Totally agree about seeing the real world but like with my childhood I think both can be done 🙂

  12. I’m with you! I have NEVER had a desire to go. It costs too much, its too crowded, and its too commercialized! My kids went when they were young with their dad (I stayed home and worked), and they take their kids. I still stay home and work lol.

  13. I went to Disney twice when my daughter was little – still I agree 100% with everything you are saying. While for a European child, it was part of the whole US-vacation package, I was irritated to see adults visiting without kids. I mean, you are right with everything you are saying when it comes to kids visiting Disney – but adults? Vacationing in a fantasy world?! Wow!

    1. I know a lot of adults who go without kids. And that’s fine. It’s just not my thing at all, with or without kids. I’d rather go see the real world! (And thank goodness I’ve raised kids who want to do the same!) 🙂

      1. Taking kids to Disney is a great way for entire family to share beautiful memories.
        Having said that I absolutely and without any hesitation urge anyone with young kids to not even think of taking them along.
        If they’re too young to walk the parks, they’re too young for WDW period. (Physical disabilities not included).
        Your kids will never remember, they’ll cry all day and you’ll miss some of the best rides.
        If I had my way I would ban all strollers (not wheelchairs).

        1. I’ll never understand why anyone wants to go to the same place over and over again and spend a small fortune on tickets and food doing it. Not my fantasy. The employees are treated badly and are brainwashed into thinking that they’re working in a great place. P.T. Barnam had it right many years ago and nothing has changed.

    2. Whether you know it or not, Disney theme parks were made for children and adults. As an adult I’ve been to Disneyland once, Disney World three times and Euro Disney once. With and without children. Just to make you aware, I also travel the world…next stop Greece when it’s safe to travel again. I see the “real world” every day. Sometime I want a little self-contained fantasy.. Live and let live, I say. Stop judging and enjoy your life, whatever it is and let others enjoy theirs.

      1. How wonderful that you enjoy both the real world and the make-believe world of Disney. I wish you all the best as you travel, whatever path you choose!

  14. While I did take my daughter to Disney World when she was little, in retrospect I wish I hadn’t. Like you mentioned, I should have given her more real world cultural experiences. Thanks for another great post.

    1. I understand why many parents want to take their children at least once. I’m sure your daughter had a blast, and I definitely know that you’ve given her plenty of real-world cultural experiences over the years, too!

  15. You make some good points, especially about the ‘small world’. When I took my daughter as a toddler there was a big rumour at the time that pedophile rings were operating out of Disney ( this was before the internet!) and I was terrified the entire time we were there. Really I should have been worried about other things;-)

  16. Katie @ Zen Life and Travel

    We went a couple of years ago for 2 days…and that was 2 days too much for me. I have zero intentions of going back…I’m kind of the same — I would rather go do the “real” stuff instead of going to a mediocre theme park. I realize I’m definitely in the minority here, but I just don’t get the fascination with Disney (glad to hear I’m not the only one!)

  17. I don’t understand this mindset at all. It seems like people who don’t go to Disney have an “either or” mindset. Either you’re the type of traveler that goes to Disney World, OR you’re the type of traveler that goes to “real” destinations. It’s a snobby attitude to have and implies that one type of travel is “better” than the other, while ignoring that many people do both.

    I grew up going to Disney World with my family AND I’ve been to plenty of “real” travel destinations. My mom, brother, aunt and uncle, cousins, and I all love Disney and yet we’ve also all been to 30-50+ countries each. Visiting Disney World is not nearly as expensive as you make it out to be. You can easily do a trip to Disney World for cheap with a little planning, AND you can easily avoid lines if you bother to do a little research.

    1. It’s okay if your family loves to vacation with a big mouse who wears white gloves and red shorts. And it’s okay if your family would rather see the world than ride It’s a Small World. And it’s absolutely okay if you like doing both!

  18. Interesting thoughts. As a child I was wowed by Disney. I recently took my partner as he had never been (we are both 25 hahaha) and whilst we loved it, you are right, a huge part of the day is spent just queuing! It was good fun though and a good escape from reality. Still when I have kids I want to make sure we also prioritise seeing the real world over disney!

  19. First, the most important thing is that your family has enjoyed your vacations together. That’s really what it is all about. We did take our boys to Disney every few years. Not every year, because as you say it is nice to see the real world too. We’ve traveled with them extensively and they’ve seen much of the US as well as 7 other countries if my count it right. They’re all young men now and are meeting us at Disney’s Fort Wilderness in November. Next year we’re all going to Italy. I will say it has never cost us anywhere near $5,000 to vacation at Disney for a week. Maybe half that if you count gas to drive down there, every meal, etc. Oh and the lines? My boys are go, go, go so some of the best conversations we’ve had were in the car and in amusement park lines. When the new Harry Potter “world” at Universal Studios opened several years ago we waited in line for 4 hours! Crazy I know, but we talked, played games, and got to know some folks from France that were in line next to us.

    1. I think you make a fantastic point — the most important part of a family vacation (no matter where you go, what you do, and what you see) is that the family have a great time and build memories together. Sounds like your boys had a fantastic childhood with a mix of Disneyworld and real world. Good job, momma! <3

  20. Some great points. I took my nephew to one of the disney parks (forgot which one) and he went to one section and wasnt interested anymore. I think theres a certain age where it just isnt worth it as theyll hardly enjoy it to the fullest ?

  21. well we don’t have kids, I love this post and agree with everything you’re saying. Honestly I think is the world is a sad place. Many people because it’s so expensive and so unattainable for many. This is one place that while I went as a child I will never go again either…

  22. I don’t have kids so this isn’t an issue I have to face and the last time I went was when I was 30 (I’m nearly 50) with a boyfriend who dragged me there. If I had kids i wouldn’t take them for all the reasons you mentioned, I rather spend the $5000 on real world experiences. I actually didn’t know it cost that much until a friend was planning to go a few years ago, she actually took money out of her 401k to finance the trip which I thought was INSANE!

  23. For my family Disney is kind of a historic site since my husband and I were married there. Lol! I get where you are coming from and my daughter has only been there once as part of a longer trip that took her to the Bahamas. She has also been to Disneyland Paris as a compromise when she was little. She was awesome during three days of touring Paris and then received the full kid treatment at Disneyland Paris. Although, I guess the experience is a bit different for her as well because she started learning French at 4 so enjoyed language exposure in a different way. But, I would rather travel to new places then keep going back.

    1. “It’s okay if your family loves to vacation with a big mouse who wears white gloves and red shorts” and it’s okay if you want to get married there! 🙂 I love how your trip to Paris incorporated all of the benefits of travel — practicing the language, learning the history, experiencing the culture — and then incorporated a trip to Disneyland Paris as a reward for a wee one who was a trooper. Come to think of it, my parents did something like that many years ago when we got to visit Legoland in Denmark after the usual itinerary of art museums, historical sites, etc.

  24. I totally get where you’re coming from and I use the same reasoning with my family but my husband absolutely LOVES Disney so we go every few years and I always have a blast! It’s a fun experience! We took our last trip in April of this year and stayed at Port Orleans resort. It’s so pretty and peaceful. I’ve been to New Orleans many times. Port Orleans is a fun substitute!

  25. You’re right, Disney is unbelievably expensive. I live in Southern California so I go to Disneyland quite a bit. I’m single though with no kids, so it’s way more affordable for me. I’d never spend a week there though, especially with kids. I think that would literally both drive me nuts, and bankrupt me!

    1. Do California residents get discounts to Disney like Florida residents do? If so, the discount and ability to spend the night at home are sure to make a big difference!

  26. I went to Disneyland with my family when I was 5, and while it was fun, I didn’t have a desire to go again. I much preferred our quieter family adventures going on mountain hikes, camping or spending days at the beach. Like you, I would much rather spend the amount of money it costs to go to Disneyland on a load of other separate trips to different places. But while I struggle to relate to adults who choose to go to Disneyland or Disneyworld once a year as their main vacation, I respect that everyone has different preferences and levels of comfort.

  27. Interesting – I’m happy to hear your take on this. I am torn in the whole thing, and I know several families who make this a nearly annual destination. I’ve been a few times, and the only reason I have been this many times is because my father is a Disney employee and we are able to obtain nice discounts on admission. The price alone is a good enough reason for most families to pass on Disney. It’s not really all that great – in my humble opinion.

    1. Like several subjects in America — Coke vs Pepsi, Target vs Walmart, Blue vs Red — Disney can be polarizing. While I’m never taking my kids, I don’t judge those who want to go every year. And I especially don’t blame you and your family for taking advantage of an employee discount! Thanks for sharing your thoughts!

  28. I agree that the crowds and lines get overwhelming and I want my future children to really see the world. I still want them to also experience Disney the way my husband and I have too though. With DVC that we have, we can use the points to stay both at Disney and around the world, so hopefully they will get the best of both.

  29. It is such an interesting perspective. I think I am with you on this one. I have been to Disney twice and it was a complete disappointment. 8 hours of those 12 we were in the park were spent on standing in lines and getting from one attraction to another, not even including all the bathroom times (also lines) and cafes. Overall, we probably rode 6 or 7 rides only.
    I also have a friend whose 7 and 9 year old kids refuse going to Disney too. They say it’s too much stress than fun. And yes, there are so many other fantastic travel experiences you can offer your children!

  30. I appreciate your honesty and level-headedness, obviously you aren’t judging people who do do this. My kids grew up in Florida so Disney just seemed unavoidable. However, that’s great your daughter is self financing a trip! My kids go to Disney now on their own and I’m not footing the bill 😉

    1. You’re right, I’m not judging at all! The world is more interesting because it’s made up of unique individuals who all enjoy different things. If the Magic Kingdom is a magic place for your family (and it sounds like it’s W-A-Y more affordable if you are a local), then I’m truly thrilled for you! Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts!

  31. My husband and I don’t have children but we went to Disneyland and one of the first things that we discussed was how expensive it was and how on earth do families afford to go. Especially start counter factoring in treats and drinks etc thats when it works out to your $5000. I completely understand you want to spend the money and the children see the real world ? btw i wished I had shares in disney

  32. Really cool article! I don’t think I actually realised how big a business Disney was until I started blogging and seeing so many sites and articles dedicated to Disney. I went to Disney as a child, and I did enjoy it, but not half as much camping trips or sightseeing trips. IMO seeing the real world is a crucial as a child, see a ‘magical’ corporate theme park can be done as an after thought!

  33. Great post and perspective. Though having raised a daughter who is herself an intrepid traveler, and being a big kid myself, I am one who chooses to avoid nevers in life. Been to Disney many times — land and world — and numerous other entertainment parks with and without my daughter in tow. Been to many places in the world too, and will continue. I like it all, with the caveat being Disney doses are to be taken and doled out in extreme moderation and taken entirely for what they are … nothing to do with travel, and everything to do with entertainment. And that’s just fine with me.

    1. Sounds like you and your daughter have the best of both worlds — real-world travel with a side of Disney when it suits you. Thanks for sharing your perspective!

  34. Food and Footprints

    Can totally relate to this article! Never went to Disney as a kid nor have any desire to ever go or take future kids there. Much rather explore the world itself and have them see the realities. But as you also said, Walt Disney was a genius for creating this experience and nothing wrong with others wanting to go. Great to hear your daughter has the travel bug!

    1. I just dropped her off bright and early this morning for two weeks in Thailand. I hope she has an amazing time! (And that Mom doesn’t worry herself sick.) 🙂

  35. Very interesting article and viewpoint which I can appreciate. While I love Disney World (and Disneyland and Epcot, etc), I definitely see your points (especially the COST!) on why you are never taking your kids. I don’t have kids, but I do have a nephew and personally can’t wait to go with him on his first trip to Disney in a few years. I love to go as an adult (but I REFUSE to go in summer when it’s so flipping hot and the lines are so long). But I am also teaching my nephew Spanish so he will hopefully be bilingual from a young age and I want him to experience other real world places too. I do feel there is a place for both angles/sides. But I also totally understand your points!

  36. I never went to Disneyworld as a kid. However, one of my first vacations as an adult was to there because friend wanted to go. I never missed anything not having seen it as a kid, but sure had a great deal of fun as an adult going there!!

  37. mohanaandaninda

    I agree with your perspective. I can understand why you’d want your kids to experience the real world and learn from problems that are faced by people in communities different from their own. Disneyland often sounds like the amusement park of capitalist dreams. $5k for a trip? In developing nations, a lot of people don’t earn that much in an entire year.

  38. Well, we do have a trip to Disney World planned later this year following a cruise (not Disney, although we’ve done the Disney Cruise too). I do like your idea of showing kids the real world attractions rather than created attractions. I have problems with Las Vegas for that reason. Still, there are some people who dream about a trip to Disneyland or Las Vegas, and like you, I appreciate that. However, we do try to get our kids to as many of the “real” locations as money and time off allow.

  39. We live close enough to hear the fireworks at Disney World. A season pass for Florida residents costs under $400 and includes parking. There are blackout dates, but I probably wouldn’t want to go then anyway because the park is too full. Sooner or later, I’ll buy a season pass and check out the Magic Kingdom for a year. That’s going to be less than 100$/park. Not a bad travel deal. I’m not talking about substituting a trip to Germany, this is a question of go to the movies or go to Disney.

  40. I would agree except the grandparents are taking us all. ?. That said, I don’t think I would shell out the money. There’s way more to see.

  41. I love this idea. The real world is so much more enriching than the make believe world that this corporation has created. We can learn so much more from seeing other cultures, environments and learning their history, than we can a goofy dog type animal or a duck with a speech impediment.

    Thanks for sharing. Keep travel blogging. Adventure is better shared with friends!

  42. I 100% agree with you on this! I’ve never been to Disney World and growing up in South Africa, it was never a “thing to do”. I also don’t intend on visiting anytime soon as I’d rather spend that money (and time) on a unique adventure. I also do not have the patience for queues!

    1. Growing up in South Africa sounds like an amazing everyday adventure to me! And you’d need a LOT of patience for queues if you went on a Disney vacation. Thanks for stopping by and sharing your thoughts!

  43. So understand your point! We are planning to take the kids for the first time (and most likely last time) this Christmas ONLY because we live next door to Hong Kong, Disneyland there is a lot cheaper than in FL, small, and thus totally doable as a day trip. Also, as an expat family in a small apartment, we just don’t want any more toys, games, or even books that we may have to sell or pack 5 months later so an experience seems like a good gift this year.

    1. I hope your family has a blast and enjoys the special Christmas outing you have planned. Plus, if you are an expat family, they are already getting AMAZING life experiences beyond Disney. <3

  44. I grew up a 90-min drive of Disneyland and then moved and was a 90-min drive to Disney World so I definitely went. If I were to live in the vicinity when I have kids, I could definitely see myself taking them, esp. bc there are resident’s prices that make it more affordable. But it’s gotten a little out of hand. It used to at least be semi-affordable. Now a 3-day Disney trip is the same cost as 3 weeks in SE Asia.

  45. I am definitely there with you on the lines and the plastic world! It just seems so strange when you ask people where in the world have they traveled, when they tell you they enjoy doing so, and they say “I have been to Epcot and all the 11 countries there” as in absolutely serious and not joking…

  46. This is an interesting perspective and one that I agree with to a degree. I don’t plan to NEVER take our future children, but I definitely lean to the side of real world experiences over manufactured ones. Disney is a huge part of my hubby’s childhood memories though, so we’ll always spend some time there!

  47. Yes. I took my young son to Disney as soon
    As I could. Cause I do believe that Walt really make the happy place on earth. And his team provides the best service for vacation time.

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