Spend Less Money at the Parks

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• Souvenirs
• Purchase Personal Items Advance
• Don't Throw away Those Receipts
• JUMP to Discounts for Disney Tours, Recreation & Entertainment
• Nothing is Better Than Free

For Current Deals Look for the Mickey Ears
and for the Most Recent Additions
Updated 2/3/10

While TheMouseForLess.com tries to keep all information on this page current, information does change often. Please reference Disney's Official web site or the web sites of vendors for the most up-to-date rates and information. If you have tips to share or notice outdated links or information, you may contact us at moneysavingtips@themouseforless.com.

Cost-cutting is on everyone's mind these days. TheMouseForLess.com has compiled tips to help Disney vacationers save on Disney accommodations, travel, packages, tickets and dining, but the savings don't stop once guests arrive at the parks. Below you will find a number of strategies to help save even more money during your Disney vacation.

Souvenirs

Spending money in the parks adds up quickly, but park-goers can save a significant amount, just be controlling the money spent on souvenirs. Here are a few ideas to help.

• Trade for Disney pins instead of buying them in the parks. Many Disney park-goers find themselves attracted the to the many Disney pin carts located throughout the parks. Okay...we admit to owning quiet a few ourselves. Purchasing them, however, can get pricey at an average cost of $6.95 to $12.95, and even more for larger pins and special issues. Try purchasing less expensive pins in advance of your trip and trading cast members to get pins you like. Pins can be purchased in lots at a reduced cost on ebay or at PinFinder.com. Tradeable pins are Disney pins that are enamel or enamel cloisonné with a metal base and a Disney copyright engraved on the back. At least one cast member in every park or resort merchandise shop will have a lanyard of pins and will happy to trade. If you don't see a cast member with a pin lanyard, ask at the cash register. Often, stocks of pins are kept under the counter for those who wish to trade.
  
  
• If you must buy souvenirs in the parks, look for inexpensive items. Mouse ears, antenna toppers, refrigerator magnets, keychains, shot glasses, lanyards, small photo albums, and tins of Disney candy make excellent and inexpensive souvenirs. Mouse ears with with personalized monograms can be purchased at The Chapeau on Main Street U.S.A. in the Magic Kingdom and at Mouse Gear at the Epcot park. At Downtown Disney, a "Create Your Own Ears Hat" boutique located inside Disney's Wonderful World of Memories. A basic hat starts at $7.50 and from there you can add a variety of snap-on ears, plus letters, stickers, character patches and more. One of the best souvenirs to be had is autograph book filled with the signatures of Disney characters. Autograph books can often become one of the most cherished Disney vacation mementos. Use this recently published article to help locate characters in the park. Pressed pennies are another great souvenir. Machines are located everywhere--at resorts, in the parks and other Disney World areas. Complete information for pressing machine locations for both Walt Disney World and Disneyland can be found Parkpennies.com (click on the "Locations & Checklist" tabs at the top of the page). At Downtown Disney Marketplace you can personalize a Disney pin at Disney's Pin Traders for the cost of a pin and $2 additional dollars for the personalized pin plate or create your own Disney T-shirt at Hane's Design a Tee for about $20; create your personalized tee by choosing from over 300 pieces of Disney art and add up to four lines of text. Lastly, don't forget to pose for those Disney PhotoPass photographers located throughout the parks. After arriving home, your photos can be accessed online and shared with family and friends for up to 30 days without purchase. For more information on Disney's PhotoPass, click here.
  
  
• Put the everyone on a souvenir allowance. Set the amount per day to be spent before leaving home and stick to it. Planing your itinerary to include souvenir shopping on the last day of your vacation is another great way to ensure that you don't over spend at the parks. Better yet, purchase Disney Gift Cards that can be used to buy merchandise in the parks, meals, admission to water parks, and much, much more. Click here for a complete list of items that can be purchased with a Disney Gift Card. Gift cards come in $25 denominations. Set a souvenir budget, purchase that amount in Disney Gift Cards before leaving home, and when they're depleted, stop shopping.
  
  
• Those with children should be prepared for the high pressure sales pitch at Disney evening parades, and not from Disney, from the kids. Purchase those little flashing parade souvenirs before leaving home and save money. Kids just have to have them when parade vendors appear with their carts approximately thirty minutes before a parade. Bring a few advance-purchase items along and hand them out rather than spend a bundle on inflated Disney trinkets. Here's a few ideas we found:
  
  
  • Glow Stick Necklaces, 4ct
  • Glow Party Wand
  • Glow Necklaces (6 pack)
  • Glow Necklaces, 4ct
  • Multicolor Glow Necklace
  • Color Glow Jewelry
  • Disney Tinker Bell Light up Flashing Necklace
  • Disney Fairies Tinker Bell Light Up Pen
  • Mickey & Minnie Light Up Pen Set
  
  
  You get the idea. These are the kinds of trinkets one can expect to see sold at the evening parades and at Fantasmic, but you'll pay two to three times the price if you buy them in the park.
  
  
• Disney offers many makeover opportunities in the parks and elsewhere. Hair wraps are available at resort pools, Princess makovers at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique and Pirate's League and face painting in the parks. Two relatively inexpensive alternatives are a hair cut or new hair do at the Harmony Barber Shop on Main-street in the Magic Kingdom and temporary tattoos sold at stands throughout all of the parks. The hair cuts will run you approximately $15 for a child and come with a magical dusting of color. Temporary tattoos are about $5-$7 and can last up to a week. Young princes can also get a Cool Dude hair style for under $10 at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique that includes colored gels/sparkles, and confetti.
  
  
• Don't overlook Annual Passholder, DVC, or Tables in Wonderland (formerly Disney Dining Experience) discounts on merchandise if you qualify. These discounts can be from 10 to 20% on merchandise at select locations. For the best selection, visit the World of Disney Store at the Marketplace in Downtown Disney. It's the largest Disney character merchandise store anywhere!
  
  
• Walt Disney World merchandise stores are willing to ship packages to your home address. Prices are reasonable and with the new airline restrictions, it may be a more economical choice to ship home rather than bring an extra suitcase to lug souvenirs. Ask about the cost of shipping for larger items. Also make sure that you ship any delicate items that contain liquid if you'll be travelling home on an airplane. There have been reports of vacationers having to leave expensive snowglobes with airport security because they tucked them in their carry-on bags.
  
  
• Shop for souvenirs outside of the parks. Disney resort gift shops sometimes have reduced items, but they are very limited. There is also a discount Disney store in Downtown Disney. Everything at Mickey Mart is under $10. Outside of Walt Disney World property is where you'll find the real bargains, some items discounted up to 50 to 70 percent. You'll find a list of Orlando outlet stores that sell character merchandise and directions to them here. Don't have car? Orlando's Lynx bus system is the most economical way to get to some outlet stores. Link 50 runs every 30 minutes, seven days a week from the Walt Disney World Ticket & Transportation Center and Downtown Disney's West Side directly to the SeaWorld stop. The cost is $1.75 per adult and free for children 6 and under. The ride takes about 30 minutes. From there catch the Green Line or Main Line I-Ride Trolley. The Main Line trolley runs every 20 minutes, making 54 stops along International Drive, costs $1.00 for adults and is free for kids 12 and under. There are hundreds of stores and several outlet stores along this route. Just for grins, check out the 50 ways to have fun in the International Drive area. For Lynx information, call toll-free (407) 841-5969 or view route maps online. For I-Ride information call toll-free (866) 243-7483 or view route maps online.
  
  Click here for a Free VIP Coupon book for Orlando Premium Outlets when you join the VIP Shopper Club for Free.
  
  
• One final suggestion is to checkout DisneyOutlet.com or DisneyStore.com. Disney's online outlet often has great sales. If you click the "Deals" tab, you can sometimes find up to 80% off. The online Disney store now sells merchandise found in the four Walt Disney theme parks. It's not quite the same as buying a souvenir on vacation, but if you've forgotten anyone or don't think you'll have room in your suitcase, who's the wiser. :-) Make sure to use sites like RetailMeNot.com to search for online DisneyOutlet.com discount codes before shopping. You might also want to try using search terms for disneyshopping.com, disneystore.com and disney.com.

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Purchase Personal Items Advance

• Forget to pack your toothbrush? No worries. Disney resort gift shops have a small section with basic personal supplies. You'll pay top dollar, however. With current luggage restrictions, one might be tempted to shop at the resort after arriving. Let us talk you out of it. Whether you pack or shop off Walt Disney World property, buy basics like batteries, film, disposable cameras, camera memory cards, sunscreen, sunglasses, toiletries and over-the-counter medications elsewhere or before you arrive. Also, you can not purchase chewing gum anywhere on Disney property.
  
  
• There are purchases you may not plan on, but will most likely buy in the parks. A week stay at Walt Disney World, especially in the summer months, means rain. Rain ponchos are available in almost every park shop or store at Walt Disney World and run about $10. You can pick up similar quality rain wear at Wal-Mart or online for just a few dollars. Personal misting fans are another essential, especially in the summer months, and Disney knows it. The first time you price one of these in the park you will probably walk away, but many park visitors do pay the high price by the end of the day. If you purchase a misting fan in advance you'll pay anywhere from $6.99 to $12.99 and save money.
  
  
• TheMouseForLess.com has an Ultimate Packing List for download to assure that you don't forget a thing.
  
  
• Groups are beginning to spring up on the Internet that help lower costs by sharing. Once such group is the Stroller Swap on the DIS Board for a double jogging stroller that will handle up to 100 lb. Each stroller will come with a sun shade, a fan and a Mommy hook. The cost for the stroller use to be $10 for each visit, not per day, recently this group converted to only "no charge" stroller swaps. ~Thanks to Mary Waite for this tip.
  
  
• If your resort comes with a mini refrigerator (moderates and above), pack your own minibar. Make a list of your kids' favorite treats, then purchase them in bulk as individually wrapped items.

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Don't Throw away Receipts

No matter if it's parking fees, strollers, or locker rentals, don't throw away receipts.

• Strollers are available for rent at a variety of locations throughout Disney Theme Parks, Water Parks, and the Downtown Disney Area. The rental fee is $15.00 per day for a single-passenger stroller and $31 per day for a double. If you hop to a second (or more) park on the same day, showing your receipt from the first park with allow you use of a stroller at no additional cost. For Guests who require a stroller rental for multiple days, Disney offers a Length of Stay rental ticket. You make a one-time payment transaction for as many days of rental that you will need. Single-passenger strollers are available for $13.00 per day on the extended plan and $27 for a double. Upon visiting a Theme Park, simply show your receipt at the stroller rental location and you will be expedited through the queue with little or no wait time. There also doesn't appear to be any expiration date on the pre-pay plan, and some MFL members have reported using unused days on subsequent trips. To learn more about renting strollers at Walt Disney World, click here. Note: Disney increased stroller prices significantly in 2008. Strollers used to be a moderate rental purchase, but not anymore. It may be time to think about buying an inexpensive umbrella stroller to bring along on your trip or rent one from an outside vendor like Magic Strollers for $15 for the first day and $8 for each additional day.
  
  EVC rentals work the same as strollers. They can not be taken from the park in which they are rented, but a receipt will get you an EVC in a second park on the same day. Be aware that there is no guarantee of getting one later in the day, however, and EVCs are often in short supply. The cost is $50 per day plus a $20 key deposit. Wheelchairs can be rented for $12 per day at the parks with no deposit (deposit requirements are different at Downtown Disney). More information for guests with disabilities can be found on Disney's web site.
  
  
• The lockers at Walt Disney World parks are a great way to store souvenirs, snacks, and even a change of clothes for the kiddies. Large lockers are $9 per day and smaller lockers are $7 per day. Both sizes require a $5 key deposit which is refundable when the locker key is returned. If park hopping, say visiting the Magic Kingdom in the morning and Epcot later in the afternoon, return the key for the Magic Kingdom park locker and save the receipt. Once arriving at Epcot, the $5 key deposit will need to be paid again, but the rental fee will be waived when a receipt dated for the same day is presented. Lockers rented in the water parks do not qualify, but can be rented for $8 (small) and $10 (large) per day. Non-qualifying lockers are also available at minature golf locations for $3 per day with a $2 refundable deposit.
  
  
• Walt Disney World Resort guests are entitled to free parking at the theme parks. If your are staying outside of Walt Disney World and intend to park hop to a second park in the same day, save your parking receipt. When presented at the second park, you will not have to pay for parking a second time. Parking at Disney theme parks is $14 for automobiles and $15 for campers and trailers.
  
  
• Valet parking is available at the Disney Deluxe resort and cost $12 per day plus tip. If you save your receipt and happen too valet park later in the evening at a second Deluxe resort and show your valet receipt. You won't be charged a second time. By the way, those with a Tables in Wonderland membership won't be charge for resort (including valet parking) or Theme Park parking after 5:00 pm when visiting for dining purposes.
  
  

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Discounts for Disney Tours, Recreation & Other Entertainment

Pirates League and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique
Children and even adults can have a makeover at the Walt Disney Resort. Children can choose between several princess (or prince) packages at the Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique located in both Downtown Disney and Fantasyland in the Magic Kingdom. Children and adults can get a complete pirate makeover at the Pirates League located in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom. Check the links above for additional information and pricing for these boutiques.

Disney Backstage Tours and Experiences
Disney offers many unique behind-the-scenes tours and experiences to guests for an additional charge. The list below indicates current discounts being offered. For more information on Backstage Tours and Experiences offered at Walt Disney World, click here.

• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders receive 15% off on most Disney backstage tours and experiences. Click here for a complete list.
• Disney Vacation Club members receive 15% off on most backstage tours and experiences. Offerings similar to those for Annual Passholders. Click here for a complete list.
• AAA's gives 15% off on select tours when a AAA package is booked.
• Disney Rewards® Visa Cardholders receive 20% off on select tours. Click here and mouseover 20% Off Tours for a complete list.
• Birnbaum's Walt Disney World 2010 guide book can be purchased now at 42% discount for just $9.90. The 2010 edition includes coupons (expiring in 12/31/10) for the following select tours and experiences:
  • Disney Animal Kingdom Wild By Design Tour: 15% off
  • Epcot Behind the Seeds Tour: 15% off for up to 10 guests
  • Epcot Divequest: 10% off
  • Dolphins in Depth Tour: 10% off for up to 4 guests
• NAUI Worldwide occasionally offers discounts on Epcot's Dive Quest. The current coupon is for 10% off your next Dive Quest dive at Epcot®.

Disney Quest

• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and DVC members receive $4 off adult admission and $3 off child admission prices.
• If you purchase MYW passes for the park, you can add the Water Parks Fun & More option to your ticket for only $53.25 including tax per ticket. This allows two to ten visits (depending on the number of days on the base ticket) to your choice of Disney’s Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, DisneyQuest, Wide World of Sports Complex and a round of golf at Oak Trail. One and two day MYW tickets will each have two plus options, all other tickets will have one option for each additional day.
• The 2010 Entertainment Book (any edition) has discount Disney Quests tickets online for $32.50 adult and $30.00 child plua tax through a third party web site. There is also a $2.25 delivery fee per order. TheMouseForLess web site visitors can get any edition of 2010 Entertainment at a Special Discount, plus get Free shipping. The 2010 Entertainment Book is good through November 1, 2010 and online offers are available immediately.

Cirque du Soleil

Special Notices: Effective October 6, 2009 prices for adult tickets category 1, 2, 3 and Front & Center tickets will increase. Prices including tax are below:

• Front and Center: $127.80 Adults; $103.31 Children (ages 3-9)
• Category 1: $111.83 Adults; $90.53 Children (ages 3-9)
• Category 2: $90.53 Adults; $73.49 Children (ages 3-9)
• Category 3: $73.49 Adults; $59.64 Children (ages 3-9)
• Category 4 (available only at box office): $56.45 Adults; $45.80 Children (ages 3-9)

• Anyone can get a special Valentine's Day savings of 30% off on La Nouba category 2 tickets for performances through March 27, 2010, when purchasing on the Cirque du Soleil web site
• Disney Rewards Visa Cardholders can get a 15% discount on Cirque tickets for themselves and up to 4 guests for performances 2/2/10 through 3/27/10. Tickets may be purchased on Disney's Web site or by calling 407-939-7600.
• Florida Residents can get a 30% discount on Cirque Category 2 seats for themselves and up to 4 guests for performances through 3/27/10. Proof of Florida residency and advance purchase required. Tickets may be purchased up to 2 weeks prior to the show date and will be available for pick up at the La Nouba Box Office Will Call window. Tickets may be purchased by calling (407) 939-7604.
• Military can get a 30% discount on Cirque tickets for themselves and up to 4 guests through 9/30/10. Must present valid Military ID to purchase tickets at La Nouba Box Office in Downtown Disney.
• Undercover Tourist sells discounted category 2 Cirque du Soleil vouchers for $5 off the gate price. After your purchase, you will need to call Disney (407-939-3463) to make your reservation. Let the representative know you have already purchased a certificate. Blackout dates apply.
• The 2010 Entertainment Book (any edition) has discount La Nouba tickets online at a slight discount through a third party web site. There is also a $2.25 delivery fee per order. TheMouseForLess web site visitors can get any edition of 2010 Entertainment at a Special Discount, plus get Free shipping. The 2010 Entertainment Book is good through November 1, 2010 and online offers are available immediately.
• DVC Members can often get special discounts and deals on Cirque Du Soleil. Call Member Services at 800-800-9800 for the latest specials and reservations.

Water Parks

• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and DVC members receive $4 off adult admission and $3 off child admission prices to Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.
• If you purchase MYW passes for the park, you can add the Water Parks Fun & More option to your ticket for only $53.25 including tax per ticket. This allows two to ten visits (depending on the number of days on the base ticket) to your choice of Disney’s Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, DisneyQuest, Wide World of Sports Complex and a round of golf at Oak Trail. One and two day MYW tickets will each have two plus options, all other tickets will have one option for each additional day.
• The 2010 Entertainment Book (any edition) has discount Disney water park tickets online at a slight discount through a third party web site. After registering, log in and click on the "Events & Attractions" tab. There is a $2.25 delivery fee per order. There is also a $2.25 delivery fee per order. TheMouseForLess web site visitors can get any edition of 2010 Entertainment at a Special Discount, plus get Free shipping. The 2010 Entertainment Book is good through November 1, 2010 and online offers are available immediately.

Water Recreation and Fishing

• Book a 2010 Walt Disney World vacation package and receive a coupon for 30 additional minutes of Sea Raycers® by Sea Ray, Boston Whaler® Montauk, or Sun-Tracker® pontoon boat use when 60 minutes are purchased. Book a 2010 Walt Disney World vacation package and receive 10% off the regular price of Guided Bass Fishing Excursions and Bass Nitro Fishing Excursions at select Walt Disney World marinas AND 10% off the regular price of all activities including parasailing, water skiing, wakeboarding and tubing trips at Sammy Duvall's Water Sports Center located at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Contact Disney at (407) W-DISNEY or The Magic For Less Travel for details.
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders receive 10% off parasailing, water-skiing, wakeboarding and personal watercraft for the Passholder at Sammy Duvall's Water Sports Centre after 12:00 pm. Take 15% off of all activities prior to 12:00 pm. at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Reservations required. Certain age restrictions apply. For more information or reservations call (407) WDW-PLAY (939-0754).
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders receive a 15% discount off the regular price of boat rentals at any Walt Disney World® Resort Marina. Subject to availability. Certain age restrictions apply (excludes Specialty Cruises).
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders receive 10% off of a BASS Nitro or Guided Fishing Excursion. Valid for the Passholder and the number of guests on the reservation. Valid only at Walt Disney World® Resort. Reservations can be made by calling 407-WDW-PLAY or 407-WDW-BASS.
• Disney Vacation Club members can save 10% off all activities at Sammy Duvall's Water Sports Centre at Disney's Contemporary Resort, including parasailing, personal watercraft (three-person Sea-Doo), waterskiing, wakeboarding and tubing. Call 407-939-0754 for reservations and additional information.
• DVC members get a 10% discount on marina rentals at most WDW marnias. Good for rental on a Boston Whaler Montauk, Sun Tracker pontoon boat, Sea Raycer by Sea Ray, pedal boat, canoe, or a regatta of other watercraft. Reservations are not required.
• During January of 2010, DVC members get a 20% discount on all water sports opportunities before noon at the Sammy Duvall Watersports Centre at Disney's Contemporary Resort Marina, including parasailing, waterskiing, tubing, wakeboarding, and watercraft rentals. (Currently members receive a 10 percent discount; in 2010 the 10 percent discount will be extended to members after noon.)
• Birnbaum's Walt Disney World 2010 guide book can be purchased now at 42% discount for just $9.90. The 2010 edition includes the following coupons (expiring 12/31/10):
  • 2-hour Guided Fishing Expedition: 20% off for up to 4 guests (a savings of more than $50)
  • Sammy Duvall's Water Sports (Contemporary Resort): 15% off parasailing, waterskiing, wakeboarding, family tubing and personal watercraft
• Print a coupon good for a free photo package at Sammy Duvall's Water Sports Centre.

For a limited time, those reserving multi- activities online can get 10% off at Sammy Duvall's Water Sports Centre at the Contemporary Resort. For example, booking two Personal Water Crafts for an hour then an hour of Water Skiing. Booking two parasail flights counts as only one activity. To get this special, enter promotional code ACT10 when reserving online at sammyduvall.com.

For a limited time, Canadians can receive 25% OFF of activities at Sammy Duvall's watersports centre and get 10% OFF and a free gift when you shop at Curl by Sammy Duvall in Downtown Disney. This information comes from Sammy Duvall's web site, but there's not much info on how to claim the discount. If interested, we suggest you call (407)939-0754.

Miniature Golf

• Book a 2009 or 2010 Walt Disney World vacation package and receive a coupon for one round of Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland miniature golf. Contact Disney at (407) W-DISNEY or The Magic For Less Travel for details.
• AAA's Diamond pass gets 15% off Miniature golf at Fantasia or Winter Summerland courses when a vacation package is booked.
• Birnbaum's Walt Disney World 2010 guide book can be purchased now at 42% discount for just $9.90. The 2010 edition includes a coupon (expiring 12/31/10) for 10% off on one round of Fantasia Gardens or Winter Summerland miniature golf before 4:00 pm for up to four people.
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders receives a 50% discount off Disney's Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course and Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course for themselves and up to three guests.
• DVC members save 15% on rounds of golf at Disney Winter Summerland Miniature Golf Course and Fantasia Gardens Miniature Golf Course. Discount is offered to Members and up to four guests.
• Those who play a second round of golf on the same day automatically receive 50% off on the second game.

Golf

• Guests staying at Disney resort or Swan and Dolphin hotels between are eligible for one complimentary club rental (subject to availability) when they purchase a non-discounted round of golf at the Palm, Magnolia, Lake Buena Vista or Osprey Ridge Golf Courses. Guests must present a valid WDW ID card at check-in at the Disney golf course to receive this benefit. Expires 12/31/10. Child playing golf get free clubs any time.
  
  
• Walt Disney World Guests can play 9 holes of golf (10th through the 18th holes) at the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course for only $75 if they do it by 11 a.m. Rate includes golf cart and green fees; rental golf clubs are just $15 extra. Offer expires 5/16/10

• All golfers cans save money with a "2 Round Pass" good for any day or time on any course. Golfers will pay $195 as opposed to $139 - $149 per round for resort guests. Day guests pay $262 as opposed to $164 - $1174 per round. Resort guests can book within 90 days of your tee time and others up to 60 days in advance. To obtain tee times available with this special offer, call (407)-939-4653. Passes can be picked up in the pro shops when you arrive Prices are effective until 5/16/10.
  
  
• Twilight Special rates are per person for greens fee and use of electric cart, and pre-round practice balls are not included for Twilight greens fees. Twilight rates begin at 2:00 p.m. unless otherwise stated. The following rates, times and dates apply:
  • Twilight Special (Oct 1 - Jan 14, 2010): $59 (Mon - Fri) and $69 (Sat & Sun)
  • Twilight Special (Jan 15 - Mar 13, 2010): $83 (Mon - Fri) and $93 (Sat & Sun)
  • Twilight Special (Mar 14 - May 16, 2010): $83 (Mon - Fri) and $93 (Sat & Sun); starts 3 pm
  
  
• Those staying at a Disney Resort or a Downtown Disney resort or hotel get advance tee times (90 days as opposed to 60 days for non-resort guests) and discounts at the Osprey Ridge, Magnolia, Palm, and Lake Buena Vista golf courses. Discounts run from $20 (1/16 - 5/10/09) to $15 (5/11 - 1/14/10) off depending on the season.
  
  
• Anyone can get a 50% off replay discount on a second round at the Oak Trail course (9-hole walking course).
  
  
• Military discounted golf rates for the Palm and Magnolia courses are available most times of the year for Shades of Green guests for tee times after 10 a.m. Currently, fees are $50. Call 407-824-2437 for more information.
  
  
• Annual Passholders get 30% off day rates for themselves and up to 3 guests.
  
  
• For a price of $50, DVC members hoping to work their magic on the links can purchase a DVC Annual Golf Membership. This exclusive membership provides the Member and up to three Guests with special, discounted per-round pricing at all WDW golf courses for a full year from the date of purchase. A DVC Golf Membership also grants Members benefits such as complimentary golf bag storage, club and shoe cleaning service, club transfer service, and transportation to any WDW golf course from select WDW resort hotels. Call the Golf Master Starter at 407-939-1313 for more details. Pricing for is below.
  • Fall Season Rounds (October 4-January 20, 2010): $79 (before 10 am); $59 (after 10 am)
  
  
• DVC members save 20% on golf lessons with the professional staff at WDW Golf Courses. PGA instructors will customize each 45-minute session to your skill and experience level to ensure that you get the most out of your lesson. To book a golf lesson, call the Golf Master Starter at 407-939-1313.
  
  
• DVC members can hit the links of Disney's Oak Trail Golf Course at a discounted rate of $20 per 9-hole round! The discounted rate applies for a Member and up to three guests and is valid during all operating hours including tee times before 10:00 A.M. As an added benefit, Juniors can play the course for just $15 per 9-hole round when accompanied by a Golf Membership cardholder.
  
  
• Florida residents and up to 3 guests can get up to 60% off regular golf rates with a Disney World Annual Golf Membership. This membership also offers a 20% discount on PGA Gold instruction.
  
  
• Guests of the Walt Disney World Resort who have reserved tee times can get free roundtrip transportation to the golf course via taxi. Contact Bell Services the night before scheduled tee times for a voucher to be used for fare and to scheduled taxi pickup. There is no charge for parking at any of the Disney Golf Courses. For more information visit Disney's web site.
  
  
• Magic Your Way Tickets with the "Water Park Fun & More" Option and Premium Annual Passes allow a single round of golf at the Oak Trail 9 hole walking course. Tee times are required.
  
  
• Other Discounts: Discounts are sometimes available for AAA members. If no other discounts are available, you might try contacting your AAA office to inquire.

Richard Petty's Driving Experience

• Undercover Tourist has Richard Petty tickets available at deeply discounted prices that you won't get purchasing through Disney or on the Richard Petty web site. Prices shown include tax and free shipping. Some savings include:
  • Richard Petty Riding Experience: SAVE $18 off gate price; $98.00
  • Richard Petty Rookie Experience: SAVE $64 off gate price; $360.00
  • Richard Petty King's Experience: SAVE $54 off gate price; $796.62
  • Richard Petty Experience of a Lifetime: SAVE $82 off gate price; $1248.00
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders get a 20% discount on any Richard Petty Driving Experience package. Valid only at the Walt Disney World Speedway for the Passholder. Not valid with any other coupon or discount. Call (800) BE-PETTY (237-3889)† for reservations and information.
• DVC Members get 20% off all programs. Call 800-237-3889 and use promotion code ORCDRA. Available to Members only.
• Florida Residents save 15% on Richard Petty Driving Rookie Experience and the Ride-Along Experience. Call 1-800-237-3889 and use promotion code FL1007. Available until 3/31/10.
• Annual Passholders can do a 3-lap Ride Along from Richard Petty Driving Experience for Free. Free ride-alongs are limited to one per passholder for the three-month promotion. Must be at least 14 years old to participate. Available until 3/31/10. While at the track, passholders can enter to win an 18-lap King’s Driving Experience valued at $919.04 and Richard Petty-signed diecast car. Monthly winners also will be drawn to win an 8-lap Rookie Driving Experience, valued at $486.04. These contests are open to passholders 18 and older with valid drivers licenses.
• The 2010 Entertainment Book (any edition) has discount Richard Petty Riding Experience tickets online for $96.92 including tax through a 3rd party vendor. After registering, log in and click on the "Events & Attractions" tab. There is a $2.25 delivery fee per order. There is also a $2.25 delivery fee per order. TheMouseForLess web site visitors can get any edition of 2010 Entertainment at a Special Discount, plus get Free shipping. The 2010 Entertainment Book is good through November 1, 2010 and online offers are available immediately.
• The Orlando/Orange County Convention & Visitors Bureau has a very good discount on Richard Petty tickets. A Ride-a-along is $92 and a Rockie Driving Experience is just $375.
• AAA members have reported getting discounts as high as 20% off when reserving the Walt Disney World track directly with (800) BE-PETTY.
• Members of the American Express Rewards Point program can get one of several free Richard Petty driving experiences by cashing in reward points:
  • Ride-Along Experience: 10,000 points
  • Rookie Driving Experience: 35,000 points
  • King's Experience: 75,000 points
  • Experience of a Lifetime: 120,000 points
• In the past, Richard Petty's web site has offered discounts of up to 50% for experiences reserved during the Christmas holiday season.

Richard Petty has a new "Experience Rewards" program. Eligibility is earned automatically after participation in one driving experience at any Richard Petty Driving Experience location and FREE membership will be given for 1 year. Member privileges cannot be combined with any other offers. Benefits include the following benefits:

• Effective January 1, 2010, all members will receive $200 off the regular price of any Driving Experience (excluding Daytona International Speedway & Indianapolis Motor Speedway). This is a savings of up to 44% off the retail price.
• A $50 discount on a reserved driving experience for up to 3 friends that participate during the same session as the Experience Rewards member's booked experience.
• $79 Driver Ride-Alongs during the Experience Rewards member's return visit (Limit one per visit).
• 25% discount off Richard Petty Driving Experience merchandise and apparel (excludes plaques, pictures, & DVDs and discounted merchandise).

To get more information and to secure membership, simply call 1-800-BE-PETTY (1-800-237-3889) to enroll and book your Rookie today. More details can be found by visiting www.1800bepetty.com/experiencerewards.

Sponsor/Contest Link: Richard Petty Driving Experience
Prize: Win an 8-lap ROOKIE Experience! One winner is picked each month.
Restrictions: One entry per person per month via submit form; Must be 18 or over and have a valid driver's license.
Eligibility: None specified
Last Day to Enter: None specified

The Indy Racing Experience
The Indy Racing Experience is the ultimate experience for race fans and car enthusiasts. Located in Indianapolis, but operating nationwide and at the Walt Disney World® Speedway, the Indy Racing Experience offers fans the opportunity to both ride and drive in an actual IndyCar Series car. The Indy Racing Experience Two-Seat Ride allows the passenger to experience speeds and g-forces previously available to only a handful of elite drivers. The car is complete with an authentic racing powerplant that can reach up to 180 miles per hour. The price for this 3-lap experience is $109 plus tax. The Indy Racing Experience Driving Program gives each customer the chance to learn what is is like to drive a real IndyCar Series car that has competed in the famed Indianapolis 500 for a total of 8 laps. Speeds are dependent upon each customer's comfort level in the car. The price for this 8-lap experience is $399 plus tax. Click here for more information.

• The 2010 Entertainment Book (any edition) sometimes has discounted The Indy Racing Experience tickets online for both the Riding and Driving experiences. Tickets are through a 3rd party discount vendor. After registering, log in and click on the "Events & Attractions" tab. There is a $2.25 delivery fee per order. TheMouseForLess web site visitors can get any edition of 2010 Entertainment at a Special Discount, plus get Free shipping. The 2010 Entertainment Book is good through November 1, 2010 and online offers are available immediately.

Spas Treatments
Spas and Massage & Fitness centers at Walt Disney World are run by Niki Bryan Spas. For spa services and prices, click here. Gift certificates are also available for purchase online.

• Book a 2010 Walt Disney World vacation package and receive 15% off the regular price of any body treatment or water therapy at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa or Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa. (Massage, facial and hand and food treatments excluded. Contact Disney at (407) W-DISNEY or The Magic For Less Travel for details.
• AAA's Diamond pass gives 15% off spa treatments at Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club and 10% off Buenea Vista Palace spa & salon services when a vacation package is booked.
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders get 10% discount off the regular price of one spa treatment each visit to the Grand Floridian Spa & Health Club or the Spa and Health Club at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort.
• DVC members receive a 10% discount on spa services (gratuities not included) and retail items (excluding Amala Skin Care) at the Spa at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and the Grand Floridian Spa and Health Club. Savings are also available on select services at other Deluxe and DVC resort spas, health clubs and salons.
• The Mandara Spa, located at the Dolphin Resort offers a variety of treatments and services. Several include free take-home products. To see a list of what is offered, click here.

AMC Pleasure Island 24 Movie Theatre
Adult tickets are regularly priced at $10, Children (ages 2-12) are $7.00 and Seniors 60+ pay $9.00. Matinee tickets are $8.00 for all.

• Purchase your Pleasure Island AMC tickets in advance from Fandango AND purchase one advertiser offer and get a Cash Back Rebate. It's like getting your ticket for free! Take a look and see if there are any offers that interest you. Use area code 32830 for Pleasure Island theater.
• AMC Pleasure Island offers discounted movie tickets for $6 for seniors 60 and older every Tuesday all day. Students, ages 13+ can get a $7 discounted ticket all day on Thursdays with a valid student ID. All shows before noon Fri., Sat., Sun. and holiday periods are $6.
• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders get a $2 discount on adult evening admission.
• The 2010 Entertainment Book (any edition) has discount movie tickets for the AMC Pleasure Island 24 location. You can also purchase tickets for AMC theaters online and get up to 35% off. TheMouseForLess web site visitors can get any edition of 2010 Entertainment at a $Special Discount, plus get Free shipping. The 2010 Entertainment Book is good through November 1, 2010. The following coupon discounts are included in the Orlando 2010 edition of the Entertainment Book:
  • AMC Gold Experience Tickets for $7.50 each; coupons for up to 12 tickets. Gold Experience Tickets are valid for IMAX®, Digital 3-D or other special presentations.
• MovieWatcher is AMC's free club that rewards you for going to the movies. Receive free concessions or tickets for every 10 points earned. Click here to join or for more info.
• AMC Theatres are currently offering a Free mediumpopcorn when you buy 2 ICEE drinks.
• See other AMC concession special deals; click the "Concession Offer" tab.
• AAA members can buy discounted AMC tickets online for just $6.50 at AAA.com.

Special Walt Disney World Events
Be sure to check our Annual Events page for the latest event information on yearly Walt Disney World events.

• Walt Disney World Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club members get 10% discounts on the following specially ticketed events at the Magic Kingdom®Park: Mickey's Not So Scary Halloween Party, and Mickey's Very Merry Christmas Party. Discount is only available on selected nights, based on a limited availability, and applies to "Day-Of" admission price (does not apply to "Advance Sales" admission price) for these specially ticketed events. AP Passholders and DVC members may purchase up to a total of 4 discount tickets for specially ticketed event dates and prices. Check the links above for complete pricing and information.
• Annual Passholders and Disney Vacation Club discounts are also usually available for select Epcot International Food & Wine Festival events when purchased in advance. Check the link above for the latest information and discounts for this event.
• Discounts for Magic Kingdom parties on specific dates are occasionally available to TheMouseForLess Yahoo Group members through special discount club memberships. Additionally, members occasionally sell tickets they will not be able to use at a reduced price. To join TheMouseForLess Yahoo Group, click here. Also check our Disney Ticket page to see what ticket discounts are currently available.

Disney's Wide World of Sports
Be sure to check our Annual Events page for the latest info on what's happing at Disney's Wide World of Sports.

• Premium Annual Passholders get unlimited admission to Disney's Wide World of Sports
• Annual Passholders can enjoy a $5 discount on a $35 ticket to see the Harlem Globetrotters at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex grand opening, and get a commemorative t-shirt, too! The event will be held Thursday, February 25, 2010, at 7:00 p.m. M show your Passholder ID at the ESPN Wide World of Sports box office to purchase ticket.
• Annual Passholders can also get special seating at Atlanta Braves Spring Training Games, includes admission and climate-controlled suite seating, a game program, and buffet lunch from noon - 1:30 pm.
  • Braves vs. Houston Astros 3/7/10
  • Braves vs. St. Louis Cardinals 3/21/10
  Tickets cost $80 for adults and $70 for children ages 3-9. Call (407) 938-3223 to reserve your ticket package. Suites open at 11:30 a.m. Valid Passholder ID required.

Downtown Disney Discounts
In addition to the Cirque du Soleil, Disney Quest and Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique discounts listed on this page, discounts are sometimes available for other Downtown Disney events and entertainment. For a complete listing of limited-time discounts, click here. The discounts listed below are on-going.

• AAA's gives 10% off at World of Disney Store and on Planet Hollywood merchandise when a AAA package is booked.
• Disney's Rewards Visa card gives 10% off at World of Disney Store on purchases of $50 or more.
• Disney Vacation Club members can save up to 20% on some Downtown Disney restaurants and 10% on select Downtown Disney stores. See a complete list here.
• Annual Passholders can save up to 20% on some Downtown Disney restaurants and 10% on select Downtown Disney stores. See a complete list here.
• MYW Packages come with a $15 Planet Hollywood Meal Voucher.

Other Disney Discounts
Other theme park savings can be found throughout our website. Here are just a few pages you might like to explore:

• See below for Free Wi-Fi connection at WDW
• PhotoPass Savings & Tips (look for the dollar bill icons)
• WDW Disney Tickets
• Orlando Attraction Tickets
• Dining Tips and Coupons
• Disney Merchandise and Other Saving Tips

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Nothing is Better Than Free

It's true, nothing is better than free! There are a few things you can do, collect or get for free (or the appearance of free) both inside and outside of the Disney parks. Below we've listed a few.

• Free Wi-Fi: Want to check email at WDW, but don't want to pay the $9.95 per day resort fee to connect within your room? We're keeping a list of Walt Disney World hot spots where you can connect for free as reported by MFL members:
  • Disney's Wide World of Sports Complex has free Wi-Fi and can be accessed from the parking lot, All-Star Cafe and gift shops near the entrance without out paying admission fees. Disney Transportation to and from Wide World of Sports is provided via bus from Disney Hollywood Studios.
  • You can also get free Wi-Fi in public areas of WDW resorts which have a convention center, this includes the lobby and pool areas.
  • There have also been reports that there is free Wi-Fi inside of of Innoventions East (near the Universe of Energy exit) at Epcot and in the area where you disembark from Spaceship Earth. Some MFL members have said anyplace where you can "email" photos or send cards to yourself, there is free Wi-Fi.
  • Some areas within themeparks, such as near City Hall in the Magic Kingdom have free Wi-Fi. At Disney's Hollywood Studios, there is a sign inside of Toy Story Mania that says they have free Wi-Fi but tells you to ask a CM for the password to "log in". You can also get free Wi-Fi in the area located between Mickey's Sorcerers Hat and the Brown Derby.
  • Disney's Blizzard Beach water park has free access near the gift shop located at the parks entrance.
  • Disney Quest has an Internet Cafe that offers limited Internet access, but you can usually check email for providers that have web-based email access.
  • Two new mobile websites have recently come online, m.disneyland.com or m.disneyworld.com, that allow guests with a browsing-enabled phone to access limited Disney park information such as park hours, entertainment schedules and dining information.
  
  
  
• Atlantic Dancehall: Admission to this 1940s-style dance club located on the Boardwalk (Epcot area resorts) is usually free and open to guests 21 or older.
  
  
• Disney Toiletries: Small bottles of Mickey shampoo and conditioner are available in many Disney resort rooms and make great souvenirs. Use the ones in your room and ask housekeeping staff for a few to take home.
  
  
• Resort Room Goodies: Other free goodies often found in Disney resort rooms are hotel pens, tablet, and postcards.
  
  
• Pirate Punch Extra: Many restaurants at Walt Disney World serve a non-alcoholic drink for kids known as Pirate Punch. Each drink comes with a glowing Tinker Bell or Captain Hook clip-on light keepsake. Iin addition to the light up souvenir that comes with the drink, the cups themselves are attractive and very durable as a keepsake.
  
  
• Free Disney Movie: Fort Wilderness Campground has a free petting zoo and kids can play checkers for no charge in the General Store. Families can also make the short trip to Meadow Trading Post and watch a free Disney movie around a campfire while enjoying roasted marshmallows or S'mores made from supplies purchased at a nearby stand. Chip and Dale may even make an appearance. Free movies can also be found on the beaches and pool areas of select resorts. See our Resort Guides for more info. Even movies are also offered at select resorts. Ask at the front desk of your resort for a movie schedule.
  
  
• Kidcot Creations: Kidcot stations are located in each country around World Showcase at Epcot. Kids can start at any Country and will be given an unfinished cardboard mask. At the Kidcot station in each country something will be added, colored or glued on. By the time a child has traveled around World Showcase, he'll have a wonderful free souvenir he created himself.
  
  
• Kids' Discovery Club Activities: Discovery Club stations are located in 6 locations (look for the red "K" on park maps) at Disney's Animal Kingdom park. A Passport can be obtained at any one of the stops around the park. Each station allows to kids to complete fun and educational activity for which they will receive a special stamp for their passport. Once completed, kids will also receive a special Rafiki stamp acknowledging that they completed the program.
  
  
• Mickey Wake Up: Press the wake up call button on your resort room phone and request a wake up call. It's best to ask for an odd time like 7:23 am or 8:09 am to ensure results (during popular on-the-hour and half-hour lines are sometimes too busy). Ask you child to answer the phone, usually Mickey or one of his pals will give you a very cool wake up message.
  
  
• Free Tours: Take the Hidden Mickey tour at Animal Kingdom lodge and get a free trading card if you manage to all of the hidden Mickeys. There is also a free Tasting Tour at Animal Kingdom Lodge that allows guest to sample culinary delights served at Boma's and Jiko There is a free Wonders of the Lodge tour at Wilderness Lodge, offered at 9am Wednesdays and Saturdays - learn about the architecture, landscaping and artwork.
  
  
• LEGO Fun: The LEGO store at Downtown Disney has a large play area constructed of LEGO blocks. It's free and a great place to take a load of your feet while kids are entertained. And, once a month, kids can learn how to build a cool LEGO mini model, and take it home – for free! A new model will be available every month and will be specially themed to that month. Click here to see the date for this months model build.
  
  
• Masterful Magic: The Magic Masters store in Downtown Disney puts on free magic exhibits every day.
  
  
• Toy Fun: Make a free plastic robot souvenir to take home at PlasticWorks in Innoventions East at Future World in Epcot.
  
  
• Souvenir Certificate: As you exit the Pirates of the Caribbean attraction in the Magic Kingdom, go to the cash register on the left far side and answer the trivia questions. If you get it right you will receive a certificate and a free gift from the treasure chest.
  
  
• Free Training Sessions: The Pirate Tutorial in Adventureland in the Magic Kingdom and Jedi Training Academy at Disney Hollywood Studios near Star Tours are activities that are free also. Participants who are selected will receive a commemorative certificate.
  
  
• Coca-Cola Products: Stop by Club Cool located near Innoventions West in Future World. This exhibit is sponsored by Coca-Cola and features Coke products distributed worldwide. Sample cups are small, about 3 oz, but you can try as many flavors as you like and as often as you like.
  
  
• Free Customized Maps: These are great for planning your Walt Disney World vacation and include five full-color, keepsake-quality Customized maps of the Walt Disney World Resort. The maps come in large 14" x 20" format. You will also receive a set of golden stickers to mark your favorite park locations. Click here to get maps.
  
  
• Chocolate Yay!!!: Get a chocolate sample at Ghirardelli Soda Fountain & Chocolate Shop located in Downtown Disney's Marketplace.
  
  
• iPhone Maps and Guides:

  If you have the free iTunes application on your computer, type "Walt Disney World" or "Disneyland" into the search box. Then click on "see all applications" in the application section. You will find a variety of applications for your iphone ranging from free on up. Most are very inexpensive. Apps are available as individual park mini guides, a dining guide for Disney restaurants with full menus, and much more. Here's a couple we think you will like (not all are free):
  • OLP WDW Transportation Wizard - Every possible way to get from place to place
  • Disney.com - Free
  • Radio Disney - Free
  • Hidden Mickeys - Walt Disney World
  • Walt Disney World Dining - Features full menus

  
  
  
• Kids ID Tattoos: Lost and Found Temporary Tattoos™ are a unique way to help ensure if your child is lost they will be found. Although memorized, a phone number may not be easy for your child to remember when lost. Lost and Found Temporary Tattoos™ help your child remember important phone numbers because they simply know to look at the tattoo. While these tattoos are not free, individual tattoos are only $1.29 each. For more information or to order, click here. ~ Thanks to Suzy K. for the information
  
  
• Disney Games and Stuff: Play tons of Disney Games online. Some are even downloadable. More are added all of the time. Also stop by Disney's Desktopstop for free wallpapers, buddy icons, screensavers and more.
  
  
• Free Information: Every once in a while we come across a web site with Disney information so unique, you can't get it anywhere else. Here are a few of our favorites:
  • Disney Parks Blog - Info right from the source for WDW, DL & DCL
  • Orlando Sentinel's Disney Blog - Disney park news stories daily
  • Mom's Panel - Get answers from a panel of professional Disney Moms
  • Walt Disney World Entertainment - Schedules for live park entertainment & character appearances
  • Disney Food Blog - Daily articles on Disney food
  • Disney Bathrooms - The ultimate reference
  • Walt Disney World Suites - Take a photo peek inside
  
  
  
• MouseForLess Vacation Downloads: We have a bunch of them here are just a few:
  
  
  • Free Desktop Calendar (get a new one every month)
  • Free Disney Homework Pages
  • Free Kids Travel ID
  • Free Kids Travel Journal
  • Free Pocket Guide Character Find
  • Free Autograph Book
  • Free Disney Luggage Tags
  • Free Mousekeeping Envelopes
  • Free Planning Kit
  • Free Stroller Tags
  • Free Ultimate Packing List
  • Free Cast Member Appreciation Certificate
  • Free MFL Logo Transfers
  
  
  
• TheMouseForLess.com has dozens of additional ideas for interesting things to see and do at Walt Disney World that don't cost extra. See our complete list of Walt Disney World Hidden Gems.
  
  
• For a ideas on what to do at Walt Disney World without tickets, read this article.

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