Walt Disney World Orlando

There are two types of Disney visitors. The first types just show up, trusting the theme park's reputation to guide them along. The second do some research, make dining reservations in advance, and decide which rides are must-sees ahead of time. Sure, the first types will have fun, but they'll wait in more lines, spend more money, and be more stressed out than the second types.

Chances are, that the first types—say, a family of four—arrive at the Magic Kingdom around 11, wanders along Main Street and through its stores to the other side of the iconic Cinderella Castle. At this point, one child wants to go to Space Mountain, while the other starts crying the farther the group gets from Dumbo, which now has a 90-minute line. This family might split up so each child can get in a preferred ride before lunch, or they might stick together, causing one child or the other to have a meltdown. By the time they struggle through the lines at rides and lunch counters, that late-afternoon sun is beating down.

Thanks to research and planning, the second types of visitors have learned the cardinal rule of Disney touring: arrive early. They avoid the worst lines. They avoid building unrealistic expectations that cause disappointment and tears. They enjoy their experience without stressing out about how much they need to do to justify the cost of their tickets.

The secret to enjoying Disney is to have a good plan but be willing to take detours when magical moments occur. Your children can rush to the big-deal rides early in the morning, but don't expect them to keep up that pace all day. Cushion your itinerary with extra time, and pause as much as you and your children need to. Let your mantra be "quality over quantity." It's better to tour the parks in a relaxed fashion than to flee to Pirates of the Caribbean, passing up a chance to hobnob with Princess Jasmine along the way, only to find a 30-minute wait at the ride. Jasmine definitely won't be there when you get out back.

Make each family member's top attractions part of your itinerary. Run through the plan before you enter the park; if children know that souvenirs are limited to one per person and that ice-cream snacks come after lunch, they're likely to be more patient than if they're clueless about your plans and dazzled by every trinket and treat they encounter. If you're towing an infant or toddler, be prepared to relax on a park bench while your little one snoozes in the stroller. Don't think about which ride you're missing. Just kick back and soak up the enchanting scenery.

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