Why Everyone Dreads the Last Day at Disney World (And What You Can Do About It)

Walt Disney World Resort is an enchanting place where magic comes to life; who wouldn’t want to stay there forever? But as with any vacation, the inevitable happens: the last day. It’s always a bittersweet moment when the excitement of the trip fades, and reality starts to creep in. You’ve had an unforgettable experience, and now it’s time to say goodbye. Here are the things we hate about our last day at the Central Florida Disney parks.

1. Packing Up to Leave

Packing is usually something to look forward to when you’re preparing for a fun vacation, but on the last day at Walt Disney World Resort, it’s just a reminder that your magical getaway is coming to an end.

It’s a little sad to gather your things and head back to reality. And, there’s that slight anxiety of making sure you haven’t left anything behind in your resort room.

Pro tip: Try to stay organized and pack a little the night before to make the morning a little less stressful.

2. Preparing for the Final Bill

The final bill at the resort can be a shock, especially if you’ve been charging purchases to your room throughout your stay. Disney’s irresistible food and souvenir shops can make it easy to lose track of your spending.

Take the time to review your charges the day before checkout to avoid any last-minute surprises. This way, you’ll know exactly what to expect, and you can save some time for one last indulgence — perhaps a final treat from your favorite Disney restaurant?

3. Getting Your Bags to the Front of the Resort

After a fun-filled vacation, the last thing you want to do is haul your bags all the way to the front of the resort. It can feel like an extra chore if your room is far from the lobby.

You can call for bell services to help with this, but don’t forget to give them enough time to arrive and bring a little cash for tipping.

4. Checking Out by 11:00 a.m.

Many Disney Resort hotels have a checkout time of 11:00 a.m., and while you may not have to leave right away, it’s still a strict deadline.

If your flight is later, you’ll need to leave your bags at the bell stand before heading to the parks for one last hurrah. Plan accordingly to avoid feeling rushed.

5. The Final Trip to the Park

The last trip to your theme park of choice is never easy. For many, Magic Kingdom Park is the ultimate spot to spend the last few hours of a Disney vacation. It’s the place to say goodbye to Cinderella Castle and soak in the magic one last time.

Whether it’s a final ride on Space Mountain or a stroll down Main Street, U.S.A., it’s always tough knowing this might be your last chance for a while.

6. Transportation Back to the Airport

Taking a shuttle, rideshare, or rental car back to the airport is truly one of the saddest moments of any Disney vacation. It’s the last ride, and instead of excitement, it carries a sense of finality. The reality of leaving now replaces the anticipation you felt when you first boarded transportation to Disney.

Still, take a moment to reflect on all the magical experiences you’ve had, and savor the final glimpses of the Disney magic as you head back to the airport.

7. Saying Goodbye to Disney Dining Credits

When you’ve enjoyed the luxury of Disney’s dining plan throughout your stay, it’s hard to part with those credits on the last day. If you’ve already used up all your credits, you’ll be left paying for your meals, which can be a bit of a bummer.

For those with unused credits, the scramble begins to use them up before checkout. Make sure to grab one more snack for the road!

8. Savoring Your Last Disney Treat

No one wants to face the reality that their last Disney meal or snack will be their last for a while. Whether it’s a Mickey-shaped pretzel or a treat from your favorite resort bakery, that final bite is always bittersweet.

Make sure to indulge in your favorite snack on your last day. It’s the perfect way to say goodbye to the magic, and who knows? It might just motivate you to start planning your next Disney vacation!

9. Watching Other Guests Arrive

One of the hardest things to watch on your last day is the flood of guests arriving at the resort, eager to start their Walt Disney World Resort vacation. Seeing excited families step off the Disney transportation, ready to experience everything Disney has to offer, can stir up feelings of jealousy.

But hey, you’ve been there, and you’ll be back soon! Just remember that there’s always another Disney Park adventure around the corner.

10. The Final Look at Walt Disney World Resort

Leaving Walt Disney World and getting one last glance at your Disney Resort hotel or favorite theme park is one of the hardest moments of any Disney vacation. Whether you’re heading out on a shuttle bus or driving away, that last view feels like a bittersweet farewell. Take a deep breath, and remember all the magical moments you’ve experienced during your visit.

The best way to cope with the sadness? Start planning your next Disney adventure! The magic will always be waiting for you when you return.

How to Make Your Last Day at Disney More Enjoyable

While the last day at Walt Disney World Resort can be filled with sadness, there are ways to make it a bit easier to bear. Here are some tips for making the most of your final day:

• Plan for a slow morning: Don’t feel rushed to get everything packed and checked out. If possible, plan for a relaxed morning where you can take your time packing and soaking in the last few moments of Disney magic.

• Take lots of photos: Your last day is the perfect time to capture memories. Whether it’s a family photo in front of Cinderella Castle or a selfie with your favorite Disney character, these photos will be precious mementos to remind you of the magic.

• Head to the parks early: If you’re visiting the parks, get there early to maximize your time. Prioritize your must-do attractions and enjoy the morning before heading to the airport.

• Treat yourself: Indulge in your favorite Disney snack or enjoy one last walk through the gift shop. Savor those final magical moments!

Leaving Walt Disney World Resort isn’t easy, but by making the most of your final day and planning, you can turn it into a chance to reflect on and relive the magic of your vacation…and start dreaming of your next one!

What’s your favorite Disney memory? Share it with Disney Tips in the comments below!