Congratulations! You’re expecting a little bundle of joy, and you couldn’t be more excited. That is, until you realize that you have a trip to Walt Disney World scheduled mid-pregnancy and your plans of rope-drop to fireworks, riding every Mountain numerous times, and drinking around the World are going to be changing dramatically. I have now been to Walt Disney World three times during my two pregnancies, and while these trips were very different than my usual trips, they were no less fun or special.
First of all, I would highly recommend talking to your doctor prior to your trip. Especially if you are further along in your pregnancy or have any sort of complications, you’ll want to find out if your OB has any recommendations or restrictions. Next, make sure you pack lots of comfy clothes and your most comfortable shoes (I highly recommend Oofos sandals for walking around the parks!). You may also want to invest in a belly support band if you don’t already have one – this can be a lifesaver for your back! You want to be able to be as comfortable as possible, and there is lots of walking involved at Disney, even on the shortest of days. Understand that this trip will be different, and embrace this special time! Here are a few more tips that I have discovered that helped make my preggo trips to Walt Disney World extra magical.
10.Grab the opportunity for a fun photo shoot or magical announcement!
I had a trip to WDW planned just a couple of weeks after finding out I was pregnant with my now-5-year-old son. My husband and I hadn’t told anyone that we were expecting yet, so our trip was extra special because we had this big secret! We purchased a special set of ears and did our own photo shoot that would later become our announcement on social media.
I have also known people who have done a special gender reveal with pink or blue Mickey balloons, or even with a character. There are also endless opportunities to get special maternity photos using Photopass photographers. I have found that when they realize you’re excited or looking for a special photo, they are happy to oblige and get just as into it as you are!
9. Snack!
Okay, so I never need an excuse to eat all the snacks when I’m at Walt Disney World! But why not seek out some new treats while your significant other is busy riding Space Mountain? I recommend doing your research beforehand. Know what snacks are offered in each park (check out the Disney Food Blog for some great videos, or find menus on All Ears) – this can be especially helpful if you have any dietary restrictions. Make a list on your phone so you can have it with you, and…bon appetit!
I had always intended to try the Cheshire Cat Tail at the Cheshire Cafe, but had never gotten around to it, because I was always sticking with my go-to snacks. On my last trip, my friends dashed off for a Fastpass at park opening, and I decided to finally make it happen. Totally worth it!
A few other of my favorite snacks: the Nutella and fresh fruit waffle at Sleepy Hollow in Magic Kingdom (perfect for breakfast!) and the ice cream cookie sandwich at Trilo-Bites in Animal Kingdom. Looking for something savory? Try the egg rolls found at Lotus Blossom Cafe in Epcot’s World Showcase.
8. Enjoy taking it slow: photographing details, people watching, etc.
I admit, it’s hard for me to slow down. I’m a rope-drop-to-fireworks kind of girl, and I like to ride every ride (the bigger, the better!) in between. But once you change your mindset, it can be so much fun to just take it slow! Enjoy sitting in the hub grass, basking in the sun and watching people go by. Or wander around an area and take the time to really notice all the details. After all, details are what Disney does best! Walk down Main Street and notice the names on all the windows (they all have significance!), or sit in one of the pavilions in World Showcase and just enjoy the music and the beautiful surroundings. Photograph everything! Chances are, you’ll only have eyes for your baby on your next trip, so everything will be seen through a different lens!
7. Hydrate!
This one seems pretty obvious. But it can be easy to get caught up in your day and not drink enough water. It’s especially important when you’re pregnant to stay hydrated, and the Florida heat can be brutal. Luckily I had a friend who was a nurse with me on my last trip, who gave me reminders and even brought me bottles of water when I forgot. On family trips, we bring a CamelBak backpack that we fill with ice and water to sip on all day. Remember that you can also ask for a free cup of water at any place in WDW that has a soda fountain.
Tired of drinking water non-stop? This can also be a good time to try other refreshing (non-alcoholic) options around the parks that you would usually skip. And it can make passing on your favorite margarita a little easier!
6. Build in breaks – pool time or nap!
Growing a human is hard work! Don’t underestimate the need for some R&R during this time. You may need to take a mid-day break from the parks for a nap or a refreshing dip in the pool. If you have other children, you may already be building this into your day. I am not one of those people who loves to nap – I never want to miss a moment! But while pregnant, I have to embrace it and realize that afterward, I will feel much better and will be ready to head back out for more fun.
5. Enjoy indoor shows, rides, or character meets that you don’t usually get around to doing.
If you’re always on the go or looking for your next thrill ride, you may have missed some hidden gems around Walt Disney World! There are many indoor shows and rides that will give you a break from the heat and a chance to sit down. My personal favorite is Carousel of Progress at Magic Kingdom- a must-do for me on every trip! Living with the Land in Epcot is also a great way to relax on a boat while learning a bit. If you’re at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, you can sit down and enjoy Finding Nemo: the Musical or Festival of the Lion King. Both are amazing shows featuring great performers and music that you’ll want to download as soon as you get home!
This may also be a great time to do some character meet and greets! On my trip this past January, I was almost 18 weeks pregnant and was definitely showing. When I met Tiana (who is one of my favorite princesses!), I shared that we are planning to name our baby girl Evangeline. Without missing a beat, she exclaimed, “I’m sure she will shine as bright as the stars!” Talk about a magical moment! I was in tears afterward, especially when I saw the amazing photo my friend had captured of the interaction. You better believe this one will be framed in the nursery!
4. Explore resorts or try a new restaurant.
Resort hopping – or even just exploring your own resort – can be a really fun and low-key way to spend an afternoon. There’s lots of shopping, snacking, dining, and just enjoying the unique sights and smells of each resort. If you happen to visit during the holidays, many of the resorts have special displays (such as the giant gingerbread house at The Grand Floridian!) and beautiful Christmas trees. Hopping on and off the monorail is an easy way to explore The Grand Floridian, The Polynesian, and The Contemporary Resort. If a Boardwalk-style atmosphere is more your style, then consider exploring the Epcot resorts – Boardwalk Inn and Villas, Beach Club Resort and Villas, and The Yacht Club are all just a short walk or boat ride from Epcot’s International Gateway.
Remember, you are not able to use the pool at any resort except the one at which you are staying. But you are more than welcome to wander the grounds and enjoy the other things they have to offer.
There are also many restaurants found at the resorts – why not try one that you’ve never been to? Reservations can be made 180 days in advance, and many of the in-demand restaurants fill up quickly. Enjoying a restaurant is also a great way to relax and get out of the heat.
3. Splurge on a tour or other special experience.
Did you know that there are at least 15 different tours currently available across the Walt Disney World property? Keep in mind that not all of these will be appropriate during pregnancy, but there are several that are. I enjoyed the Caring for Giants tour on my last trip (read all about that experience here!). At only an hour long, it was a perfect way to spend some time while my friends were off exploring Pandora and conquering Everest.
There are also special experiences that take place during the Food and Wine Festival, special Holiday events, and there are multiple Spas on property if that is more your style. Just remember that all of these special experiences come at an additional cost, and most need to be reserved in advance. For a full list of things that will be offered during your specific vacation time, you can visit the Disney World website here.
2. Shop for a special outfit or keepsake for your baby.
If you already know the gender of your little one, it can be fun to peruse the shops and maybe even buy something for your little prince or princess. Baby clothes, toys, blankets, a first set of ears – the options are endless! The Christmas shops also carry baby ornaments and can personalize them at your request. This is a great opportunity to get something unique that will remind you of this special trip.
My friends surprised me with this Haunted Mansion layette kit – how amazing is this?!
1. Listen to your body!
This one also may seem obvious, but it’s easy to get swept up in the magic and want to keep pushing on when your body is telling you something different. Don’t ignore the signs that your body is giving you – head back early, get the extra rest, even if it means missing something you’d been planning on.
My last trip was based around a runDisney weekend, and I had registered to run my third Dopey Challenge (4 races equaling 48.6 miles over 4 days) long before I had any idea that I’d be expecting. I had continued training and had done several races during my pregnancy. I was prepared and felt mentally and physically ready to undertake the challenge! I felt great for the first three days of racing. The afternoon after the half marathon, all of my plans changed when a heat advisory was issued for the following day. As much as I hated it, I knew that the right decision for me (and my baby!) was not to run the race. I allowed myself to have a little cry, and then decided to make the best of the situation. I ended up spectating with a friend who was injured, and you know what? We had the most epic day of snacking and cheering. I had zero regrets that my plans had to change, and I made some really great memories.
Final Thoughts
While it can be disappointing to have to change your plans and expectations, going to Walt Disney World while pregnant can be a really special, fun, and unique time. Embrace the differences in your trip, knowing that the next time you come, you’ll have a new prince or princess to share it all with! Now, go start planning and make some magic, baby!
