https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel daily 0.75 2026-04-02 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/e446b965-6a69-4bc4-850d-12b01c347af5/square+rapp.jpg https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/how-to-pack-for-disney-world monthly 0.5 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773625139196-O7EMXUB9EAKKABHKL5WT/port+orleans.JPG Travel - How to Pack for Disney World - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - How to Pack for Disney World https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/whats-in-my-park-bag monthly 0.5 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/817d4356-597e-415b-a24e-1bf027f382c8/I%27ve+been+going+to+Disney+World+long+enough+to+know+exactly+what+I+reach+for+in+the+morning+and+what+stays+in+the+hotel+room_+This+is+my+current+everyday+park+bag%2C+what+I+add+depending+on+the+weather+or+the+day%2C+and+a+breakdown+for+anyone+.jpeg Travel - What’s In My Disney Park Bag - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/21ddf698-2919-49a8-9df8-602d914b3440/monorail+selfie.JPG Travel - What’s In My Disney Park Bag - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - What’s In My Disney Park Bag https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/2026-epcot-flower-and-garden monthly 0.5 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/8f16ebd3-3a76-486a-8cb3-21003e3c3316/F%26G+TS.JPG Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival The EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival is one of my favorite times to be at Disney World, and honestly, one of the best excuses to eat your way around World Showcase. The park transforms every spring, bringing topiaries on every corner, new outdoor kitchens open with menus that actually change year to year, and the whole vibe shifts into something a little busier and a lot more beautiful. We were there on opening day of the 2026 festival, and naturally, I ate as much as humanly possible and ranked everything so you don't have to guess. Here's my honest take on everything we tried! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773440113174-EJW1C4JCBOSZYCC34BM0/F%26G+marg.JPG Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773440112825-JRAYU9HAKF8WVMUQVKEJ/F%26G+taco.JPG Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773365629267-W6MQYXJFTY0OCYOUZTZG/F%2526G%2Bbao%2Bbun.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773365612627-8TZ2118NGVSGACNZS85P/F%2526G%2Bwontons.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/4a6f19a6-6b11-4df1-bbe7-b3cce34b0371/F%26G+canada.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773365770362-0O58D6IF9RHTRC8BK426/F%2526G%2Bcroissant.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773365781869-P5UBBB2AI0UUY1UXAQQZ/F%2526G%2Bduck%2Bconfit.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773365809030-Z7QVDB8CXLG9EOS9NLGM/F%2526G%2Bcaramelized%2Bbeignet.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367799908-KK2ZJLMH8AM0FA5DLAJI/F%2526G%2Bseafood%2Bbowl.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367727442-8L0GM8ADC4MR2M8E5UJP/F%2526G%2Bcorn.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367804532-Y2FFLP9DWAU3PPR9ENVJ/F%2526G%2Bshrimp%2B%2526%2Bgrits.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367771898-3PFPUO56DQIQHF1DELOE/F%2526G%2Bfrench%2Btoast.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367787822-JXCZJA97ZN0MFLD94C7D/F%2526G%2Borange%2Blemon%2Bslush.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367802462-GY7XZ4CN19X4AOK9C35R/F%2526G%2Bshrimp%2Btempura.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773367758187-GQGT3LVLROBFW58DUNVA/F%2526G%2Blemon%2Bbeignets.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773365798387-800W3BSNP6BT5KY5S4CP/F%2526G%2Bdrink.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - Everything I Ate on the First Day of EPCOT’s 2026 Flower & Garden Festival https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/the-best-disney-world-snacks-you-cant-leave-without-trying monthly 0.5 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/52e59496-27aa-41a0-b214-b0bf42a44e18/confectionary.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying If there’s one thing Disney World does exceptionally well, it’s snacks. It’s like 75% the reason we go back so frequently. Like the rest of Disney World, they’re overly expensive, but these are snacks that become the highlight of your day, snacks you plan rides around, snacks you think about long after you’ve left the park. This list is all about the best snacks inside the parks at Walt Disney World (subjectively, of course). Not resorts, not Disney Springs, and not table-service restaurants. Every recommendation here comes from quick-service locations, carts, and walk-up windows. These are the kind of spots you can hit between rides without committing to a full sit-down meal. These are the snacks worth detouring for, mobile-ordering in advance, or squeezing in “just one more thing” before you leave the park for the night. Some are iconic Disney staples, some are sleeper hits, and some are things I just refuse to skip on any trip (cheeseburger spring rolls!!!). Whether you’re building snack breaks into your itinerary or just want to know what’s actually worth your money, this guide will help you eat your way through the parks without wasting time or stomach space. Keep in mind that prices and snack offerings are accurate as of February 2026 and this list highlights my must-try favorites, not every available snack. Anything with an asterisk denotes that that location offers Mobile Ordering in the MDE app. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108375047-OYWZCHXXA4Z23D9MXXO3/confectionary+popcorn.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108369459-MC2UY3UKHTR165TIK97K/creme+brulee+croissant.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108381055-3XYOKVD37H7COTLPKUG2/funnel+cake.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108387037-82W9D01VSKILYFIVQP31/orange+dole+whip.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108388049-AKBDC44MQTUNHRC93J5N/chzburger+eggrolls+inside.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108393652-8Q0WH5WQFAM6VZFGXGCJ/chicken+egg+biscuit.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108500312-YZ4WCW9I276G7K4W6MNY/bouncin+churros.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108521179-P726AI9CSMJBF4TAJ3O8/woody_s+lunchbox.jpg Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108498814-QYM54BAIL66NMGUD2XDY/cocoa+puff+cold+brew.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770399988422-736CN21FOG7G21EVJPC2/Norway+Epcot.jpg Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770399990043-7D6QGQPR80ICPY2TXMH7/elote+corn.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770400459630-GLRIKTNEJCKBPML9UGNM/IMG_0642.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770400470487-L9C102APVG2MQPSUTHE9/IMG_5325.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108802726-Y1E110MT4HZB9CIWD0C4/AK+ice+cream+sandwich.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108802351-PEML2SF6YQFGDIPD0CSZ/kusafiri+coffee.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108829568-LIKC2O3KLXFS2AS1OB0S/satuli+french+toast.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108830282-I5L729RQKER1ZDF2BZMD/satuli+beef+%26+egg.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773108884541-VPPQX4D3WX2MPU9UUTGA/IMG_2660.png Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770400447088-W1GKABNOYH258VC1GW7I/IMG_0635.JPG Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying - Disney World snacks aren’t just filler between rides, they’re part of the experience. The right snack at the right moment can completely turn a hot afternoon around, become a core memory, or quietly steal the spotlight from whatever attraction you just rode. While the classic Mickey-shaped snacks aren’t always the best tasting, they are undeniably iconic, especially for photos. And if you’re set on having a Mickey-shaped treat at some point, the cookies & cream ice cream sandwich is the move for pure childhood nostalgia in the best way. This list isn’t meant to be overwhelming or exhaustive. Instead, it’s a curated collection of snacks that are consistently worth it to me: the ones I seek out every trip, recommend without hesitation, and intentionally build into my park days. You don’t need to try everything, but weaving a few of these into your itinerary will guarantee that you eat very well. Save this post, reference it on the go, and don’t be afraid to prioritize snacks just as much as rides. Disney World rewards those who pace themselves, mobile order strategically, and confidently say yes to dessert before dinner. And if you’re someone who believes a Disney trip is best enjoyed with a snack in one hand then you’re doing it right. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - The Best Disney World Snacks You Can’t Leave Without Trying https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/sip-snack-repeat-drinking-around-the-world-at-epcot monthly 0.5 2026-03-10 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1d6c402a-85c0-41c6-9f14-66e83b358c4f/epcot+groot+%26+pimms.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Eating and drinking around EPCOT’s World Showcase is basically a rite of passage for adult Disney trips. Eleven countries (plus the Outpost), one continuous loop, and more snacks and cocktails than any one person should reasonably attempt in a single day, which is exactly why having a strategy matters. This guide is built around the classic challenge the way my husband and I actually do it. Instead of trying to conquer everything (and either overspending or overdoing it), we choose one drink from each country and one snack from a few different countries and split everything. It keeps the experience fun, manageable, and realistic without blowing your budget or ending the night too tipsy to function. Disney will remove guests who are obnoxiously inebriated, and that is not the souvenir you want. Below, you’ll find specific snack and drink recommendations for every World Showcase pavilion, along with current prices so you can budget ahead of time for what is truly a full EPCOT event. This isn’t about racing the loop or checking boxes. It’s about pacing yourself, making intentional choices, and actually enjoying each stop along the way. All recommendations focus on permanent food and drink locations, not seasonal festival booths, so you can rely on this guide year-round. Festival menus change constantly, and while they can be great, they deserve their own dedicated planning (which I cover in separate posts). https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/5ba0a9f9-e70d-4e60-9c02-33afc04ec330/Epcot+Canada.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Canada: DRINK: Ottawa Apple (Crown Whisky, Maple, Apple Infusion, & Cranberry Juice) from the Popcorn Cart for $16.50 Optional Snack: Maple Popcorn from the Popcorn Cart - $7.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/6bfe4357-0016-4c0b-95c4-cfb824a9176a/Epcot+uk.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - United Kingdom: DRINK: Pimm’s Cup (Pimm’s No. 1, Sprite, mint, cucumber) from Rose & Crown Pub -$15.50 Optional Snack: Beer Battered Fish & Chips from Yorkshire County Fish Shop - $14.49 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/87d27a98-779e-4e24-934d-567338abfeaa/Epcot+France%281%29.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - France: DRINK: Orange Slush (Grand Marnier, Rum, Grey Goose Orange, Orange Juice) from Les Vins des Chefs de France - $14.95 Optional Snack: Butter & Sugar Crêpe from Crêpes À Emporter - $6.95 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/68772fb4-a7b3-451f-9d65-4e99d27efae3/Epcot+morrocco.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Morocco: DRINK: Frozen Mint Tea (frozen mint tea with Bombay Sapphire gin) from Oasis Sweets & Sips - $17.50 Optional Snack: Grilled Spiced Lamb Kebab from Tangierine Cafe - $6.25 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/7b283a2c-5a1f-46c9-ad4a-6615bd39219d/Epcot+Japan.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Japan: DRINK: Violet Sake from Kabuki Cafe (sake, purple pear juice, lime juice) - $14.00 This particular time drinking around the world, I got the Coconut Pineapple Sake Slushie from Kabuki Cafe and it was delicious, but the Violet Sake is a must. Optional Snack: Chilled Edamame from Katsura Grill - $5.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/7c4f3e80-6c23-4858-8154-773af38ac25c/Epcot+America.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - American Adventure: DRINK: Frozen Black Cherry Bourbon Lemonade (Frozen Lemonade with Red Stag Black Cherry Bourbon) from Fife & Drum Tavern - $16.50 Optional Snack: Chilled Edamame from Katsura Grill - $5.00 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/86d1a987-b7ab-4cdb-814a-f6a736a39d1a/epcot+italy.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Italy: DRINK: Peach Bellini (Peach puree & prosecco) from Tutto Gusto Wine Cellar - $16.00 Optional Snack: Cheese Pizza Slice from Pizza al Taglio - $8.50 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/9269b6bd-c26f-4cc1-baba-e39f16b5821e/epcot+germany.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Germany: DRINK: Schofferhofer Hefeweizen (20oz draft of pink grapefruit beer) from Sommerfest - $12.50 Optional Snack: Pretzel Bread Pudding from Sommerfest - $4.79 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/3ecdd509-35cd-47c2-99bc-0b6007e9ca8e/epcot+outpost.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Refreshment Outpost: DRINK: Mango Rum Freeze (frozen mango puree with Starr African Rum) - $16.50 This particular time drinking around the world, they were out of the Mango Rum Freeze so I got a Frozen Coke with Rum, but I recommend the mango drink instead https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/92d5f6d0-0a08-468b-a459-d5995d0fb415/epcot+china.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - China: DRINK: Kung Fu Punch (vodka, triple sec, mango & orange juice) from Joy of Tea - $13.95 Optional Snack: Chicken Pot Stickers from Lotus Blossom Cafe - $7.35 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c833dcf2-4ae2-4ea6-a547-651b60f2e6ed/epcot+norway.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Norway: DRINK: Viking Coffee (Bailey’s Irish Cream & Kamora Coffee Liqueur) from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe - $16.50 Optional Snack: School Bread from Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe - $5.49 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/54897182-40ca-4821-af74-91860b5cb817/epcot+mexico.jpg Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot - Mexico: DRINK: Frozen Fiesta Margarita (combination of strawberry, lime, & mango margaritas) from Choza de Margarita - $15.25 Optional Snack: Elote Corn from Choza de Margarita - $8.00 Because we like to end in Mexico so that we can plan a full dinner there, the margarita in this photo is the La Cava Avocado (Flecha Azul blanco tequila, melon orange liqueur, fresh avocado, lime juice, hibiscus salt rim) at the San Angel Inn Restaurante. But the above options are my favorites for snacking. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - Sip, Snack, Repeat: Eating & Drinking Around the World at Epcot https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/nyc-first-timer-weekend-guide monthly 0.5 2026-02-05 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/ba3a7127-f217-45b4-9fe6-6c51217ec04f/Photo+by+%28our+fave%29+Sydney+Jane+Photography Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - New York City hardly needs an introduction. It’s the backdrop of countless movies, shows, and songs and the kind of place where every block feels like its own world. What makes the city so special is the sheer depth of diversity and culture woven into everyday life, from languages and food to neighborhoods that feel entirely distinct from one another. It’s exciting and overwhelming, yet somehow grounding in the best way. As my girl, Taylor, puts it, “everybody here wanted something more” and that hunger for more is exactly what you feel pulsing through the streets. Like millions of other people, I fell in love with New York long before I ever set foot there (I was raised on 13 Going on 30), and over the last decade I’ve made the trip more times than I can count. Jake and I are wannabe residents and have been plotting the move since graduating college. We even got engaged in Central Park on a Christmas trip with friends and there was a snow squall right after he proposed! Needless to say, this city has my whole heart. One of the things we love most about coming back is that no two trips ever feel the same. We make a point to explore something different every visit, whether that means trying a new neighborhood, seeking out a cuisine we’ve never had before, or wandering a block we’d normally breeze past. It’s our way of deepening our appreciation for the people and cultures that make New York what it is, and of avoiding a surface-level, whitewashed version of the city that’s easy to slip into if you’re not intentional. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/f0fe80fc-f630-4f5d-90b0-d21c3578906c/airport.png Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1c96c4a7-6158-4e5f-a66e-3f98d2717b74/nyc+from+plane.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend If you're flying into LGA, pick a window seat on the left side of the plane (port side) for the best view when you’re landing in the city. HOT TIP: Take an early flight into the city and just store your luggage at your hotel! If your room isn't ready when you get there, they’ll give you a call when it is and sometimes even take your luggage up to your room for you. This will give you a full day of exploring without waiting for hotel check in, and if you’re tired or want to freshen up later just head to the hotel once the room is ready. Take a late flight out of the city and have the hotel store your luggage again when you check out, explore the city more that day and then swing by and grab your luggage before heading to the airport! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1682a8be-086e-49f0-b074-e039fb33c8c0/nyc_skyline.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - Make it stand out Skyline view of Downtown Manhattan from Brooklyn Bridge Park https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/6317ff2e-9db5-492d-ab86-e606af076ce7/Hotel+Moxy+Chelsea.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - Hot Tips Prioritize the neighborhood and convenience over room size. You’ll spend most of your time out exploring anyway. Don’t obsess over being “walking distance” to everything. Instead, make sure your hotel is near a subway line or two so you can hop around the city easily. If you want a more personal, stylish stay, boutique hotels are the way to go. Chains can feel generic, but boutique properties often have great design, rooftops, or bars that feel like part of the NYC experience. If you aren’t visiting for a specific major event or holiday, make sure you plan your trip around them (AKA avoid these dates at all costs to save big). Things like NYFW, NYC Marathon, Thanksgiving Day, etc. Prices fluctuate a lot. Book as early as you can with a refundable/free cancellation rate. Want skyline views without dropping $$$ on an observation deck ticket? Book a hotel with a rooftop bar or restaurant. The views are just as stunning, but with cocktails! The season that you visit absolutely matters. Summer can be cheaper, but higher humidity and incredibly hot, while late November & December are magical but $$$ thanks to the holidays. No hotel in NYC will check every single box. Focus on what matters most to you in terms of location, price, or style and let the rest go. Moxy NYC Chelsea - City View Room https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757805172941-L7770RPTHBAFRLX473J8/memorial+pool.JPG Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757805282953-C084AVZWDI0J5E5221G4/oculus.JPG Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757805336917-1K3Q42G2U9XBRYDHTOCQ/brooklyn+bridge.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771891672-XIFGKG923FAH8Q3EQQPF/Dante+nyc.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757772203919-I3ICAZSSYSRSWCK9O3PW/While+we+were+young+nyc.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771456673-RDVFA9YLBK69T3ZWV5EO/Laduree+soho%281%29.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771453052-Y0E2EM1FGP3T52JR1WZP/balthazar.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771484955-BF0JR8XLD7PURHCRDZDE/soho+architecture.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771474648-WJ7450L4J81DR25LE7CA/soho.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771893025-8E2L9OKWCKRY9YHOJLSK/Dante%281%29.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757771901619-8MQYPV26FN01XN264I0A/comedy+cellar.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757772199228-WZ5ZNPRS0HBPA0Y0BHM2/nyc+downtown+view.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757798687803-GDZ554SK7GH9057G5B7V/vessel.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757798675030-T14JYTBVCNQNQI26VFP2/chelsea_market.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/d85ca86b-ab17-42bc-b6b8-71ce09c7fcd8/la+pecora+biance.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - Afternoon: If you’re looking for a casual sit-down place for lunch, we’re big fans of the chain La Pecora Bianca and there’s one right off Bryant Park. The whipped ricotta appetizer is a must for me every time! It’s a good, safe choice with options for everyone. If you’re more interested in a quick, grazing-style lunch, walk 2 blocks east to Grand Central Station. There’s a food hall & public restrooms inside so everyone can break and grab their own lunches. Also another iconic landmark to check out! After lunch, hop back on Fifth Avenue and walk up to St. Patrick’s Cathedral. You’ll also run into Rockefeller Center & Radio City Music Hall while you’re there. Explore this iconic area (there’s a Tiffany & Co., Lego Store, Kate Spade, the iconic F.A.O. Schwarz, + more) and treat yourself to the famous banana pudding at Magnolia Bakery. If you’re absolutely set on experiencing an observatory while in the city, I highly recommend Top of the Rock. It’s one of the cheaper observatories and offers the best views, putting the Empire State Building & Freedom Tower into one photo. Sure, going up in the Empire State Building is iconic, but the skyline views are much better with it in the picture. If you want a cool skyline view at some point during your trip, but don’t feel strongly about it being an observatory, stay tuned. Head back to your hotel to relax and freshen up for dinner! https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757812882083-R3HWQZ3K1J6CF3KSI3XE/chi+restaurant.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757812885748-VIIJHR17VO4TT3U04UXU/hadestown.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757812888680-YX663QGTHPY3N68MLWZG/magic+hour+rooftop.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757890356017-BVWZ5THAVJ1KK40YEHOW/nyc+harbor+cruise.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757812916015-VP1EHCZGH4K05KLGOJ2B/ny+times+square.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757812920845-VJLTA0XFVLDUXJS98FK9/nyc+cruise.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/f9c07c66-a958-481b-858f-d17f45a34633/230+5th+rooftop.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - Make it stand out View from 230 Fifth Rooftop Bar https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757887290874-WD57SEJFEL12NEIEP5ZY/central+park+fall.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757887270625-9Q2QMO25UOWOLMTO256K/Central+Park+fall%281%29.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757887292247-6ZBWYP9902Z7OWVTIFWM/central+park+rowboat.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757887296229-KFO2TE92RERDPBNGY7PL/central_park_boat.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757887318299-05OCTE7J5B2GCL8N5DJI/park+view.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757887306112-YFUQOKIZ04BNC9CMRAOH/nyc+cherry+blossom.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757886888570-88T5HL46SH9BW959Y91Q/met.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757886903394-P9TK1N75SAJ6E4U2G9HP/met%281%29.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757886904588-0ZJ963C34UL64P687FNX/monet+met.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757886929828-NMRYLJBH0ZTPPLMHCR9R/Museum+NH.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757886889710-MWASF85EVGNWKDVYS5RD/dino.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1757886949506-O932L5K9ZUSTRHGDL8IP/naturl+history.jpg Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - NYC First-Timer Guide: How to Spend a Long Weekend - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/disney-world-without-kids-a-grown-up-guide-to-a-weekend-in-the-magic monthly 0.5 2026-03-15 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/900975b8-476f-41ca-a628-0fa13aa3046f/castle+new+paint.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic - Never let anyone tell you Disney World is just for kids. My husband didn’t experience the magic until he was 23, and now I’m pretty sure he loves it more than I do. Between cocktails around the world at EPCOT, incredible dining, and a heavy dose of nostalgia, Disney as an adult hits completely differently. It’s less about sprinting from ride to ride and more about doing Disney well. Knowing when to take advantage of Lightning Lanes, where to splurge on a sit-down meal, which parks are worth rope drop, and when it’s perfectly okay to sleep in and grab a slow breakfast instead. Disney World is massive, layered, and surprisingly customizable, which is both the magic and the challenge. I’ve learned that the difference between a chaotic Disney trip and a really great one comes down to having a plan that still leaves room for fun. Not a minute-by-minute schedule that sucks the joy out of the day, but enough strategy to skip unnecessary stress and focus on what actually makes the experience special. That’s exactly what my guide is meant to help with. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning after years away, this is your starting point for understanding how Disney World really works and how to enjoy it without feeling overwhelmed before you even step through the gates. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/5d6c2497-fba4-4a6d-bcc4-424965b336c3/ak+bus.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic - Getting Around the Disney Bubble Disney transportation is free, but it’s not always fast. How you move around Disney World can have a big impact on how smooth (or exhausting) your days feel. Depending on where you stay, transportation options may include: Buses The Skyliner The Monorail Boats Walking paths between select resorts and parks Each option has its pros and cons. Buses are the most widely available but can take the longest. The Skyliner and Monorail are often faster and more enjoyable, but they only serve certain resorts and parks. Boats and walking paths can be surprisingly efficient for short distances and are often a calmer way to travel. Always build extra time into your plans, especially for early park mornings, dining reservations, and park hopping. Transportation delays happen, and knowing your best route ahead of time can save you serious time and energy on long park days. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/4f534a29-2014-4978-80b9-7911abab9c53/AK+lodge.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic - Make it stand out Pictured Above: Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Lobby https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/cbb36fe6-7c01-4f74-8f10-d9e76d7cfa14/me+epcot+france.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic - What Are Lightning Lanes (and Do You Need Them)? If you’ve heard people say Lightning Lanes are confusing, you’re not wrong. At its core, Lightning Lanes are paid skip-the-line options that help you spend less time waiting and more time enjoying the parks. Everything is managed through the My Disney Experience app, so make sure it’s downloaded and updated before your trip. You also want to make sure you log in using the same Disney account you booked your trip with. A few important things to know before purchasing: Lightning Lane passes are purchased only through the My Disney Experience app Make sure everyone in your party is linked in the app under Family & Friends. This can be done in the app or on a computer. Prices of the Lightning Lanes vary by date, park, and attraction and are shown clearly before checkout. They typically range from $13 - $35, for Individual and/or Multi-Pass. Each Lightning Lane attraction can only be used once per day All purchases are nonrefundable and nontransferable - you can’t get any money back if there ends up being no wait for your Lightning Lane ride on your park day. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769573354248-AH7SFHP2SJY4XQ4Z3EPX/galaxy+edge.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773442356115-089QD8M16EHUFQG7PTEW/TSL.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773442078927-CG0BFD5B4X85JUJTVGMP/hollywood+studios+entrance.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773442069861-WWHORPK7VHT9VB5WMKG1/galaxy%27s+edge.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769573579843-04QSM0Y3I7T86CT8X8AG/woody_s+lunchbox.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769573572211-P73MKVO092IDOQEPHUKK/ogas.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769989630773-X35HMZNHB498PZABIN50/oga_s.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/27c592ad-1b24-4e1b-aa33-7677238cc449/epcot+pimms.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769658749177-P8VCYF24IEU3MDB5MGVP/epcot+paris+skyliner.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769658776977-18TN8JEJUFV20D51V4WX/epcot+france.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769658783171-K4MUUHZ2GJ4PTO2IKAEW/Guardians.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769898395529-1RT745KJV8E75NXKFXBI/carousel+%26+castle.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769899753763-ECZBXTMBCV7ZBRYOI6YR/tiana.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769899777470-MKRYABRPY8WU0A6UBE9D/Tron%281%29.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769898448378-R41UKGUD8HH9EZE1T4LK/MK+castle%281%29.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769899869782-3ZVUB3R5E0OKD9V1KH61/people+mover.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443049418-XQEV4OY7HI9BR3H9ES00/chzburger+eggrolls+inside.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443089409-11T0IZ2KLQ8Z5M8IG9CY/mk+confectionary+popcorn.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443048660-1VOEZ5C1YZNOX3GLI3QH/main+street+balloons.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769898437506-XT19M7E33COPDZJ0S8LG/monorail+view.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/42d82335-f28e-4c89-8700-a720321b5ae4/epcot+mexico.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic - Evening: For dinner, I recommend a sit-down meal. Our favorites are San Angel Inn Restaurante inside the Mexico pavilion pyramid and Nine Dragons Restaurant in China. Le Cellier Steakhouse in Canada is also fantastic, but it’s more of a splurge and better suited for a slower, elevated dinner. If you’re looking for a more adult-only atmosphere, GEO-82 is a 21+ lounge inside Spaceship Earth offering craft cocktails and small plates. Reservations are strongly recommended for all of these options, and absolutely required for GEO-82. After dinner, head back toward the front of the park around 8:00 PM and hop on the Monorail back to Magic Kingdom. Remember, you’ll need to transfer Monorails at the Transportation & Ticket Center. Once you arrive back at Magic Kingdom, make your way down Main Street and start looking for a spot to watch the nighttime firework show, Happily Ever After. While the fireworks are visible from many areas, the castle projections are a huge part of the show. Main Street becomes extremely crowded and can feel overwhelming, so if that’s not your thing, I recommend hanging back near the flagpole area. If you want to be closer to the action, great viewing spots include the areas in front of Casey’s Corner or The Plaza Restaurant. Try to position yourself near a lamppost or along a wall to avoid getting stuck in the middle of the crowd. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443909490-JHXNELHJ83K5D3CBWXPX/kusafiri+coffee.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443902984-7TFJ5ISPWC9A1AUZFFXA/safari.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443943931-FK9CHUFVN4MKF7FM6M4T/tree+of+life.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773443936595-3V6CL4DFA23N6OOEQ682/satuli+beef+%26+egg.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769916989057-P1HGX61640CGWGB3TK82/AK.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1769916989095-JDZK7106RS80YIPYJW2I/pandora.jpg Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1773444284227-3AGOYVY8HX0O4MHKYRZH/AK+ice+cream+sandwich.JPG Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Travel - Disney World Without Kids: A Grown-Up Guide to a Weekend in the Magic https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/New+York+City monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/Travel monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/Wedding monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/Disney monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/Holiday monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/Europe monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/category/Lifestyle monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/tag/New+York+City monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/tag/Travel monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/tag/Disney+World monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/travel/tag/Weekend monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/wedding daily 0.75 2026-04-02 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/wedding/how-to-build-a-wedding-day-timeline-that-actually-flows monthly 0.5 2026-03-18 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/d4faf8aa-afa7-4e98-afa2-a59704a699ed/B+%2B+J++%28806+of+1241%29.JPG Wedding - How to Build a Wedding Day Timeline That Actually Flows - If there’s one thing that can quietly derail an otherwise beautiful wedding day, it’s a timeline that looks good on paper, but doesn’t work in real life. I’ve seen it happen over and over: too many photos after the ceremony, not enough buffer time, and couples spending half their day rushing instead of enjoying it. A wedding day timeline should support the experience, not dictate it. The goal isn’t to cram as much as possible into one day but to create a natural flow that keeps things moving without feeling chaotic. In this post, I’m breaking down how to build a wedding day-of timeline that actually works, based on real coordination experience. From first looks to ceremony timing to reception flow, this is how to structure your day so it feels intentional, calm, and genuinely fun. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/774b0ed3-4c31-42d9-bea1-a27ca4bf9696/B+%2B+J++%28502+of+1241%29.JPG Wedding - How to Build a Wedding Day Timeline That Actually Flows - Make it stand out Photographed by Los Garcias https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770171342425-C26PMBUH20WVFCT1OPA8/no+first+look.png Wedding - How to Build a Wedding Day Timeline That Actually Flows - NO FIRST LOOK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770171342323-J6ASV2VHZ0F49BUKOM4Z/first+look.png Wedding - How to Build a Wedding Day Timeline That Actually Flows - FIRST LOOK https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Wedding - How to Build a Wedding Day Timeline That Actually Flows - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.bayleemthornton.com/wedding/step-by-step-making-your-own-seating-chart monthly 0.5 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/e8a9e52f-dddc-4617-a0ac-dd14e9789bed/Mirror+seating+chart.jpg Wedding - Making A Seating Chart That Doesn’t Stress You Out - Few wedding tasks spark as much anxiety as the seating chart—and it’s not because it’s difficult, but because emotions tend to get involved. Family dynamics, friend groups, and expectations all come into play. The good news? Seating charts don’t have to be stressful if you approach them methodically and wait until the right moment. In this post, I’ll walk you through a step-by-step process for creating a seating chart that’s practical, drama-free, and easy to manage, using the same system I’ve used personally and professionally. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1756657838750-QDDWGZNA7SY36Y956DX5/Mirror+Seating+chart%281%29.jpg Wedding - Making A Seating Chart That Doesn’t Stress You Out - Mirror Seating Chart Mirror (at least 24”x36”) - below are some recommendations Antique Gold Antique Bronze Modern Gold Deckled Edge Paper Fine Tip Marker Pens Wax Seal Stickers (or wax seal + wax sticks) White Paint Pen or White Vinyl This mirror seating chart is one of my favorite DIY projects from our wedding, and I’ve since recreated it for several friends. It looks elevated, photographs beautifully, and can be done for a fraction of the cost of most custom seating charts. Even better, you can actually use the mirror in your home afterward instead of storing it away forever. If you don’t want to use a mirror, you can also do this with a sheet of plexiglass (see below example). To start, source a mirror that’s at least 24” x 36”. I highly recommend choosing one you’ll genuinely want to keep after the wedding. This particular mirror was from Walmart and has lived multiple lives over the years. I used it for signage at our wedding, reused it for friends’ weddings, and eventually hung it in our home. Next, decide how you want to organize your seating chart. You can group guests by table, like the example shown above, or list names alphabetically, like the example shown here. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1756657751655-WK1KSTHGI50NRYGH6527/Hanging+frosted+welcome+sign.jpg Wedding - Making A Seating Chart That Doesn’t Stress You Out - Plexiglass + PVC Pipe Chart Materials: Plexiglass Sheet (at least 24”x36”) Deckled Edge Paper Fine Tip Marker Pens Wax Seal Stickers (or wax seal + wax sticks) White Paint Pen or White Vinyl This method can be approached in a few different ways, depending on how detailed you want your final sign to be. The example pictured here uses vinyl decals applied directly to frosted plexiglass, which I made using my Cricut. If you don’t have access to a Cricut, you can absolutely purchase custom vinyl decals from sellers on Etsy instead. Either way, the key to making this look clean and intentional is planning the sizing before you touch the plexiglass. Before creating or ordering any vinyl, I recommend mocking everything up in Canva. Create a custom document sized to 24” x 36” and design your seating chart or welcome sign there first. This allows you to see how large each element needs to be and gives you exact measurements for your vinyl lettering. Taking the time to do this step will save you a lot of frustration later and ensures everything fits proportionally on the plexiglass. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1770263078350-CO1CWW0FDHV0RKTLIG5D/diagram.png Wedding - Making A Seating Chart That Doesn’t Stress You Out - Stand Materials: (3) 10-foot 2” diameter PVC Pipe (cut to below lengths by hardware store worker) (3) 3-foot pieces (2) 5-foot pieces (4) 2-foot pieces (6) 2” diameter PVC 90° Elbows (2) 2” diameter PVC Tees Spray Paint + Sealer For the pipe stand, you’ll want to start by purchasing three 10-foot PVC pipes in a 2” diameter. This design uses a total of 27 feet of pipe, so three full-length pipes gives you just enough material with a small amount left over. When you’re at the hardware store, ask an associate to cut the pipes for you, most stores will do this for free. You’ll need three 3-foot pieces, two 5-foot pieces, and four 2-foot pieces. After all of your cuts, you should have a small leftover piece (around 3 inches) that won’t be used. Next, pick up the necessary PVC connectors: six 90-degree elbows and two PVC tee fittings. The most important thing to double-check here is that every single piece is the same diameter so everything fits together properly. In the diagram, the PVC pipes are shown in black, the six elbows are highlighted in red, and the two tees are shown in purple to make assembly easier to visualize. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/9dcb5076-7bb0-4809-9cb5-1dfdc62737ff/IMG_2806.JPG Wedding - Making A Seating Chart That Doesn’t Stress You Out - Digitally Printed Seating Chart This is by far the simplest and most cost-effective seating chart option, because it requires very few materials and minimal time. All you really need is a digital design platform like Canva and access to an office supply store such as Staples, FedEx, or Office Depot. Canva is free to use and works on both your phone and computer, though a Pro subscription can be helpful if you want access to additional fonts, templates, and design elements. For this method, I’ll assume you’re using Canva. Start by creating a new custom-sized document and set the dimensions to 24” x 36”, which is the most common and easiest size for large poster printing. From there, you can search “Seating Chart” within Canva’s templates to browse pre-designed layouts, or you can build your design entirely from scratch. Customize the fonts, spacing, layout, and wording until it fits your wedding aesthetic. Take your time adjusting alignment and sizing so everything feels balanced and easy to read. Once your design is finished, download the file as either a PDF or a JPG. PDFs tend to be the safest option for printing, but either format works well. Next, head to the website of your preferred office supply store and navigate to their printing section. Look for options labeled something like “Foam Board Posters” or “Mounted Posters.” Select a 24” x 36” size in portrait orientation, upload your file, and choose whether you want in-store pickup or delivery. Pricing can vary, so it’s worth checking a few stores or keeping an eye out for sales. https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/c47cb8c3-305f-40c9-9e3d-1018c6dbd48a/2.png Wedding - Making A Seating Chart That Doesn’t Stress You Out - Make it stand out Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference. https://www.bayleemthornton.com/wedding/category/Wedding monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/wedding/tag/Wedding monthly 0.5 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/lifestyle daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/lifestyle/blog-post-title-four-lr658-tcthp-wf5mw-nedje monthly 0.5 2025-09-09 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/home daily 1.0 2026-03-31 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/124c211b-74ca-46c4-860b-5a9b0eb9dbce/island.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/79165866-9892-45e3-a0a8-b0052fa93b98/Paris+skyline.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/78e75496-eca8-4f01-b1cf-b1b8faf1d723/dumbo%281%29.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/bec1261b-0770-4db7-8381-95ec88b26e20/disney+castle.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/626ad82b-7394-44ff-9334-185db7b75fb9/UWS+pose.jpg https://www.bayleemthornton.com/customguides daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/f0801351-ad67-4bbe-afaa-5b6d24676914/Santa+Rosa+beach.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/3a8e0812-2c42-4596-b1cc-617b7843e7e8/disney+castle%281%29.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/1b6161de-04a9-4463-bb55-56ca42f41379/naturl+history.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/2f560f04-05d2-4c0d-972a-59009ffd21c2/galeries+palais+view.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/18795087-2ebb-4a7b-8343-fa6d78f996c3/eiffel+night%281%29.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/06146173-3b4a-4431-8348-c1a000e4c018/Chatham.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/e4c66206-ac0e-406e-b9e0-17e39b305365/Laguna%282%29.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/d869c3ac-270e-41d1-9a64-d40717dd0aaf/epcot+france.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/65039fba-f7ed-42cd-8e42-504ec1632c54/Tezza-1008.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/900975b8-476f-41ca-a628-0fa13aa3046f/castle+new+paint.jpg https://www.bayleemthornton.com/about daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/2923e2b1-a32a-4bf0-86c9-992c38127c3b/Tezza-1194.JPG https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/5bc8fecf-6e3f-4085-b51d-d6db4b7080fd/2.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/408914cd-0b6b-4e61-84eb-90122603c7ec/860A8321.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/4a2a7859-50a3-48ba-a983-e4d3f0c3b4d6/TAL_2942.jpg https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/4acec968-d48e-4586-bed3-258a6fa3e410/IMG_1819.JPG https://www.bayleemthornton.com/services daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/294748f1-eac5-43e7-9f28-91ccf0dcc37b/imgg-demo-AbuF0fn3.png https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/5ec321c2af33de48734cc929/f64d269d-6648-4fff-8ded-3294bd99b0c4/imgg-demo-ZRjbSa11.png https://www.bayleemthornton.com/shop-dpd3m daily 0.75 2026-04-01 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/shop-dpd3m/templates monthly 0.5 2025-08-31 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/shop-dpd3m/travel-guides monthly 0.5 2026-02-22 https://www.bayleemthornton.com/shop-dpd3m/p/disney-world-packing-list monthly 0.5 2026-03-29 https://images.squarespace-cdn.com/content/v1/68a66787e0fa4f5bcb47d244/17c4112f-812c-4dbf-8c98-0056dac69d7d/8.png Shop - 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