Disney's Art of Animation Resort stands out as one of Walt Disney World's most vibrant and family-friendly value resorts. With its larger-than-life theming, impressive amenities, and budget-conscious pricing, it's become a popular choice for families looking to experience Disney magic without breaking the bank. But is it right for your family? Let's dive into everything you need to know about this colorful resort.

Let's be honest—Disney is expensive for any family. But when you're a single parent, every dollar comes from your pocket alone, every decision rests on your shoulders, and every "Can we get this?" moment hits differently when there's no partner to share the financial load.

If you've been scrolling through Disney planning groups filled with families casually discussing $6,000 vacations while you're trying to figure out how to make $2,000 stretch for you and your kids, this post is for you. Disney magic doesn't require two incomes—it just requires smarter planning.

You absolutely can create an incredible Disney vacation on a single parent budget. It just takes a different approach than the families with dual incomes and grandparents helping with costs. Here's how to make every dollar count while still giving your kids (and yourself) the magical experience you're dreaming of.

ess thought she knew Disney magic. After countless visits to the parks, she figured she'd experienced everything the mouse had to offer. Then she stepped aboard the Disney Fantasy for a Mediterranean cruise that started in Barcelona, and she realized she'd been living in Disney's shallow end.

This wasn't just a cruise with Disney characters painted on the side—this was a floating piece of Disney World that happened to visit some of Europe's most incredible destinations. And honestly? It might have ruined all other vacations for her.

Here's something Disney doesn't advertise: some of the most magical moments of your vacation won't cost you an extra penny beyond your park admission. While everyone's talking about Lightning Lane purchases and upcharge experiences, there's an entire world of free Disney magic happening right under your nose.

After spending thousands on tickets and accommodations, it's easy to assume everything at Disney comes with a price tag. But the truth is, Disney built their reputation on creating magical moments that money can't buy—and many of them are still completely free.

Whether you're trying to stretch your budget or just want to discover the Disney experiences that locals and frequent visitors know about, this list will change how you experience the parks.

You've done the math. Park tickets? Check. Hotel? Budgeted. Dining plan? Calculated down to the last Mickey waffle. You're feeling pretty good about your Disney budget—until you get home and look at your credit card statement.

Planning a Disney vacation can feel overwhelming—especially when you're staring at endless ticket options, resort choices, and add-ons that all promise to make your trip "more magical." But here's the truth: the best Disney vacation isn't the most expensive one or the one that hits every single attraction. It's the one that matches your family's unique travel style.

Before you start crunching numbers or booking anything, take a step back and ask yourself: What kind of Disney traveler are you? Understanding your Disney style is the key to creating a budget that actually makes sense for your family and ensures you spend money on what will bring you the most joy.

If you’ve ever been to Walt Disney World or Disneyland during the summer—or even spring or early fall—you know the heat is real. Between the Florida humidity and long park days, it can feel like you’re melting faster than a Mickey ice cream bar.

But don't worry! We’ve been there, and we’ve got all the insider tips to help you stay cool, hydrated, and happy—so you can focus on the magic, not the meltdown.

Here’s everything we shared in our latest Mouse Ears and Magical Chats podcast episode on beating the heat at Disney.

runDisney weekends are some of the most magical (and exhausting!) events you’ll ever do. Whether you're training for your first 5K or running the full Dopey Challenge, preparation is key—and packing the right gear can make all the difference between a stressful race morning and a smooth, unforgettable Disney race experience.

Here are our top runDisney must-haves you can grab on Amazon, based on real experience, tons of trial and error, and a little pixie dust.

On this week’s episode of Mouse Ears and Magical Chats, we had an absolute blast chatting with Ricky McCann, a passionate member of the RSVLTS Insiders community—and someone who knows firsthand how perfectly the RSVLTS brand blends with Disney magic. ✨

Over Memorial Day weekend, Jess and I decided to treat our kids (and ourselves!) to something special—a movie day to see the brand-new live-action Lilo & Stitch. And let us tell you… we absolutely loved it.

If you’re visiting Disney during the holiday season, you’re in luck—Santa Claus himself makes several appearances throughout the parks. Whether you're looking for a personal meet-and-greet or a festive sighting during a parade, here’s your guide to catching jolly old St. Nick.

If you’re thinking about spending Halloween at Disney, Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party is a must! This exclusive event combines Disney’s magic with all the spooky fun you could imagine, creating a Halloween experience like no other. I recently attended and can honestly say, it was amazing. From the moment we stepped into the park to the grand finale of fireworks, every detail was crafted for a frightfully good time. Here’s what you can expect when you go—and why it’s worth every penny!

When you think of Disney World, images of magical moments and thrilling rides likely come to mind—but what about experiencing it during a hurricane? Recently, I found myself at Pop Century during Hurricane Milton and came away with a newfound appreciation for Disney’s dedication to safety and the inventive ways they ensure guests still have a magical time, even during a storm.

If you're searching for a resort with character, charm, and convenience, look no further than Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter. Inspired by the vibrant streets of New Orleans, this moderate resort offers a relaxing, whimsical experience for families and solo travelers alike. Let’s dive into everything you need to know about staying at this delightful slice of the Big Easy.

When you step into Oga's Cantina at Disney's Hollywood Studios, you're not just entering a bar—you're stepping into a scene straight out of a Star Wars movie. The ambiance is electric, with the dim lighting, eclectic decor, and pulsing beats from DJ R-3X setting the stage for a truly immersive experience. But is it worth the hype? Let's dive into what makes Oga's a must-visit spot during your Disney adventure, while also touching on a few areas where it might fall short.

One of the most magical ways to enhance your Disney World visit is by enjoying a character dining experience. These meals not only offer delicious food but also the chance to meet your favorite Disney characters up close. Here’s a guide to some of the best character dining experiences at Disney World, along with tips for securing reservations and what to expect during your visit.

If you're an adrenaline junkie, Disney World offers an array of heart-pounding attractions that are sure to satisfy your need for speed and excitement. From high-speed roller coasters to immersive 3D adventures, here are the top rides you absolutely can't miss.

Jenny’s recent trip to California was not just about visiting the classic Disney parks; it was a deep dive into the history and legacy of Walt Disney himself. From savoring a meal at a historic eatery to exploring Walt Disney’s final resting place and taking an exclusive tour, Jenny’s journey was rich in historical significance. Here’s a look at the remarkable historical points she explored during her trip.