Disney Superfans Are Spending Tens of Thousands of Dollars at the Parks. Here’s What They’re Buying.

Tori Latham
·3 min read

A Disney vacation is a rite of passage for many families, whether you have kids or are a self-professed Disney adult. And for those who really want to ball out, there are tons of ways to do so.

From VIP access to once-in-a-lifetime dining experiences, true fans of the House of Mouse can spend tens—or even hundreds—of thousands of dollars on their visits to the parks, The Washington Post reported on Tuesday. And for some of these elite offerings, so many people want in, there’s even a waiting list.

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“Like other vacation destinations, we give our guests lots of options to customize their Disney experience,” Disney spokesperson Avery Maehrer said in a statement to the newspaper.

So what exactly are they shelling out for? On the lower end of the financial spectrum, it’s packages and items that are available to everyone, as long as you’re willing to open up your pocketbook. You can get a $99 private 20-minute photo session or spend $450 for a complete princess makeover, including a gown, crystal tiara, garment bag, hairstyling, makeup, sash, face gem, and nail polish.

If it’s more privacy you’re interested in, private fireworks cruises start at $449, with space for 10 people along with snacks and drinks. “What we’ve learned is people that are spending exorbitant amounts of money on their vacation, they don’t like waiting in lines, number one, and they don’t like being 20 rows of people back for fireworks,” Greg Antonelle, co-owner of the travel agency MickeyTravels, said. To deal with that first issue, there are also VIP tour guides, with rates running from $450 to $900 an hour, depending on the time of year. These guides allow you to sneak in through backstage entrances, avoid lines, and learn some extra Disney trivia.

Foodies will find all sorts of delicious snacks and meals throughout the theme parks, but true gastronomes may opt for Disney’s fine-dining options. At Disney World, the Grand Floridian Resort’s Chef’s Table at Victoria & Albert’s serves a $635 menu if you get the wine pairing. At Disneyland, meanwhile, 21 Royal is situated atop the Pirates of the Caribbean ride. The $18,000 experience for a group of 12 includes transportation, a reception, access to the apartment, a meal on gold-plated dinnerware, and dessert on the balcony with a view of the nighttime entertainment.

All that may be worth a pretty penny, but it doesn’t even include accommodations. While there are many options close to both parks, the crème de la crème can rent out the entire top floor of the Four Seasons Resort Orlando for $95,000 a night. Or you can opt for the Presidential Suite or Royal Suite, which start at $19,000 a night and $22,000 a night, respectively.

Seems like your next trip to the parks will be even more magical if you splash down some extra cash.

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