When it comes to Disney vacations, there’s no shortage of magic and excitement. However, for those seeking an extra-special experience, the Disney VIP Tour is the ultimate way to elevate your trip. Although it comes at a price, the benefits and memories created make it an incredible investment for families who can swing it.
Having done these tours multiple times at both Disneyland and Disney World, I can confidently say they are worth every penny and we hope to be able to do it again in the future!
Disney VIP Tours: Disneyland vs Disney World – What You Need to Know
Before diving into why these tours are amazing, it’s important to understand that Disney VIP tours operate differently at Disneyland Resort in California versus Walt Disney World in Florida. While both offer incredible experiences, there are key differences you should know about:
Disneyland Resort VIP Tours (California)
- Parks Covered: Disneyland Park and Disney California Adventure (2 parks)
- Pricing: $425-$850 per hour (2025 rates)
- Minimum Duration: 7 hours
- Group Size: Up to 10 people (infants count toward this limit)
- Special Perks: Access to VIP lounge in California Adventure with complimentary snacks and beverages
Walt Disney World VIP Tours (Florida)
- Parks Covered: Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom (4 parks)
- Pricing: $450-$900 per hour (2025 rates)
- Minimum Duration: 7 hours
- Group Size: Up to 10 people (infants count toward this limit)
- Special Perks: Backstage transportation between parks via private vehicle, more extensive park-hopping opportunities
Important Note: Pricing varies seasonally at both locations, with peak times (holidays, spring break, summer) commanding the highest rates.
Here’s What We Love About the Disney VIP Tour
The Tour Guides!
One of the standout features of the VIP Disney Tour is the exceptional service provided by the tour guides. We’ve had the pleasure of touring with several amazing guides, including Amy, Philander, and Phillip B. Their expertise, friendliness, and dedication to making our experience unforgettable are unmatched.
I highly recommend requesting one of the tour guides mentioned above when booking your tour as each of them played a huge role in making our experiences so great!
Ride More, Wait Less
During our VIP tours, we’ve managed to get on 13 of our favorite rides across both parks in a single day at Disneyland, and even more when park-hopping at Disney World. The ability to bypass long lines and enjoy more attractions is a game-changer. With VIP access, you can maximize your time and minimize the stress of waiting.
At Disney World specifically, the VIP guides have access to Lightning Lane entrances at nearly every major attraction and can even use backstage areas to transport you between the four parks quickly.
Exclusive Character Meetings
The experiences you get with the characters during your VIP tour are incredibly special and make for the best memories. Instead of feeling rushed, you get to take your time with the characters and take photos at a more leisurely pace.
We had the opportunity to meet beloved Disney characters like Snow White, Mulan, Ariel, Mickey Mouse, and Minnie Mouse in a private setting on our last trip.
VIP Seating for Shows and Parades
VIP seating for parades, shows, and fireworks is another fantastic perk. We enjoyed front-row seats in the shade for the parade, with the convenience of arriving just five minutes before it started.
However, within the VIP seating area, it is first-come, first-served, so it’s best to arrive early. We also had VIP seating for Fantasmic and the fireworks, complete with comfortable chairs.
Tip: When booking your VIP tour, let the agent know your preferences for shows and parades as seating is limited, even for VIP guests. For instance, we were on the waitlist for the 9 PM Fantasmic show and almost missed out, but we got lucky in the end!
Dining Made Easy
VIP tour agents can assist with restaurant reservations and even secure special access. On one occasion, we managed to get the secret room at the Lamplight Lounge. I think it was thanks to our VIP tour guide, although they didn’t say!
Your tour guide can also handle mobile ordering, eliminating wait times and ensuring your food is ready immediately upon pickup.
Extra Amenities
Navigating the park with a VIP guide adds an extra layer of convenience. They help push strollers, retrieve them from stroller parking, and know all the best spots for shade.
One of my favorite perks at Disneyland’s California Adventure, they have added a VIP lounge area that offers free soft drinks, water, snacks, candy, and other amenities, making for a comfortable and refreshing break.
At Disney World, the experience includes backstage transportation between parks in private vehicles, complete with snack baskets and refreshments waiting for you.
So, what’s the cost?
Disneyland Resort: $425-$850 per hour (7-hour minimum)
Walt Disney World: $450-$900 per hour (7-hour minimum)
The price varies significantly depending on the season, with peak times like Christmas, New Year’s, and spring break commanding the highest rates.
Budget Breakdown:
- Minimum cost: $2,975-$4,900 for a 7-hour tour (before gratuity)
- Maximum duration: Up to 10 hours can be booked
- Group size: Up to 10 people (including infants)
Don’t forget to factor in your tour guide’s tip when budgeting for this experience. While tipping is not required, the tour guides do an incredible job, and by the end you will definitely want to show your appreciation. Plan for at least one hour’s rate as a gratuity.
While the VIP Disney Tour comes with a hefty price tag, the unparalleled experience and convenience it offers make it worth every dollar. From skipping lines and enjoying exclusive character meetings to having the best seats for shows and dining in hidden gems, the VIP tour transforms a magical day at Disney into an extraordinary adventure.
If you can swing it, I highly recommend treating your family to this unforgettable experience. It’s an investment in memories that will last a lifetime.
Need help booking your VIP tour? Get connected to a Best Day Ever Vacations agent today! Their services are completely FREE.
Emily is an editor for Global Munchkins, the ultimate guide to family travel, fun, and bonding—founded by her sister, a well-loved influencer who knows how to sprinkle a little magic into everything. With years of collaboration under their belts, Emily adds her own dash of humor and heart to every article, because who knows you better than your sister?