Back in the day when my Disney obsession began, I was around 13 and planning our first family trip to Disney World. This was a time before smartphones, back when we had dial-up internet if you were lucky to have the internet at all. It was a time when there were stores that sold books inside the mall. Crazy right?
I remember how excited I was to learn all there was to know about Disney World. I wanted to know about the layout of the parks, which rides were going to be too scary for me, and where to find the best places to eat. Yes, even back then I was a foodie.
The very first Disney planning book I purchased with my babysitting money was a Birnbaum Guide to Disney World. Birnbaum guides are still my favorite planning books. There is something special about being able to flip through the pages and look at the colorful pictures.
Here are my top recommendations for Disney planning books. If you are like me and enjoy a good book, these are my go-to options for the best Disney planning books.
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Birnbaum’s 2022 Walt Disney World: The Official Guide
This is the OG of Disney planning books. I really love the layout of this book. It’s easy to read, has great advice, and has beautiful pictures to break up the text. This is my top recommendation.
Birnbaum’s 2022 Walt Disney World for Kids: The Official Guide
This book is great to look through with kids to help them get excited about an upcoming trip. It can also help reduce some anxiety for kids who have a difficult time with new environments. For first-timers, knowing what to expect can help your vacation run a little more smoothly.
The Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World 2023
The Unofficial Guide is full of the best planning information. The book is reliable and backed by a ton of research. There are some great general touring itineraries included as well. There are not as many pictures to break up the text, but this is a great choice if you’re looking to absorb as much knowledge as possible.
Fodor’s Walt Disney World: with Universal and the Best of Orlando
This is a great comprehensive guide complete with maps, itineraries, and best-of lists. It also includes information on Universal and other Orlando area attractions.
The Hidden Magic of Walt Disney World, 3rd Edition: Over 600 Secrets of the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom
This book is great for learning some of those little-known details that you can easily miss during a trip to Disney World.
The Hidden Mickeys of Walt Disney World
My family loves to look for hidden Mickeys. This guide has tons of pictures to help you have a fun scavenger hunt while you’re touring the parks and resorts.
There you have it. If you’re looking for a physical book to help feed your Disney planning addiction, any of these will do quite nicely.
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