While many guests will intricately plan the start of their Disney World day – – rope dropping, Early Entry, breakfast, etc. – – true experts also know what they’ll be doing as the day comes to a close.

Magic Kingdom fireworks.

These expert Disney fans know exactly what to do post-9:00 PM to make sure they end their day exactly how they want.

They Already Have Their Fireworks Spot Secure…

Disney experts have their fireworks viewing spots at the Magic Kingdom, and EPCOT scoped out before 9:00 PM (especially the latter, since Luminous generally starts at 9:00 PM), and will have themselves in place – – likely with a treat in hand – – and ready for the start of the show. However, not every expert is planning to watch the show.

Happily Ever After

… Or They’re Heading to In-Demand Rides

Those with no interest, or who’ve seen seen the park’s major entertainment offerings in the past – – including the Disney Festival of Fantasy Parade, Disney Starlight: Dream the Night Away, and the Happily Ever After fireworks – – know that these nighttime spectacular showtimes make the perfect time to hit the park’s rides as while most guests are watching the show or parade, you’ll have the golden opportunity to hit up some of the top rides in the park with (comparatively) minimal wait time.

TRON Lightcycle / Run

They’ve Already Gotten Their Magic Kingdom Shopping Done

Disney veterans know that the Magic Kingdom’s Main Street shops, especially the Emporium, tend to get SLAMMED with crowds late at night as guests top in while being funneled out of the park. Hence, they get their shopping done earlier in the day before the crowd crush commences.

Magic Kingdom at night

If They’re Planning a Late Night Snack or Swim at Their Hotel, They’re Already on the Way Back

Quick-service dining locations and food courts at Disney hotels generally close at 11:00 PM (including Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto at the Polynesian), while table service dining seating generally ends at 10:00 PM. So, depending on a guest’s hotel’s location and which park they’re coming from, they may not be able to stay until close and make it back to their resort in time for a snack. However, food isn’t the only perk unavailable late at night. Disney World hotel pools are generally open until 10:00 PM or 11:00 PM (with the latter in the warmer months of the year), so guests may need to leave the park early to squeeze in a late dip depending on their hotel’s location.

Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Next time you find your Disney World day winding down, keep these habits in mind to give the day the magical ending it deserves. Stay tuned to DFB for more expert Disney World advice.

The Big Disney World Rule That Everyone Always Gets Wrong

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How do you usually end your Disney World day? Let us know in the comments below.