Which Disney World Enchanting Extras Are Worth It?
Walt Disney World has been added a barrage of upcharge add-ons and events throughout the last year, and has recently consolidated many of these under the “Enchanting Extras Collection” banner. In this post, we’ll take a look at which of these we think are worth the money, and which you should skip.
In addition to those explicitly included by Walt Disney World in the Enchanting Extras Collection, we’ll include any upcharge offerings that we think guests might be considering. As we’ve received questions about a few of these things from readers, it makes sense to consolidate our response in one place.
Please note that many of the Enchanting Extras Collection experiences we have not experienced firsthand. Instead, we are evaluating some based on our perception of value for money and worthwhileness as gleaned from years of visiting Walt Disney World. We feel comparing our experience (and what’s been “missing” from it) against Disney’s explanation of what each experience provides (and its cost) gives us the basis for an informed opinion on the offering.
In terms of our bias, we are generally frugal travelers who are willing to splurge on luxury experiences that ostensibly offer value commensurate with cost. Still, we are pretty conservative when it comes to spending, so our threshold for ‘appropriate’ value for money is likely higher than most.
Additionally, our default “philosophy” towards any new Walt Disney World upcharge additions (as described in more detail on this page of our recent trip recap) is skepticism. We think most of these have been hastily thrown together as a way to provide new revenue streams and priced highly without much consideration over the value they offer guests.
That’s probably enough of a preface, let’s go through the Enchanting Extras Collection at Walt Disney World and offer our take on whether each is worth the money…
Early Morning Magic – No – I’ve seen a lot of people do logical contortions trying to justify the value in these, but it just isn’t there unless you approach the parks as being E-Ticket checklists, with each ride on Toy Story Mania being worth $X. In which case, you should probably just buy a used Wii and a copy of this. What? Not the same experience as being at Walt Disney World? Exactly. There are easy ways to enjoy these attractions during a normal, leisurely day in the parks without paying a surcharge. (Here’s a review of it.)
Disney After Hours – No – After an initial flop that no doubt lost Disney money, this has returned and become more popular. It’s still not worth it. What makes the seasonal hard ticket parties worth the money is the ambiance and special entertainment, Disney going the extra mile for a special event. There’s nothing special about this–it’s the same thing as a normal day just with a harder cap on attendance. (Here’s a review of it.)
Club Villain – No – You’re paying a steep surcharge for the villains here, one that seems excessive to me. I suppose you could consider this a plussed up dessert party with better food and an entertainment component, would require enjoying that entertainment component. I find Disney fans parties to be an abomination and would sooner pay to not attend one, so perhaps I’m biased against the very concept. (Here’s a review of it.)
Highway in the Sky Dine-Around – Maybe – This was just announced a few weeks ago in a flurry of other upcharges, so it was easy to lump it in with the rest as ridiculous. However, when you break down the many elements of this, it might not be a bad deal. The value proposition really turns on alcohol, and whether you’ll drink all that’s included. If so, this might be splurge with value. If not, you should just book ADRs to do your own monorail progressive dinner.
Dining with an Imagineer – Yes – Some people might view the rockstar celebrity status Disney fans bestow upon Imagineers as laughable, but then again, I think it’s pretty laughable that “normal” people fawn over someone just because they’re good at singing or acting. In any case, there are a variety of Imagineering disciplines, but regardless of your ‘host’ here, you’re bound for an engaging and fascinating dining experience. I think this could be especially beneficial for kids at that impressionable age who need a ‘celebrity’ role model that isn’t some drug addict rockstar. (Here’s a review of it.)
Chef’s Tables – Yes – These experiences include Victoria & Albert’s, Flying Fish, and Citricos. If you’re a foodie, or just interested in gaining a greater appreciation for the art and discipline of preparing food, these are great options. Not only is the food delicious and the experience intimate, but you can learn in the process about the decision-making processes of chefs and their kitchens.
In-Park Cabanas – LOLNO – I feel like this $650+/day, ugly temporary tent is actually just a red herring to make the high prices of the other Enchanting Extras more palatable by comparison. The only other option is that Disney is actually serious about these pieces of garbage, and that’s just depressing.
Express/VIP Transportation – Maybe – As much as this one really irks me because Walt Disney World should be improving its entire transportation fleet instead (and as such, I will never book this on principle) this express transportation, which operates via backstage routes and allows you to bypass security when park hopping, could be worth it if you purchase it for the duration of your trip. (Here’s a review of it.)
Wild Africa Trek – Yes – I’ve heard nothing but unanimous praise about Wild Africa Trek from those who have done it. While the price tag has kept us from doing it, when I think about how much an experience like this would cost elsewhere (even at the the San Diego Zoo Safari Park, special experiences are pricey) it seems fair. I wouldn’t hesitate to splurge on this if it’s something that appeals to your family. (Here’s a review of it.)
Other Animal Kingdom Animal Stuff – Maybe – Until I saw all of these listed on the Enchanting Extras page, I had no clue all of them existed. You know the upcharge thing has gotten excessive when I can’t even keep up with it all.
Epcot Seas Tours – Yes – I’ve done DiveQuest (albeit years ago when it was less than half the current cost) and it was one of the coolest diving experiences I’ve ever had. The prices do give me pause, but prices of aquatic experiences like these anywhere give me pause.
Sleigh/Wagon Rides – Maybe – If you want to enjoy a different side of Disney, I could see the carriage rides being worth it. However, at nearly double the cost during the month of December (blatant price gouging) when the same experience transforms into a sleigh, it’s not worth it. (Here’s a review.)
In-Park Dessert Parties – No – “It all started with a mouse dessert party.” ~Walt Disney. I feel like the success of dessert parties is what opened the floodgates for so many other upcharge offerings, and frankly, they are not worth the money. I suspect this will be met with the most staunch opposition as a lot of people enjoy dessert parties, but when you compare the value of the desserts versus the price and seating/location advantage, it does not work out.
You’re paying too significant of a premium for the reserved seating. In my opinion, too many planners fret about finding a viewing spot for shows. It’s really not that challenging to find a good spot–even on crowded nights–at the last minute. (Here’s a review of one.)
Dessert Cruises – Maybe – These come with premium desserts as compared to the standard dessert parties, but they also come with premium pricing. The ones open to the general public would garner a “no” on the value question, but the (even more expensive) renting out of a whole boat might have some appeal if you’re having a wedding party or are a bunch of Exxon executives celebrating your good fortunes. (Here’s a review of one.)
Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique/Pirates League – Maybe – They are expensive–and BBB is arguably a bit creepy–but a lot of kids love both. When looked at from a strict value perspective…it’s difficult to really assess this one way or the other. There are some things that you cannot quantify, and that ‘specialness’ your kid has as they walk around the park feeling like a princess or pirate is one of them.
Pirate Adventure Cruises – Yes – There are four of these, and we’ve heard near-unanimous praise for them, with many parents saying this was their child’s favorite part of the trip. In any event, it’s 2 hours of entertainment for a relatively reasonable price, making it something that’s easy to recommend given the overwhelming positive feedback. (Here’s one review.)
Backstage Tours – Maybe – I think these will appeal most to those who have ‘been there, done that’ and are looking for a new perspective from which to enjoy Walt Disney World. While being backstage could ruin the illusion for some, I think seeing how the sausage is made, so to speak, can give others a greater appreciation for what takes place on stage. We’ve done a number of backstage events over the years, and have found them to be hit or miss in terms of value, but the totality of those experiences has been a deeper interest in how the parks and attractions operate.
VIP Tours – No – This is another one about which I’ve heard near-unanimous positive feedback, but in this case, I still don’t buy it. The price is so astronomical that it is impossible to reconcile that with the benefits inured. If money truly is no issue, perhaps I could see it. If that’s the case, though, you wouldn’t be consulting a blog post that analyzes which extras are “worth it.” (Here’s a review.)
In re-reading the above, I realize this post has a distinct ‘Debbie Downer’ tone to it, but it’s my sincere belief that most of the upcharge offerings at Walt Disney World are not worth the money for most guests. I think many first-time or infrequent guests have a fear of missing out or concern that their trip won’t “be magical” unless they throw as much money at it as possible.
I don’t subscribe to this philosophy (to the contrary, I think the more money spent, the more expectations and pressure increase, as do the likelihood of an “adult meltdown” resulting therefrom). However, a lot of people love all of these additional offerings, and my perspective on them certainly is not the only one, nor is my word the gospel. To assist in seeking out a range of opinions, I’ve gone back and added links to reviews that differ from mine. If you are considering any of these experiences, it might be worthwhile to read those counterpoints before making a decision. Likewise, if you’ve had your own experience with any of these (or other) upcharge offerings at Walt Disney World, please share in the comments!
Tom, is there a price list for all the extras? I can’t seem to find a cohesive rate breakdown anywhere and it’s not often listed on the info page at the Disney site either.
Tom,
If we bring a car and plan to drive to the parks each day, is the preferred parking worth it? What is the difference in the walk? Any idea?
Thanks!
Another upcharge that my family considers “worth it” is a private fireworks cruise. The value is heavily dependent on the number of people in your party, as the pontoon rental is the same cost for up to ten guests in the Premium Fireworks Cruise, and it included piped in music for the fireworks, a selection of chips and sodas, and a great tour of Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon, the Magic Kingdom resorts and viewing of the Electrical Water Pageant. The total for our cruise in 2014 was just under $400 for our party of eight, which is much less than we would have paid to take the Pirate & Pals voyage, and a very unique and special activity for our family. Definitely not something we do regularly, but we were celebrating a vow renewal and it was a fantastic, and well-worth it experience!
Thanks for linking to our Pirate Adventure Cruise review!
Several years ago (2010ish) we were taking the boat from Ft Wilderness to…not really sure…somewhere…and the boat operator stopped to let us watch the fireworks. That was really nice.
I guess they probably don’t do that anymore and you have to rent the cruise.
My beau did this for my birthday. We had a large group coming and going throughout the week. Ended up being 5 or 6 for the actual cruise. And it was SO special! Really unique experience. I tend to always want a boat or water friendly bday add on so this was a really special option. Our captain was so fun and informative. We had bottles of wine and champagne, snacks, and an awesome tour + fireworks. For us it was a great value considering we might have done a big restaurant experience anyway.
Highly recommend.
I’m curious as to how Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique can be creepy?
Hi Tom. Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique is definitely value is for money if you pick the most basic package (which is around $60 plus tax I think). My girls loved the experience and their faces were priceless! I took their own dresses with me. They got the experience of going inside the castle (in Disney World – awesome!), choosing hair style and make up, and having their nails painted. They both had the bun style with mini crown at the front and a Minnie Mouse clip at the back. They got sashes and BBB bag (which is lush!) and pictures done when their look was revealed. They also got to keep the comb, make up palette and nail varnish. After their experience we went over to Castle Couture for some more photopass pictures. (Photopass was included in our UK holiday package). Thanks for your blog, there’s always so much interesting stuff to read.
We e done African Trek (a gift to my daughter for finishing law school) and it was well worth the cost. Although I call it a one and done. We also did the Jingle Bell, Jingle Bam. Not worth it at all. It was just like any desert party. Overpriced for average viewing. Just say no to desert parties!
The only extra at WDW I have paid for was the Vera Bradley brunch a few years ago since I had a trip already planned at the same time. It was supposed to be the only place to get a new pattern for awhile then if any were left, they were going to add it to one store. About a month or two later the patter was available online – which was annoying. The food was average and I think it cost a lot for what it was.
I do want to do one of the backstage tours, since I am an Industrial Engineer and the whole behind the scenes/how stuff works really appeals to me.
At Dinsneyland – I did pay for the World of Color dining package last November. I did it with a FP the first night, got in line over an hour early and didn’t really like my spot for pictures. So while waiting I booked the package for two nights later, it was so worth it – I got a great spot for pictures that wasn’t crowded. I am doing it again on my next trip. I am also doing Paint the Night viewing package since I am there January 8th – and figure it will be nuts and it is my only shot to see the parade since during my last parade I was sick and didn’t get to see the parade.
I’m no longer following this blog any longer. I need to find a ‘family’ oriented, people with children type of blog. I have yet to find your blog helpful for someone with kids. Sorry.
I would think trying to save money, especially if you had kids, is helpful to almost every family
Keri,
If you no longer want to follow this blog that’s fine. But you don’t need to make a formal announcement. No one cares. I don’t care. Who are you? The Queen of England? Your comment would have been 10,000 times more useful to the writer if you left feedback without your ground breaking and oh so heart wrenching fare well.
Way harsh! Know what your children like and apply the information to that situation! I love hearing about the boat cruises and pirate cruises, and had never considered the boutique because I thought it was too much, but if there’s a package around $60 apiece I’d totally do that for my two little ones! Love the info we get here for our family! â¤ï¸
I agree with you Tom….Disney just wants to milk us as much as they can. We must remember we have the power to say NO to these extras and still have a great time. I must admit though on our family’s first trip to Disney 2 years ago, I was one of those neurotic planners. I read all the blogs, did my research and I must say I did a pretty good job 🙂 The only extra we indulged in was the Pirate’s League. I know you’re on the fence about this one but I did it for my son. Our girls were going to the park all dressed up in their princess dresses (which I got on 60% clearance at the Disney store a couple of months before) and I didn’t want my son to feel left out. After a long (and very productive) morning in the park it was almost a relief to sit down after lunch in the cool comfort of the Pirate’s League and let their very talented pirates entertain our kids and work their magic. I booked the basic package for $45.00 and had gotten his pirate costume on clearance for $16.00. The extras you get (face paint, bandana, pouch with gold medallion, sword with sheath, earring & eyepatch, tattoo and printed pirate oath with your pirate name) as well as the whole 45 minute experience was totally worth it. My husband, myself and the girls got some much needed downtime after lunch without going back to our hotel, and we hit the park for the rest of the day with renewed vigor. If you’ve got kids, this is one extra I think gives value for money.
I agree that newbies/relative newbies seem to feel it is compulsory to upscale their WDW experience with often multiple paid for experiences. I see parents (and non parents!) in the Disney planning groups in such states of stress as they strive to book the earliest BBB slot in the morning, multiple character dining experiences and dessert parties. While I certainly don’t judge anyone who wants to enhance their experience and spend more to obtain things important to them, I do think some inexperienced people feel almost browbeaten into purchasing these extras. WDW is not a cheap day out broadly speaking, but there is so much enjoyment and magic to be had from a day in the parks without any enhancements. Save/trim the add ons until you are really looking to mine the WDW experience more deeply. There is much to enjoy already included with your ticket price 🙂
In the words of Daniel Brian-“Yes Yes Yes” to all of this.
A bit of texture for something I have experience with – my SO and I recently did the Aqua Tour at the Seas pavilion. The description is slightly misleading, as you aren’t really snorkeling. You get a regulator and an air tank, but are also equipped with a buoyancy belt making diving impossible. It’s an experience somewhere between snorkeling and true scuba diving.
The experience is excellent. How much enjoyment you get from the behind-the-scenes stuff is predictable, I think (I enjoyed it but I wasn’t really surprised by the nature of it), but the opportunity to get in the pool and swim around was really extraordinary. I was surprised by how relaxed the wildlife was, with the turtles being a highlight. The real treat for me was being “on stage” the entire time and interacting with guests who were checking out the pool. Waving to kids, that sort of thing. I remember being a kid at The Living Seas and waving to divers then. The idea that maybe I was making someone else’s “Disney Magic” is really special to me.
I’m not sure I’d do it again – it is expensive, after all, and there’s no shortage of things to do at Epcot – but was a highlight of our trip and definitely an A+ experience.
There are some of the upcharge experiences that appeal to me, like the Wild Africa Trek, or some of the tours, but I kind of hate that they also require separate park admission. If I did the Wild Africa Trek, I would want to make it the focus of my day, but if I also have to purchase park admission that day, I would feel obligated to spend the whole day in the parks. I could imagine a really great day where you sleep in, go on the Trek, hit the pool, and then do a nice resort table service for dinner, but that day’s admission would make me feel guilty if I skipped it. I guess if you are an annual passholder, it reduces that concern!
Having done Wild Africa Trek just last month on our Honeymoon, I can without a doubt recommend it. Between the thrill of the bridges, the knowledge of the private guides and the extended time with the animals, we felt like we more than got our monies worth.
The one I completely disagree with Tom on is Club Villain. It was easily one of the most entertaining experiences we have ever had at WDW. The floor show was fantastic, the food was great and the character interactions were great (I spent probably 15 minutes throughout the night with the Queen of Hearts alone!). Living near NYC, we regularly spend $120 – $150 a ticket for Broadway shows, or even concert tickets at Madison Square Garden, and to us this was just as enjoyable as either of those experiences. If it is extended further into next year, we would do it again in a heartbeat.
One that isn’t mentioned here is a Fireworks Cruise. You rent a pontoon boat that seats up to 10, and the boat pilot takes you on a tour of the lake. Snacks, bottled water, and juice boxes are provided – ours let us bring adult beverages on as well. We shared this experience with my sister and her family, so split I felt that the cost was worth it. Great view of the Fireworks, and we learned some new nuggets of info about Disney as well. We elected for the cheaper version of the cruise without the music piped in (the price difference was decent), but our guy turned the music on anyhow.
I did the Star Wars fireworks dessert party at the Studios last year. It was just me and my 9- year old, and I was willing to pay more for a good viewing spot. What a mistake. The tables were so high–only comfortable for an adult. My daughter wound up sitting on the floor under the table–not the mother/daughter experience I was hoping for.
Dessert Parties… *sigh*. They are not the sort of thing I would book if it was just me with my husband. I definitely wouldn’t book it if I were bringing kids. However, I booked one this past November because I was traveling with my older parents. For them, the opportunity to have a place where they could comfortably sit down and have a great view of the fireworks and dessert made it “worth it” to do it once. I don’t think any of us would really want to do it again, but they really enjoyed the experience this once.
We did the Tomorrowland Terrace version because it offers you an actual seat and because I was kind of offended by the fact that they took away the free FastPass reserved area and made it for people that paid for a dessert party. It’s one thing to offer a hard-ticket thing in Tomorrowland Terrace, which is generally closed anyway because that doesn’t really take away from other patrons. But taking away a reserved viewing area that used to be available to everyone and making it just for people that pay extra bothers me.
“It’s one thing to offer a hard-ticket thing in Tomorrowland Terrace, which is generally closed anyway because that doesn’t really take away from other patrons. But taking away a reserved viewing area that used to be available to everyone and making it just for people that pay extra bothers me.”
I have photos I took from Tomorrowland Terrace before the dessert party was offered. I think people just don’t realize it hasn’t always been that way since the dessert party there started in Summer 2009, and predates all of the newer offerings.
When they started the dessert party, that spot actually became *more* crowded than it was before (as no one knew about it, and it’s not that great of a spot to watch the fireworks). Think of the genius of that: make an unpopular spot popular and charge people for it in the process.
With that said, I can totally understand your perspective about wanting a place to sit for your older parents. 🙂