I worked at Disney World. Here are 10 things I wish people would stop doing in the parks.

05.11.2023 - 21:51 / insider.com

I worked at Magic Kingdom and Disney Springs during my time in the Disney College Program. With that experience, I know a trip to Disney World can be equally magical and overwhelming.

Here are the things I wish people would stop doing in the parks to make everyone's time better. 

In the age of social media, it can be tempting to dress up for the parks to get the perfect shot. But once you've taken the photo, you're going to be stuck in uncomfortable heels — yes, I've seen guests in stilettos — and a shirt you can't lift your arms in for the whole day.

Do yourself a favor and dress comfortably so you can enjoy your time at Disney.

There are certain areas in the parks where everyone wants to get a picture: in front of the Tree of Life in Animal Kingdom, by the purple wall near Tomorrowland in Magic Kingdom, and so on.

Often, you'll find a crowd of guests waiting their turn in these photo hot spots. Be polite and avoid taking a million photos if you can see that others are waiting.

After a long, hot day with a few screaming kids, I can understand how anyone would be a little on edge. But that doesn't give you an excuse to yell at the park employee taking your lunch order or the one ringing up your souvenirs.

We're all here to help guests create lasting memories, and trust me, you'll get further with honey than you will with vinegar — especially at Disney World.

This might sound like a no-brainer, but you'd be surprised at how many people walk down Main Street in Magic Kingdom glued to their phones or looking everywhere but the direction they're going.

Pay attention in crowded spaces to avoid rolling your ankle, knocking over someone's overpriced coffee, or holding up other guests.

Many of the rides at Disney World, such as Space Mountain and The Many Adventures of Winnie the Pooh, are dark inside. 

It's understandable that you want to remember all the cool details, but try to appreciate the moment. Using a blinding flash can ruin the experience for other riders.

I spent eight months working at Cosmic Ray's Starlight Café in Tomorrowland, so I can tell you firsthand that those workers are moving as fast as they can.

If you wait until you get to the front of the line to inquire about dietary restrictions or ask about every item on the menu, you'll probably annoy everyone waiting behind you.

I've seen far too many cringey videos of guests bombarding Disney character performers with inappropriate questions, demanding them to remove their characters' heads, or just making them uncomfortable.

They're working and will do their best to stay in character to create magical moments for guests, so don't go out of your way to make their jobs harder.

Disney World is surprisingly clean for the foot traffic the parks