Disney World is like a little country, tucked away in the middle of Florida. Just like any country, it has its own language and customs. For repeat visitors, understanding the vocabulary is simple, but first-timers often find themselves at a loss.

For instance, a guest might say, “We are staying at the AKL with the DDP. We have ADRs in the MK and plan on park hopping.” This translates to: “We are staying at the Animal Kingdom Lodge with the Disney Dining Plan. We have Advanced Dining Reservations in the Magic Kingdom and want to visit more than one park each day.”

To help you navigate your visit, here are some commonly used terms and abbreviations related to Disney World.

Park Terms

Disney World covers 42 acres filled with amusement parks and resorts. It includes four theme parks, two water parks, and a vibrant shopping and dining area that does not require tickets. Common park terms and acronyms include:

• MK, DAK, EP, or DHS: The most photographed park with Cinderella’s castle is the Magic Kingdom, known as “MK.” Other parks also have abbreviations: “DAK” is Disney’s Animal Kingdom, “EP” is Epcot, and “DHS” is Disney’s Hollywood Studios, formerly called “MGM.”
• The Mountains: This term refers to the major roller coasters at Disney, including Splash Mountain, Space Mountain, and Thunder Mountain.
• Water Parks: Disney World offers two water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon.
• Disney Springs: To enjoy the Disney experience without an entrance fee, you can visit Disney Springs (often referred to as downtown Disney), a shopping, dining, and entertainment district.
• Park Hopper: If you wish to visit multiple parks in one day, consider the “park hopper” pass, which offers flexibility for moving between parks.
• Ticket and Transportation Center (TTC): This hub for Disney’s monorail, tram, and bus transportation is essential for getting around the parks. More information can be found in the transportation guide.
• Magic Your Way: Customize your Disney vacation with the “Magic Your Way” concept, allowing you to select the parks you want to visit upon arrival.
• Annual Pass Holder: If you reside nearby, have children, or plan frequent visits, think about purchasing an annual pass for year-round access.

Food and Lodging Terms

Disney World features over 25 resorts, ranging from budget-friendly value hotels to luxurious deluxe accommodations. Additionally, there are over 140 restaurants on-site, with 30 located in theme parks alone. Here are common terms for food and lodging:

• On Property: This term refers to staying at a Disney resort, which includes access to parks.
• Advanced Dining Reservations (ADR): With high demand, securing “advanced dining reservations” is vital for popular restaurants.
• Quick Service (QS) or Table Service (TS): For a more casual meal without reservations, opt for “quick service” restaurants.
• Character Dining: Involves visiting restaurants where Disney characters interact with guests during meals.
• Disney Dining Plan (DDP): A pre-paid meal program that can save money on food expenses throughout the parks.
• Resort Mug: Guests not on a dining plan can purchase a “resort mug” for unlimited refills on soft drinks, tea, and coffee during their stay.
• Extra Magic Hour (EMH): A perk for resort guests to enjoy extra hours in the parks beyond regular opening times.
• Magical Express: A complimentary airport shuttle service for Disney resort guests.
• MagicBand: Issued to resort guests, this wristband provides access to hotel rooms and parks.
• Disney Vacation Club (DVC): A time-share program offering deluxe accommodations and other benefits for dedicated Disney travelers.

Terms for Special Services

Disney provides various services and perks aimed at enhancing guest experiences, each with unique terminology:

• FastPass+: This system aid reduces wait times for rides by allowing guests to select attractions in advance.
• Child Switch Program or Rider Switch Program: This program allows parents to switch off on rides without losing their place in line.
• Disability Access Card: Visitors with disabilities can obtain a card for easier access to attractions at the parks.
• Single Rider Line: This option fills empty seats on rides quickly, providing a faster way for solo visitors to enjoy attractions.
• Photopass: Professional photographers capture family moments around the parks, with the option to purchase photos later.

Key to Some Attractions at the Parks

Disney theme parks host numerous main events including spectacular firework shows and parades. Familiarity with their names can enhance your experience:

At Magic Kingdom, the iconic fireworks show is known as “Happily Ever After,” previously “Wishes.” Hollywood Studios features “Fantasmic,” a theatrical show complemented by fireworks, held twice nightly. Epcot’s fireworks display, “Illuminations,” can be viewed from various points throughout the park.

Note that the “Electric Light Parade” at the Magic Kingdom has been retired, but occasionally might offer limited encore performances.

Frequent terms of interest include Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique, or “BBB,” a magical princess makeover venue at Magic Kingdom, and Toy Story Mania, one of the most adored rides at Hollywood Studios.

Additionally, collecting character autographs and participating in Disney pin trading are popular pastimes among guests. Newer collectibles, like Vinylmations, also draw significant interest.