Dad Drop-in: How we DO Disney

Matt here with a dad drop-in blog. We like to keep it fresh and make sure we are covering the whole family perspective, so ask the dad’s to drop in here from time to time. Today I wanted to talk about some of the things we may do a little differently than others, and some I’m sure we do the same! Either way, you can be sure that we are there to enjoy our happy place!

How to Do Disney as a Family: The Jacobs Way

Disney isn’t just about the rides, the characters, or even the food (though that’s all pretty great). It’s about sharing the magic as a family—creating experiences that bring you closer, giving each person something special to look forward to, and making memories that last long after the fireworks fade.

For our family—Bethany, Connor (12), Gigi (10), and me—Disney is more than a vacation. It’s a way to connect, to laugh, and to grow together. Here’s how we make the most of our Disney trips as a family.

Part of the Fun is Getting There

The Disney experience doesn’t start when you scan your MagicBand at the gate—it starts the moment you hit the road (or the tarmac). We love to build anticipation by talking about what we’re most excited for, watching Disney movies, or even planning little surprises along the way. Whether it’s a Disney playlist for the car or a stop for a special treat on the way, the journey itself sets the tone for the adventure ahead.

Do Things Together: Plan the Park Day as a Team

One of the best ways to teach kids about compromise and consideration is to plan a Disney park day together. Everyone has their “must-do” attractions, and while Connor might be eyeing Space Mountain, Gigi may prefer a slower-paced ride like Haunted Mansion. The key is balance—some thrill rides, some classics, and plenty of snacks in between. We talk about the plan beforehand, making sure everyone gets a say, and then adjust as needed throughout the day. It’s a great exercise in teamwork (and patience!).

Experience Disney Beyond the Parks

Disney isn’t just about the parks—there’s so much more to explore! One of our favorite things to do is visit a unique restaurant outside the parks. Maybe it’s a character meal, a themed dining experience, or a hidden gem at Disney Springs. Stepping outside the hustle of the parks for a nice meal gives us a chance to slow down and enjoy each other’s company without the pressure of rushing to the next attraction.

Find a Pastime to Share with Each Child

One of the best parts of Disney is finding traditions that become “your thing” with each child. For me and Connor, it’s the thrill of a hardcore park day—rope drop to fireworks, all gas, no brakes. For Bethany and Gigi, it’s a shopping day, soaking in the magic of Main Street and the unique shops around the resort.

Gigi and I have also gotten into collecting Lorcana cards, adding a little treasure hunt to our trip. And both kids love pin trading, which is a fantastic way for them to engage with cast members, explore the parks in a new way, and bring home a piece of the magic.

Find Time to Be Husband and Wife

As much as Disney is about family, it’s also important to carve out moments as a couple. When we have childcare, Bethany and I always make time for a drink out together—whether that’s a cocktail at Trader Sam’s or a glass of wine at Epcot’s France pavilion. When we don’t, we make sure to have our own quiet time—watching a show with a drink in hand or sitting outside together once the kids are asleep. Those little moments keep the magic alive, even amidst the chaos of a Disney trip.

Making Disney More Than a Vacation

At the end of the day, Disney is about more than just rides and characters. It’s about connection—laughing over Mickey-shaped pretzels, strategizing which Lightning Lane to book next, and sharing moments that become the stories we tell for years to come.

Doing Disney as a family isn’t just about what you do—it’s about how you do it. By planning together, finding special traditions, and making time for both family and each other, we make every trip feel like an adventure worth taking.

And no matter how many times we go, the magic never fades.