Planning a Walt Disney World vacation usually comes with one big question: What is actually worth spending extra money on? While we're always looking for ways to save where we can, there are a few experiences that the Disney Nerds think are absolutely worth the splurge.

Whether it's something that saves time, adds a little extra magic, or simply creates memories we'll never forget, these are the extras we'd happily budget for again and again. Of course, every family vacations differently, and what feels "worth it" to us might not be at the top of someone else's list, but these are the Walt Disney World splurges that have earned the Disney Nerds Podcast teams stamp of approval.

So if you're trying to decide where to save and where it's worth treating yourself, here are the Disney splurges we'd confidently recommend!

Disney Nerd Mellissa's Pick: Grand Floridian Club Level

If there's one splurge Mellissa would book again without hesitation, it's staying Club Level at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.

Yes, it's a significant investment, but after experiencing it firsthand, she says it was worth every penny.

From the moment you arrive, Club Level feels like an extra layer of Disney magic. The dedicated Club Level Lounge becomes a relaxing retreat throughout the day, offering complimentary snacks, light meals, desserts, and beverages. Whether you're grabbing a quick breakfast before heading to the parks, stopping in for an afternoon refreshment, or winding down with evening appetizers and sweets, it's incredibly convenient. Depending on how you tour the parks, those offerings can even replace a meal or two each day.

Beyond the food, it's the atmosphere that really stands out. After spending hours in the hustle and bustle of the parks, having a quiet, comfortable space to return to feels like a luxury all on its own. It's the perfect place to recharge before heading back out for nighttime entertainment or simply to relax after a busy Disney day.

Of course, the Grand Floridian itself makes the experience even more special. From the elegant Victorian inspired décor and beautifully landscaped grounds to the convenient monorail access to Magic Kingdom, every detail adds to that feeling that you're staying somewhere truly exceptional.

If you're celebrating a special occasion, planning a once in a lifetime trip, or simply looking to elevate your Disney vacation, Club Level is a splurge Mellissa says she'd happily make again.

Disney Nerd Lisa Agrees: Once You Experience Club Level...

Disney Nerd Lisa was quick to agree with Mellissa's pick, sharing that Club Level is a splurge she’d gladly repeat.

Having already experienced Club Level at Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Disney’s Wilderness Lodge, Lisa says she's already looking ahead to trying it at Disney’s Boardwalk and Yaught & Beach Club Resorts on future trips.

For many Disney fans, Club Level isn't just a one and done experience, it's something that changes the way they vacation. The added convenience, comfortable lounge, complimentary food and beverages, personalized service, and peaceful place to recharge become part of the vacation itself.

One of the best things about staying Club Level is that each Disney Deluxe Resort offers its own unique atmosphere and lounge experience. Each stay has its own special touches while still offering those Club Level perks guests love. Lisa's enthusiasm for trying different Club Level lounges is proof that, for many Disney fans, once you've experienced it, it's hard to imagine going back!

Disney Nerd Jimmy’s Pick: Behind the Scenes Disney Tours

While some Disney splurges come in the form of deluxe resorts or signature dining, Disney Nerd Jimmy believes one of the best ways to spend a little extra is on one of Walt Disney World's guided tours.

According to Jimmy, he's never been on a Disney tour that he didn't enjoy.

His all time favorite was the Marceline to Magic Kingdom tour, which offered a fascinating look at Walt Disney's life and the inspiration behind Magic Kingdom. Although the tour is no longer offered, it remains one of his favorite Disney memories.

Jimmy also highly recommends both Keys to the Kingdom and the World Showcase tour, saying each offers a unique perspective on the parks and allows guests to discover stories, details, and hidden gems they might otherwise miss.

For guests looking for a more budget friendly option, Jimmy points to Behind the Seeds at EPCOT as an incredible value. This affordable tour takes guests through the greenhouses of The Land pavilion, offering a behind the scenes look at Disney's innovative growing techniques and sustainable agriculture. It's proof that you don't always have to spend a fortune to enjoy a memorable Disney experience.

For Jimmy, Disney tours are more than just an extra add-on, they're an opportunity to see the parks through a whole new lens. Whether you're a first time visitor or a lifelong Disney fan, these guided experiences can add an unforgettable layer of storytelling and appreciation to your vacation.

Disney Nerd Charlotte: Splurges that Create Extra Disney Magic

Disney Nerd Charlotte has quite a few Walt Disney World splurges that she feels are worth the investment, and her list highlights something important: a splurge doesn't always have to mean spending the most money. Sometimes it's about adding convenience, creating special memories, or giving yourself the time to truly enjoy your vacation.

Like Jimmy, Charlotte agrees that Disney tours are a fantastic splurge.

And let’s not forget about Disney’s fun Magic Shots! From a little extra pixie dust to surprise Disney character appearing in your photos, these creative additions make your vacation memories even more magical.

If you're staying at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground, Charlotte suggests another fun splurge: renting a golf cart. With the resort's large size, a golf cart isn't just a convenience, it becomes part of the experience and makes exploring Fort Wilderness even more enjoyable.

One of Charlotte's favorite vacation splurges isn't necessarily something you buy, it's something you schedule. She recommends planning a longer trip that includes at least one day dedicated to simply enjoying your resort. Taking time to relax by the pool, explore the amenities, and step away from the parks can make a Disney vacation feel much less rushed and much more magical.

For a smaller, budget friendly splurge, Charlotte loves the EPCOT scavenger hunt maps. These are a fun activity for the whole family and are affordable enough that everyone can participate without breaking the bank. They add an extra layer of fun while exploring World Showcase.

And finally, for the ultimate Disney splurge, Charlotte mentions Disney VIP Tours with a “Plaid” guide. While this is definitely one of the biggest investments you can make at Walt Disney World, she says it can be an incredible experience, especially on busy park days when making the most of your time is a priority.

A VIP Tour guide becomes your personal Disney expert for the day, helping you maximize your park time by arranging priority access to many attractions, navigating the parks efficiently, and sharing fascinating stories and details along the way. They can also assist with special experiences like hard to get dining reservations and premium viewing locations for nighttime spectaculars, creating a truly personalized Disney day.

For guests celebrating a special occasion, travelling with a larger group, or looking to experience Walt Disney World in a completely different way, a VIP Tour can turn an already magical vacation into an unforgettable one. While the price tag makes this a splurge that isn't for everyone, Charlotte feels that for the right occasion, the convenience, knowledge, and memories created make it worth considering.

Disney Nerd Brad’s Picks: Experiences, Dining, and Making the Most of Your Disney Day

Disney Nerd Brad's favorite Walt Disney World splurges are all about creating unforgettable experiences and making the most of your time in the parks.

His top pick? The Wild Africa Trek at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. An experience he has enjoyed not once, but three times! Brad says he would happily do this tour again, which speaks volumes about how special this behind the scenes adventure truly is.

The Wild Africa Trek gives guests the opportunity to experience Animal Kingdom in a whole new way, offering incredible views of the savanna, unique animal encounters, and behind the scenes access that goes beyond a typical park visit. From walking along private trails to enjoying a special meal overlooking the animals, it's an experience that creates memories far beyond a regular attraction.

Coming in at number two on Brad's list is Keys to the Kingdom, another tour that has earned a spot as a must do. Like Jimmy, Brad feels this tour is worth the splurge and says he would do it again anytime.

One of Brad's biggest Disney investments, however, has been becoming a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member. Looking back, he says it's one of the best decisions he has made for his Disney vacations. Membership has allowed his family to enjoy Deluxe Disney Resort accommodations, the extra comfort of spacious villas with multiple bedrooms and full kitchens, and access to exclusive DVC Member lounges. He also appreciates additional membership perks, including the opportunity to purchase Annual Passes at discounted rates available to eligible members. For Brad, DVC has completely changed the way his family experiences Walt Disney World, making every trip feel a little more comfortable.

Brad also recommends treating yourself to some memorable dining and resort experiences. Some of his favorite spots include GEO-82 at EPCOT, The BOATHOUSE at Disney Springs, and Geyser Point Bar & Grill at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Each offers something unique, whether it's an incredible view, a relaxing atmosphere, or a chance to enjoy a delicious meal (or specialty drink) away from the busy pace of the parks.

Another splurge Brad feels is worthwhile, especially on busy park days, is purchasing Individual Lightening Lane selections and Lightening Lane options when needed. While no one wants to spend extra money unnecessarily, sometimes investing in these options can help maximize your vacation time, allowing you to experience more of your must do attractions and spend less time waiting in line.

Disney Nerd Ed & Disney Nerd Jason's Pick: Building Your Own Lightsaber at Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge

For Disney Nerd Ed and my Disney Nerd Hubby Jason, one Walt Disney World splurge that is absolutely worth it is the lightsaber building experience at Star Wars Galaxy’s Edge at Hollywood Studios.

Both agree that this is an experience they would happily do again. While it may come with a higher price tag than simply purchasing a souvenir lightsaber, the magic comes from the fact that you aren't just buying a lightsaber, you are creating one.

At Savi’s Workshop, guests step into a hidden location on the planet of Batuu where they become part of their own Star Wars story. With the guidance of the Gatherers, builders choose their lightsaber theme, select individual pieces, and bring their creation to life during an immersive experience filled with storytelling, surprises, and plenty of Star Wars magic.

What makes this splurge so special is the personalization. Every lightsaber is unique, reflecting the choices made by the builder, making it a souvenir that carries a memory rather than just being something purchased off a shelf.

And Jason isn't stopping there! His next Disney splurge is already on his list: building a droid at Droid Depot, also located in Galaxy's Edge. Similar to the lightsaber experience, guests can design and assemble their own custom droid before bringing their new robotic companion to life!

Our Pick ( Disney Nerds Misty, Amanda & I ) : Disney’s Extra Ticketed Events

While putting together this list, it didn't take long for Misty, Amanda, and I to agree on one of our favorite Disney splurges, Disney's special ticketed events. From festive holiday celebrations to spooky Halloween fun, these after hours parties offer experiences you simply can't find during a regular park day.

One of the most beloved events is Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. It's easy to see why it's become a fan favorite, especially for families. Guests of all ages are encouraged to dress up in costume, trick-or-treat throughout the park, enjoy exclusive Halloween themed entertainment, watch the spectacular Mickey’s Boo to You Parade, and experience special character meet-and-greets featuring rare Disney characters and villains. The party strikes the perfect balance between spooky and family friendly, making it a Halloween tradition for many Disney fans.

As much as we love Halloween, all our hearts belong to Jollywood Nights at Disney's Hollywood Studios.

From the moment you walk through the gates, the atmosphere feels different. Hollywood Studios comes alive with vintage holiday glamour, sparkling decorations, festive music, and entertainment that makes the entire park feel like you're stepping into a classic Christmas celebration.

One of our favorite parts of the evening is simply soaking in the atmosphere. Between the live entertainment, holiday shows, specialty snacks, seasonal cocktails, and exclusive character experiences, there's always something happening around every corner. It feels less like a park day and more like a holiday party that you're lucky enough to be invited to.

Another tradition we've come to love is dressing up for the occasion. Planning our outfits has become part of the excitement, and this year we're taking it one step further by coordinating a group theme! It's those traditions, laughing together, taking photos, and embracing the festive spirit, that make each visit feel even more memorable.

Of course, the exclusive entertainment and shorter attraction wait times are wonderful perks, but for us, the real magic is the atmosphere. There's something special about experiencing Disney after dark, dancing around with thousands of other guests who are just as excited to celebrate the season.

For us, these parties have become annual traditions and one Disney splurge we'll happily make again and again. The memories, laughter, and unforgettable experiences are worth every penny!

The Splurges that Make the Magic

At the end of the day, a Walt Disney World vacation is about so much more than the attractions you ride or the souvenirs you bring home. It's about the experiences, the moments, and the memories that make you smile long after you’ve returned home.

As you can see from our Disney Nerds, "worth it" means something different to everyone. Sometimes it's a big splurge, and sometimes it's a small extra that adds a little more pixie dust to your day.

The best advice we can share? Think about what brings you the most joy. Is it spending more time relaxing at your resort? Experiencing something you've never done before? Capturing memories with your family? Enjoying a little extra convenience on a busy park day? Those are the moments that make a Disney vacation feel truly magical.

Because when it comes to Walt Disney World, the things we remember most aren't always the things we purchased, they're the moments we experienced.

So now we want to hear from you...

What Walt Disney World splurge do you think is worth every penny? Is there something you would happily do again and again? Share your favorites with us – we’d love to add more ideas to our wish lists!

Just Keep Dreaming & Disney’ing

Terri Lee

Worth Every Penny: Walt Disney World Splurges We'd Make Again