After countless visits to the Most Magical Place on Earth, I’ve honed my Disney World strategy to near perfection. But along the way, I’ve also discovered a few experiences I won’t be repeating. Here are five things I’ve sworn off for future trips to Disney World.

First off, visiting during the week of Christmas or just after? Never again. Just as anyone familiar with this busy season knows, these are some of the most crowded days of the year. Instead of basking in the holiday magic, I found myself wading through throngs of guests, hour-long queues, and relentless hustle. A better plan? Schedule your trip just a week or two later. You’ll still soak in the festive decorations without feeling like you’ve stepped into a sardine can.

Next, skipping the Starbucks queues at Disney World has become a must for me. Each park houses a Starbucks, but the lines are always staggering, especially in the early hours. Why not opt for Joffrey’s Coffee instead? Scattered generously across the parks, Joffrey’s offers fantastic coffee with much shorter waits. Trust me, once you’ve tasted their specialty brews, you’ll see why it’s worth making the switch.

When it comes to Disney World’s water parks, I’ve concluded that they aren’t my cup of tea anymore. Despite their delightful themes and entertainment, they just don’t hold the same thrill for me as they once did. And as a parent, I find myself more anxious than relaxed, constantly watching my toddler around the water. There are simply better ways to spend a day at Disney for me.

Then, there’s Space Mountain, a classic favorite. Or at least, I thought it was. Magic Kingdom’s version didn’t live up to my Disneyland expectations. The matterhorn-like ride vehicles and the slower pace left me underwhelmed. I’m all for a thrilling roller coaster, and for that, I’d rather queue up for something like TRON Lightcycle/Run instead.

Lastly, dining at Rainforest Cafe is off my list. As nostalgic as it is—with fond memories from my childhood visits—I’ve realized that once you’ve dined there, you’ve pretty much experienced all it has to offer. During my last stop at the Disney Springs location, I found the menu and atmosphere too predictable. For a unique dining adventure, T-REX Cafe at Disney Springs offers a fresher experience with its dinosaur-themed decor and varied menu.

What are some of your Disney no-go’s or alternatives? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation!

Source: Heather Adams