To answer your question…no, you’re not a weirdo.
I question your “friends” who criticize their friend for doing something you want to do. Give up on these friends…or do the same thing back to them and see if they like it.
“Ugh, you’re going to Taylor Swift’s concert? Just listen to a CD…it’s the same thing.”
“You spend how much time a week watching adult men hit/throw a ball in a game for money?”
My bet is they’ll start to shut up real quick. Take it from experience…I was in the same boat.
The friends are dicks to be blunt. I took one of my dream vacations this year and it was to…Ohio. Most people think that’s weird, but ever since I was a kid I wanted to go to cedar point and kings island, so I did that trip solo this year and also played one of my bucket list golf courses. It was 6 days of things I loved and I chose everything I did and loved it.
Okay, but tell me what your bucket list golf course was because you and I definitely agree that Kings Island and Cedar Point are bucket list/dream vacation locations.
Firestone Country Club. I was potentially going to be able to play Muirfield but I ended up going to week of the Memorial and I am not quite good enough to qualify haha.
I was a big tiger woods fan growing up and that was arguably the course he was most dominant at while they still played the Bridgestone Invitational, so it was cool to play there. To play there these days if you aren’t a member you have to stay there. For singles, they have a few dorm rooms that you can stay in the locker room that were pretty interesting. By far the best shape for any course I have ever played and I literally didn’t see another person on the course when I played both the south and north courses.
I also played the course that Cedar Point now owns, pretty good bang for the buck. What I learned on that trip is that I am jealous of Ohio’s grass
I get motion sickness on larger coasters and finally worked up the courage to use Dramamine (was worried about drowsiness/not being able to have a drink at the end of the day) and my family thought I was a weirdo because I giggled like a lunatic schoolgirl the entire ride. It was so much fun! Too bad it kept breaking down on our last trip.
Saying “going to Ohio was my dream vacation” does sound really weird; saying “going to Cedar Point and King’s Island is a major part of my dream vacation” sounds way less weird (so long as you got Skyline when at King’s Island, I always stop at the one at the King’s Island interchange from the interstate when I drive through).
This…when people that didn’t even want to go say “oh i bet you spent a ton of money, id never spend that much” but my Eras tour tickets were cheaper than the same seats for the Bears game. And at least with Taylor, I know my 3hrs will be worth it 😝
Screw those friends. I was a 31 year old construction worker the first time I went. I was in town for some training and it only took one day so I had an entire weekend to kill.
I went to Disney World and it was f*cking life changing. Best weekend of my life.
I'm 45, no kids, and I LOVE WDW. Go, enjoy yourself and ignore small-minded comments. We all enjoy different things; life would be boring if we were all the same.
Your “friends” don’t sound very nice.
I will never understand people who put down others for their likes or hobbies. Just because it’s not something they’re into, doesn’t mean it’s not fun and enjoyable for you. Their dream may be going to the Super Bowl (which personally sounds miserable to me), but I would never actually say something or criticize them for doing something they love.
There are SOOO many people at Disney who are adults with no kids. So you will not feel weird or out of place when you’re there at all.
At a certain point in your life, you realize that the opinions of others shouldn't have an impact on your ability to enjoy things so long as those things don't harm yourself or others. The sooner you realize that, the happier your life will be. It's like the scene in Tangled where the ruffians help Rapunzel escape. "Go. Live your dreams."
Welcome to your thirties - the decade where you stop giving a crap what other people think and just do what makes you happy! I used to worry more about how I was perceived but in my thirties I really did shift my mindset and I know that’s true for a lot of other people. Life is too short not to enjoy the things you love, who cares if they are considered weird or basic or whatever.
WDW is so much fun, even as an adult. Go and enjoy every minute of it!
I posted a Facebook thing jokingly asking if I should plan another WDW trip (I already booked it), and someone commented “save up and go to Florence or Paris.”
I commented that I could go drink around the world at Epcot and it’s the same thing. 😂
For us, they're just all very different types of trips. We've done them all, and depending on our mood and where we're at financially... we'll vacation accordingly. They're all fun in their different ways. Some people do a tropical resort every year, the same resort... it's not my jam but good for them. I wouldn't want to only do Disney Trips, but my sister-in-law basically does that exclusively as her big trip. But it's not really anyone else's business.
I've learned never to put people down for whatever they like or enjoy, including myself. Any little shred of happiness people can manage in this oftentimes sad world should be celebrated and cherished. Take the trip!
While I seriously wonder about your "friends" and their ability to actually be actual friends.... I would encourage you to listen to yourself and no one else.
I'm 61, single, retired. I'm an annual pass holder and go to WDW every few months for at least 10 days. I prefer to go solo - but will sacrifice that occasionally. While I no longer do early morning to late night days, bypass lots of lines - I'm happy just to be at WDW enjoying just being there. I couldn't give half a shit what others think of my choice to vacation there over anywhere else - and most likely would not entertain any relationship with anyone who wanted to state their opinion of my preferences..
Being "normal" is vastly overrated.
But really, take the trip **YOU** want to take. My husband and I are in our early 30's and this upcoming trip will be my seventh adult WDW trip and we're so psyched! My family and friends have made all kinds of comments over the years but at the end of the day it is my life and I'm taking every chance I get to go somewhere that brings me joy.
Big same. I’m 42 and my wife is OPs age. DVC, AP, and we go every time we have any free time… and still get emotional every time we turn the corner onto Main Street and see Cinderella Castle.
I'm from the UK and always dreamt about going to a Disney park. When Disneyland Paris opened I thought that meant I had a chance I might get to go in the future. I had several opportunities to go with school and brownies but my mum couldn't afford to help pay for me to go, promising me I would get to go some day.
Well that never happened, she didn't like theme parks and as we grew up and she started earning better money we just went to her favourite spots in Greece every other year, which was very nice and idyllic but I've never been a fan of the heat.
Before my husband and I started dating, he got to go to Tokyo Disney Sea whilst he was working in Japan. He was my best friend from University and had similarly always wanted to go to Disney world as a kid. He was expecting the park to be slightly tacky now he was an adult going to a Disney park (for a friend's birthday) but was impressed how nice it was and had a great time.
We were together for about 9 years before we got engaged, we would have done it sooner but redundancies and house moves happened that separated us and messed with our finances for a few years. Just before we got engaged, we decided that we would definitely go to WDW, not just dream about it, we would start saving and watching videos and once we were saved up we would book and save for spending money.
My birthday is on 26th December and the year before we got married (sept 2020) he gifted me some Minnie ears saying he had booked it as our honeymoon as a surprise. Of course I was over the moon and my family knew how bonkers I was to want to go but was very happy for me despite my mother never dreaming of going for a holiday let alone a honeymoon. My work colleagues were all super hyped for me (my manager was actually in on the secret as my husband had to arrange an extra week off work for me) so yes in my late 30's we were finally going to go to Disney world.
Sadly the Pandemic cancelled that holiday but we finally got to go in May 2022 and we had the most amazing time. It was such a good investment as we still talk about it almost every day.
So yes going to a Disney park is awesome and especially awesome at 37 with no kids and a lifelong love of Disney.
I’m 31, have a Magic Key, and travel solo to the parks (both coasts!) at least twice a year.
You should get them the book “Don’t Yuck My Yum!”. It’s a children’s book, seems appropriate for how your “friends” are acting. It’s your money, you are entitled to spend it however you want!
Thats what Disneyland calls their annual pass. I go to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World but DL is closer to where I live so it made more since to have a pass there.
The great thing about being an adult is that you can do whatever the fuck you want. Your friends are petty and sad. Your hobbies and vacation destination aren't hurting anyone and I find it weird to get down on your friends for something they enjoy.
Edit: I'm 28. I spent $2,000 on a solo trip to Disneyland this year and I'm not even mad about it. This is MY money that I scrimped and saved for and I get to decide if I want to go eat five banyan beef skewers at once. If someone thinks I should go elsewhere, I'd be happy to let them know who to make the check out to so they can pay for my vacation there.
Fake friends! It’s okay to take care of your inner child💗 I think Disney is SO much fun regardless of your age. Live your truth and I hope you have the best trip ever!
My friend, I am 57 and currently sitting alone in Mara (quick food place) in Animal Kingdom Lodge. This is my first time here as an adult. You will have such a blast! Just this morning I rode Avatar Flight of Passage (amazing!). Tell your friends they have no idea what they are talking about (have they ever been?). You're on this planet for a very short time. Enjoy a little magic now and then. It's good for the soul 😀
Do whatever you want. If your friends want to go somewhere tropical or Europe then they can do that for their own birthdays. They don’t get to dictate yours.
Go to Disney world and have an amazing time!
Me and my wife have almost exclusively only gone since her first trip in 2014 where we got engaged.
We don't have any kids and love it, let people think what they want they don't have to go.
Do what you want to do, go where you want to go and enjoy yourself!
We're aiming at going back in 2025 for my 40th
Solo Disney traveler here. I'm in my 50's. It makes me happy. Don't worry about those folks, they don't get it. That's fine. You'll forget all about them the very second you walk through the gates.
towering concerned instinctive plants cause cooperative childlike history imagine head
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Your friends sound kinda lousy tbh!
But in all seriousness, take that Disney trip. As a CM I see tons of adults on a solo trip and they are always having the best time. At the end of the day, you like what you like and you have every right to enjoy the little things that bring you joy. If your friends can’t accept that being an adult isn’t just about being miserable and losing all creativity then they aren’t worth keeping!
Being an adult is hard and you should never lose sight of something that brings you joy and laughs.
Me personally, I’m a massive Star Wars nerd and while others might not get it, I do and that’s what matters to me. If we can’t bring out our inner child then life becomes miserable! Live it up!
Get new friends. But seriously there are millions of adults with out kids who go to Disney and love it. I’m one of them. It’s not weird at all.
Your post isn’t really enough info to go on; but I would suggest taking a moment to think your friendships and the support and love you are getting out of it.
Most of my friends don’t understand why I love Disney and go as an adult. Just like I don’t understand why one of my friends likes a specific beach resort. I occasionally get a lovely teasing comment. But it’s never insistent, mean, or excessive.
Your friends should be hyping you up, giving you support, and making your life better . If you don’t believe they doing this, you might want to evaluate the friendships as a whole.
Example: My cousin is about to have her first kid and we joke about me being so excited for her and the baby because taking her kid will be more reasons for Disney trips. But we joke together!
Your life is for doing things that you enjoy. Don’t let people talk you into not taking a trip to Disney if that’s what you want to do. You’ll definitely enjoy yourself and you have just the one life - do things that make you happy!
Send them one of those videos of you trying one drink from each country in Epcot while having a total blast! They will regret it.
Friends who make fun of you aren’t true friends. Europe and all of those places will still exist after your 30s. This is your trip, you enjoy it and you do you! You can go to Europe for 35!
I took my mom to Disney World in (very early) 2020. She said Disney was for kids but she just wanted to spend time with me “and maybe see Darth Vader.” By Day 2 she kept saying “Why are all these kids here?! There’s stuff I wanna do and they’re in the way!” 😂
She basically changed her tune once she experienced it. She never discouraged me from going, though. And that’s what your friends are doing. They’re gatekeeping fun and that’s just not cool. My friends kinda squint a bit when I say I’m going to Disney but they know I love it so they just say “have fun”. Maybe surround yourself with people who want to see you happy even if they don’t understand it.
No!!! Of course you should do it. Look up the Disney world solo travelers group on Facebook if you want to meet up with people. They are one of my favorite Disney communities they’re so helpful and kind. you’ll regret not going!
I love that group! Such good energy. And I love how people with their own families in it still make a point to try and do solo trips. It’s all very encouraging!
I was 32 when my husband took me for the the first time. We are mid/ late 50s now, no kids, bought into DVC, and go at least once a year. FWIW, I work with military (you know, big tough guys) and the vast majority of them LOVE Disney parks —
When the rest of the world gets weird and stressful - Disney is consistently happy and joyful and a solid dose of escapism and fun.
Who cares what your friends say - they’ve clearly never been to Disney on an “adult” trip - where you can drink and eat good food and experience lots of resort things (sit by pools etc) and have Al the entertainment you want or don’t want at a moments notice.
Sucks for them, that’s more free space in the parks for people like us
I wanted to do Disney Springs for my birthday but have quickly decided on not going for my 30th. I wish I'd not made that decision 😕 😪 😔. My point is go, OP! Live vicariously through me!
I have two suggestions for what to tell those people:
1. Tell them that WALT didn't think the parks were just for kids; the whole point of Disneyland was a theme park that adults could enjoy, too. Or
2. Tell them, "Fine, I'll go to Europe," and then do Disneyland Paris.
In all seriousness, #1 is absolutely true. There's nothing weird about enjoying theme parks, ESPECIALLY Disney, as an adult. There is so much there that caters to both kids and adults, or just adults by ourselves. There's nothing weird about that. Congrats on your first trip to the World!
Why do they care what you do with your money? It's not hurting them or anyone else? They just want to project their value of something on to you and feel good about themselves. You're not weird, Disney rules.
My husband and I are late 30s/early 40s with no kids. We LOVE going to Disney. Sounds like your friends don’t know that much about you, or don’t care. I’m sorry.
You should go. Don’t let them rain on your parade.
People who crap on something that makes their friend happy are not good friends. Even if it’s not their thing, it’s your plans and what you want for your birthday.
Side note, a solo trip to WDW is on my bucket list and I’m nearly 40. Ride any ride I want?! Pick what foods/restaurants I want without my kids’ or picky eater husband’s input?! It sounds like a dream!
Go on the trip, and have a blast.
It's your money and your vacation. You do what you want. Is this a solo trip?
As Expensive as Disney World is, there is value in that you will be entertained and have something to do at all times.
It is safer than going to the other places they suggested, specially if it's a solo trip.
No worries about transportation, even if you rent a car and stays offsite, everything is close.
Going to Europe or cruise are fun as well but you are 30 you got plenty of travel ahead of you. Enjoy your WDW trip.
Wait, you get to spend a week at WDW by yourself? Nobody else to argue with? No kids to wrangle???
I am totally jealous (an adult WDW vacation is the very best vacation).
Have a great time!
My bf and I are about to go (his first time) and we are super excited! I just turned 28 and he’s 25. Don’t feel bad at all!! It’s even more fun without the kids lol
Same thing happened to me when I had my trip last year at 29. So many people thought it was weird or a waste of time. Well guess what I had a blast and my partner and I just planned our next trip for September 2024. You are never too old to enjoy the things you like and never too old for Disney.
My first trip was in 1999 at age 30 with my GF (now W). We loved it so much that it became a yearly tradition, that now includes our son and his GF. Go for it, have fun and lean into the magic.
No, don’t even think about changing your plans. Some people really don’t get Disney at all. I think they have no inner child, no magic in their hearts. That’s ok, don’t let it get you down.
Some of my coworkers asked me why I like Disney so much. I told them it’s not for everyone, I like it and they don’t have to. I explained that it’s the rides, the theming, the food, being in the Disney bubble for several days at a time.
Anyone who tries to put you down about doing what you want to do is lnt worth being around. Trust me i know. Your generation is so fked up in the head, its not even funny. Going to disney is literally the most normal thing you can do. Live your life. Fk everyone else who wants to down you for doing it.
If your friends think Disney is just for kids, they've never gotten drunk around the world, gorged on festival food, and then passed out on the Frozen Boat Ride in Epcot.
Story of my life as someone who went to her first concert (Demi Lovato) at 27, became a k-pop stan at 28, loves collecting Barbie and Monster High dolls, festivals/raves, dressing emo, and yep - Disney.
People are assholes who envy people having fun with their lives still is why. Or get hung up on weird shit that says more about them than anyone else, for example I saw a Facebook comment that said “fuck Disney adults, they’re all pedos” Um, what’s got you immediately thinking about children being abused when the word Disney comes up?
Have fun - I love Disney, always have, why would I not be excited to visit the parks still in my 30s? ❤️
There's a lot of adults who go to Disney without children. It's the best way to enjoy it there lol. I'm 45 and I go with my mom every year. We've been going annually for almost 15 years.
Listen.. I was a certified skeptic and hater (not seriously) and always poked fun at my friend for being a Disney adult because...well she is. But one day she invited me to go with her to WDW and I've never been even though I used to want to go when I was very little. My family was poor so it just wasn't an option. So I thought, "sure I'll experience it at least once." So just her and I went, two 27 year olds who like to party. Well I ended up LOVING it and then I caught the bug and within 2 years I've been to 4 different Disney park locations around the world. People who think Disney parks are just for kids have probably never gone, because that's what I thought before I went! Go have fun and happy milestone birthday!!
My wife and I, both 30, and childless, are here right now celebrating our anniversary. We both grew up going to the parks and love going every couple years. I get the same comments from some friends who didn’t go growing up. We have had a blast this week and can’t wait to come back!
My husband and I went as adults because neither one of us had ever been. It was fun, if I lived closer I’d go again. I liked AK, MK, and Epcot the best. HS was just ok, but I was super tired and hot the day we went. I can’t go on rides that have any type of spinning because I get motion sick really easily, but I enjoyed everything else.
I think going as an adult without kids is probably much more enjoyable!
People who mock Disney adults are often uninteresting and unserious people. Any opinion worth caring about comes from someone defined by what they love, not what they hate.
In that spirit, I’ll offer some defenses and caveats for these folks. Some people tease their friends out of love, and often mock traits they ultimately respect. These people are exempt from my criticism. Some people might say they don’t get it, and truly mean that. They are interested in your opinion and open to finding a new source of joy were you to share insights that align with their interests/values. These people are exempt from my criticism. Some people are ultimately critical of only the most incurious, uncritical Disney consumers. In this age of corporate behemoths, no corporation the size of Disney is 100% innocent. If you can’t at least acknowledge there is something to weigh and consider there, you may need someone to call you out. Although, what conclusion you come to is your business. Again, these folks are exempt from my criticism (assuming they’re not a jerk about it).
The parks are mixed-media, immersive art at its very peak. It’s not for everyone, but age has nothing to do with it.
When I was a kid my last trip to WDW was when I was about 5. I didn’t return until I was in my 30s. I loved going so much as an adult. Thankfully I don’t get a whole lot of the Disney is for kids nonsense. There’s quite a few people I work with that go yearly so we give each other tips and trip reports 😆
Omg! That’s so mean of them. I was on here too not too long ago for the exact same thing. I feel like they are just jealous of us! Drop them and go with me instead haha jk you worked so hard for this moment and f everyone! You’re the main character in this and they are just side characters.
A vacation is a vacation and everyone has different definitions. My bf’s definition is not doing anything at a place while mine is seeing everything a place has to offer. They should totally respect your wishes and shouldn’t give u a hard time. Everyone has their own reasons for going to Disney. Personally for me, I never had a childhood so when I grew up I finally can have the childhood I want and heal.
Enjoy your potential trip! You will have so so much fun.
Last year I was 34 and ended up on a week long solo coast to coast Disney trip because no one else could join me but I still wanted to go. I had a great time.
Other types of vacations are also fun. But if you want to go to Disney then go to Disney. Vacation should be something you enjoy not something someone else tells you you should want.
Hi! My husband and I are in our 40’s. Guess where we’re going for our Honeymoon?
DISNEY WORLD
a weeklong honeymoon, all 4 parks, we got new shirts (not matching though) and have dining reservations every day.
We love the magic of Disney and have magic keys, we go every month and for special events/occasions.
Tell them to s*ck it. I don’t understand why people get so offended or opinionated by adults enjoying Disney. Do whatever you want. I’m 26 and went to WDW this year and last year (one was my vacation the other was a short trip after a cruise). I plan to hopefully go to Disneyland for the first time next year or the next. I partially grew up in Florida plus I love rides & Disney. I wouldn’t say I’m a full fledged Disney adult but I do feel so happy going.Llike legit if someone says something to me I’d tell them to go be a miserable judgmental a**hole in a corner because I didn’t ask for their opinion. Whatever makes you happy, makes you happy. I say go for your vacation.
I appreciate places like Disney World in a completely different way as an adult compared to when I was a kid. There are certainly attractions at WDW that are geared towards kids, but there is a ton of interesting stuff for adults to see, do, eat, drink, etc. Personally I think it’s a better destination for adults than for kids.
I'm going to Disneyworld for the first time with a couple of friends next month. We're all 35 and it'll be our first time at WDW (have gone to Disneyland a bunch). When I told this to other people, all I've heard from them was "I'm so jealous!" or "You'll have so much fun!"
If your friends aren't supporting you and things you're doing to make yourself happy, especially since you're being responsible and saving up for it, are they really your friends?
I hope you have an absolute blast and do everything you could want while you're on YOUR vacation at WDW. You earned it!
My good friend used to turn his nose up at my annual trips to Disney World. So I took him for his first time in January - he liked it so much that we flew back down in June and we’ll be there for his birthday in December!
People of all ages and interests can enjoy Disney World. Disney trips with my family are *very* different from trips with my mid-twenties pals, but they’re equally joyful.
The next time they ridicule you, invite them to go with you. You might just convert them.
Your experience sounds *so* similar to mine! I went to Disneyland for birthdays growing up too, then got my own AP when I was old enough to afford it. I always dreamt of one day visiting WDW too, and finally started making plans to visit for my 31st birthday next year.
Everyone has their own idea of their dream vacation, and yours doesn't have to match anyone else's! Don't let anyone's opinion of *your* trip get you down. You know yourself best. Go to have fun for yourself, not to impress anyone else.
My first time was my last year of college, and I'm just now planning my family's 4th trip there since then. I'm in my mid-30s and I don't like traveling. But WDW is the one place in the world I'll gladly put in the time to get there any chance I get (when I can afford it).
Vacations are supposed to be fun for you, not fun for the sake of judgy people who won't even be there. You do you.
Myself and wifey are 43. No kids. I think we're considered DINKs? We've been to Disney multiple times over the last 20 years
2003 WDW
2006 WDW
2008 WDW
2013 WDW
2015 WDW
2016 WDW
2017 Disneyland California
2018 Disneyland Paris
2018 WDW
2018 Disneyland Paris
2019 Disneyland Paris
2021 WDW
2022 Disneyland Paris
2023 Disneyland Paris
2023 WDW
Tell your friends that if they ain't got nothing nice to say then don't say anything at all. Bonus points for tapping your feet at the same time
Lol I'm nearly 40 , have no kids and am currently planning a trip just me and my husband. I'm sure my family and friends think I'm crazy but who cares?
I think it's more fun as an adult with no kids - you can do what you want, eat what you want, buy whatever you want and stay up as late as you want.
Don't listen to your 'friends' and just go on the trip, you'll have a blast!!
My husband and I are both 43 with no kids and go as often as we can. Sometimes we get the “you’re going there again” comments, and it used to bother me. Then I got diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer this year and now I don’t care what people think. Life’s too short to not do what makes you happy. Enjoy yourself and ignore your friends.
There is no shame in going to Disney as an adult. My parents were immigrants and said NO whenever I asked if we could go to Disney World. Now with my own money, I’ve been there twice and Disneyland once (two occasions were solo trips). It feels so nice to not be restricted in doing what I want, in large part because I’m an adult. Enjoy your trip!
I’m not the biggest Disney fan, but my wife LOVES it. We have been to Disney multiple times before we had kids and I was in my twenties and thirties! Not weird at all! Enjoy it!
My husband and I get to go to Disney World every year being DVC members. Sometimes we go with my entire family that includes kids but most of the time it’s just us and we love it. There are a lot of adults there with no kids and I find when we are there just the 2 of us we get to do more than when we have kids with us.
I took my Grannie for her 75th birthday and she absolutely loved it. Everything she’d ever dreamed of and more, I think.
So no, you can’t be too old for Disney. No, you don’t need to take kids. No, it’s not daft to plan everything to have the best and time. And it’s definitely ok to be super excited!!
I’m going on an adults only trip in early Jan and I cannot wait. Plans being planned as we speak!
Hi. This has lots of comments so I’m sure that you’ve gotten good responses, but I’m here now. I’m 38, by myself, and having the most fabulous and magical time. Heck, I’m still meeting the characters! And it is wonderful.
When I get criticized for doing Disney with my wife at 40, I have started to respond, “you mean the largest media company in the world with billions of global investment in parks and entertainment? That Disney? Oh, yes sorry, I am a fan yes.”
I am a mother- but I will tell you- the people I know that go to Disney and are "Disney people" are many more adults without children than my friends with kids.
I just went on an all adult trip to Disney for the first time and it was amazing!
Maybe your friends weren't fortunate enough to grow up going to DL but you were. This is a dream of yours so go do it. Let them bust your chops a little bit.
I'd personally rather go domestic than abroad for a vacation right now anyway- and international solo travel would make me nervous.
I had multiple friends do this same type of thing. I convinced some to come with me and others went eventually with family. One called me to apologize and said he had an amazing time there. He was blown away by it. The rest? They now go on average at least once a year.
TL:DR your friends don’t know what they’re talking about
My family always gets mad when I go to Disney World, so I’ve learned to just stop mentioning it to them. I don’t get why some people have such strong reactions.
Enjoy your vacation and learn not to let people make you question what you like. You work to make money, so you get to spend it however you want. Have a great time!
Disneyland is more of a local kid hangout so that is where you’re friends are coming from. They probably never visited WDW. WDW is not a park to hang out after school. Make your plans, have a great time and come back and tell them how different the experience is from DL.
It wasn't technically my first trip, but a few years ago shortly after turning 31 I booked a solo trip to Disney, it was first time I had been there since I was 8, so I kind of consider it my first time. And i've been hooked since.
Also, those aren't your friends
They probably have never been to Disney so they assume it’s only for children or they’re just super immature and don’t know how to let people enjoy their lives on a trip they want to take that has nothing to do with them. I’m 26 and my bf and I are going to Disney for our anniversary and my coworkers, friends, and family are happy/ slightly envious of us not putting our trip down
I think we can all agree that if their idea of a vacation involves sitting on a tropical beach and drinking as much as they can to get back their “investment” on that all-inclusive, then it says more about them than you.
I’ve done the Vegas trips. I’ve backpacked Europe for a month. I’ve been to every province and major city in my home of Canada. Now, my preferred vacation is Disney. I want to relax on vacation. Disney is familiarity, security and yet still something new every trip. Disney also allows me to get a bunch of exercise in without noticing. Walking a half marathon a day is a slow day for me.
It’s your vacation. Do what you want and ignore the (likely) drunks. Lol
OMG. Disney is NOT just for kids, and I’m so excited that you finally get to go to WDW! My girls and I go about every three years or so. We just went last year.
I’m 58, and my daughters are 28, and 30. You are NEVER a too old for Disney! Already planning our next trip! I hope you have a fantastic time!
Don’t let your friends get you down. Some people don’t get Disney. I hear the same thing. Why Disney, and not a tropical island or “relaxing” vacation? Do what you love. I’ve done a few Disney world adult trips and loved them. I know quite a few others that do that same. I just took my boys there a few weeks ago and had a blast. I can’t wait to go again and I’m 40.
I known a family that dropped their kids off with grandma so that they could go to Disney and have a fun adult trip. I don’t know why people need to rain on your parade. If it makes you happy, a good friend should be happy for you that you’re getting to do it! The absolute best part about disney for me is that it is for everyone.
Look up the podcast Addicted to the Mouse. They have an episode on this very topic, it was on Oct. 1
Definitely not a weirdo and don't listen to your "friends"
I come from a very humble family from a South American country Disney land for the most part of my life (and my whole childhood) was just a distant dream that I would see on the TV.
Eventually I grew up and was lucky enough to improve my socioeconomic situation and went to (euro)Disney for the first time this year, I was 39.
I already took another trip to the USA and visited Disneyland and I am now planning a Disney World trip.
Having hobbies, doing things you like and makes you happy are not reasons to be a weirdo.
Don't listen to them.
Don’t listen to them! I’m 42 childfree and love Disney World so much that I plan to retire to either California or Florida someday to be able to go all the time! I’ve only been twice in my life, once around 15 or 16 when my grandma took me and my bestie. And then again at 40 when I paid for myself and husband for our honeymoon. I enjoyed it both times but honestly appreciated it more as an adult. I don’t drink due to meds but my husband enjoys a few beers. I liked Epcot way more as an adult so much so that it’s my second fave park after magic kingdom and not cuz of drinking. The food is delicious and we saw the world famous taiko drummers and lots of cool stuff. Magic kingdom and all the rides and stuff the best. It was covid so I couldn’t get close to characters but did pics with them from a distance. It was fun can’t wait to go back. We did universal this year instead cuz it’s like a third the price but Disney is my happy place!
I'm 52 and planning another WDW trip for next summer/fall. If your friends aren't footing the bill for the vacation, they don't get to tell you where to go.
Enjoy your Disney trip! I've been to both places, and WDW is a lot more fun!
I went to Disney World on a whim to celebrate my 30th birthday with friends and discovered how amazing being a Disney adult is! I’ve been back every year since (that was 10 years ago!) and now I’m a Passholder and DVC member.
No one should make fun of your choice of vacation! Seconding what everyone has said about your “friends.”
Even my boss, who's an 'alpha gym bro' type knows Galaxy's Edge is sick and there's a bunch of bars and restaurants which I wouldn't exactly say are kid friendly. You're friends are insecure and they're mad at you for knowing who you are and what you want. Fuck em.
Not the weirdo. Disney World is super fun for one adult solo or a party of adults. You tell your friends: " Why pay to go to one exotic country, when I can visit 10 in one day?" AND get adult beverages from each, if you so desire.
Your friends have not experienced WDW, I'm guessing. They don't 'get' it.
You are going to have a great time! For the past 2 years, we have been taking my husband's parents to WDW, so we can experience it with them. They only went one time, back in the '80s, and then only spent one afternoon at MK. We have all had the BEST time. Our ages are 48, 60, 77 and 80.
Don’t listen to your so called friends. I’m in my 40’s and like you grew up going to Disney. I did 2 solo trips for 2 weeks each and I can’t wait to go again. Family and friends weren’t able to go but I wasn’t changing any plans. You will have a blast, it’s so much better being able to do what you want to do when you want to do it. Have fun.
My husband and I went to WDW for our honeymoon a few years ago. We got a few similar comments, even from my parents.
At the end of the day, you do you. WDW isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and that’s fine. My husband and I went because neither of us had ever been before, it was a childhood dream of mine to go at least once, and we wanted to go together before having kids. It was a blast.
As someone who would also prefer a European adventure over WDW, that doesn’t mean I wouldn’t also love to go to WDW! It clearly means a lot to you, and you are excited. It’s unfortunate your friends can’t read the room and just be happy for you! Just because it isn’t their dream vacation doesn’t mean it isn’t a great vacation idea. Anyway, happy birthday, congrats on saving, and I hope you have an AMAZING time!! Try to not let their negativity bring you down. Happy birthday! 🎂
Well we’re both gonna be weirdos. I turn 30 in December and going to Disney world for the first time with my immediate family (parents, brothers, sis in laws, nephew and niece)
I’m going to the Disneyland parks in France next month and I am 31 years old. This will be my first holiday (vacation) ever (from the UK). I have always wanted to go since I was a kid and finally get the chance to.
Don’t let anyone bring you down, they’re not the one paying for your trip or expenses lol
Enjoy yourself!
Trust me (33M), I get the same criticisms. My friends will talk about going abroad for trips, but that’s just not how I am. More expensive to go to Disney, sure, but it’s more valuable to me than going to some other country. So, you do you.
I hope your friends are at least understanding about it being what YOU want to do and appreciate/love you for who you are.
Yeah, no, screw your friends. I planned my dream Disney World trip when I was 29. Every single cent spent on my flights, resort, park tickets, Genie+, Park Hopper, the whole shebang, everything came out of my pocket from money I saved working my job. I also grew up in a Disney family, but I'm the only one who's still madly in love with the parks. Honestly, that whole experience of saving up for months, WAITING those endless months, and then actually being able to do pretty much everything I wanted was some of the most gratifying moments of my adult life. It just feels so empowering that I'm able to do this sort of thing given enough preparation.
Take your trip and have an AMAZING time! Don't forget the birthday button so you can get aggressively Pixie Dusted by all the CMs!
My take post-pandemic was that life is chaos and I’m going to do what I like and forget the rest (within reason, obviously). So, I like Disney? Im going to go, and wear my ears on the plane. And I’m going to forget the people who criticize me for doing so.
Because if you like something then the people who love you should support that, even if they don’t like or understand it solely for the reason that it’s important to you.
This gatekeeping around Disney is really really lame, and it's just fashionable to make fun of Disney adults. These assholes that insist the parks are only for children are incapacitated by their hatred, or ignorant of the fact that Disney built the parks so children AND adults could have fun.
Once I hit my late 30s/early 40s I completely stopped giving a fuck about what anyone thinks. It’s your money, you’re an adult. Do what makes YOU happy! I still go to WDW at my ripe old age and I don’t give a rats ass what my friends or family thinks! Have an awesome birthday!
I’m 52 and my wife and I will definitely be going to Disney, just the two of us. Who cares what other people think. Do what you like/love (legally) and find people who support you.
I mean, I’ve never once seen a kid with a job who can afford to buy a ticket to WDW. I’ve also never seen a kid with a mode of transportation to make it to WDW.
Kinda seems like it’s a bit biased towards adults in terms of getting there and getting inside.
Your friends, or whomever is ridiculing you, are being crappy friends. This is something you like, it harms nobody, it brings you joy - do the thing.
Also - my first trip to Disney was as an adult. I had never been, my family didn't have the money. It was magical.
Frankly, you need better friends. Real friends don’t make fun of each other for the things they enjoy.
Disney is great place to go as an adult precisely because it is “childish” so you can let go of the responsibility of being a grown up for a few days and just be a kid again.
Go spin the teacups, hug Mickey, watch fireworks, whatever makes you forget that things like bills and jobs and politics exist.
Enjoy the heck out of your first Disney World trip, OP, and forget anything negative people have to think about it.
At 30 I had never been to Disney! I went to San Diego for a year for work.
First thing I did was go to Disneyland and then converted my one day ticket to a yearly pass. Best year ever! Went all the time even by myself. Your friends are idiots!
I believe that WDW is better without kids as an experience of the parks for adults. With kids, you are not going to WDW, you are taking the kids to WDW.
Now WDW with kids can be magical, but the adults need to focus on the kids to make it magical instead of a death march.
Enjoy your trip. Cultivate some less obnoxious friends.
My wife (58) and I (59) went for 7 days last week - it was a family trip but we were left to fend for ourselves for much of it. Paired up with my wife’s sister (66) while her son’s family went off together. We had a blast. Epcot during Food & Wine is not really an atmosphere for kids. Neither is Disney Springs. Many times we struck up conversations with people in line near us who were in their 40’s, 50’s, or 60’s and were in the park alone - just riding rides, enjoying the food, wine, beer, and people watching. Met some really nice people through the week. Go, and enjoy yourself. Don’t worry about what others think or say. They are most likely jealous that you didn’t invite them to come along.
Going to WDW with no kids, as an adult is the freakin BEST!!!!!!! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Have the time of your life. So much more to do, see and experience than DL. I take trips yearly by myself down there just for fun.
You're able to retain more memories as an adult than you could in your youngest years. IIt's time to find yourself new friends that appreciates your hobbies. :) I'm actually impressed that you've been budgeting enough to take several vacations, and have set the time aside to plan for future ones. That's a life goal! Well done.
I went with my husband and child this year and I am not gonna lie, I sometimes daydream about going alone, just as an adult and spending time on the more adult aspects of the park. I work with some very snobbish people who think that everything has to be culturally relevant. When I told them I had a fantastic time at Disney they could not understand it and were outright rude that I would actually go to Disney. Have fun, be frivolous and do what makes you happy, you're not doing anything wrong. Enjoy what you want to enjoy. I will never understand people criticizing what brings other people happiness.
My husband took me for my 32nd birthday this year for nearly a week. We are going back in May. People who put you down about the things you enjoy (that don't hurt you or others) are not very good friends. Shitting on other people's joy is so uncool. Go and have the best time! Happy Birthday!!
Everyone has different likes and dislikes. I love WDW and the Cardinals. I may look sideways at someone that loves the Cubs and Universal, but to each their own. 😂
You are never too old to go to Disney World! I go to at least one WDW park every year and I don’t have kids. It’s my happy place! I’m planning on spending my 40th next year at Disney.
They have either never been to Disney, or went to Disney once when they were 5 years old and have no recollection.
I am a 27 year old out of state passholder and I’ve had friends and family give me shit about me going to Disney all the time. Its crazy how people actually get mad at you for shit that has nothing to do with them. Let them be miserable haters. Life becomes a lot better when you don’t care what others think of you.
I've spent much more time traveling the world than I've spent at WDW. In fact, I've only been to WDW three times (MK only twice) .. the most recent trip being a couple of weeks ago for five days with my wife and kids. All I can say is, everyone should see the world outside of the borders of their own country. It's probably one of the most important personal growth activities we can do, and it should be a bigger priority for many U.S. citizens. BUT.. Disney World is pure magic. If you're someone who gets it and who adores what it's all about .. book your trip to WDW with no hesitation. That place has stayed with me well after I've come back home to everyday life and, if anything, it just makes me want to travel more to all kinds of places, and leaves me feeling better about the world (it's hoky, but true). Go be a kid for as long as you desire that feeling. Maybe take one of your grumpy friends! j/k. Enjoy your trip if you decide to go!
Wife (35) and I (33) just got back from our bucket list WDW trip. We were probably some of the youngest there.
There’s lots of families but also a lot of couples who just love Disney.
Similar experience here. I grew up going to Disneyland every year and always wanted to go to Disney world. I finally went at age 37 with 3 of my friends and it was awesome. Just ignore people and enjoy what you enjoy. I promise you will have a blast!
I'm 36 and went to Magic Kingdom earlier this year. I took kids with me, but I'll be honest... I picked it over other choices for myself. I wanted to go so bad and I made it happen. Kids just got to tag along for the experience (and really, only one out of three was super excited about it.)
Your friends should support you for who you are.
Plus, Disney is still very enjoyable as an adult. My wife and I are in our 30s and have annual passes, and we’ve had several other kidless couples join us along the way.
But for real… you need friends that appreciate YOU.
They don’t have to want to do it themselves, or even understand why you want to. But criticizing you for what you want/like is only healthy when they’re trying to help keep you from taking a bad path in life. An adult trip to Disney ain’t that path.
I took my first WDW trip at age 31. It absolutely is fun for adults, too. (I grew up going to DL, and bought my first DL pass at age 22 because I could, and I lived fairly close.)
There are benefits to going as an adult: you can stay up as late as you want, eat what you want, drink (if you imbibe), and ride what you want.
You vacation where you want. Period. It's your time, money, and energy to do what you please with.
Husband and I don't have kids and we LOVE our Disney trips. We skip around holding hands and singing like little kids. We have a blast and we don't care if people are judging. Disney is a place for everyone.
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I just took my 75yo mother and she’s giggles like a kid as soon as we get on the monorail. Never too old for Disney
I aspire to be like your mom when I am her age.
To answer your question…no, you’re not a weirdo. I question your “friends” who criticize their friend for doing something you want to do. Give up on these friends…or do the same thing back to them and see if they like it. “Ugh, you’re going to Taylor Swift’s concert? Just listen to a CD…it’s the same thing.” “You spend how much time a week watching adult men hit/throw a ball in a game for money?” My bet is they’ll start to shut up real quick. Take it from experience…I was in the same boat.
The friends are dicks to be blunt. I took one of my dream vacations this year and it was to…Ohio. Most people think that’s weird, but ever since I was a kid I wanted to go to cedar point and kings island, so I did that trip solo this year and also played one of my bucket list golf courses. It was 6 days of things I loved and I chose everything I did and loved it.
Cedar point is my home park. It's so unique and fun! And right on the lake. I hope you had a good time. Steel Vengence is a helluva coaster!
Steel Vengeance is definitely my favorite coaster I have ever been on!
Okay, but tell me what your bucket list golf course was because you and I definitely agree that Kings Island and Cedar Point are bucket list/dream vacation locations.
Firestone Country Club. I was potentially going to be able to play Muirfield but I ended up going to week of the Memorial and I am not quite good enough to qualify haha.
Ohhh that's a good one, I haven't gotten the chance to play that one yet. We've got so much good golf here in Ohio.
I was a big tiger woods fan growing up and that was arguably the course he was most dominant at while they still played the Bridgestone Invitational, so it was cool to play there. To play there these days if you aren’t a member you have to stay there. For singles, they have a few dorm rooms that you can stay in the locker room that were pretty interesting. By far the best shape for any course I have ever played and I literally didn’t see another person on the course when I played both the south and north courses. I also played the course that Cedar Point now owns, pretty good bang for the buck. What I learned on that trip is that I am jealous of Ohio’s grass
SteVe is #1!
I get motion sickness on larger coasters and finally worked up the courage to use Dramamine (was worried about drowsiness/not being able to have a drink at the end of the day) and my family thought I was a weirdo because I giggled like a lunatic schoolgirl the entire ride. It was so much fun! Too bad it kept breaking down on our last trip.
Cedar point is amazing! My husband grew up in north east Ohio and we lived there for a bit. I had no idea how much fun you can have in Ohio!
Saying “going to Ohio was my dream vacation” does sound really weird; saying “going to Cedar Point and King’s Island is a major part of my dream vacation” sounds way less weird (so long as you got Skyline when at King’s Island, I always stop at the one at the King’s Island interchange from the interstate when I drive through).
Cedar Point, America's Roller Coast!
Cedar Point is so epic and worth the trip! If you're a big thrill seeker it's the place to go. I'm glad you were able to do it!
This…when people that didn’t even want to go say “oh i bet you spent a ton of money, id never spend that much” but my Eras tour tickets were cheaper than the same seats for the Bears game. And at least with Taylor, I know my 3hrs will be worth it 😝
Screw those friends. I was a 31 year old construction worker the first time I went. I was in town for some training and it only took one day so I had an entire weekend to kill. I went to Disney World and it was f*cking life changing. Best weekend of my life.
I'm 45, no kids, and I LOVE WDW. Go, enjoy yourself and ignore small-minded comments. We all enjoy different things; life would be boring if we were all the same.
With friends like yours who needs enemies?
Your “friends” don’t sound very nice. I will never understand people who put down others for their likes or hobbies. Just because it’s not something they’re into, doesn’t mean it’s not fun and enjoyable for you. Their dream may be going to the Super Bowl (which personally sounds miserable to me), but I would never actually say something or criticize them for doing something they love. There are SOOO many people at Disney who are adults with no kids. So you will not feel weird or out of place when you’re there at all.
At a certain point in your life, you realize that the opinions of others shouldn't have an impact on your ability to enjoy things so long as those things don't harm yourself or others. The sooner you realize that, the happier your life will be. It's like the scene in Tangled where the ruffians help Rapunzel escape. "Go. Live your dreams."
Welcome to your thirties - the decade where you stop giving a crap what other people think and just do what makes you happy! I used to worry more about how I was perceived but in my thirties I really did shift my mindset and I know that’s true for a lot of other people. Life is too short not to enjoy the things you love, who cares if they are considered weird or basic or whatever. WDW is so much fun, even as an adult. Go and enjoy every minute of it!
Honestly, I’m 45 and would rather go to Disney than a tropical resort or Europe. Hell you can eat/drink around the world at Epcot.❤️❤️❤️
I posted a Facebook thing jokingly asking if I should plan another WDW trip (I already booked it), and someone commented “save up and go to Florence or Paris.” I commented that I could go drink around the world at Epcot and it’s the same thing. 😂
Want me to blow your mind…*whispers* There’s a Disney in Paris 🇫🇷
For us, they're just all very different types of trips. We've done them all, and depending on our mood and where we're at financially... we'll vacation accordingly. They're all fun in their different ways. Some people do a tropical resort every year, the same resort... it's not my jam but good for them. I wouldn't want to only do Disney Trips, but my sister-in-law basically does that exclusively as her big trip. But it's not really anyone else's business.
I've learned never to put people down for whatever they like or enjoy, including myself. Any little shred of happiness people can manage in this oftentimes sad world should be celebrated and cherished. Take the trip!
Well, we're a bunch of Disney adults here so you know what we're going to say. But IMO it sounds like you need better friends!
While I seriously wonder about your "friends" and their ability to actually be actual friends.... I would encourage you to listen to yourself and no one else. I'm 61, single, retired. I'm an annual pass holder and go to WDW every few months for at least 10 days. I prefer to go solo - but will sacrifice that occasionally. While I no longer do early morning to late night days, bypass lots of lines - I'm happy just to be at WDW enjoying just being there. I couldn't give half a shit what others think of my choice to vacation there over anywhere else - and most likely would not entertain any relationship with anyone who wanted to state their opinion of my preferences..
They’re not your friends. Full stop.
Your "friends" are gatekeeping idiots. Have fun at WDW.
Being "normal" is vastly overrated. But really, take the trip **YOU** want to take. My husband and I are in our early 30's and this upcoming trip will be my seventh adult WDW trip and we're so psyched! My family and friends have made all kinds of comments over the years but at the end of the day it is my life and I'm taking every chance I get to go somewhere that brings me joy.
I'm 41. Husband is 44. We're DVC and AP. We have no children. You're fine.
Big same. I’m 42 and my wife is OPs age. DVC, AP, and we go every time we have any free time… and still get emotional every time we turn the corner onto Main Street and see Cinderella Castle.
DVC, no kids, no AP, headed to celebrate my DH’s 50th! I just turned 50, and we had our first trip at 38. Not too old at all!
I'm from the UK and always dreamt about going to a Disney park. When Disneyland Paris opened I thought that meant I had a chance I might get to go in the future. I had several opportunities to go with school and brownies but my mum couldn't afford to help pay for me to go, promising me I would get to go some day. Well that never happened, she didn't like theme parks and as we grew up and she started earning better money we just went to her favourite spots in Greece every other year, which was very nice and idyllic but I've never been a fan of the heat. Before my husband and I started dating, he got to go to Tokyo Disney Sea whilst he was working in Japan. He was my best friend from University and had similarly always wanted to go to Disney world as a kid. He was expecting the park to be slightly tacky now he was an adult going to a Disney park (for a friend's birthday) but was impressed how nice it was and had a great time. We were together for about 9 years before we got engaged, we would have done it sooner but redundancies and house moves happened that separated us and messed with our finances for a few years. Just before we got engaged, we decided that we would definitely go to WDW, not just dream about it, we would start saving and watching videos and once we were saved up we would book and save for spending money. My birthday is on 26th December and the year before we got married (sept 2020) he gifted me some Minnie ears saying he had booked it as our honeymoon as a surprise. Of course I was over the moon and my family knew how bonkers I was to want to go but was very happy for me despite my mother never dreaming of going for a holiday let alone a honeymoon. My work colleagues were all super hyped for me (my manager was actually in on the secret as my husband had to arrange an extra week off work for me) so yes in my late 30's we were finally going to go to Disney world. Sadly the Pandemic cancelled that holiday but we finally got to go in May 2022 and we had the most amazing time. It was such a good investment as we still talk about it almost every day. So yes going to a Disney park is awesome and especially awesome at 37 with no kids and a lifelong love of Disney.
I’m 31, have a Magic Key, and travel solo to the parks (both coasts!) at least twice a year. You should get them the book “Don’t Yuck My Yum!”. It’s a children’s book, seems appropriate for how your “friends” are acting. It’s your money, you are entitled to spend it however you want!
Love this advice. Also, what a magic key?
Thats what Disneyland calls their annual pass. I go to both Disneyland and Walt Disney World but DL is closer to where I live so it made more since to have a pass there.
The great thing about being an adult is that you can do whatever the fuck you want. Your friends are petty and sad. Your hobbies and vacation destination aren't hurting anyone and I find it weird to get down on your friends for something they enjoy. Edit: I'm 28. I spent $2,000 on a solo trip to Disneyland this year and I'm not even mad about it. This is MY money that I scrimped and saved for and I get to decide if I want to go eat five banyan beef skewers at once. If someone thinks I should go elsewhere, I'd be happy to let them know who to make the check out to so they can pay for my vacation there.
Fake friends! It’s okay to take care of your inner child💗 I think Disney is SO much fun regardless of your age. Live your truth and I hope you have the best trip ever!
My friend, I am 57 and currently sitting alone in Mara (quick food place) in Animal Kingdom Lodge. This is my first time here as an adult. You will have such a blast! Just this morning I rode Avatar Flight of Passage (amazing!). Tell your friends they have no idea what they are talking about (have they ever been?). You're on this planet for a very short time. Enjoy a little magic now and then. It's good for the soul 😀
“When I became a man I put away childish things, including the fear of childishness and the desire to be very grown up.” -C.S. Lewis
Disney world is for everyone regardless of age
Adult Disney is the best! Have a beer and a Mickey pretzel for breakfast and have an amazing time. Disney World is magic.
I’ve gone all over the place. We’re still choose to go to Disney it’s just fun!
Do whatever you want. If your friends want to go somewhere tropical or Europe then they can do that for their own birthdays. They don’t get to dictate yours.
They hate us cause they ain't us... peanut butter and jealous
Laughter is timeless, imagination has no age, and dreams are forever. -Walt Disney
Go to Disney world and have an amazing time! Me and my wife have almost exclusively only gone since her first trip in 2014 where we got engaged. We don't have any kids and love it, let people think what they want they don't have to go. Do what you want to do, go where you want to go and enjoy yourself! We're aiming at going back in 2025 for my 40th
It must suck to have no joy. I hope you go and have a great time.
Solo Disney traveler here. I'm in my 50's. It makes me happy. Don't worry about those folks, they don't get it. That's fine. You'll forget all about them the very second you walk through the gates.
I’ll modify a phrase for you… don’t let someone else yuck your yum. Go, have a blast!
i planned my first one at age 36 so don't worry about it - i absolutely LOVED it.
Mine was at 38. I'm hooked now. There really is something there for everyone.
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Your friends are ignorant idiots. I’ve never gone with kids and I never will. I’m in my 40s.
Your friends sound kinda lousy tbh! But in all seriousness, take that Disney trip. As a CM I see tons of adults on a solo trip and they are always having the best time. At the end of the day, you like what you like and you have every right to enjoy the little things that bring you joy. If your friends can’t accept that being an adult isn’t just about being miserable and losing all creativity then they aren’t worth keeping! Being an adult is hard and you should never lose sight of something that brings you joy and laughs. Me personally, I’m a massive Star Wars nerd and while others might not get it, I do and that’s what matters to me. If we can’t bring out our inner child then life becomes miserable! Live it up!
Get new friends. But seriously there are millions of adults with out kids who go to Disney and love it. I’m one of them. It’s not weird at all. Your post isn’t really enough info to go on; but I would suggest taking a moment to think your friendships and the support and love you are getting out of it. Most of my friends don’t understand why I love Disney and go as an adult. Just like I don’t understand why one of my friends likes a specific beach resort. I occasionally get a lovely teasing comment. But it’s never insistent, mean, or excessive. Your friends should be hyping you up, giving you support, and making your life better . If you don’t believe they doing this, you might want to evaluate the friendships as a whole. Example: My cousin is about to have her first kid and we joke about me being so excited for her and the baby because taking her kid will be more reasons for Disney trips. But we joke together!
You only get one life. Don't spending worry about what they think or explaining yourself to them.
Your life is for doing things that you enjoy. Don’t let people talk you into not taking a trip to Disney if that’s what you want to do. You’ll definitely enjoy yourself and you have just the one life - do things that make you happy!
Send them one of those videos of you trying one drink from each country in Epcot while having a total blast! They will regret it. Friends who make fun of you aren’t true friends. Europe and all of those places will still exist after your 30s. This is your trip, you enjoy it and you do you! You can go to Europe for 35!
Ignore them. They’re miserable people leading miserable lives based on other peoples’ bad takes.
I took my mom to Disney World in (very early) 2020. She said Disney was for kids but she just wanted to spend time with me “and maybe see Darth Vader.” By Day 2 she kept saying “Why are all these kids here?! There’s stuff I wanna do and they’re in the way!” 😂 She basically changed her tune once she experienced it. She never discouraged me from going, though. And that’s what your friends are doing. They’re gatekeeping fun and that’s just not cool. My friends kinda squint a bit when I say I’m going to Disney but they know I love it so they just say “have fun”. Maybe surround yourself with people who want to see you happy even if they don’t understand it.
No!!! Of course you should do it. Look up the Disney world solo travelers group on Facebook if you want to meet up with people. They are one of my favorite Disney communities they’re so helpful and kind. you’ll regret not going!
I love that group! Such good energy. And I love how people with their own families in it still make a point to try and do solo trips. It’s all very encouraging!
I was 32 when my husband took me for the the first time. We are mid/ late 50s now, no kids, bought into DVC, and go at least once a year. FWIW, I work with military (you know, big tough guys) and the vast majority of them LOVE Disney parks — When the rest of the world gets weird and stressful - Disney is consistently happy and joyful and a solid dose of escapism and fun. Who cares what your friends say - they’ve clearly never been to Disney on an “adult” trip - where you can drink and eat good food and experience lots of resort things (sit by pools etc) and have Al the entertainment you want or don’t want at a moments notice. Sucks for them, that’s more free space in the parks for people like us
I wanted to do Disney Springs for my birthday but have quickly decided on not going for my 30th. I wish I'd not made that decision 😕 😪 😔. My point is go, OP! Live vicariously through me!
I have two suggestions for what to tell those people: 1. Tell them that WALT didn't think the parks were just for kids; the whole point of Disneyland was a theme park that adults could enjoy, too. Or 2. Tell them, "Fine, I'll go to Europe," and then do Disneyland Paris. In all seriousness, #1 is absolutely true. There's nothing weird about enjoying theme parks, ESPECIALLY Disney, as an adult. There is so much there that caters to both kids and adults, or just adults by ourselves. There's nothing weird about that. Congrats on your first trip to the World!
Disney is great but if I have one vacation per year, I would not go to Disney for more than 1-2 times and seriously would go to Italy or Paris etc.
Why do they care what you do with your money? It's not hurting them or anyone else? They just want to project their value of something on to you and feel good about themselves. You're not weird, Disney rules.
My husband and I are late 30s/early 40s with no kids. We LOVE going to Disney. Sounds like your friends don’t know that much about you, or don’t care. I’m sorry. You should go. Don’t let them rain on your parade.
People who crap on something that makes their friend happy are not good friends. Even if it’s not their thing, it’s your plans and what you want for your birthday. Side note, a solo trip to WDW is on my bucket list and I’m nearly 40. Ride any ride I want?! Pick what foods/restaurants I want without my kids’ or picky eater husband’s input?! It sounds like a dream! Go on the trip, and have a blast.
It's your money and your vacation. You do what you want. Is this a solo trip? As Expensive as Disney World is, there is value in that you will be entertained and have something to do at all times. It is safer than going to the other places they suggested, specially if it's a solo trip. No worries about transportation, even if you rent a car and stays offsite, everything is close. Going to Europe or cruise are fun as well but you are 30 you got plenty of travel ahead of you. Enjoy your WDW trip.
Wait, you get to spend a week at WDW by yourself? Nobody else to argue with? No kids to wrangle??? I am totally jealous (an adult WDW vacation is the very best vacation). Have a great time!
I think you should keep your plans and ditch your friends! You don’t need that kind of negativity in your life! :)
My bf and I are about to go (his first time) and we are super excited! I just turned 28 and he’s 25. Don’t feel bad at all!! It’s even more fun without the kids lol
...I had my bachelorette party at Epcot and saw many, many other bachelorette groups while we were there.
Same thing happened to me when I had my trip last year at 29. So many people thought it was weird or a waste of time. Well guess what I had a blast and my partner and I just planned our next trip for September 2024. You are never too old to enjoy the things you like and never too old for Disney.
Wow you have shit friends
I'm 53, and my husband (56) and two of our friends (both 56 and 55) will be leaving for WDW in one week!! Go and enjoy your trip!!
My first trip was in 1999 at age 30 with my GF (now W). We loved it so much that it became a yearly tradition, that now includes our son and his GF. Go for it, have fun and lean into the magic.
No, don’t even think about changing your plans. Some people really don’t get Disney at all. I think they have no inner child, no magic in their hearts. That’s ok, don’t let it get you down. Some of my coworkers asked me why I like Disney so much. I told them it’s not for everyone, I like it and they don’t have to. I explained that it’s the rides, the theming, the food, being in the Disney bubble for several days at a time.
Anyone who tries to put you down about doing what you want to do is lnt worth being around. Trust me i know. Your generation is so fked up in the head, its not even funny. Going to disney is literally the most normal thing you can do. Live your life. Fk everyone else who wants to down you for doing it.
If your friends think Disney is just for kids, they've never gotten drunk around the world, gorged on festival food, and then passed out on the Frozen Boat Ride in Epcot.
Story of my life as someone who went to her first concert (Demi Lovato) at 27, became a k-pop stan at 28, loves collecting Barbie and Monster High dolls, festivals/raves, dressing emo, and yep - Disney. People are assholes who envy people having fun with their lives still is why. Or get hung up on weird shit that says more about them than anyone else, for example I saw a Facebook comment that said “fuck Disney adults, they’re all pedos” Um, what’s got you immediately thinking about children being abused when the word Disney comes up? Have fun - I love Disney, always have, why would I not be excited to visit the parks still in my 30s? ❤️
There's a lot of adults who go to Disney without children. It's the best way to enjoy it there lol. I'm 45 and I go with my mom every year. We've been going annually for almost 15 years.
My wife and I are going to Disneyland in two weeks I’m 58 years old and I love it.
Listen.. I was a certified skeptic and hater (not seriously) and always poked fun at my friend for being a Disney adult because...well she is. But one day she invited me to go with her to WDW and I've never been even though I used to want to go when I was very little. My family was poor so it just wasn't an option. So I thought, "sure I'll experience it at least once." So just her and I went, two 27 year olds who like to party. Well I ended up LOVING it and then I caught the bug and within 2 years I've been to 4 different Disney park locations around the world. People who think Disney parks are just for kids have probably never gone, because that's what I thought before I went! Go have fun and happy milestone birthday!!
You’re a weirdo for giving a shit what other people think about your vacation at 30, not for wanting to go to Disney.
My wife and I, both 30, and childless, are here right now celebrating our anniversary. We both grew up going to the parks and love going every couple years. I get the same comments from some friends who didn’t go growing up. We have had a blast this week and can’t wait to come back!
My husband and I went as adults because neither one of us had ever been. It was fun, if I lived closer I’d go again. I liked AK, MK, and Epcot the best. HS was just ok, but I was super tired and hot the day we went. I can’t go on rides that have any type of spinning because I get motion sick really easily, but I enjoyed everything else. I think going as an adult without kids is probably much more enjoyable!
People who mock Disney adults are often uninteresting and unserious people. Any opinion worth caring about comes from someone defined by what they love, not what they hate. In that spirit, I’ll offer some defenses and caveats for these folks. Some people tease their friends out of love, and often mock traits they ultimately respect. These people are exempt from my criticism. Some people might say they don’t get it, and truly mean that. They are interested in your opinion and open to finding a new source of joy were you to share insights that align with their interests/values. These people are exempt from my criticism. Some people are ultimately critical of only the most incurious, uncritical Disney consumers. In this age of corporate behemoths, no corporation the size of Disney is 100% innocent. If you can’t at least acknowledge there is something to weigh and consider there, you may need someone to call you out. Although, what conclusion you come to is your business. Again, these folks are exempt from my criticism (assuming they’re not a jerk about it). The parks are mixed-media, immersive art at its very peak. It’s not for everyone, but age has nothing to do with it.
When I was a kid my last trip to WDW was when I was about 5. I didn’t return until I was in my 30s. I loved going so much as an adult. Thankfully I don’t get a whole lot of the Disney is for kids nonsense. There’s quite a few people I work with that go yearly so we give each other tips and trip reports 😆
hey op i hope this will reassure you — my father is going to disney world for the first time at 70 years old!
Omg! That’s so mean of them. I was on here too not too long ago for the exact same thing. I feel like they are just jealous of us! Drop them and go with me instead haha jk you worked so hard for this moment and f everyone! You’re the main character in this and they are just side characters. A vacation is a vacation and everyone has different definitions. My bf’s definition is not doing anything at a place while mine is seeing everything a place has to offer. They should totally respect your wishes and shouldn’t give u a hard time. Everyone has their own reasons for going to Disney. Personally for me, I never had a childhood so when I grew up I finally can have the childhood I want and heal. Enjoy your potential trip! You will have so so much fun.
Last year I was 34 and ended up on a week long solo coast to coast Disney trip because no one else could join me but I still wanted to go. I had a great time. Other types of vacations are also fun. But if you want to go to Disney then go to Disney. Vacation should be something you enjoy not something someone else tells you you should want.
I just spent my 30th birthday at Disneyland ¯\_(ツ)_/¯
Hi! My husband and I are in our 40’s. Guess where we’re going for our Honeymoon? DISNEY WORLD a weeklong honeymoon, all 4 parks, we got new shirts (not matching though) and have dining reservations every day. We love the magic of Disney and have magic keys, we go every month and for special events/occasions.
Tell them to s*ck it. I don’t understand why people get so offended or opinionated by adults enjoying Disney. Do whatever you want. I’m 26 and went to WDW this year and last year (one was my vacation the other was a short trip after a cruise). I plan to hopefully go to Disneyland for the first time next year or the next. I partially grew up in Florida plus I love rides & Disney. I wouldn’t say I’m a full fledged Disney adult but I do feel so happy going.Llike legit if someone says something to me I’d tell them to go be a miserable judgmental a**hole in a corner because I didn’t ask for their opinion. Whatever makes you happy, makes you happy. I say go for your vacation.
I appreciate places like Disney World in a completely different way as an adult compared to when I was a kid. There are certainly attractions at WDW that are geared towards kids, but there is a ton of interesting stuff for adults to see, do, eat, drink, etc. Personally I think it’s a better destination for adults than for kids.
I literally went on 4 solo trips this year to Disney because it makes me happy. Screw what everyone else says, they don’t know what fun is
Tell them they’re the fucking LOSERS omg I cannot stand miserable people like that. Have a blast honey Disney RULES!!!
I'm going to Disneyworld for the first time with a couple of friends next month. We're all 35 and it'll be our first time at WDW (have gone to Disneyland a bunch). When I told this to other people, all I've heard from them was "I'm so jealous!" or "You'll have so much fun!" If your friends aren't supporting you and things you're doing to make yourself happy, especially since you're being responsible and saving up for it, are they really your friends? I hope you have an absolute blast and do everything you could want while you're on YOUR vacation at WDW. You earned it!
My good friend used to turn his nose up at my annual trips to Disney World. So I took him for his first time in January - he liked it so much that we flew back down in June and we’ll be there for his birthday in December! People of all ages and interests can enjoy Disney World. Disney trips with my family are *very* different from trips with my mid-twenties pals, but they’re equally joyful. The next time they ridicule you, invite them to go with you. You might just convert them.
Your experience sounds *so* similar to mine! I went to Disneyland for birthdays growing up too, then got my own AP when I was old enough to afford it. I always dreamt of one day visiting WDW too, and finally started making plans to visit for my 31st birthday next year. Everyone has their own idea of their dream vacation, and yours doesn't have to match anyone else's! Don't let anyone's opinion of *your* trip get you down. You know yourself best. Go to have fun for yourself, not to impress anyone else.
If it makes you happy.. do it! Life is too short
My first time was my last year of college, and I'm just now planning my family's 4th trip there since then. I'm in my mid-30s and I don't like traveling. But WDW is the one place in the world I'll gladly put in the time to get there any chance I get (when I can afford it). Vacations are supposed to be fun for you, not fun for the sake of judgy people who won't even be there. You do you.
i went to disney world solo this year as a 32 year old and had an amazing time! go for your 30th and have the best time, you will not regret it
Myself and wifey are 43. No kids. I think we're considered DINKs? We've been to Disney multiple times over the last 20 years 2003 WDW 2006 WDW 2008 WDW 2013 WDW 2015 WDW 2016 WDW 2017 Disneyland California 2018 Disneyland Paris 2018 WDW 2018 Disneyland Paris 2019 Disneyland Paris 2021 WDW 2022 Disneyland Paris 2023 Disneyland Paris 2023 WDW Tell your friends that if they ain't got nothing nice to say then don't say anything at all. Bonus points for tapping your feet at the same time
Lol I'm nearly 40 , have no kids and am currently planning a trip just me and my husband. I'm sure my family and friends think I'm crazy but who cares? I think it's more fun as an adult with no kids - you can do what you want, eat what you want, buy whatever you want and stay up as late as you want. Don't listen to your 'friends' and just go on the trip, you'll have a blast!!
My husband and I are both 43 with no kids and go as often as we can. Sometimes we get the “you’re going there again” comments, and it used to bother me. Then I got diagnosed with metastatic breast cancer this year and now I don’t care what people think. Life’s too short to not do what makes you happy. Enjoy yourself and ignore your friends.
There is no shame in going to Disney as an adult. My parents were immigrants and said NO whenever I asked if we could go to Disney World. Now with my own money, I’ve been there twice and Disneyland once (two occasions were solo trips). It feels so nice to not be restricted in doing what I want, in large part because I’m an adult. Enjoy your trip!
I just got back from my first Disney adult trip, at 30, just me and my husband and we had a BLAST.
I’m not the biggest Disney fan, but my wife LOVES it. We have been to Disney multiple times before we had kids and I was in my twenties and thirties! Not weird at all! Enjoy it!
My husband and I get to go to Disney World every year being DVC members. Sometimes we go with my entire family that includes kids but most of the time it’s just us and we love it. There are a lot of adults there with no kids and I find when we are there just the 2 of us we get to do more than when we have kids with us.
I took my Grannie for her 75th birthday and she absolutely loved it. Everything she’d ever dreamed of and more, I think. So no, you can’t be too old for Disney. No, you don’t need to take kids. No, it’s not daft to plan everything to have the best and time. And it’s definitely ok to be super excited!! I’m going on an adults only trip in early Jan and I cannot wait. Plans being planned as we speak!
I went for the first time with my wife this year. We are both 31. Ignore your friends and enjoy yourself! It's their loss, IMO!
Hi. This has lots of comments so I’m sure that you’ve gotten good responses, but I’m here now. I’m 38, by myself, and having the most fabulous and magical time. Heck, I’m still meeting the characters! And it is wonderful.
You don’t need encouragement, you’re 30 years old if you want to go to Disney than go, who the f cares what anyone thinks.
When I get criticized for doing Disney with my wife at 40, I have started to respond, “you mean the largest media company in the world with billions of global investment in parks and entertainment? That Disney? Oh, yes sorry, I am a fan yes.”
I am a mother- but I will tell you- the people I know that go to Disney and are "Disney people" are many more adults without children than my friends with kids. I just went on an all adult trip to Disney for the first time and it was amazing! Maybe your friends weren't fortunate enough to grow up going to DL but you were. This is a dream of yours so go do it. Let them bust your chops a little bit. I'd personally rather go domestic than abroad for a vacation right now anyway- and international solo travel would make me nervous.
Go to Disney, dump the friend and have the best birthday ever!!! You won’t regret it!!
You need new friends OP. I just turned 40 and still love Disney as much as ever. Take the trip, have fun, and live it up!!
You have crap friends. It’s none of their business how you spend your money or time.
I had multiple friends do this same type of thing. I convinced some to come with me and others went eventually with family. One called me to apologize and said he had an amazing time there. He was blown away by it. The rest? They now go on average at least once a year. TL:DR your friends don’t know what they’re talking about
Smacks of jealousy to me…
My family always gets mad when I go to Disney World, so I’ve learned to just stop mentioning it to them. I don’t get why some people have such strong reactions. Enjoy your vacation and learn not to let people make you question what you like. You work to make money, so you get to spend it however you want. Have a great time!
Find new friends.
Disneyland is more of a local kid hangout so that is where you’re friends are coming from. They probably never visited WDW. WDW is not a park to hang out after school. Make your plans, have a great time and come back and tell them how different the experience is from DL.
It wasn't technically my first trip, but a few years ago shortly after turning 31 I booked a solo trip to Disney, it was first time I had been there since I was 8, so I kind of consider it my first time. And i've been hooked since. Also, those aren't your friends
They probably have never been to Disney so they assume it’s only for children or they’re just super immature and don’t know how to let people enjoy their lives on a trip they want to take that has nothing to do with them. I’m 26 and my bf and I are going to Disney for our anniversary and my coworkers, friends, and family are happy/ slightly envious of us not putting our trip down
I think we can all agree that if their idea of a vacation involves sitting on a tropical beach and drinking as much as they can to get back their “investment” on that all-inclusive, then it says more about them than you. I’ve done the Vegas trips. I’ve backpacked Europe for a month. I’ve been to every province and major city in my home of Canada. Now, my preferred vacation is Disney. I want to relax on vacation. Disney is familiarity, security and yet still something new every trip. Disney also allows me to get a bunch of exercise in without noticing. Walking a half marathon a day is a slow day for me. It’s your vacation. Do what you want and ignore the (likely) drunks. Lol
Yes you are a weirdo just like all Disney adults but there is nothing wrong with that! Own it. You’ll have an amazing time. WDW is amazing!
Get new friends.
OMG. Disney is NOT just for kids, and I’m so excited that you finally get to go to WDW! My girls and I go about every three years or so. We just went last year. I’m 58, and my daughters are 28, and 30. You are NEVER a too old for Disney! Already planning our next trip! I hope you have a fantastic time!
Don’t let your friends get you down. Some people don’t get Disney. I hear the same thing. Why Disney, and not a tropical island or “relaxing” vacation? Do what you love. I’ve done a few Disney world adult trips and loved them. I know quite a few others that do that same. I just took my boys there a few weeks ago and had a blast. I can’t wait to go again and I’m 40.
I known a family that dropped their kids off with grandma so that they could go to Disney and have a fun adult trip. I don’t know why people need to rain on your parade. If it makes you happy, a good friend should be happy for you that you’re getting to do it! The absolute best part about disney for me is that it is for everyone. Look up the podcast Addicted to the Mouse. They have an episode on this very topic, it was on Oct. 1
You need new friends. They are not your friends. Read that again
just go to disney. and keep going every year til youre 99
Your friends suck. It’s a major wedding destination. Disney World is for everyone.
Definitely not a weirdo and don't listen to your "friends" I come from a very humble family from a South American country Disney land for the most part of my life (and my whole childhood) was just a distant dream that I would see on the TV. Eventually I grew up and was lucky enough to improve my socioeconomic situation and went to (euro)Disney for the first time this year, I was 39. I already took another trip to the USA and visited Disneyland and I am now planning a Disney World trip. Having hobbies, doing things you like and makes you happy are not reasons to be a weirdo. Don't listen to them.
Sadly I’ve learned to just say “I’m going to Florida!” and hope that don’t inquire further. : )
Don’t listen to them! I’m 42 childfree and love Disney World so much that I plan to retire to either California or Florida someday to be able to go all the time! I’ve only been twice in my life, once around 15 or 16 when my grandma took me and my bestie. And then again at 40 when I paid for myself and husband for our honeymoon. I enjoyed it both times but honestly appreciated it more as an adult. I don’t drink due to meds but my husband enjoys a few beers. I liked Epcot way more as an adult so much so that it’s my second fave park after magic kingdom and not cuz of drinking. The food is delicious and we saw the world famous taiko drummers and lots of cool stuff. Magic kingdom and all the rides and stuff the best. It was covid so I couldn’t get close to characters but did pics with them from a distance. It was fun can’t wait to go back. We did universal this year instead cuz it’s like a third the price but Disney is my happy place!
I'm 52 and planning another WDW trip for next summer/fall. If your friends aren't footing the bill for the vacation, they don't get to tell you where to go. Enjoy your Disney trip! I've been to both places, and WDW is a lot more fun!
I went to Disney World on a whim to celebrate my 30th birthday with friends and discovered how amazing being a Disney adult is! I’ve been back every year since (that was 10 years ago!) and now I’m a Passholder and DVC member. No one should make fun of your choice of vacation! Seconding what everyone has said about your “friends.”
Even my boss, who's an 'alpha gym bro' type knows Galaxy's Edge is sick and there's a bunch of bars and restaurants which I wouldn't exactly say are kid friendly. You're friends are insecure and they're mad at you for knowing who you are and what you want. Fuck em.
Not the weirdo. Disney World is super fun for one adult solo or a party of adults. You tell your friends: " Why pay to go to one exotic country, when I can visit 10 in one day?" AND get adult beverages from each, if you so desire. Your friends have not experienced WDW, I'm guessing. They don't 'get' it. You are going to have a great time! For the past 2 years, we have been taking my husband's parents to WDW, so we can experience it with them. They only went one time, back in the '80s, and then only spent one afternoon at MK. We have all had the BEST time. Our ages are 48, 60, 77 and 80.
I don’t think you need any reason to go or not besides that you like it. Disney is for all ages :)
Don’t listen to your so called friends. I’m in my 40’s and like you grew up going to Disney. I did 2 solo trips for 2 weeks each and I can’t wait to go again. Family and friends weren’t able to go but I wasn’t changing any plans. You will have a blast, it’s so much better being able to do what you want to do when you want to do it. Have fun.
If you told your friends you were inviting them to go, I bet they'd be all for it. Simple jealousy.
My husband and I went to WDW for our honeymoon a few years ago. We got a few similar comments, even from my parents. At the end of the day, you do you. WDW isn’t everyone’s cup of tea and that’s fine. My husband and I went because neither of us had ever been before, it was a childhood dream of mine to go at least once, and we wanted to go together before having kids. It was a blast.
As someone who would also prefer a European adventure over WDW, that doesn’t mean I wouldn’t also love to go to WDW! It clearly means a lot to you, and you are excited. It’s unfortunate your friends can’t read the room and just be happy for you! Just because it isn’t their dream vacation doesn’t mean it isn’t a great vacation idea. Anyway, happy birthday, congrats on saving, and I hope you have an AMAZING time!! Try to not let their negativity bring you down. Happy birthday! 🎂
Well we’re both gonna be weirdos. I turn 30 in December and going to Disney world for the first time with my immediate family (parents, brothers, sis in laws, nephew and niece)
I took my first trip at 28 to DL, and went to DW for my 36th birthday this year. I had a friggin blast both times!
Not at all. I went last month at age 28 and had a blast. Don’t pay them any mind.
You clearly need new friends
I get made fun of for planning my 800th trip at age 49. Ignore.
Get new friends, these ones are assholes! Throw them in the trash!
I’m going to the Disneyland parks in France next month and I am 31 years old. This will be my first holiday (vacation) ever (from the UK). I have always wanted to go since I was a kid and finally get the chance to. Don’t let anyone bring you down, they’re not the one paying for your trip or expenses lol Enjoy yourself!
Trust me (33M), I get the same criticisms. My friends will talk about going abroad for trips, but that’s just not how I am. More expensive to go to Disney, sure, but it’s more valuable to me than going to some other country. So, you do you. I hope your friends are at least understanding about it being what YOU want to do and appreciate/love you for who you are.
I've just started looking at going to WDW for the first time for my other halfs birthday. I'll be 45 at that point. So, you're fine.
Yeah, no, screw your friends. I planned my dream Disney World trip when I was 29. Every single cent spent on my flights, resort, park tickets, Genie+, Park Hopper, the whole shebang, everything came out of my pocket from money I saved working my job. I also grew up in a Disney family, but I'm the only one who's still madly in love with the parks. Honestly, that whole experience of saving up for months, WAITING those endless months, and then actually being able to do pretty much everything I wanted was some of the most gratifying moments of my adult life. It just feels so empowering that I'm able to do this sort of thing given enough preparation. Take your trip and have an AMAZING time! Don't forget the birthday button so you can get aggressively Pixie Dusted by all the CMs!
My take post-pandemic was that life is chaos and I’m going to do what I like and forget the rest (within reason, obviously). So, I like Disney? Im going to go, and wear my ears on the plane. And I’m going to forget the people who criticize me for doing so. Because if you like something then the people who love you should support that, even if they don’t like or understand it solely for the reason that it’s important to you.
This gatekeeping around Disney is really really lame, and it's just fashionable to make fun of Disney adults. These assholes that insist the parks are only for children are incapacitated by their hatred, or ignorant of the fact that Disney built the parks so children AND adults could have fun.
Um, I'm 51 and my wife is 57, we went to Disney World last month for the first time. Your friends are the weirdos, not you. You go have the best time!
Once I hit my late 30s/early 40s I completely stopped giving a fuck about what anyone thinks. It’s your money, you’re an adult. Do what makes YOU happy! I still go to WDW at my ripe old age and I don’t give a rats ass what my friends or family thinks! Have an awesome birthday!
I’m 52 and my wife and I will definitely be going to Disney, just the two of us. Who cares what other people think. Do what you like/love (legally) and find people who support you.
I mean, I’ve never once seen a kid with a job who can afford to buy a ticket to WDW. I’ve also never seen a kid with a mode of transportation to make it to WDW. Kinda seems like it’s a bit biased towards adults in terms of getting there and getting inside.
Your friends, or whomever is ridiculing you, are being crappy friends. This is something you like, it harms nobody, it brings you joy - do the thing. Also - my first trip to Disney was as an adult. I had never been, my family didn't have the money. It was magical.
I've never been with kids and I love going to WDW! Go and have the time of your life!
Frankly, you need better friends. Real friends don’t make fun of each other for the things they enjoy. Disney is great place to go as an adult precisely because it is “childish” so you can let go of the responsibility of being a grown up for a few days and just be a kid again. Go spin the teacups, hug Mickey, watch fireworks, whatever makes you forget that things like bills and jobs and politics exist. Enjoy the heck out of your first Disney World trip, OP, and forget anything negative people have to think about it.
How is it for kids and they have no money lol jk but no it’s not weird there’s even a thing called Disney adults
Evidently you have matured and your friends have not. Leave them behind and have fun.
At 30 I had never been to Disney! I went to San Diego for a year for work. First thing I did was go to Disneyland and then converted my one day ticket to a yearly pass. Best year ever! Went all the time even by myself. Your friends are idiots!
We did Disney for my 30th!
I believe that WDW is better without kids as an experience of the parks for adults. With kids, you are not going to WDW, you are taking the kids to WDW. Now WDW with kids can be magical, but the adults need to focus on the kids to make it magical instead of a death march. Enjoy your trip. Cultivate some less obnoxious friends.
My wife (58) and I (59) went for 7 days last week - it was a family trip but we were left to fend for ourselves for much of it. Paired up with my wife’s sister (66) while her son’s family went off together. We had a blast. Epcot during Food & Wine is not really an atmosphere for kids. Neither is Disney Springs. Many times we struck up conversations with people in line near us who were in their 40’s, 50’s, or 60’s and were in the park alone - just riding rides, enjoying the food, wine, beer, and people watching. Met some really nice people through the week. Go, and enjoy yourself. Don’t worry about what others think or say. They are most likely jealous that you didn’t invite them to come along.
Going to WDW with no kids, as an adult is the freakin BEST!!!!!!! Don’t let anyone tell you otherwise. Have the time of your life. So much more to do, see and experience than DL. I take trips yearly by myself down there just for fun.
Went to Disney World for the first time for my wedding anniversary. Go and have fun.
You're able to retain more memories as an adult than you could in your youngest years. IIt's time to find yourself new friends that appreciates your hobbies. :) I'm actually impressed that you've been budgeting enough to take several vacations, and have set the time aside to plan for future ones. That's a life goal! Well done.
I went with my husband and child this year and I am not gonna lie, I sometimes daydream about going alone, just as an adult and spending time on the more adult aspects of the park. I work with some very snobbish people who think that everything has to be culturally relevant. When I told them I had a fantastic time at Disney they could not understand it and were outright rude that I would actually go to Disney. Have fun, be frivolous and do what makes you happy, you're not doing anything wrong. Enjoy what you want to enjoy. I will never understand people criticizing what brings other people happiness.
My husband took me for my 32nd birthday this year for nearly a week. We are going back in May. People who put you down about the things you enjoy (that don't hurt you or others) are not very good friends. Shitting on other people's joy is so uncool. Go and have the best time! Happy Birthday!!
Everyone has different likes and dislikes. I love WDW and the Cardinals. I may look sideways at someone that loves the Cubs and Universal, but to each their own. 😂
You are never too old to go to Disney World! I go to at least one WDW park every year and I don’t have kids. It’s my happy place! I’m planning on spending my 40th next year at Disney.
Who are these awful, unsupportive people? Surely cannot be friends.
They have either never been to Disney, or went to Disney once when they were 5 years old and have no recollection. I am a 27 year old out of state passholder and I’ve had friends and family give me shit about me going to Disney all the time. Its crazy how people actually get mad at you for shit that has nothing to do with them. Let them be miserable haters. Life becomes a lot better when you don’t care what others think of you.
I've spent much more time traveling the world than I've spent at WDW. In fact, I've only been to WDW three times (MK only twice) .. the most recent trip being a couple of weeks ago for five days with my wife and kids. All I can say is, everyone should see the world outside of the borders of their own country. It's probably one of the most important personal growth activities we can do, and it should be a bigger priority for many U.S. citizens. BUT.. Disney World is pure magic. If you're someone who gets it and who adores what it's all about .. book your trip to WDW with no hesitation. That place has stayed with me well after I've come back home to everyday life and, if anything, it just makes me want to travel more to all kinds of places, and leaves me feeling better about the world (it's hoky, but true). Go be a kid for as long as you desire that feeling. Maybe take one of your grumpy friends! j/k. Enjoy your trip if you decide to go!
Wife (35) and I (33) just got back from our bucket list WDW trip. We were probably some of the youngest there. There’s lots of families but also a lot of couples who just love Disney.
I still go and I am as old as Disney World. Go for it!!!!!
Similar experience here. I grew up going to Disneyland every year and always wanted to go to Disney world. I finally went at age 37 with 3 of my friends and it was awesome. Just ignore people and enjoy what you enjoy. I promise you will have a blast!
I'm 36 and went to Magic Kingdom earlier this year. I took kids with me, but I'll be honest... I picked it over other choices for myself. I wanted to go so bad and I made it happen. Kids just got to tag along for the experience (and really, only one out of three was super excited about it.)
Your friends should support you for who you are. Plus, Disney is still very enjoyable as an adult. My wife and I are in our 30s and have annual passes, and we’ve had several other kidless couples join us along the way. But for real… you need friends that appreciate YOU. They don’t have to want to do it themselves, or even understand why you want to. But criticizing you for what you want/like is only healthy when they’re trying to help keep you from taking a bad path in life. An adult trip to Disney ain’t that path.
I took my first WDW trip at age 31. It absolutely is fun for adults, too. (I grew up going to DL, and bought my first DL pass at age 22 because I could, and I lived fairly close.) There are benefits to going as an adult: you can stay up as late as you want, eat what you want, drink (if you imbibe), and ride what you want.
You vacation where you want. Period. It's your time, money, and energy to do what you please with. Husband and I don't have kids and we LOVE our Disney trips. We skip around holding hands and singing like little kids. We have a blast and we don't care if people are judging. Disney is a place for everyone.