The iconic phrase, “I’m going to Disney World!” has been around since the 80’s. It seems that everyone, young and old, loves Disney World…but this memory making vacation can get very expensive. Putting together a great Orlando vacation on a teacher’s salary takes some careful planning. Although Disney Orlando is a great vacation experience, it comes with a Disney-sized price tag. If you want the thrill of Disney without breaking the bank, here’s a look at 10 of the best discounts available to teachers.
Starwood Properties in Orlando
Educators can grab special teacher rates at several Starwood locations in Orlando. Starwood Properties owns and manages hotels such as Four Points by Sheraton, Sheraton and Sheraton Suites. When you contact these hotels, be sure to ask for the teacher discount on your hotel booking.
New Jersey Education Association
The NJEA offers an exclusive “Orlando Vacations” package with discounts on airline tickets, hotels, parking and more. There are also fabulous discounts for Disney World and Universal Studios Orlando, which extend to theme parks and attractions in the Orlando area. If you teach outside of Jersey, check your state’s union member benefits for similar deals.
Disney World Value Resorts
If you’re traveling with children, this is a great vacation package! These resorts offer on-site meals, pools, and complimentary “Magical Express” shuttle service to and from all park destinations and the airport. There are five Value Resorts that include All-Star Movies Resort, All-Star Sports Resort, Art of Animation Resort, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
Are you a camper? Consider great package deals for camping at the Fort Wilderness Resort. Campsite rentals start as low as $55! Whether you’re using a tent, or pop-up camper, or full-size RV, there are four different campsites that provide electric, water, cable TVs, and private grills and picnic tables. Extra Magic Hours are available for campers at the Fort Wilderness Resort, which includes complimentary transportation to and from the park destinations by boat or bus.
Disney Premier Visa Card
As a teacher, you have access to an excellent rewards program brought to you through an exclusive partnership between Disney and Visa. When you sign up to get the Disney Premier Visa Card, and spend $500 or more in the first 90 days, you will receive $250 of statement credit. You will also earn 2% in redeemable Disney Rewards when you use your card at grocery stores, gas stations, restaurants and Disney Resorts.
Card points can be redeemed at Disney Movies, Disney Store and the Disney Cruise Line. The card member perks are what really sweeten this deal! In addition to redeeming your earned points, you can also take advantage of up-front discounts when you use your Disney Premier Visa Card such as 10% on shopping and dining, and exclusive photo opportunities with Disney characters available for card members only!
Disney Swan and Dolphin Resort
Looking for year-round teacher discounts in Orlando? This is the place! Disney Dolphin Resort and Disney World Swan Resort are two hotels owned and managed by Disney. Both world class hotels love teachers and provide exclusive educator discounts. Your stay at either one of these hotel locations automatically provides you with Extra Magic Hours and the highly coveted Disney Fast Pass!
Walt Disney World AAA Discounts
With two exceptional water parks and four exhilarating theme parks, Walt Disney World Resorts offer a truly magical experience! AAA members can grab special rates for specific Disney locations. Check with your local AAA office for details on Disney Vacations and tickets as discounts and promotions vary by location.
Disney Springs Package
Doubletree Suites owned and managed by Hilton Orlando provides an all-suite experience with connecting large rooms for a family or larger group. Entertainment, dining and attractions are all within walking distance of this beautiful hotel. The Extra Magic Hours and Disney Fast Pass are included in a group package with discounted value rate during your stay.
Take advantage of Value Season
Unfortunately, the crowds at Disney World can be large when teachers have off for the summer. Don’t let this stop you from experiencing and enjoying all that Disney has to offer. Consider planning your trip during the off season, or “value season.” Pricing on just about everything drops to its lowest point during the months of January and February, which may be the best time to get away from the cold and snow in the Northeast. Still prefer the hot weather? There are discounts available in August and early September on Value and Moderate resorts.
Holiday Inn Orlando Package
Will you be traveling with children under age eleven? This is the deal you’ll want to score. The Holiday Inn Orlando offers a special package rate where up to 4 children under age 11 eat free! This package includes free parking for your car and a complimentary shuttle to and from the park that runs on a thirty minute schedule.
Finding discounts has never been easier for educators. Make sure to check our “deals and discounts”page often to see what is available to you. We feature both local and national deals, some exclusive only to the Teachers’ Lounge.
- Jenna Garvin
