For many people, buying unique items as a keepsake is a quintessential part of visiting Disney World. For others maybe not so much (you might feel differently after reading this blog).
So, what are some of the best souvenirs made by the Walt Disney Company? From Disney plush toys to practical stuff featuring Disney characters, from Disney Christmas ornaments to the ubiquitous Mickey ears, and from beautiful Disney pins to Disney kitchenware, there are some really great souvenirs that you can buy and treasure forever.
Whether you are one of those people who can go on a shopping spree at Disney World, or you are someone who is reluctant to buy Disney souvenirs, I’m here to show you what’s available.
My goal is to help you zero in on the perfect souvenir, one that will make a great gift for loved ones or remind you of your Disney trip for years to come. So come join me for some Disney souvenir shopping and get some ideas for your next Disney World vacation!
Disney Souvenirs for First-Time Visitors
The excitement of your first trip to Walt Disney World is difficult to recreate again in the future. You want to make sure you take something home that captures all the memories from this first visit.
Here are some classics that never fail to delight:
- Bubble wands
Bubble wands are a fun way to recapture a little magic when you’re back home (these are widely available throughout the Disney parks at all the best shops).
- Mickey and Minnie ears
These are best-sellers that have stood the test of time and never go out of fashion.
- Pressed quarters
Prices start at $1.25 and you can customize them at some locations.
- Disney hats
Bucket hats, beanies, Santa hats, princess hats – the choice is endless. Plus, they’re practical and fun!
- Disney caricature
Some of the best Disney souvenirs are the ones that capture the fun you had on vacation. Caricature artists are available at various locations (subject to change) in the parks, Disney Springs, and select resort hotels. You can have your silhouette drawn as well.
- Spirit Jerseys
Capture the magic of the holiday season or commemorate a special event like Disney’s 50th anniversary with a spirit jersey (available at World of Disney in Disney Springs, Mouse Gears in Epcot, The Emporium in Magic Kingdom, and Mickeys of Hollywood in Disney’s Hollywood Studios).
- Disney pins
If you’re into pin trading, Disney pins are nice souvenirs to add to your collection.
- Resort-specific merchandise
Pens, keychains, mugs, t-shirts, and ornaments are great choices, especially if you stay at a unique Disney property such as the Animal Kingdom Lodge. A cheaper alternative? Take a picture with hidden Mickeys you found in your hotel room!
- Stuffed animal
A stuffed animal is classic Disney and a cute reminder of fun times.
- Custom art and collectibles
For those with more sophisticated tastes, Art of Disney in Epcot’s World Showcase is a great place to pick up custom art and collectibles for your home.
- Haunted portraits
The best Disney souvenirs are those linked to your memories. If your kids screamed the loudest at the Haunted Mansion in Magic Kingdom, then Haunted portraits or Haunted Mansion Disney mugs or Disney cups can be inexpensive and unique mementos of this memory.
- PhotoPass or Memory Maker
If you hate reaching for your phone every 5 minutes, PhotoPass or Memory Maker is a great investment. Leave it up to cast members who are professional photographers to capture all your special moments and ensure you’re in all the pictures too!
PhotoPass is a little steep at $169 but worth it because you’ll take a lot of pictures on your first WDW vacation.
Sentimental Souvenirs from a Walt Disney World Vacation
The best thing about a Walt Disney World vacation are the memories you make.
So, what better way to commemorate your trip than to bring something home that will remind you of your magical vacation?
Every Disney souvenir has some Disney magic, but the best Disney World souvenirs are the ones that are meaningful for your family. For instance, if your 2-year-old daughter’s face lit up when she saw a princess at Magic Kingdom Park, then that’s a memory worth holding on to with a unique Disney World souvenir.
Also, keep things that are free or cost only a few dollars and can go into a scrapbook or photo album.
Here are some top Disney World souvenirs that will make you nostalgic in the years to come:
- Park maps
They’re free and make a great souvenir – you can even mark your favorite rides on there.
- Postcards
Postcards are available at some Walt Disney World Resort hotels.
- Pressed pennies
You can get a themed pressed penny from Guest Relations at the entrance of Disney parks – pressed pennies are also sold at attractions like Splash Mountain, Tower of Terror, Riverside Depot, and Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, among others.
- Mickey ears
Nothing says “I love Disney” quite like these classic Walt Disney World souvenirs.
- Engraved hats
Engraved hats are available in Disney Springs at Disney’s Wonderful World of Memories. They are a great way to commemorate a special event with a message like – Best Birthday Ever or My First Disney World Vacation.
- Photos — tons of them!
Photos from character meet-and-greets, rides, or just candid captures when you’re having fun make for a great Disney World souvenir. Sign up for PhotoPass through the My Disney Experience app and let professional photographs capture some great moments from your Disney vacation.
- Holiday decorations
They are widely available during the holiday season and year round at Magic Kingdom’s Ye Olde Christmas Shoppe or in Disney Springs at Disney’s Days of Christmas.
Disney Souvenirs for Your Inner Child
If there’s one place on earth where you can let the kid in you loose, it’s Walt Disney World.
There’s something about screaming your lungs out on a roller coaster or joining your kids in having the time of your lives that makes you drop all your acquired adult inhibitions.
Here are some ideas for Disney souvenirs that can help you recapture the magic of your childhood and the memories you make on your Disney World trip.
- A Disney autograph book
Autograph books are widely available throughout Disney World. You can also bring your own and have your favorite Disney character sign it. It’s great fun comparing character signatures – Goofy’s are known to be the goofiest!.
- Balloons
Balloons are some of the best Disney souvenirs, albeit somewhat short-lived ones.
- Mickey ears
When it comes to mouse ears, Mickey ears rule the roost but Minnie ears are popular too (get monogrammed Mickey ears if you want some unique Disney souvenirs).
- Disney pins
If you trade pins or want to start pin trading (check out Disney’s Pin Traders in Disney Springs for a superb collection).
- Disney plush toys
Disney plush toys and stuffed animals or Disney-themed board games from a toy store are great ways to keep your Walt Disney World memories at home.
- Snacks and treats
Disney sells some really nice snacks and treats (my favorite stores are Goofy’s Candy Company in Disney Springs and Main Street Confectionary on Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom).
- Lego
Head over to the Lego Store in Disney Springs. They have toys for creative builders of all ages, including adults!
Souvenirs at Disney World That Don’t Break the Bank
A trip for the whole family to a Disney park doesn’t come cheap. After you factor in admission tickets and food, your pockets can start to feel a little light, leaving little room for indulgences like a Disney souvenir.
But you don’t have to buy Mickey ears or splash out for overpriced Disney-themed ornaments!
Here are some ideas on the best Disney souvenirs that give you the maximum bang for your buck.
- Refillable popcorn buckets
They are available at food carts in the theme parks and at Disney Springs – two popular locations in MK are the Castle Plaza Refillable Popcorn Cart near Cinderella’s Castle and Main Street Refillable Popcorn Cart.
The bucket designs are unique and make for great souvenirs. Look out for themed buckets around Halloween and Christmas time.
Once you purchase a bucket, you get unlimited $2 refills – the cheapest and yummiest Disney snacks, in my opinion. And you have a sturdy bucket to take home as a Disney souvenir.
- Disney cup
Disney fans on a budget can get something like a coffee cup, available at gift shops throughout Disney World. It is a practical souvenir that you’ll use every day. Look out for deals and you might just be able to snag one for under $15.
- Magnets
Disney magnets start at around $7.99. A Mickey Mouse magnet on your fridge holding up your favorite photo from your Disney vacation is an inexpensive way to keep the memories alive.
- Pressed coins
Pressed coins are some more souvenirs that won’t break the bank.
Practical Disney Souvenirs
Some of the best Disney souvenirs are those that you use. I mean mouse gear like Mickey ears and Minnie ears are fun to wear while you’re at Disney World but might look silly once you’re back home mowing your lawn.
Here are my picks of Disney souvenirs that you can use year-long or again and again on future Disney vacations:
- Customized MagicBands
The Walt Disney Company is no longer offering complimentary MagicBands to resort guests. If you are repeat visitors to Disney World, why not buy customized MagicBands with the whole family’s favorite characters?
They’re sturdy enough to last for years and make your Walt Disney World vacation easy and stress-free.
- Pens
A pen makes for a great Disney World souvenir. It’s inexpensive and comes in myriad themes, plus you’ll use it every day. Available at every resort hotel gift shop and in most major stores in the theme parks.
- Refillable mugs
Refillable mugs cost $19.99 to buy and are included in your Disney Dining Plan. You get unlimited refills on soft beverages for the duration of your Disney trip, including at self-service stations in quick service restaurants throughout Walt Disney World — just ask a cast member for the nearest location.
Refill mugs make the best Disney souvenirs. They’re good value for money (believe me, you get thirsty in the Florida heat), and you have a nice Disney souvenir to take home.
- Phone cases
We all need them, so why not get one with Mickey Mouse to remind you of your Disney vacation?
Not a fan of Disney characters? Head over to Marketplace Co-Op D-Tech on Demand in Disney Springs. They have a massive selection and you’re sure to find one you like.
- Disney Eats cookbook
My family uses the Disney Eats cookbook several times a week. Cookbooks make some of the best Disney souvenirs. Choose from Kitchen Magic with Mickey, Wookie Cookies – A Star Wars Cookbook, Disney Bento Fun Recipes for Bento Boxes, and more.
Disney Souvenirs to Splurge On
We all want to save money with Disney tips and tricks, but once in a while you just want to get a unique Disney World souvenir that sparks conversations – Where did you get that from?
Here are some ideas for some expensive souvenirs. These are the best Disney souvenirs money can buy:
- The Memento Mori Gift Shop in Liberty Square at Magic Kingdom
It’s a wonderful shop that sells some of the best Disney souvenirs. Choose from art, collectibles, apparel, accessories, gifts, and houseware, all with a touch of Disney magic.
- Pearl Factory at Marketplace in Disney Springs
This one’s an experience and a shopping expedition in one. You get to pick a pearl from an oyster (thrilling!) and choose from over 100 jewelry settings, then watch as a master craftsman creates a unique Disney World souvenir that will make the perfect gift for yourself or a loved one.
- Platinum Mickey ears
Everyone wears Mickey and Minnie Mouse ears but only a few people wear platinum Mickey ears on a necklace. The price tag? Nearly $3,000.
I’ll stick to regular mouse gear, thank you (but if you want to splurge, no judgment here!).
- Swarovski Cinderella Castle
I’ve not seen it myself but I believe Disney sells a miniature 20-inch tall Swarovski crystal-studded Cinderella Castle replica for over $35,000! I’ll take half a dozen trips to the Disney parks any day!
Disney Souvenirs from Romantic Trips to Walt Disney World
If your next trip to WDW is for a special occasion, a honeymoon or an anniversary perhaps, there are some beautiful Disney World souvenirs you can bring home to remind you of the magic. Best of all, these Disney souvenirs don’t cost the earth. My picks for the best Disney souvenirs for couples are:
- Picture frames
There is a huge selection at Disney merchandise stores, so one is sure to catch your fancy. You can ask cast members to take photos of you together, and voila, you have a relatively inexpensive souvenir that can go up on your mantelpiece as soon as you arrive home.
- Anything customized
Customized jewelry, for example, bracelets with charms, make for some of the most romantic Disney World souvenirs.
- UK crest
You can have your family crest printed on a mug at The Crown & Crest at the UK Pavilion in Epcot World Showcase.
- Unique fashion items
Also at Epcot’s World Showcase, in the Japan Pavilion, the Mitsukoshi Store has some unique apparel, handbags, scarves, etc., that are the best Disney World souvenirs for a fashionista.
- Matching Mickey Mouse shirts
Matching Mickey Mouse t-shirts are a cute way to show your love for each other.
- Personalized ornaments
Personalized Christmas Disney ornaments are great souvenirs! They remind you of happy times especially during the holidays.
A Christmas ornament inscribed with the dates of your trip can be a lifelong reminder of all the happy times you shared at Disney World.
Best Disney World Souvenirs for Those Who Have “Been There, Done That”
So, you’ve lost count of how many times you’ve been to the Disney parks. You live and breathe Disney, drink your morning coffee from a Disney mug, and have everything from t-shirts to stuffed animals, Mickey ears, limited edition art prints, and spirit jerseys.
Is there even any Disney memorabilia left for you to buy?
Here are some unique ideas for the best Disney World souvenirs for you:
- Unique photos
There are some unique photo ops during the festivals at Epcot. The Epcot International Festival of the Arts is a particularly good one to capture some incredible memories that are one-of-a-kind.
- Personalized droid
Head over Droid Depot in Galaxy’s Edge (Disney’s Hollywood Studios) to build your own customized droid at an incredible themed workshop.
- Themed musical instruments
African-themed musical instruments from the shops in Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World can be used to practice rhythms or display in your home.
- A banshee
The Rookery in a shop called The Windtraders in Disney’s Animal Kingdom is the place where you can adopt a banshee. It comes with a hand control and can sit on a perch or your shoulder.
- Disney Loungefly apparel
Disney Loungefly backpacks, crossbody bags, and wallets are the current trend and a great way to show your love for the mouse.
- Anything from Disney Springs
Word of Disney in Disney Springs is the ultimate shopping destination for fans. I can spend hours browsing the fabulous collection. I hate to admit it but I’ve never left World of Disney without buying at least one thing.
If you’re on the West Coast, I recommend the WonderGround Gallery in the Downtown Disney District in Disneyland.
My Favorite Walt Disney World Souvenir
Disney souvenirs are a great reminder of fun times when you return home. They are also a superb way to bring home a little bit of magic from your last trip. Plus, they make great gifts for friends and family.
As you can see, there are a whole bunch of options when it comes to Disney World souvenirs. From the perfect cup that will make you smile every time you drink your coffee to jewelry keepsakes you’ll want to pass on to your kids, there’s something for everyone.
Honestly, I can’t think of any Disney World souvenirs you’ll regret buying.
Keep in mind that while you can buy most Disney World souvenirs in all the Disney parks, resort hotels, and Disney Springs, if you want a specific Disney World souvenir, such as a Star Wars Disney pin, you will only get it at specific gift shops in Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge in Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
You can find some of these items online, but not all. So my advice is to buy it when you see it because you might not see it again.
Happy shopping for Disney World souvenirs. Tell me in the comments below if your favorites made it to my list of Best Disney World Souvenirs.