7 Things Gen Z Does DIFFERENTLY in Disney World

Do you ever get that weird, creeping feeling that Gen Z is just…different?

Don’t get me wrong, I love those little rascals and their “rizz” (please forgive me) as much as the next Millennial, but Zillennials appear to be cut from a different cloth altogether. And, apparently, that translates to what they do in Disney World as well!

Our team here at AllEars is made up of multiple generations, but we all agree that Gen Z does some things differently than the rest of us when in Disney World. Here’s what our Zillennial team members said when I asked them what they think they do differently!

But first, check out this actual, real-life photo of me asking this question in our work chat:

Fashion Over Function

This one stings to admit as a millennial who grew up watching Project Runway, but Gen Z is far more stylish in Disney World than some of us older parkgoers. Planning out park outfits is not uncommon, and while you might see coordinating outfits from time to time — you can keep those matching family t-shirts. The zillennials don’t want ’em.

Getting dolled up in a cute outfit with a full face of makeup is Gen Z’s calling card, even if it means sacrificing the iconic Minnie ears. We just don’t see Gen Z wearing them as much, and if they are, you can almost bet on them being a classic, chic pair. As for this millennial, I will remain steadfast in my bike shorts and oversized Mickey Mouse t-shirt.

Family Vacation

It’s no secret that Disney World gets more expensive year after year (just stop eating that avocado toast and you, too, can finally afford to buy a house!) and Gen Z knows that firsthand. This isn’t exclusive to Gen Z, but you might end up seeing far more zillennials on family vacations than you’d expect.

Tagging along with the family likely means a discounted — or possibly even free — Disney World trip. And, if there are any parents of zillennials out there who are looking to adopt a married woman in her thirties to bring along on your next family vacation, let me know. In the meantime, I’m off to buy more avocados!

Digital Dynamos

Gen Z might be the first generation to not remember a time before Disney World went digital. And, chances are that means they’re wizards when it comes to learning the latest tech. The Disney World app, My Disney Experience, is an all-in-one planning tool that Gen Z seems to have mastered.

You’re more likely to see them using Mobile Merchandise Checkout, Mobile Order, using Genie to help plan their day, and of course, using that handy map that you don’t have to fold and unfold 84 times throughout the day. Park maps still make great (FREE!) souvenirs if you ask me, though!

Serious Snackers

This one confuses me as an avid practitioner of the religious tradition of Drinking Around the World in EPCOT, but you’re far more likely to find Gen Z snacking around the world than imbibing in booze. Studies have shown that zillennials aren’t drinking as much as their Gen Y counterparts.

Don’t get me wrong, I will be getting a snack along with my drink, but I will definitely be getting that drink. Gen Z, on the other hand, is probably more likely to get a second snack. And, honestly, they might be onto something.

Lights, Camera, Action

I realize this is ironic coming from someone whose job involves taking photos and videos in Disney World, but if you’re looking for someone from Gen Z, chances are you can find them getting ready for their closeup.

Of course, people have been filming in Disney World since the very beginning, but it seems like Gen Z is more comfortable whipping the camera out and documenting every little thing they’re doing rather than just the most exciting parts. But again, you can probably find hours of VHS footage from my family vacations in the 90s, so maybe that’s where Gen Z got the idea.

Isn’t It Ironic?

Zillennials certainly aren’t the first generation to like things ironically (same as it ever was), but they’re probably the first who have made careers out of it. That also translates to Disney World, apparently.

Missing your Gen Z relative? You might be able to find them heading to the least popular attraction they can find. You know, because it’s ironic.

DVC Downfall

Speaking of avocado toast, it’s clear that Gen Z has largely abandoned the hope of ever owning a home (or at least not for a while), and that might translate to Disney Vacation Club ownership as well. It makes sense — why would you buy into a vacation home if you don’t own a home to begin with?

And, from what my colleagues explained to this aging Disney Adult, Gen Z is okay with that (though I’m pretty sure a majority of millennials are in the same boat.) Gen Z seems to prefer the idea of continuing to rent while spending money on other things like travel.

If you need me, I’ll be over here eating avocado toast and searching for new anti-aging creams. In the meantime, stay tuned to AllEars for the latest Disney tips and news!

It’s Official. Gen Z Is BETTER at Booking Flights — Here’s the Proof.

Do you do any of these Gen Z park trends? Tell us in the comments.

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