1996 Disney World Planning Video
Before the days of YouTube, social media, blogs, and official park apps, planning a Walt Disney World vacation felt a bit more… analog. Long before fans could stream ride videos or park updates online, one of the only ways to catch a glimpse of what awaited in Florida was by requesting a vacation planning video directly from Disney. These VHS tapes were mailed to your home and offered a polished, upbeat introduction to the magic of the parks and resorts.
Disney produced a new vacation planning video almost every year, typically running around 30 minutes in length. Each one featured a tour of the four theme parks, a rundown of on-site resorts, and—most importantly—a persuasive case for why you should stay at a Disney Resort. Narrators, cast members, guests, and even costumed characters walked you through everything from the thrills of Space Mountain to the convenience of Disney transportation.
In this post, I’m sharing the 1996 Walt Disney World vacation planning video from my personal collection. It’s a wonderful time capsule, complete with colorful mid-90s fashion, upbeat narration, and a now-nostalgic look at what the resort offered during its 25th Anniversary celebration. You’ll even catch a segment on the Disney Institute—a short-lived but fascinating chapter in Disney history that doesn’t often get the spotlight.
Vintage Disney Vacation Planning Video
Let’s rewind the tape and take a look back at how Disney invited us to plan the vacation of a lifetime…VHS-style.
It’s incredible to look back at how Disney once marketed the magic; every resort and attraction feels like a must-do. The 1996 Disney World Planning Video captures a unique moment in the resort’s history, from the 25th Anniversary celebration to the brief spotlight on the Disney Institute. For longtime fans, it’s a nostalgic trip. For newer ones, it’s a glimpse into how Disney inspired generations of families to start planning their next adventure.
Did you grow up watching these planning videos, or is this your first time seeing one?
I’d love to hear your memories—or your thoughts on how things have changed—in the comments below. And if you enjoy this kind of retro Disney content, don’t forget to subscribe to my YouTube channel for more gems!