If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World, you’ve probably heard of the Memory Maker and wondered if it’s necessary. Let me save you the brain cells and just go ahead and tell you that it. is. worth. every. penny. And that is 100% my own opinion. I added it to our recent trip and was curious how much we’d get out of it. Now, I’ll never go without it.

What is Memory Maker?

Memory Maker is an add-on option to Disney’s Photo Pass. Disney’s Photo Pass is a service that digitally collects all of the ride photos and photos that cast members take of you. Memory Maker allows you unlimited downloads of said photos within 30 days of activation. So, essentially, you’re prepaying to be able to download as many of the photos as you would like. The cost if you purchase it in advance (at least three days before you intend to use it) is $169 and purchasing it for immediate use is $199. I added it on to our vacation package when we booked.

One of the neat things about Memory Maker is that anyone linked to your reservation can use it by scanning their Magic Band with the Cast Member photographer.

Who is Memory Maker good for?

Anyone who wants to enjoy the moment without having their phone/camera out the entire day….and still end up in photos. Basically, moms. It’s perfect for moms. If you’re a mama, stop reading and scroll through the camera roll on your phone. Go ahead, I’ll wait.

How far back did you have to scroll to find photos with you in them? If you’re anything like me, it’s pretty far. With Memory Maker, I was able to enjoy in real time my kids meeting their favorite characters and still have amazing quality photos of the experience. I even got to be in them! That right there was worth it for me. As a mom, I’m usually behind the camera lens of my phone documenting all of our life experiences. But, being able to be present to see the magic in their eyes when Elsa hugged my daughter and Buzz Lightyear high-fived my son was incredible. Their joy was palpable and I wouldn’t have been able to experience that in such a real way if I was busy trying to get cute photos.

Also, since Disney knows how to do things, they added adorable animation to some of the photos taken of us by cast members. Their mind-blowing computer algorithm added video from our ride on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train. Mickey and Minnie Mouse themselves even left a Happy Birthday voicemail to the kids since everything about your stay is connected and they knew that we were celebrating (there are even more reasons to stay on Disney Property here).

Is Memory Maker Worth it?

Yep! We will add it to our trip every time now. Above all, you can’t really put a price tag on being able to put your phone down and enjoy your family in real time without missing out on capturing memories. Well, you can. It’s $169 and WORTH. EVERY. CENT.

As always, do you have a friend who could benefit from this info? Sharing is caring and our blog’s mission is teach families how to make travel a part of their lives and not a stressful extra. Cheers!