Chasing Magic One Pin at a Time!
By: Megan Collier
December 30, 2025
When people ask about our favorite Disney activity, they usually expect an answer like a ride, a show, or a must-do snack. But for our family, the answer is something a little unexpected: Disney pin trading.
What started as a small add-on to our Disney trips has turned into the activity my family looks forward to most—and the one that keeps us engaged from morning until night.
A Disney Tradition for All Ages
One of the best things about pin trading is that it truly works for all ages. Whether you’re a young child, a teenager, or an adult, there’s something exciting about the thrill of the trade. Every pin board is different, and you never know what you’ll find.
Pin trading locations are scattered everywhere—inside the parks, at resort hotels, in gift shops, and even at Guest Services. Because of that, it naturally becomes part of your day. You’re not scheduling it; you’re discovering it as you go.
Staying Engaged All Day Long
Disney days can be long, especially for kids. Pin trading helps keep everyone engaged throughout the entire day. Instead of rushing from ride to ride, we slow down and keep our eyes open for pin boards and cast members wearing lanyards.
Each member of our family typically wears a lanyard with about 10 pins we’re willing to trade. On an average Disney day, we easily make 12–15 trades, sometimes even more! Every trade feels like a tiny win—a mini moment of excitement sprinkled throughout the day.
Meaningful Interactions With Cast Members
Another reason we love pin trading is how it naturally encourages interaction with cast members. My kids have learned how to politely ask to view a pin board, strike up conversations, and thank cast members for the experience.
Some cast members even make pin trading extra special. We’ve encountered “special pin stashes” that are only revealed if you can answer a Disney trivia question. Those moments are unforgettable—full of suspense, laughter, and proud smiles when we get the answer right.
A Surprise Instead of a Souvenir
One unexpected benefit of pin trading? My kids rarely ask for souvenirs anymore.
Instead of wanting something new from every gift shop, they’re excited to head straight for the pin boards. Trading gives them that feeling of getting something new without constantly buying more stuff. It turns shopping areas into scavenger hunts instead of spending sprees.
Building Memories That Last Beyond the Trip
Once we get home, the fun doesn’t stop. We’ve found creative ways to display the pins in our kids’ bedrooms.
Each pin represents a moment: a park day, a resort visit, a friendly cast member, or a trivia win. When my kids look at their collections, they don’t just see pins—they relive the trip.
Why Pin Trading Will Always Be Part of Our Disney Trips
Pin trading has become more than just an activity for us—it’s a tradition. It keeps us engaged, encourages conversation, sparks curiosity, and creates lasting memories without adding stress or extra cost.
If you’re heading to Disney and looking for something that brings your family together, slows the day down just enough, and adds a layer of magic you didn’t even know you were missing, pin trading might just become your favorite Disney activity too.
Let’s Plan Your Next Magical Family Vacation
Thinking about your next family vacation? Let’s create something magical together! I’ll take care of the details so you can focus on making incredible memories with the people you love.
If you’d like to learn more about my services, request a complimentary quote, or are ready to book your next vacation, I’d love to help.
Email: megan@wishesfamilytrave.com
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Instagram: @mcollier0925