Disney Tips Your Guide To A Great Disney Vacation
A trip to Walt Disney World in Florida is an unforgettable experience, and deciding where to stay is one of the most important choices for your vacation. Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel is more than just convenient—it’s an extension of the magic, offering exclusive perks and incredible experiences you won’t find anywhere else.
From early access to attractions to themed accommodations, here are 12 reasons why staying on Disney property is a magical decision.
12. Book Your Stay Far in Advance
One of the benefits of staying at a Disney Resort hotel is the ability to plan ahead. Walt Disney World allows Resort reservations up to 499 days in advance, giving you plenty of time to lock in your dream accommodations. This early booking window is especially helpful if you’re planning to stay at a popular resort like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
11. Complimentary MagicBands
When you book a stay at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you receive complimentary MagicBands, which act as your room key, park ticket, and payment method all in one. Before your trip, you can personalize your MagicBands online, choosing colors and names for each family member.
Credit: Disney
These will be shipped directly to your home, making it easy to step into the magic as soon as you arrive.
10. Extra Park Time with Early Entry
Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels enjoy Early Theme Park Entry, which allows access to the parks 30 minutes before the official opening time. This perk is available every day at all four parks—Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
Imagine starting your day with a head start on popular attractions like Tiana’s Bayou Adventure or Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway before the crowds arrive!
9. Complimentary Disney Transportation
Staying on Disney property means you never have to worry about transportation. Disney offers complimentary buses, boats, and monorails to get you to the parks, water parks, Disney Springs, and other resort hotels. For a scenic and relaxing ride, hop aboard the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system connecting select resorts to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Not only is transportation free, but it also saves time and eliminates the stress of driving and parking.
Credit: Disney
8. Early Lightning Lane Access
Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel can book Lightning Lane selections starting at 7:00 a.m., giving you an advantage over those staying off-property. This head start is crucial for securing access to popular attractions like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance.
7. Skip the Traffic
Traffic on I-4 around Orlando can be unpredictable, especially during peak travel times. Staying at a Disney Resort hotel eliminates the need to drive, saving you precious time that can be spent enjoying the parks. With Disney’s extensive transportation network, you’re always just a short ride away from the magic.
6. Convenient Vacation Packages
Disney makes planning easy with customizable vacation packages. These bundles often include your Resort stay, park tickets, and even Disney Dining Plans (when available). Booking everything in one package streamlines your trip and can help you budget for your magical getaway.
5. Seamless Spending with MagicBands
Leave your wallet behind! At Disney Resort hotels, you can link a credit card to your MagicBand, allowing you to charge purchases throughout the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs. Simply tap your MagicBand at checkout and enter your PIN for a hassle-free shopping and dining experience.
4. On-Demand Concierge Services
One of the many perks of staying at a Disney Resort hotel is access to concierge services. Whether you need help upgrading tickets, making last-minute dining reservations, or finding out park hours, the concierge desk at your resort is there to assist. The knowledgeable Cast Members can provide valuable insights to enhance your vacation.
3. Dining Options at Every Resort
Every Disney Resort hotel offers dining options, from quick-service eateries to fine dining experiences. For example:
- Value Resorts: Food courts with diverse menus for families on the go.
- Moderate Resorts: A mix of quick-service and sit-down dining options.
- Deluxe Resorts: Fine dining experiences like California Grill at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where you can enjoy dinner with a view of Happily Ever After fireworks.
Many resorts also host unique dining experiences, like character meals or themed restaurants, adding even more magic to your stay.
Credit: Disney Photo Snapper
2. Resort Hotels Are Destinations Themselves
Each Disney Resort hotel is themed to immerse you in a unique world. From the tropical vibes of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the African-inspired savannas at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, there’s something for everyone. Resorts also feature recreational activities such as:
- Themed pools with water slides.
- Movies under the stars.
- Campfire activities.
- Bike rentals and walking trails.
Even if you don’t visit the parks every day, your resort offers plenty to keep you entertained.
1. Stress-Free Souvenir Shopping
Staying at a Disney Resort hotel makes souvenir shopping a breeze. When you purchase items in the parks, you can have them sent directly to your resort at no additional cost. This means you can explore the parks hands-free without worrying about carrying bags of goodies. Just ask a cast member at checkout for details.
Final Thoughts
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel offers unparalleled convenience, exclusive perks, and magical experiences you can’t get anywhere else. From early access to attractions to themed accommodations and resort activities, there are countless reasons to keep the magic going 24/7 by staying on Disney property.
What’s your favorite Disney Resort hotel? Let us know in the comments below, and don’t forget to start planning your magical Disney vacation today!
