Written by: Bridget Virden, Senior Travel Planner
I’m often asked what’s the benefit of staying on Walt Disney World property when you can find more space for less money by renting a VRBO, AirBnB, or staying in an off-site hotel. Staying on property at Walt Disney World isn’t just about convenience; it’s an immersive experience that enhances every aspect of your vacation. Here’s why I think staying at a Disney resort hotel can significantly elevate your Disney vacation!
1. Proximity and Transportation: Disney Resorts are strategically located within the Walt Disney World “bubble”, providing easy access to the theme parks, water parks, and entertainment venues. Complimentary transportation options, including buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner, ensure that you can effortlessly navigate between your resort and various attractions without the hassle of driving or the additional cost of parking. Disney resort guests do not pay parking fees at the resorts or at the theme parks – stay off property and you’ll either need to pay for a rideshare service or parking to get from point A to point B. And while some off-property hotels and resorts may offer a shuttle to Disney, with a little research you may find that their operating schedule may not be all that convenient.
2. More Time in the Parks: Guests of Disney Resort hotels can get a 30-minute jump on their Disney day with early theme park entry—available at all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks, every day. And while 30 extra minutes might not sound like a lot of time, you’d be surprised what getting into the parks ahead of the crowds can mean for what you can accomplish!
Stay in a Deluxe or Deluxe Villa resort and can enjoy extended evening hours—experiencing select attractions, shops and dining after regular park hours—in select theme parks on select nights.
3. Disney Dining Plans: Disney Resort guests have the option to add a Disney Dining Plan to their vacation package, offering convenient prepaid meal packages that can save both time and money. With a variety of plans to choose from, including options for quick-service meals, table-service dining, and snacks, you can tailor your dining experience to suit your preferences and budget.
4. Themed Accommodations: Disney Resorts offer a diverse range of themed accommodations, from whimsical Disney character-themed rooms to luxurious resort hotels inspired by exotic locales around the world. Whether you’re staying in a cozy cabin at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge or a lavish suite at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, each resort provides unique theming and immersive environments that enhance the magic of your stay. And there’s a Disney resort for every budget! When you work with one of our planners at Middle of the Magic, you might be surprised to find out how affordable a stay at Walt Disney World can be!
6. Resort Amenities: Disney Resorts offer an array of amenities to enhance your stay, including themed pools with water slides, children’s activity centers, fitness facilities, spa services, and recreational activities such as golf, tennis, and water sports. Who wouldn’t want to end their day with an outdoor Disney movie under the stars, a campfire sing along, or crafts. Each resort has their own recreation calendar, and with so much to see and do right at your resort, you’ll find plenty of opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment between park visits.
7. Early Access to Individual LIghtning Lanes: Walt Disney World resort guests now have the opportunity to purchase individual Lightning Lane access to select attractions starting at 7 am on the day of their visit. This allows guests to bypass the regular standby queue for a shorter wait time on popular rides. It’s an excellent way to maximize your time in the parks and experience more attractions during your stay. And since the attractions offering Individual Lightning Lanes are typically the most popular rides in each park, you’ll have a better chance at experiencing these attractions with minimal wait.
8. Charging Privileges: In-park charging privileges streamline the shopping and dining experience for resort guests. Instead of carrying cash or credit cards, guests can simply use their Key to the World card or MagicBand to make purchases at merchandise locations, restaurants, and snack stands throughout the parks. Charges made using in-park charging privileges are automatically added to your resort account. This means you can easily track spending and review purchases directly through your resort account, making it easier to manage your vacation budget.
9. Disney’s Legendary Service: From the moment you check-in to your Disney Resort, you’ll experience Disney’s legendary commitment to exceptional customer service. Cast Members truly are the magic makers, and they work tirelessly to provide personalized assistance and create magical moments that you’ll remember long after your vacation is over.
Overall, staying on property at Walt Disney World offers a seamless, immersive, and unforgettable vacation experience, allowing you to immerse yourself fully in the magic of Disney from the moment you arrive. Our vacation time is finite, and we all want to make every moment count when we have time off to spend with our families. Once you really consider what you’re giving up by staying somewhere else, it really doesn’t make sense not to stay with Disney! With convenient transportation, exclusive perks, themed accommodations, and world-class service, choosing a Disney Resort property ensures that your Disney vacation is truly magical from start to finish. Reach out to one of our planners today and let us help you build a vacation package that puts you right in the middle of the magic!
