Planning a stay at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel is one of the best ways to enhance the overall quality of your Disney vacation. These resorts not only provide unique experiences but also offer exclusive perks to make your visit extra magical. Here are ten tips and tricks from a Disney pro to help you maximize your Disney resort experience.
1. Understand the Different Resort Categories
Walt Disney World resorts are grouped into three main categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Value resorts are budget-friendly and feature bold, playful theming, making them perfect for families.
Moderate resorts balance affordability and comfort, offering upgraded amenities and beautifully themed environments. Deluxe resorts provide top-tier luxury, exceptional dining, and prime locations near the parks.
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground also features cabins and campsites for guests seeking a rustic experience. Military families can take advantage of Shades of Green, a resort specifically designed for military personnel and their families, with rates based on rank.
2. Choose a Resort Based on Location
Proximity to the parks can save valuable time, especially for families with young children. Resorts near Magic Kingdom, such as Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Contemporary Resort, offer convenient access via monorail, water taxi, or walking paths.
For guests planning to spend most of their time at EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios, the EPCOT Resort Area offers convenient stays at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn or Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts.
3. Take Advantage of Complimentary Transportation
Disney’s complimentary transportation options make navigating the resort a breeze. Guests can utilize buses, monorails, boats, and the Disney Skyliner, a gondola system connecting select resorts with EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Knowing which transportation options are available at your resort can help you plan your day efficiently.
4. Enjoy Exclusive Early Theme Park Entry
All Disney resort guests can enjoy Early theme park Entry, which allows access to the parks 30 minutes before the official opening. Deluxe resort guests also receive Extended Evening Hours on select nights, giving them additional time to enjoy attractions with shorter wait times. This is certainly a perk guests should take advantage of.
5. Plan a Resort Day
Disney resorts are destinations in their own right, offering various activities and amenities. Schedule a day to explore your resort’s pools, dining, and recreational offerings.
Many resorts feature Movies Under the Stars, campfire activities, and unique poolside games. Deluxe resorts often include spa services and fitness centers for relaxation. Often times, a resort day offers a much-needed break from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.
6. Visit Other Resorts
Disney resorts are beautifully themed and worth exploring. Take a day to ride the monorail or Disney Skyliner and visit other properties.
Enjoy a meal at a signature restaurant, or simply take in the unique ambiance of each location. For example, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort transports you to a tropical paradise, while Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offers a rustic, Pacific Northwest vibe.
7. Embrace Resort Dining Options
Each Disney resort boasts its own dining experience, ranging from quick-service eateries to fine dining. Don’t miss the character dining opportunities at select resort hotels as well. For a casual meal, check out the food courts at Value and Moderate Resorts, which offer various options to please every palate.
8. Consider Renting Disney Vacation Club Points
For guests seeking Deluxe accommodations at a fraction of the cost, consider renting Disney Vacation Club (DVC) points from current members. This option provides access to spacious villas with additional amenities like kitchenettes and laundry facilities, which are ideal for longer stays.
9. Pack Smart for Your Stay
Packing for a Disney trip can be overwhelming, but focusing on essentials like comfortable walking shoes, weather-appropriate clothing, and portable chargers can make your trip much smoother. Many resorts also offer in-room fridges and coffee makers, so bringing snacks and beverages can save time and money.
Create Magical Memories
By following these tips, your Walt Disney World resort stay can be as magical as the parks themselves. From enjoying resort-exclusive benefits to exploring unique theming and dining, Disney resorts offer something for everyone. Plan, take advantage of available perks and immerse yourself in Disney magic to create unforgettable memories.
