Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort is a magical experience all on its own. These resorts go beyond just being a place to sleep—they offer incredible dining, unique activities, and immersive theming that enhances your Disney vacation.
To ensure you have the most fantastic stay, here are six essential tips to make the most of your time at Walt Disney World Resorts.
1. Choose the Right Amenities for Your Family
Walt Disney World Resorts are divided into three categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe. Each has unique features and price points, so understanding your family’s needs is key to choosing the right one.
Key Considerations:
- Value Resorts: Great for budget-conscious travelers, offering fun theming and essential amenities. Examples include Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s All-Star Resorts.
- Moderate Resorts: These offer a balance of affordability and added amenities, such as table-service dining and upgraded pools. Consider Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort or Disney’s Port Orleans Resorts.
- Deluxe Resorts: Perfect for those seeking luxurious accommodations, proximity to parks, and premium amenities. Options include Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
Tip:
Create a list of must-have amenities like pools, dining options, or proximity to parks. Research and compare resorts to find the perfect match for your family’s budget and needs.
2. Secure Dining Reservations Early
Dining at Walt Disney World is an experience in itself, with options ranging from character dining to fine cuisine. Staying at a Disney Resort gives you a major advantage: the ability to book dining reservations 60 days before check-in for your entire stay.
Tips for Securing Top Dining Spots:
- Prioritize hard-to-get reservations like Wish Makers Enchanted Dining, Space 220, and ‘Ohana.
- Book reservations for later in your trip for better availability.
- Use the My Disney Experience app to monitor availability and make adjustments as needed.
Planning ahead ensures you’ll enjoy memorable meals without the stress of last-minute scrambling.
3. Use Online Check-In for a Seamless Arrival
Disney’s online check-in feature lets you skip the front desk and head straight to your room upon arrival.
How It Works:
- Complete online check-in through the My Disney Experience app before your trip.
- You’ll receive text updates on your room’s status.
- Once your room is ready, use your MagicBand+ or the My Disney Experience app to unlock the door.
This feature saves time and gets you to the magic faster.
4. Take Advantage of Early Entry and Extended Evening Hours
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort comes with exclusive perks, like Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours for Deluxe Resort Guests.
Early Theme Park Entry:
- Available to all Disney Resort guests.
- Allows you to enter any of the four main parks 30 minutes before the official opening.
- Use this time to enjoy popular attractions like Seven Dwarfs Mine Train, Peter Pan’s Flight, or Na’vi River Journey with shorter waits.
Extended Evening Hours:
- Available on select nights for Deluxe Resort guests.
- Enjoy quieter parks and lower wait times for top attractions.
- Check the park calendar to plan accordingly.
These perks provide a fantastic opportunity to experience more of the parks with less crowd pressure.
5. Plan a Resort Day
Walt Disney World Resorts offer so much more than a place to rest after a day at the parks. Take a day to fully enjoy the magic your resort has to offer.
What to Do on a Resort Day:
- Pool Time: Relax at your resort’s feature pool. Many resorts offer poolside games and activities for kids.
- Activities Guide: Pick up an activities guide to see what’s happening during your stay. From crafts to movies under the stars, there’s something for everyone.
- Dining and Exploration: Enjoy meals at your resort’s restaurants and explore the theming and details unique to your resort.
A resort day is a great way to recharge while still soaking in the Disney magic.
6. Visit Other Resorts
Each Disney Resort has its own unique charm and design, making it worthwhile to explore others during your trip.
How to Explore Other Resorts:
- Monorail Loop: Visit Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, and Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
- Disney Skyliner: Hop aboard and explore Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, and more.
- Dining and Shopping: Plan a meal or snack at another resort to experience its atmosphere.
Exploring other resorts not only adds variety to your trip but also helps you discover where you might want to stay on your next Disney vacation.
Final Thoughts
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort enhances the magic of your Disney vacation. By choosing the right resort, planning your dining and park visits, and taking time to enjoy the resort amenities, you’ll create unforgettable memories.
Whether it’s Early Theme Park Entry, a relaxing pool day, or discovering the unique charms of different resorts, these tips will help you make the most of your stay. Enjoy every magical moment!
