Have you ever wondered if it was worth it to stay on Disney property when visiting the Walt Disney World Resort? If so, read on to find out the top benefits of staying at a Disney resort as an on-site guest.
Top Benefits of Staying in a Disney World Resort Hotel
Unlike Universal Studios and Sea World, you can’t see the Disney parks outside of Disney property. Disney is not visible from the interstate or the common roads. Disney is a hidden oasis, it’s almost like you are really leaving reality and entering a world of fantasy. That’s one of my favorite reasons for staying on property. I like the “Disney Bubble”.
No matter what I suggest that all first time Disney World guests and those doing a one and done type trip stay on property. It adds so much to the experience! Here are the top reasons to stay on Disney property.
Disney Themed Resorts
Almost every Walt Disney World resort has Disney touches. The value resorts have larger-than-life Disney icons throughout the grounds of the resort. Some resorts even have Disney-themed rooms that surround you within a Disney story. Disney’s Polynesian Village resort is going through a remodel at this time and the rooms are getting a Moana theme.
Even the Disney resorts that aren’t overtly decorated Disney have small touches like Hidden Mickeys. Plus, all resorts have Disney-themed activities like Disney crafts by the pool, Disney Movies Under the Stars, and other fun activities!
Another Disney touch is the Disney fireworks. Right now Disney is not showing any fireworks but there is an option on the resort TVs to watch a previously recorded show. So you can still end your night with a Happily Ever After ending.
If you are looking for the full Disney experience, staying on property is a perfect way of doing that!
Disney Transportation
One of the best perks of having a reservation at a Disney Resort is having access to Disney transportation. Once you get to your Disney resort, Disney handles all your transportation needs to get to the parks and back to your resort. This is important because of convenience.
Did you know that there is not tired like Disney tired? After an exhausting day at the parks, the last thing you want to do is have to drive back to your hotel. Having someone else do the driving is so nice!
Extra Park Play Time
As a Guest staying in a Disney Resort, you’re entitled to benefits like Extra Park Time. Disney knows how much guests enjoy extra park time, so coming later this year (2021) as part of Disney World’s 50th-anniversary celebration, Disney Resort hotel guests and guests of other select hotels will be able to enjoy more fun with 30-minute early entry to ANY theme park, EVERY day. It’ll be a great way to get a jump start on your Disney day, no matter the day!
Before off site guests even get into the park you could be in line or even completed the line for your front runner ride in each park.
As a reminder, the Extra Magic Hours benefit was suspended when Walt Disney World Resort reopened last summer, and as they continue to manage attendance with health and safety top of mind, Extra Magic Hours will not return. The new early theme park entry benefit helps Disney better spread visitation across all four theme parks while providing added flexibility by giving guests extra early park time on each day of their vacation and in the park of their choosing. Please note that guests need valid admission and a park reservation made via the Disney Park Pass system to enter a theme park.
The Convenience of the Disney Dining Plan
***Dining Plans are not currently available, but will hopefully be returning soon***
You will also have access to the Disney Dining Plan, which can add up to significant savings if you are planning to purchase food in the parks. Just like the different resorts, there are different dining plans available so you can select one to fit your needs and budget. Plus, there are always those special Disney touches and Disney service you will not find anywhere else.
Disney Package Payment Option
When you stay off property and buy Disney tickets they are non refundable. Disney may let you change the dates of the tickets to use at a future time but the money you put into the tickets stays on the tickets.
If you stay on Disney property or in a Disney Springs Disney Resort you can get a Disney package. A $200 refundable deposit guarantees your room and you get your tickets immediately to make park pass reservations as soon as you book your package. If you need to cancel your vacation at least 30 days before you travel you get all your money refunded. You also can make payments as little as $20 on a Disney vacation package.
In conclusion, while I know everyone vacations differently and that is completely fine, staying on property has so many advantages. Contact me for more information if you are still on the fence for your family.
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Consider planning and booking your next Walt Disney World vacation with a Concierge Vacation Planner like Favorite Grampy’s Travels. I’ll take away the stress of planning a Disney vacation and help you get the best price! Let’s Start Planning Now!
Motivating Mommy
Sunday 15th of June 2014
This is great information. My son went with his grandparents a couple of years ago and I believe that they stayed on property and really enjoyed themselves.
Janelle Dangerfield Shank
Saturday 14th of June 2014
great info! i was thinking of taking my daughter maybe next year, i appreciate your post
Angele @shoeboxbegone
Saturday 14th of June 2014
Went to Disney as a kid, we stayed in disney resort - so much fun! can't wait to bring my kids :)
Teresa McCluskey
Saturday 14th of June 2014
I have always wanted to go stay at #Disney! But Have yet to do so! Maybe when my kids are a little older!
BONNIE GOWEN
Saturday 14th of June 2014
Thanks for this post. I have always wanted to take my kids, not sure if we will ever be able to go but this will come in handy, thank you.