There are several ticket options to choose from at Walt Disney World and it can be confusing. I am here to help you choose the right Disney Theme Park Tickets – with the right options – so that you can make the most of your Walt Disney World Vacation. (updated on June 9, 2021)
Park Hopper and Park Hopper Plus Options
Park Hopping returned on January 1, 2021. You once again have the chance to visit more than one Walt Disney World Theme Park each day, when you purchase Disney Theme Park Tickets with either the Park Hopper or Park Hopper Plus Options.
Tickets or passes that include Park Hopper benefits provide same day admission to all four Walt Disney World Theme Parks, and are perfect for those who would like the chance to see and do more during your visit – whether that means a morning on the savannah at Animal Kingdom, an afternoon ride on Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom; or starting the day living your Star Wars adventure at Hollywood Studios before an evening traveling around the world at Epcot.
At this time, there are specific hours when the Park Hopper benefit can be used. During these hours, those with a ticket or pass that includes Park Hopper benefits are able to move between Theme Parks, subject to capacity. This modification is designed to help continue managing attendance in a way that fosters physical distancing. Here’s how Park Hopping currently works:
Reserve – you must make a Disney Park Pass reservation for the first Park you plan to visit for the day. At this time, you do not need additional reservations to visit other Parks later that same day; however, reservation requirements are subject to change. Should the Park Hopper benefit be unavailable at a Theme Park, you will receive a push notification on your mobile device from the My Disney Experience (MDE) app.
Enter – to use the Park Hopper benefit of your ticket or pass, you must first enter the Park you reserved for the day. You can enter that Park at any time during regular hours.
Hop – after you’ve entered the Park you reserved, you will be able to visit other Parks during the posted Park Hopper hours for that day, subject to that Park’s capacity limitations. You may utilize the Park Hopper benefit of your ticket or pass to visit multiple Parks that same day.
Park Hopper hours start by 2:00PM each day and end at each Park’s scheduled closing time. You can check the Park Hours calendar and the MDE app for the most up to date Park Hopper hours, as they may vary by day and Park. Click here to see the Park hours calendar.
Remember, those who are interested in experiencing Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance must make a Disney Park Pass reservation for Hollywood Studios. You will only be able to access the virtual queue system if you have a Disney Park Pass reservation for Hollywood Studios on the day of your visit.
Be sure to check the Know Before You Go site for the latest information on the Park Hopper and Park Hopper Plus Options. Click here to see the Know Before You Go website.
Water Park and Sports Option
For those of you who are looking to enjoy Disney Magic beyond the Theme Parks, you may want to consider the Water Park and Sports Option. When you add this option to your Disney Theme Park Tickets, you get a certain number of visits to Disney Water Parks, miniature golf, and more, based on the length of your ticket.
With this option, you can spend a morning playing nine holes of golf or a round of FootGolf at Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course, an evening at an imaginative Disney miniature golf course, or a day in the sun at Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park, which reopened in early March 2021.
And remember, the Park Hopper Plus Option includes all of this, as well as the ability to visit more than one Theme Park on the same day, giving you the greatest freedom to explore Walt Disney World Resort at your own pace.
Remember to check the Know Before You Go site for the latest information on health and safety guidelines, as well as which venues are available for you to enjoy with the Water Park and Sports Option or Park Hopper Plus Option. Click here to view the Know Before You Go website.
Military & Florida Resident Offers
From time to time, special tickets may be available to select groups, such as Florida Residents or active/retired members of the U.S. military.
Click here to sign up for my newsletter where each week you will receive an email with the latest special offers available.
I am here to recommend the right Disney Theme Park Tickets and options for you so that you can have the most magical Walt Disney World vacation possible. Click here to request a free quote so we can start working on your Disney vacation today!
There are activities and experiences for you to discover beyond the Theme Parks! Let’s talk about what’s new at Disney Springs and Walt Disney World Resort recreation. (updated June 9, 2021)
Cinnamon Toast Crunch Donut from Everglazed
New magic awaits you at Disney Springs, where new shopping and dining locations have recently joined an already long list of restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment options. Here’s what’s new:
M&M’S – This state of the art store offers 10,000 square feet of colorful fun dedicated to the popular chocolate candy. M&M’S at Disney Springs offers a signature chocolate wall, as well as exclusive, co-branded Disney and M&M’S apparel, housewares, and more.
Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew – Tried and true classics and over the top creations join cold-brew pick me ups, sandwiches, and more at this modern spin on the classic donut shop.
Gideon’s Bakehouse – An Orlando area favorite, Gideon’s Bakehouse offers ingredient rich, from scratch, almost half pound cookies, as well as cake slices, iced drinks, and more.
Fit2Run – now in a new location, The Runner’s Superstore features a wide range of name brand athletic walking and running footwear, technical running apparel, and accessories like performance eyewear, tech socks, and GPS wrist personal trainers.
Lululemon – This popular athletic brand now offers their yoga inspired, technical athletic apparel at Disney Springs. Their comfortable clothing collection was created to inspire today’s active men and women.
Recreation
Disney’s Blizzard Beach Water Park reopened in early March. You can find frosty fun for the whole family at the polar opposite of other water parks. Here are some of the popular attractions:
Summit Plummet – With a 350 foot drop, this is one of the world’s fastest free fall water slides.
Teamboat Springs – Family fun awaits on one of the world’s longest group whitewater raft adventures.
Tike’s Peak – Little ones love this polar themed play area with pint sized activities just for them.
Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course offers something unique alongside traditional golf: FootGolf. In this precision sport, players “tee off” on shortened length holes and attempt to kick a regulation #5 soccer ball into 21″ diameter cups, in as few shots as possible. It’s a great way for families to get some fresh air and exercise, and enjoy some friendly competition at the same time!
Magical Extras
Make the most of your Disney vacation with Magical Extras: a variety of discounts and offerings on dining, entertainment, shopping, and more. Let’s look at a few of the Magical Extras that await you when you book a Walt Disney Vacation package!
10% off at Basin and Splitsville Luxury Lanes
15% off at the Coca-Cola Store and House of Blues
20% off at SANUK and Terralina Crafted Italian
Plus, you can receive four vouchers for mini golf for use during your stay. These are just a few of the available discounts.
There’s more to a Walt Disney World Resort vacation than just the Theme Parks. As we plan your next vacation together, let’s make sure to include enough days to enjoy the areas beyond the Theme Parks, too. Click here to request your free quote!
The Walt Disney World theme parks have inspired Guests for almost 50 years (50th anniversary is October 1, 2021). Each of the four Theme Parks has its own personality and you can find something you’ll love at each one of the Parks. Experiences in the Parks may look a little different than they did in the past, but there’s still plenty of magic for everyone to enjoy! (updated June 9, 2021)
Magic Kingdom
Magic Kingdom has classic Disney attractions, storybook Characters, and family-friendly thrills. It’s the place most people think of when they remember Walt Disney World Resort. Cinderella Castle, the treasured icon of Magic Kingdom, now features bold, shimmering, regal enhancements befitting its royal status, making for great photos with family and friends.
There are plenty of ways to see Disney Characters at Magic Kingdom. Here are some of the characters you can find in the park:
Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and their pals pop up throughout the day in the Mickey and Friends Cavalcade.
Several times daily, The Royal Princess Processional makes its way through Magic Kingdom and allows you an opportunity to see many favorite Disney Princesses.
Other surprise Character appearances abound – like Chip ‘n Dale rafting in Frontierland, Cinderella’s evil stepsisters taunting you from balconies in Fantasyland, and more.
Why Magic Kingdom? Here are four reasons:
Magic Kingdom “feels” – These are the things that make Magic Kingdom, Magic Kingdom. The magic in Magic Kingdom is something you have to experience to fully understand.
Disney Characters – you will have plenty of opportunities to spot your favorite Disney friends.
Classic attractions – from the classics to new favorites, there is something for everyone.
Iconic snacks – you don’t have to pick between savory or sweet to find the perfect treat.
EPCOT
Epcot is a place that changes with the times, just like Walt Disney wanted it to be. It has always been an amazing place for you to celebrate the world and become immersed in the wonder of attractions and festivals. Now, as Epcot continues the biggest transformation of any Disney Park in history, you can enjoy a new journey dedicated to inspiring you with the magic of possibility.
Remy’s Ratatouille Adventure is a new family-friendly attraction that’s scheduled to debut in the France pavilion on October 1, 2021. Based on Disney and Pixar’s hit film, “Ratatouille,” this attraction will invite you to shrink down to the size of a rat for a culinary adventure with Remy, while racing across Gusteau’s kitchen floor.
“Harmonious” will be one of the largest nighttime spectaculars ever created for a Disney Park. The show is a beautifully crafted nighttime dreamscape of Disney music and images, reimagined by diverse cultural musicians and artists from around the world.
Cultures and cuisines from around the world come together at festivals that are held at various times of the year. More often than not, you will be able to experience a seasonal festival during your visit to Epcot. Here are the 4 festivals:
Epcot International Festival of the Arts – This festival, which typically starts in January, will inspire you by immersing you in the culinary, performing, and visual arts. The festival is known for bringing together artists from these fields, with unique demonstrations and special galleries.
Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival – Each spring, Epcot blooms to life with beautiful flowers, brilliant gardens, unique Disney topiaries, and Outdoor Kitchens that serve up creative cuisine that features the season’s freshest flavors.
Epcot International Food & Wine Festival – sip, savor, and stroll. For more than 25 years, this fall favorite festival has kept Guests coming back for its blend of delicious food and fun entertainment.
Epcot International Festival of the Holidays – The holiday season is extra festive at Epcot. Celebrate with merry decor, holiday entertainment, and indulgent recipes from around the world.
Throughout the day, you may have the opportunity to spot some favorite Disney Characters in World Showcase. This lets you wave and take photos from a safe distance. Here are the Disney Characters you can see at Epcot:
Mickey Mouse and several of his friends have fun as they join together on a sightseeing tour through the countries of World Showcase.
Favorite Disney Princesses travel in regal style through World Showcase in a horse-drawn carriage.
Why Epcot? Here are 3 reasons:
Inspiring Festivals – Seasonal festivals are a great way for you to get more out of your visit to Epcot.
Unique Attractions – Classics like Soarin’ Around the World are popular for their innovative technology paired with Disney Magic, while on Frozen Ever After, you can see familiar faces from the wintery wonderland of Arendelle.
Disney Character Moments – Attractions and cavalcades are fun ways to create memories and seek out favorite Disney Characters.
Hollywood Studios
You will have plenty of fun as you step into epic adventures from your favorite Disney, Pixar, and Star Wars films at Hollywood Studios. It’s the perfect place to explore together.
Mickey & Minnie’s Runaway Railway is one of the newest additions at Walt Disney World. Zip away on a zany adventure through a cartoon universe that’s crammed with surprises! Like any good movie or show, step into the ‘toon world and prepare for unexpected twists.
Disney Character Cavalcades are in style at Hollywood Studios. Throughout the day, these cavalcades start on Hollywood Boulevard and travel past Echo Lake. Families with young children won’t want to miss the Disney Junior Stars Motorcade. Fans of the movies “The Incredibles”, “Monsters, Inc.”, and “Toy Story” should have their cameras ready for the Pixar Pals Motorcade.
Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge is where you get the chance to live your Star Wars story as you explore the remote Black Spire Outpost on the planet of Batuu, in a galaxy far, far away. No matter whether you choose allegiance to the First Order – where Kylo Ren reigns supreme – or the Resistance, with Rey and Chewbacca, you may spot those characters throughout the day. At this time, you must join a virtual queue to experience Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance. Join the virtual queue using the My Disney Experience app. Be aware that you must have a Park Pass Reservation for Hollywood Studios to be able to join the virtual queue. If you arrive from another Theme Park, you will not be able to join the virtual queue.
Animal Kingdom
Rare animals and wild entertainment allow you to behold the magic of nature. African safaris, treks to a world beyond belief, and adventures to the prehistoric age are just some of the experiences to discover here.
Festival of the Lion King is expected to return this summer. The Harambe Theatre will once again host the fan-favorite troupe of musical storytellers, along with Simba and his friends. When it returns, it will be presented in a modified format to be mindful of the current environment. There will be adjustments to the show on stage and backstage, including updates to choreography to allow for appropriate physical distancing. Disney will also adjust how the audience is seated, in line with other theater-based experiences at Walt Disney World. It’s a moving, immersive theatrical experience celebrating music that has touched generations of Disney fans, and a festival you will want to be part of again and again.
Discovery River connects the various lands of Animal Kingdom. Most of the day, this calm waterway provides a great backdrop for photos of the Park icon, the Tree of Life, but at various times throughout the day, special cavalcade flotillas sail by with favorite Disney Characters on board. On the Discovery River Character Cruise, you can catch a glimpse of Characters from Disney’s “Pocahontas” or Disney’s “The Lion King.” On the Mickey and Friends Flotilla, you will see Mickey Mouse, Minnie Mouse, and other familiar friends. You may also see – and hear – the Discovery Island Drummers as they perform live while sailing down the river.
Why Animal Kingdom? Here are 3 reasons:
For the awe – the floating mountains, bioluminescent plant life, and two incredible attractions inspire awe in Pandora – The World of Avatar.
For authentic adventure – Kali River Rapids, Kilimanjaro Safaris, and Expedition Everest are authentic adventures that feature animals both real and legendary.
For discovering Disney Characters – Flotillas cruise around Discovery River, featuring unique and favorite Disney Characters.
There is SO much to do at the four Theme Parks alone. I am here to help you decide which Parks to visit, which tickets to include in your vacation package, and how to make the most of your days. Click here to request your free quote!
Since the theme parks reopened in July of 2020, Disney has taken a measured and deliberate approach to implement a number of health and well-being measures based on guidance from various governmental authorities and health agencies. (updated June 9, 2021)
To help you plan and prepare for your visit, be sure to check out the Know Before You Go website. Here, you will find important information such as:
Current health and safety measures
What you’ll need to enter a Theme Park, Water Park, or Disney Springs
Which attractions and entertainment are currently operating
Updates to services, amenities, and transportation
Which dining locations are available
Theme Park Reservation Availability Calendar
The new systems that you use to book Park reservations is called the Disney Park Pass system. You can use the Theme Park Reservation Availability Calendar to help you choose which Park to visit first on a given day, before you begin the Park reservation process. Click here to see the Theme Park Reservation Availability Calendar.
Park Hopper Option
If you have a ticket or annual pass that includes Park Hopper benefits, you can visit more than one Park per day with some new modifications as part of Disney’s ongoing focus on health and safety.
You can use the Park Hopper benefits of your ticket within specific hours each day that will start no later than 2:00PM and end at each Park’s scheduled closing time. You should check the online Park hours calendar or the My Disney Experience app for the most up to date Park Hopper hours, as they may vary by day and Park. Click here to view the Park Hours Calendar.
To use the Park Hopper benefits of your ticket, you must make a Disney Park Pass reservation for the first Park they plan to visit each day, and you must also enter that first Park prior to visiting any others that day. At this time, a Park Reservation is not required after the first Park each day; however, reservation requirements are subject to change.
On the day of your visit, you should check the My Disney Experience app, as well as posted signage, for availability of other Parks that you may wish to visit. You should be prepared to present your ticket or annual pass prior to boarding complimentary transportation between Theme Parks. If you wish to drive your own vehicle you should be prepared to present your ticket or annual pass at the Auto Plaza for the next Theme Park you wish to visit.
My Disney Experience
My Disney Experience (MDE) plays a key role for visiting Walt Disney World Resort. The helpful technology behind the MDE can provide you with the most efficient experience possible if you follow these steps:
Disney Account – you must have a Disney account to access MDE. This is the same account you use for other Disney services such as Disney+ or shopDisney. Access to MDE is required to book Park reservations.
Travel Party – you register for or sign in to MDE by visiting StartYourDisneyExperience.com. Then, you should create a Family & Friends list that includes the members of your travel party.
Link Reservation – you must link your reservation to your MDE account by entering the confirmation number provided by me, your Travel Professional.
Disney Park Pass System
Once you have purchased your tickets or vacation package, and have created your MDE account, it’s time for you to make your Park reservations. Here’s how to make a Park reservation:
Confirmed Linked Tickets – you must have valid Park admission that’s been linked to your Disney account.
Create Party – after signing in to MDE, you create your travel party from your Family & Friends list.
Select a Date and Park – choose the date, and the Theme Park that you wish to visit first on that date. Park reservations are subject to availability.
Review and Confirm – carefully review and confirm your selected Park and date.
You must repeat this process to book addition Park reservations for each day they wish to visit a Park. Only one Park can be reserved per day.
My Disney Experience Mobile App
My Disney Experience (MDE) is available as a website, and also as a mobile app for Apple and Android mobile devices. The app offers many of the same functions as the website; however, the app has additional features that make it very useful for you once you’re on your Walt Disney World vacation. For example, the MDE app can give you reminders of any reservations and experiences you’ve planned by way of push notifications, and it can help you make updates, manage your tickets, and make additional plans.
Let’s take a look at some of the features that are available exclusively in the MDE app:
Online Dining Check-In – during your visit, you may enjoy dining at Table-Service restaurants, and a new mobile check-in feature allows you to bypass the host stand upon arrival at select locations. The dining check-in feature also allows you to adjust some aspects of your dining reservation, such as noting seating and accessibility needs, making dining and allergy requests, and providing updates to special celebrations. When your table is ready, you will receive a push notification from the MDE app.
Mobile Order at Quick-Service Restaurants – you can also use the MDE app to enhance your Quick-Service dining experiences and minimize your wait time by browsing menus and ordering meals in advance, from virtually anywhere, with cashless transactions. Orders are then prepared when you arrive at the selected Quick-Service dining location and check in using the MDE app.
Check Dining Availability, Wait Times, and More – you can check dining availability, filter wait times by Theme Park, and more, and can choose to view results as a list or as pins on a map. You can also determine the best route from one location to another within Walt Disney World Resort by seeing Disney transportation options, complete with estimated travel times. You an continue to use the MDE app even after your visit, to purchase and download memories you created using Disney PhotoPass service.
Disney MagicMobile
As technology and the needs of humans evolve, Disney continues to invent and innovate ways to ensure that you can enjoy the magic. Now, you will be able to experience your visit to Walt Disney World Resort with a new option: Disney MagicMobile.
Disney MagicMobile is a digital pass that you can create using the MDE app, which then is added to your smart device’s digital wallet. To use a MagicMobile Pass, you can hold your iPhone, Apple Watch, or Android phone near an access point, just like you would with a MagicBand. You can use a MagicMobile Pass:
At Theme Park and Water Park entrances
At attraction access points
With Disney PhotoPass photographers
When checking in to Disney’s Magical Express service
Although a MagicMobile Pass may act much like a MagicBand, you can choose to use your MagicMobile Pass or a MagicBand – whichever option works best during your visit. You can even use both and alternate between the two for added flexibility.
With the reopening of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney has taken a measured and deliberate approach to enhance the Disney Resort experience. These changes are detailed on the Know Before You Go website. Since the site continues to evolve over time, be sure to review it before a trip to ensure that the information you have is up to date. Click here to check out the Disney Resort hotels Know Before You Go website. (updated July 12, 2021)
We now have reopening dates for all of the Disney Resort hotels! By the end of 2021, all Disney Resort hotels at Walt Disney World will be open! There are so many perks to staying on property in a Disney Resort hotel when you are visiting Walt Disney World. Check out my blog post about it here.
There are four hotel category types: Value, Moderate, Deluxe, and Deluxe Villas.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Value Resorts
These are your standard hotel room. They are the smallest (around 250 square feet) of all the categories and can sleep 4 people. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s All-Star Music Resort offers suites that can sleep up to 6 adults. The prices start at about $140/night.
Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
Transportation: Bus
Fantasia-Themed Pool
World Premiere Food Court
Movies Under the Stars
Resort Area: Disney’s Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Transportation: Disney Skyliner and Bus
Pool with Water Jets
Merchandise Store
Food Court
Resort Area: Wide World of Sports
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Transportation: Skyliner and bus
Family Suites that sleep up to 6 adults
Largest Resort pool in Walt Disney World
Food Court with 5 stations
Dog-friendly accommodations
Resort Area: Wide World of Sports Resort Area
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Transportation: Bus
Pool with surfboard motif
End Zone Food Court
Resort Area: Animal Kingdom
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
Transportation: Bus
Guitar-Shaped Pool
Intermission Food Court
Family Suites that sleep up to 6
Resort Area: Animal Kingdom
I recommend Pop Century and All-Star Movies. The room quality is highest and the Resorts have been fully refurbished. The room configuration is completely different and the carpet has been replaced with vinyl hardwood flooring. Queen beds are the standard in these rooms, but king beds can be requested. One of the queen beds is a pull down bed, so during the day it is a seating area and then can be pulled down at night. This saves a lot of space. The bathrooms at these resorts are brighter and the rooms have more storage space.
Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Moderate Resorts
These rooms are typically about 300 square feet. They sleep up to 4 people, but there are select rooms that sleep 5. There are suite options at Coronado Springs. The Cabins at Fort Wilderness are larger at about 500 square feet and sleep up to 6 people. These rooms start at about $265/night.
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Transportation: Bus
Brand new Gran Destino Tower (opened August 2019)
Pool with a waterslide
Fitness center
Resort area: Animal Kingdom
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Transportation: Disney Skyliner and Bus
Pool with a Waterslide
Pirated themed rooms
Resort Area: Epcot
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Cabins and campgrounds available
Feels like you are camping in the middle of Walt Disney World
Pre-order groceries and have them waiting when you arrive
Rent golf carts
Pool with waterslide
Dog friendly accommodations
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Pool with waterslide
Scat Cat’s Club
Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides
Resort Area: Disney Springs
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Pool with Waterslide
Boatwright’s Dining Hall
Royal Guest Rooms
Pet-Friendly Accommodations
Resort Area: Disney Springs
I recommend Gran Destino Tower at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. The Gran Destino Tower serves as the main entrance for Guests arriving at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. The tower features more than 500 Guest rooms (including 50 suites) and a gorgeous, two story lobby. The rooms in this section of the resort are larger than the rest of the resort. They have vinyl hardwood floors, big windows, good lighting, a desk area, and lots of storage space. Rooms also have a mini fridge and a Keurig style coffee maker. Bathrooms are bright with plenty of storage space. There are two sinks, a huge walk in shower, and a separate area for the toilet. That way several people can be using the bathroom area all at the same time. This is also the only Moderate Resort that you can stay Club Level in. This hotel is basically a Deluxe Resort at Moderate Resort pricing.
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Deluxe Resorts
There are many different types of rooms and sizes in Deluxe Resorts. They range from standard size rooms (about 350 square feet) to suites of more than 1,000 square feet. Most of the rooms will sleep up to 5 people. They start at about $400/night.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Close to Skyliner
Shares the water recreation area at Beach Club
Health Club
Dog friendly acommodations
Resort Area: Epcot
Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Transportation: Monorail, Boat, Bus
Pool with waterslide
California Grill – very popular rooftop restaurant
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Transportation: Monorail, Boat, Bus
Pool with waterslide
Exquisite dining
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Transportation: Boat and Bus
2 Pools
Deluxe Villa options
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Transportation: Boat, Bus, Monorail
Pool with a waterslide
Brand new Moana-themed rooms
Taste the culinary magic of the islands at several restaurants
Deluxe Villa options
Seven Seas Lagoon
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Transportation: Boat, Bus
Disney Skyliner transportation
Outdoor water recreation area with a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more.
Beaches and Cream – boardwalk-style ice cream parlor.
Ship Shape Health Club
Resort Area: Epcot
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Transportation: Boat, Bus
Disney Skyliner Transportation
Pool with waterslide
Trattoria al Forno – Italian eatery serving breakfast and dinner.
Resort Area: Epcot
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Transportation: Bus
Pool with Waterslide
Award-Winning Dining
Exotic Animals
Resort Area: Animal Kingdom
I recommend Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. These Resorts have comfy rooms, great pools, fantastic service, and wonderfully themed environments. In October 2018, Enchanted Rose opened offering a menu of unique cocktails and exquisite appetizers in the Grand Floridian. The design of this signature lounge was inspired by the magic and romance of the Disney live-action movie, “Beauty and the Beast,” offering four unique gathering spaces for you to enjoy. It’s a uniquely Disney space that lets you step into a realm of elegance and wonder for an evening of enchantment. If fantastic dining is important to you, these are the Resorts for you. Animal Kingdom Lodge has 3 of the 10 highest rated restaurants in Walt Disney World. The very best restaurant at Walt Disney World is Victoria & Albert’s and that is in the Grand Floridian. Five of its other restaurants are in the top 25. You can’t go wrong with either of these Resorts. Both lobbies are huge and breathtaking. Public areas and half the rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge offer panoramic views of a private, 21 acre wildlife preserve with over 300 animals.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Deluxe Villa Resorts
These are the highest rated rooms at Walt Disney World. Most of the Villas are attached to a Deluxe Resort and share all the amenities. Villas range from studio to 1-, 2- and 3-bedroom options. They range in size from about 300 square feet to 2,500 square feet. Almost all of the Villas have a kitchen, washer, dryer, and separate bedrooms. Most studio rooms sleep up to 4 people. The 3-bedroom villas sleep up to 12. The studios are your standard Deluxe Resort room, except they have a kitchenette. The other Villa options are much larger and have more than one bathroom. They start at about $400/night.
Disney’s Riviera Resort
Transportation: Skyliner and Bus
Captures the magic of Europe
Topolino’s Terrace – breakfast and dinner rooftop dining
Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Access to 2 pools
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Beach Club Villas
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Outdoor water recreation area (3 acres)
Close to the Skyliner
Resort Area: Epcot
Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
Transportation: Boat and Bus
Pool with waterslide
Close to Skyliner
Walking distance to Epcot
Resort Area: Epcot
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Transportation: Monorail, Boat, Bus
Pool with waterslide
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
Transportation: Monorail, Boat, Bus
Feels like an island paradise
Delicious restaurants
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Transportation: Monorail, Boat, Bus
Pool with waterslide
Exquisite dining
Resort Area: Magic Kingdom
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House
Transportation: Bus
Pool with waterslide
Award-Winning Dining
Exotic Animals
Resort Area: Animal Kingdom
I recommend The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. These are the must luxurious rooms of any Disney Resort hotel and the decor is beautiful.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Remember that Disney’s Magical Express service will no longer be offered starting with arrivals January 1, 2022. The service will continue to operate for new and existing reservations made at Disney Resort hotels for arrivals throughout 2021. If you arrive prior to January 1, 2022, you will be transported back to Orlando International Airport (MCO) at the end of your stay until January 10, 2022. After that date, Disney will not be providing complimentary transportation back to the airport.
There are more reasons than ever to stay at a Disney Resort hotel, where a wide variety of amenities, programs, and exclusive benefits help make a Walt Disney World Resort vacation fun, relaxing, and worry free. To request a free Walt Disney World quote, CLICK HERE.
With the reopening of Walt Disney World Resort, Disney has taken a measured and deliberate approach to enhance the Disney Resort experience. These changes are detailed on the Know Before You Go website. Since the site continues to evolve over time, be sure to review it before a trip to ensure that the information you have is up to date. Click here to check out the Disney Resort hotels Know Before You Go website. (updated on June 9, 2021)
Before we dive in to some of the great benefits of staying on property at Disney, let’s discuss some new things Disney has added!
Online Check-In Service
To help with physical distancing efforts, reduce registration time, and simplify arrival, I recommend for you to use Online Check-In Service prior to arrival if you’re staying at a Disney Resort hotel. You can use either the My Disney Experience (MDE) app or the website at StartYourDisneyExperience.com. You can use this convenient service to complete online check-in any time after your Resort reservation is linked to your MDE profile, up to and including your arrival day. I highly recommend using the MDE app because some functions are only available in the app.
Direct-to-Room Service
Once you complete Online Check-In Service, you can also use Direct-to-Room service. This will allow you to proceed directly to your Disney Resort room without visiting the front desk. This can help reduce unnecessary contact. On arrival day, you will receive real-time updates on your mobile device, such as notifications when your room is ready, and your assigned room number. When your room is ready, you can use maps in the MDE app to locate your assigned room. Then, you can unlock your door with your MagicBand, or use the “Unlock Door” feature in the MDE app. You may still pick up room keys at the front desk of your Disney Resort, if you wish.
In-App Chat
You can utilize the In-App Chat feature of the MDE app to ask questions you might typically ask in person at the front desk. For example, you may want to know the operating hours for a certain dining location. Instead of making a trip to visit the lobby, you can simply ask the question via In-App Chat from wherever you happen to be at the moment.
Automatic Checkout
Prior to your departure at the end of your stay, you will receive a notification from the MDE app to indicate whether or not you must visit the front desk before leaving. If you successfully completed Online Check-In Service before your stay, you will typically find that you can check out without visiting the front desk. This provides convenience and promotes physical distancing.
Disney Resorts Collection
Walt Disney World Resort is “The Most Magical Place on Earth.” You can come stay in the magic with the Disney Resorts Collection. These unique Disney Resort hotels feature the same legendary storytelling, detail, and Guest service found in the Theme Parks. Here, you can experience enchantment around every corner – you may even spot some familiar Disney friends palling around together. Whether you are taking in views of an African savanna, swimming alongside Nemo and friends, or savoring the flavors of the Polynesian isles, you will find fun and surprising Disney touches in every detail. With room types that can accommodate intimate getaways for two, extended family gatherings for 12, and everything in between, there truly is something for nearly every family size and budget. You can also enjoy the ease and convenience of getting around Walt Disney World Resort, and receive more enchanting perks, with a stay in the Disney Resorts Collection.
Disney’s Old Key West Resort
Guests that are staying at Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels, Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort, Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, and Waldorf Astoria Orlando are also able to take advantage of these benefits.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village
From unique accommodations to distinctive dining options, themed rooms and more, Disney Resort hotels offer you a variety of options that exemplify the Disney Difference.
Proximity & Transportation – Staying at a Disney Resort hotel puts you in the middle of the magic, close to the Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs. If you drive your own vehicle or rent a car and are staying in a Disney Resort hotel, you can enjoy complimentary standard parking at the Disney Theme Parks and Water Parks. Or, you can use Disney’s complimentary network of motor coaches, boats, monorails, and more to move between all these destinations with ease. And don’t forget about the state of the art gondola system, Disney Skyliner, which conveniently connects select Disney Resort hotels with Hollywood Studios and Epcot.
Activities & Amenities – Disney Resort hotels feature amenities that immerse you in the worlds of classic Disney tales – including themed pools with slides, poolside activities, Disney Character Dining Experiences, unique recreation, delightful surprises, and more.
Special Offerings – Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel can purchase MagicBands at special prices up to 10 days before they arrive. Your MagicBands can be personalized with different colors, favorite Disney Characters, and fun themes – and can even be customized with your name.
More Time in the Park – Guests of Disney Resort hotels and other select hotels will soon be able to enjoy more fun with 30-minute early entry to any of the four Disney Theme Parks, every day – coming later in 2021 as part of The World’s Most Magical Celebration. It’ll be a great way for you to get a jump start on your Disney day, no matter the day! This new early entry benefit helps provide added flexibility, by giving you extra time each day in the Park of your choosing.
Endless Possibilities – With all of the great options in the Disney Resorts Collection, you are sure to find one – or more than one – that suites you. With a variety of different themes and price points, you have a world of options to consider. Remember that you’re not just choosing a place to sleep at night – you’re choosing a home for the duration of your Walt Disney World Resort vacation.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Rooms That Make Dreams Come True
Disney Themed Rooms – Stay in rooms with the same fantasy and adventure that bring Disney stories to life! Disney Story Rooms are inspired by your favorite films and are at select hotels. At Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, there is The Little Mermaid room and family suites inspired by The Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo. There are Pirate Rooms where the beds are pirate ships at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. The theming of the Disney Resort hotels is like no other and really immerses you and gives you the full experience.
Sleep Under the Stars – Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground allow you to relax and unwind. There are rustic campsites and cabins close to the pools, theme parks, shopping, trails, and more. The cabins are fully equipped and spacious and feel just like home. The campsites at the campgrounds accommodate tents as well as RVs.
Options for 5 or More Guests – If you want to stay somewhere beyond a regular hotel room, I’ve got the perfect place for you. Disney has Family Suites, Cabins, and Deluxe Villas that are perfect for parties of 5 or more. Separate bedrooms/sleeping areas are perfect for some extra space and privacy. These rooms have a kitchenette or fully equipped kitchen. They also have a living and dining area.
Travel Agents could not be more important when it comes to booking vacations. Especially when it comes to Disney vacations. There are so many deadlines and it can be extremely overwhelming to plan… Unless you enjoy spending countless hours researching, planning, and being put on hold for hours at a time with Disney Customer Service. It can certainly be complicated. Here are my top 8 reasons of why you should book with a Travel Agent. (updated October 11, 2021)
Expert Disney Knowledgeand Experience
I have been to Disney A LOT. I have planned trips for families with babies and toddlers. I have also planned trips for adults. I love to experience Disney for myself, but I also go as often as I do to make sure I am the most up to date for you! Every family and every vacation is different and I want to create the perfect experience for you.
2. It’s FREE
Yes, it’s free. There’s no catch. There are no hidden fees. My services are complimentary to you as my client. The cost of a Travel Agent is already included in the price of your vacation. So if you don’t use one, you are missing out on a ton of value.
3. Discount Monitoring
Even if you have already booked a trip with me, if a better discount becomes available, I can have it added to your reservation. I know all of the Disney offers that are available at all times. When a new discount becomes available, my first task is applying it to my clients’ existing reservations. You can be confident that you are getting the best price on your vacation.
4. Premium Services for FREE
Here are just a few of the services I offer my clients: Advanced Dining Reservations, ground transportation, Magical Express, stroller rentals, experience/specialty reservations, VIP tours, transportation reservations, making payments, My Disney Experience assistance, reservation modifications, creating customized daily itineraries, and more! This is all done to help make your trip even more special and save you the stress.
5. Availability
If anything does happen to go wrong on your trip or there is an emergency, I am just a phone call away and will do my best to resolve the problem for you. I also have much more availability than most normal office hours and am available to help when the time is most convenient for you.
6. Itinerary Planning
Because of my knowledge of Disney World and my firsthand experience, I know how to make the most of your park time and can plan out incredible daily itineraries for you based on your family, budget, and what you want to experience. I also know how to navigate crowds. That way all you have to do is show up and enjoy your vacation and not worry about any of the planning.
7. OnePoint of Contact
If you want to add a Travel Protection Plan, I do that for you. If you need to change your travel dates, I do that for you. Anything you need you just let me know and I will make it happen! I am in direct contact with Disney and have full access to your reservation so I can make any modifications needed. No more sitting on the phone on hold for hours with Disney! I want to save you time. I call Disney every single day, so let me make the call for you!
8. Transfers
If you have made a booking directly with Disney within the last 30 days and haven’t paid in full it can be transferred to me! That way you can gain access to all the incredible benefits listed above!
When it comes down to it, the price with me is the same price as booking directly with Disney. The biggest difference is you have someone to go to to help navigate all the changes, making sure you are in the best property for your unique needs, dining reservations, staying on top of sales, what happens if you need to cancel and most importantly – navigating the new add-ons like Disney Genie+. Not to mention the extra tips I give my clients for things like virtual queues and transportation. I would absolutely love to take out the stress of planning a trip for you! Click here to request a free quote and let’s start planning together!
There are more than 50 Table-Service restaurants at the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. That’s a lot to choose from! I’m here to offer some guidance by providing you with the price, cuisine, dining style, location, menu, and vibe of every single restaurant. (updated October 7, 2021)
Table-Service restaurants are the places you can make dining reservations for. Advanced Dining Reservations can be made 60 days in advance of your check-in date at 6:00AM EST. I highly recommend making reservations for any Table-Service restaurant. This list only includes the Table-Service restaurants that are currently open at Walt Disney World. Read all the way to the end to learn my favorites for each park, Disney Springs, and Disney Resort hotel!
Hannah’sRecommendations
Magic Kingdom – Skipper Canteen, Liberty Tree Tavern, Be Our Guest, Cinderella’s Royal Table
Epcot – Spice Road Table, Chefs de France
Hollywood Studios – 50’s Prime Time Cafe, Hollywood Brown Derby
Animal Kingdom – Tiffins, Yak & Yeti
Disney Springs – Homecomin’, Wine Bar George, Jock Lindsey’s Hangar Bar
Disney Resort – California Grill, Topolino’s Terrace
Keep reading to learn more about each of these fantastic options!
