Close Banner
Buy a 2025 SeaWorld® Fun Card and get the rest of 2024 and all of 2025 FREE!
SAVE UP TO $117
GET MY TICKETS
Home / Blog / Theme Park Tips & Planning / All-Day Park Hopping Is Back at Disney World — To Hop or Not?

All-Day Park Hopping Is Back at Disney World — To Hop or Not?

by Leap on January 9, 2024
319 Orlando

When it comes to purchasing Walt Disney World tickets, it seems as if there are endless options. Should you stick to one park per day or get a Disney Park Hopper ticket? Do you want to add on water parks? The biggest question people have about Walt Disney World tickets is whether they should hop or not. When we planned our first visit to the parks, we weren't sure which ones to choose. Now we do, and we're hoppy to help you!

By the way, here are more details about the major Disney ticket types, including the Disney Theme Park Base Ticket, the Disney Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper and the Disney Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Plus Option. No matter which ticket you choose, we can save you some green with our discount Disney tickets.

Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom

What Is a Disney Park Hopper and What Does It Include?

Let's start with some lingo. The Disney Park Hopper is the nickname for the Disney Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Option. While the formal name of this ticket type doesn't exactly roll off the tongue, it does allow you to park hop. Specifically, with this ticket type, you can visit one or more of the following parks each day for the length of your ticket:

So with the Disney Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Option, you could visit all four parks in one day if you wanted. (Hey, you could visit all four parks every day of your trip with it, but your frog legs would probably be pretty tired!) Visiting two parks in one day is the more popular option.

Get excited, as there are even more reasons to select the Park Hopper option. As of Jan. 9, 2024, all-day park hopping is back so you can hop as early as you want! Also, park pass reservations are no longer required for date-based tickets. These changes mean there's lots of flexibility in planning Disney vacations in 2024!

If your ticket or pass still requires park reservations, they are only required for the first park you wish to visit; once you've tapped into your first park, you can hop to another at any time.

Is the Disney Park Hopper Right for Me?

The Park Hopper offers more flexibility than the base ticket. You're not locked into any one park per day, so it allows for more spontaneity. We're going to walk through all the scenarios that we think make the Park Hopper a good choice, but we also want to assure you that even if you buy a base ticket, you can always upgrade ... even when you get to the parks! Do note that you cannot upgrade to a Park Hopper for just one day. If you upgrade from a base ticket to a Park Hopper, you will need to do it for the length of the ticket.

Expedition Everest at Disney's Animal Kingdom

The Disney Park Hopper is a good choice if …

  • Your party includes adults or teenagers: Grownups and older kids can move through the parks much faster than families with young kids. Plus we all know teenagers can change their minds about where they want to go and what they want to do.

If you have younger tadpoles, visiting one park per day may be plenty!

  • You have already visited Disney World: There is so much to explore in each park. If you've never visited, you're more likely to need more time to see and do everything. If you’re a repeat visitor, you're more likely to pick and choose which rides and shows you want to see in each park, so you'll be ready to move on to the next park more quickly.
  • You want the option to see a different nighttime spectacular or fireworks show every night: If you have the Disney Theme Park Ticket with Park Hopper Option, you can end your day watching whichever show you want, regardless of whatever park you visited earlier. For instance, you could spend your day at Disney’s Animal Kingdom, then hop over to Magic Kingdom to see the fireworks that night.
  • You are visiting when it's not super crowded: When the crowds are lower, you can move through the parks much faster, riding more and waiting less. Keep in mind, too, that the more people there are visiting, the more time it will take to get between the parks.
  • You don’t want to commit to which park you want to visit: As mentioned above, the Park Hopper provides the most flexibility for the more spontaneous among us :)

If you don't hop, you really do have to pick your park and stick with it.

  • You want maximum flexibility for ADRs: The most popular restaurants need to be booked as early as possible (up to 60 days for Advance Dining Reservations), which means you are often committing to a specific park on a specific day months in advance of your trip. Park Hoppers give you the flexibility to keep existing reservations, even if you decide to spend most of your day somewhere else.

Note that if you are a Walt Disney World annual passholder, your pass comes with park hopping! This allows flexibility with going to different parks in one day. Annual passholders must still make a park reservation if arriving before 2 p.m., but they do not need to book a theme park reservation to visit the parks after 2 p.m. There are some exceptions, though! Reservations still need to be made for Magic Kingdom Park on Saturdays and Sundays (regardless of the time of day you visit). But if it's a "Good-to-Go" Day, passholders don't need a reservation. Pass blockout dates continue to apply, as well as a limit to how many park reservations you can hold at one time.

We know there are a lot of decisions to make as you plan your Disney World trip, and the decision to hop or not is one of them. We hope this overview of when to purchase Park Hoppers has been hopful as you plan your trip. We frogs always hop through the parks, but we know that doesn't make sense for all families (especially those who aren't frogs). No matter which you choose, we've got a discount Disney ticket that's right for you! We've also got a ton of other resources in our Orlando planning guide

Keep hopping!

Keep hopping, Leap!
View Comments

Comments

1–50 of 147 comments
May 11, 2024 at 7:33 p.m.
Juliana Says...

Can I start my day at MK go to AK and go back to MK on the same day with park hopper?

Reply
May 13, 2024 at 8:56 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Juliana!

Yes, absolutely!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Apr 5, 2024 at 5:43 p.m.
Peggy Says...

If I have a 4 day single park ticket and want to up grade to a hopper after I have used 2 days, do I pay to upgrade for the 2 days which are left or do I have to pay for all 4 days the original ticket was being used for?

Reply
Apr 5, 2024 at 3:50 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Peggy!

While it's possible to upgrade your Base ticket to a Park Hopper, you would still be charged the full amount for the length of your ticket.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 9, 2024 at 7:50 p.m.
Connir Says...

My daughter and I have a pass that we had for a while. They have several days left on them. I have sent emails, called, and haven't got any response. Please tell me where I need to call or what I need to do. Thank you.

Reply
Jan 11, 2024 at 7:41 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Connir!

Undercover Tourist's customer service can be reached at 1 (800) 846-1302 or [email protected]

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Dec 31, 2023 at 5:52 p.m.
Meg Smith Says...

We are heading to Disney World February 17-22. It will be my husband and me. How do I determine if I should buy the park hopper ticket? And are there any tips to know which park you should visit each day of the week if you don't park hop? I have been to Disney before but as a chaperone so I haven't had to plan before. I am open to doing Genie + and LL if that makes a difference to my park hopper question.

Reply
Jan 2, 2024 at 9:38 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Meg!

Generally, the biggest reason to get Park Hoppers is for the flexibility, especially if you like being spontaneous with your planning. There are several other factors that come into play: 1) length of visit — we like to recommend Park Hoppers if your trip is shorter than four days (so you can visit all four parks!), but if you're planning to have at least a full day at each park, then Base tickets may make more sense; 2) your party - since it's just you and your husband, it's easier to manage not only traveling to another park, but how fast you can travel through the parks (so you could get through one park with time to spare and may want to move to another) - especially true if you get Genie+ and ILL which would allow you to get through rides even faster; 3) holiday crowds - however, it is a holiday weekend, so lines are expected to be longer. You may want to hop if you start off at one park early in the day, and move to another if you see that wait times are lower at another park, for instance. That said, if you are moving around more slowly due to crowds, it might take a full day to get through just one park before you'd even want to move on. (If utilizing Genie+/ILL, this may not need as much consideration.) As far as choosing specific parks on certain days of the week if you have Base tickets, families like to start their trip at Magic Kingdom, so mid-week tends to be slightly less busier than weekends or Mondays/Fridays. EPCOT also tends to be busier on the weekends, since it's popular with locals. So we'd recommend starting out with Animal Kingdom and Hollywood Studios — unless you want to experience Festival of the Arts at EPCOT since the last day is Feb. 19.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 21, 2023 at 1 p.m.
Samuel Williams Says...

So my family and I (12 total) are finally doing a Disney trip early June 2024 for a week and plan to do park hopper 3 days and 3-4 rest days. What would be the best option to maximize our time at all four parks on the three park days we have? Night shows/ fireworks will be a priority. My last trip was with a group of 5 and we did too park hopper days and that was fun but it still required a lot of planning on my end which I enjoyed. Looking for advice on this next trip with 12 total people.

Reply
Oct 30, 2023 at 9:48 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Samuel!

With such a big party, we would suggest a full day at Magic Kingdom, as it's sometimes just easier to stay in one place without having to transport everyone. Though if you want to maximize your park hopping ability, then we'd recommend at least one morning and one evening for a full day's worth at Magic Kingdom. We suggest going to Animal Kingdom in the morning since that park usually opens and closes the earliest (plus it doesn't have any night shows or fireworks so you can save a night at each of the other parks). EPCOT and Hollywood Studios are very close to each other (can easily take a friendship boat or Disney Skyliner), so we like pairing them together when hopping. If you're just wanting to visit two parks in one day, then this would leave one morning for a repeat visit to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios (which we'd recommend choosing based on your party's interests.) These scenarios could be broken down into the following (not in any particular order):

Day 1: Magic Kingdom (full day)

Day 2: [Option 1] Animal Kingdom (morning) and EPCOT (night) // [Option 2] Animal Kingdom (morning) and Hollywood Studios (night)

Day 3: [Option 1] EPCOT (morning) and Hollywood Studios (night) // [Option 2] Hollywood Studios (morning) and EPCOT (night)

or

Day 1: Animal Kingdom (morning) and Magic Kingdom (night)

Day 2: [Option 1] Magic Kingdom (morning) and EPCOT (night) // [Option 2] Magic Kingdom (morning) and Hollywood Studios (night)

Day 3: [Option 1] EPCOT and Hollywood Studios (night) // [Option 2] Hollywood Studios (morning) and EPCOT (night)

Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 17, 2023 at 6:12 p.m.
Lucy Says...

Hi there, If we have the base annual pass, will we still need to make a reservation after 1/9/24? And at that time can we park hop before 2pm? Thanks!

Reply
Oct 17, 2023 at 2:47 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lucy!

Annual Passholders will still need to make them park reservations on select dates after Jan. 9 - but Disney is also rolling out some "good to go" dates that will not require you to reserve as an Annual Passholder. On days when theme park reservations are required, Passholders will be able to hop after visiting their first (reserved) park (without the 2 p.m. restriction).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 17, 2023 at 3:18 p.m.
James Bonner Says...

Hi. I have an annual pass. Do I still need to wait until 2 pm to park hop? Or is the January 9th 2024 date good for all? Thanks?

Reply
Oct 17, 2023 at 2:40 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi James!

As long as you aren't blocked out, you'll be good to park hop any time after Jan. 9, too :) If it's on a day when you have to make a reservation as an Annual Passholder, you'll just need to scan into the park you reserved before you hop.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 9, 2023 at 5:38 p.m.
Steve Alderson Says...

Hi. With the park hopper option can I revisit a park more than one time per day? Example. We start at EPCOT, go to Magic Kingdom then return to EPCOT the same day? Thank you!

Reply
Oct 9, 2023 at 3:55 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Steve,

You sure can - have fun!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 29, 2023 at 10:29 p.m.
Brandy Says...

Hi- We plan on traveling on Dec. 21st, 22nd, and the 23rd. This will be our third trip with 4 children, ages 8-10. Ideally, we'd love to park hop in order to maximize our experience and select our favorite rides at each park. Do you recommend park hopping during the Christmas season or is it too busy; therefore, lots of time wasted in lines? Any suggestions?

Reply
Oct 6, 2023 at 1:52 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Brandy!

Our general advice is that typically during busier times, park hopping tends not to be worth it due to longer lines not only for rides in the parks, but also the time it takes to move between parks (especially if using Disney transportation during any peak travel times). However, since you have been to Disney World before and are solely focusing on your favorite rides, park hoppers may still make sense. Also, if seeing all four parks during the holidays is a priority, you would need park hoppers. Thursday the 21st may be the easiest day to hop since it has the lowest crowd level of the three days, whereas on Saturday, you may want to stay put in one park.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 25, 2023 at 7:53 a.m.
Jane Says...

Hello! Husband and I (both adults) are planning our first trip to Disney World in late September for 2 full days. We will be staying at the Disney resort so we do get early entry (8.30-9am) and extended evening hours at MK for one day (10-12pm). We will be paying for Genie+ to minimize wait time. I would like to know whether we should try park hopping to get to all the popular attractions or just pick 2 parks. I don’t want the day to be too rushed or too boring (I’m not interested in the kiddy rides!). If you recommend park hopping, which two parks do you suggest I pair with for each day and which parks should I start at? Thank you.

Reply
Aug 4, 2023 at 2:39 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jane!

Since you only have two days and will be using Genie+, we'd say go for park hopping so you can have the most flexibility! We would pair Animal Kingdom (morning) with Magic Kingdom (evening) if you want to maximize park time as much as possible since Animal Kingdom opens the earliest and Magic Kingdom closes the latest (with your Extended Evening Hours time). It will make for a long day, so we'd recommend a nice midday break. That leaves EPCOT and Hollywood Studios for the other day, and it will depend on which nighttime entertainment you'd be most interested in watching. Start at EPCOT if you want to see Fantasmic at Hollywood Studios, or start at Hollywood Studios if you wish to see fireworks at EPCOT. Since you'll be there in late September, there's a chance that the new fireworks show will be playing for D100, which begins Sept. 22. However, the debut date hasn't been announced yet. Until we know for sure, we'd recommend Fantasmic! over EPCOT Forever (the current interim fireworks show). Also keep in mind that if you wish to join the virtual queue for Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, you will need to start at EPCOT. But if you're purchasing ILL for that ride in particular, then it wouldn't affect your decision on where to start.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 24, 2023 at 11:28 p.m.
Amy Says...

I have purchased 5 day park hopper plus tickets. We are starting Saturday and doing each park. Wednesday and Thursday we are doing Universal Studios. Friday the Mickey's not so scary party and then Saturday will be hopping to do anything we missed or want to do again. My question is.. if we want to go to the water park say on Wed, Thurs, or Friday will that work? I know PH+ doesn't have to be consecutive...but just want to make sure I don't mess it up. So do we get to use the + part only 5 times since we have 5 day tickets?

Reply
Jul 25, 2023 at 8:42 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amy!

That is correct — with the 5-Day Park Hopper Plus ticket, you get 5 entries to any of the Park Hopper Plus options before your ticket expires (a 5-Day PH+ ticket has a 9-day window). So you would be able to visit the water park on Wed., Thurs. or Friday if you wanted to.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 27, 2023 at 8:27 p.m.
Patti Says...

We visited the parks in 2019 using base tickets, in hindsight, we should have used a hopper for that trip. We are going again and circumstances are different so I have not decided whether to get hopper tickets or not, it would just depend on how feasible it would be.

First, I want to go to Animal Kingdom until close (at 7pm) and then hop over to Magic Kingdom for the fireworks.

Second, I want to start at Hollywood Studios (because it opens earlier) and then spend the afternoon at EPCOT and return to HS for Fantasmic.

Would it be possible to do those? How much time should I leave for travel between parks?

I will be driving to the first park, should I plan to drive to the second (would I have to pay parking again?) or should I utilize Disney transport to hop there and back? (Would there be a problem leaving my car at AK until after fireworks at MK?)

Thank you

Reply
Jan 27, 2023 at 3:56 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Patti!

For the first scenario, it depends on when the fireworks happen at Magic Kingdom. You'd be cutting it pretty close if the show starts early, say 8 p.m. So if fireworks are earlier in the night, Disney transportation would likely be faster since the bus can drop you off near the park's main entrance, versus driving over because you'd have to park at TTC and then take the ferry boat or monorail to the main entrance. However, it could prove to be tricky getting back to your car at Animal Kingdom. Disney won't leave anyone stranded, but it may take a long journey to get there. If fireworks are later (around 9 p.m.), we'd suggest driving to save a headache later. If driving, you would not have to pay the daily rate again (just hold onto your receipt).

For the second scenario, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios are fairly close in proximity so it's easier to hop back and forth - plus you have more Disney transportation options (Friendship boat, Disney Skyliner or even just walking). Our favorite option is the Disney Skyliner, which would take around 20-30 minutes or so since you have to transfer lines at Caribbean Beach. You could drive yourself too, but it may take just as long (having to walk to your car since the parking trams have not returned yet to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 17, 2022 at 9:57 p.m.
Ryan Shepherd Says...

We're doing Disney for New Year's this year. We've read that for NYE, it's best to just pick your park, go early and plan to stay all day. So we're planning to do that with Epcot on the 31st. But do you think it's feasible to do Animal Kingdom or Hollywood Studios on the 30th and then hop to Magic Kingdom on the 30th for rides and fireworks? We've got three days of park hoppers, so we were thinking of just doing MK as a hop (we've been many times) and making reservations at the other parks for each day. Would really appreciate any insight!

Thanks!

Reply
Aug 18, 2022 at 10:13 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ryan!

That sounds like a solid plan to us! As you mentioned, usually it's NYE when you want to stay put at one park, but on the 30th, it should be fine (though still busy!).

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 1, 2022 at 2:02 p.m.
Vicki Says...

Can we purchase tickets in different batches to get one day of park hopping without buying that for all three days. For example, can I buy a two-day base ticket and then a one-day with park hopper so that those are not tied together. I hope that makes sense!

Reply
Mar 1, 2022 at 4:16 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Vicki!

That's toadally possible! You'll just want to talk to a Guest Relations representative (a cast member with an iPad near the touchpoints) before you scan in to make sure that the right ticket is being prioritized since you'll have multiple tickets on your account. They can scan your MagicBand or MagicMobile pass to see which one is prioritized — if it's the wrong ticket (say, you want to use your Park Hopper first, but your base ticket is prioritized), they can switch it before the ticket is activated.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 13, 2022 at 10:54 p.m.
Sarah Says...

Question. I just bought a 4 day one park pass from your site. I was thinking that I would do a park hopper on the last day. If I upgrade on the last day at the park, does that mean I have to pay for a hopper for all 4 days…not just the one? It is my first time going with my kids, so I want to ensure we do it right (they are 6 and 11).

Reply
Feb 14, 2022 at 10:25 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Sarah!

Yes, if you would like to upgrade to Park Hopper tickets, then you would need to upgrade all four days.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 18, 2022 at 2:28 p.m.
Lucky Says...

I'm going to Disney in April of 2022. This will be my first time. I'm staying at the All Star Movie Resort and have the hopper. We want to see the Fireworks at night. Will we be able to get back to our Hotel using the Hopper or are the Hoppers done after 9pm?

Reply
Jan 18, 2022 at 1:59 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lucky!

If you're hopping around property, Disney Transportation can get you back to your hotel at night! Park hopping hours start at 2 p.m. and you can hop to as many parks as you can until the parks' closing times. Since you're staying at All-Star Movies, you'll need to take a bus back. Bus service (or any mode of transportation) usually ends an hour after the parks' closing hours. Let us know if you have any other questions!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 17, 2022 at 8:34 p.m.
Emilie Houser Says...

So, we have a 5 day base tkt. We think we'd like to hop for at least 3 of those days. How does the price change for a 3 day hopper rather than the 5? Does it even make sense or should we add it prior to arrival?

Reply
Jan 21, 2022 at 9:06 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Emilie!

Generally, the cost difference between base and park hopper tickets goes down as the ticket length gets longer. However, if you want to upgrade your 5-day base ticket to hoppers, then you'll need to upgrade all five days. It's an all-or-nothing situation! So it's up to you if you find value to upgrade your ticket. You can do it in advance or at the parks.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 3, 2021 at 11:13 p.m.
Vanessa Says...

Hi!! Wanted to get your advice.. we have 3 day ticket, one per park (no hopper). Which 3 of the 4 parks would you choose for the most fun for a 5 year old. Thank you!!

Reply
Jun 4, 2021 at 8:51 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Vanessa!

For a 5-year-old, we'd recommend Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom (especially if they're into animals!). For your last pick, we'd say it depends on your child's interests. Hollywood Studios has more height restrictions for its rides, but if they like Star Wars and/or Toy Story, pick this one, as it still has Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway, Disney Junior Pals and the Star Wars and Toy Story lands are immersive. EPCOT's biggest draw for tadpoles is Frozen, both spotting the characters and the ride. It also has several tadpole-friendly rides, including The Seas with Nemo & Friends, Journey into Imagination with Figment, Spaceship Earth and more. It does require a lot of walking though, if not using a stroller.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 28, 2021 at 3:17 p.m.
SD Says...

Hi,

We are planning to visit Disney World on June 7th, with 11 and 7 year old boys. We have bought 1 day park hopper and plan to visit 2 park in a day and spend 3 days in universal as we have been to Disneyland before. Can you please advise which 2 parks should we cover based on the time of the year and kids' age. Also, kids are not into thrill seeking rides

Reply
May 28, 2021 at 11:51 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi SD!

We would recommend Animal Kingdom and EPCOT, as those parks are the most different from Disneyland and have some low-thrill attractions too. If you haven't already, we would book your Park Passes ASAP as things are filling up quickly - have a great trip!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
May 28, 2021 at 2:43 a.m.
Mónica Says...

Hi! If Im not staying on property and buy a park hopper ticket , Am i able to use Disney transportation to park hop? Im taking my car but would rather not move it between parking lots to save time. Thank you!!!

Reply
May 28, 2021 at 8:34 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Monica,

Yes! Anyone can use Disney's free transportation options. :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Apr 15, 2021 at 3:42 a.m.
Stephanie F Says...

We were thinking of doing Animal kingdom then Park hopper for magic kingdom at 2pm... what are the chances we can’t get into Magic Kingdom at 2 with new covid capacity rules? Would they turn us away? We don’t want another park option.

Reply
Apr 15, 2021 at 8:14 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Stephanie!

To date, there have not been any capacity issues when it comes to hopping - and that includes the super busy spring break we just had - so you should be just fine to hop over to Magic Kingdom! Have fun!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 16, 2021 at 3:14 a.m.
Amy Says...

I’m going to stay at a WDW Resort hotel 3/26-3/28. I can only go to the parks 1 day. Can I do just a 1 day hopper?

Reply
Mar 16, 2021 at 9:06 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amy!

Sure! You can find the one-day hopper here. Have fun!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 4, 2021 at 4:04 a.m.
Stephanie Says...

If you make a reservation for one park and find that you get through it faster than expected and would like to hop to another park, can you add the park hopper to your ticket at that time or do you have to purchase it in advance?

Reply
Mar 4, 2021 at 11:51 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Stephanie!

You can definitely upgrade to a hopper as long as there are days left on your ticket! You can do this at the ticket window or Guest Relations, and sometimes you can even do this on My Disney Experience under "My Tickets." However, the hopper addition is a flat rate for the duration of your tickets (starting at $65), and the upgrade price difference will be based on the original length of the ticket and not just what is remaining for admission. For example, if you purchase a four day, single park per day ticket and use two days and on your third day would like to upgrade to include the Park Hopper Option, you will pay the upgrade difference on four day ticket, not the two days remaining. With that in mind, it definitely saves you some money if you plan ahead (and can leave you with more days to hop)! Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Sep 18, 2020 at 12:52 a.m.
Chris Wright Says...

Hi! My Family is planning a trip in late January. We visit Disneyland and California Adventure pretty much every year. My kids will be 13, 11 and 4. They are beasts and love the Disney as much as we do. We are planning on being in the park for 5 days. Would you suggest a hopper or just to stick to one park? We always do a hopper at Disneyland but I know that World is a monster! Thanks for the help!

Reply
Sep 18, 2020 at 8:08 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Chris!

Because you'll have ample time to explore each of the parks during your trip, we'd stick with base tickets this go! With recent upgrades in the park, we've found that there's plenty to keep us hoppin' for a full day at each of the theme parks, and as you noted, the property is pretty expansive. Hours will also be more limited in the winter. Right now, Disney World is not allowing park hopping. However, if that were to change by the time your trip rolls around, and you think you'd like to hop, you can always upgrade at the gate :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 29, 2020 at 5:18 p.m.
Tab Says...

Hi question Disney fans?? My husband and I are visiting no kid trip, we want to do multiple parks (possibly more than one park a day) not riding a whole lot so which ticket option is best?? I have never been just wanting to make sure I get the best options. TIA

Reply
Mar 4, 2020 at 4:21 p.m.
Susan Says...

All I can say is you can't plan enough. Make sure you and who ever is in your party map out an itinerary for your day! We just got back and I'm here to tell you it was packed! ALL parks you guys and ALL day!! So have your "fast passes" well in advance unless you like waiting in lines for well more than an hour. I'm not being negative, but realistic. Late February use to be the low season, but not anymore. Face it guys...there is no low season in any of the Disney Parks. But, if you know this while making your plans, you should be able to do at least a few things without a terribly long wait time. If you are a Star Wars fan or Toy Story fan and do not have fast passes...get in line at the gate VERY early and rush to your attractions.

Reply
Mar 2, 2020 at 9:22 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tab!

If you're looking to do more than one park a day, you'll definitely want a hopper ticket! We'll let the Pond weigh in from here :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 25, 2020 at 3:23 p.m.
Lisa Pontious Says...

If we buy the park hopper ticket but then don't park hop, do you lose the park hopper or can it be used at another time?

Reply
Feb 25, 2020 at 10:18 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lisa!

The hopper is only valid during the length of the ticket, unfortunately, so it can't be saved. Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 9, 2020 at 12:12 p.m.
Gaby Says...

Hi!

If we went for the mail option for our choice of tickets. How long do they take to arrive?

Many thanks,

Gaby

Reply
Feb 10, 2020 at 11:23 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Gaby!

Shipping times for physical tickets are as follows: United States - 10 business days

Austria, Australia, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Ireland (Republic of), Italy, New Zealand, Norway, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, United Kingdom - 12 business days

Hope this helps!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 8, 2020 at 4:20 p.m.
Skynet Says...

Hello, We are traveling to Disney late February. 2 adults, 7 & 8 yr old. Can we buy a 4 day base ticket and visit the same park multiple days? (i.e. Magic kingdom day 1 &2, then Epcot day 3, finally Animal kingdom day 4) We think hoping to multiple parks in same day may be too taxing. Thanks in advance for advice.

Reply
Feb 10, 2020 at 10:59 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Skynet!

If you purchase a 4-day base ticket, you can toadally hit the same park more than once during your trip, just like your plan laid out :) A base ticket only limits you from hopping to more than one park in the same day. Have fun!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 6, 2020 at 3:42 a.m.
Meghan Says...

Hello - we want to do 1 park on day one and 2 parks on day two. Do I purchase a 2-day ticket (and add the hopper option) or do I purchase a 3 day ticket (and add the hopper option)? Thanks!

Reply
Feb 6, 2020 at 4:35 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Meghan!

We'd suggest purchasing the 3-day ticket and adding the hopper option. (It'll be about $70 to add the hopper for either 2 or 3-day tickets.)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Feb 3, 2020 at 8:54 p.m.
Brenda Says...

If I buy a 2 day base ticket and then I want to upgrade to a park hopper can I do that at the Disneyland ticket window on the first day? Also can these tickets be upgraded to annual passes if I decide I want to upgrade on my first day? Thanks!

Reply
Feb 3, 2020 at 4:08 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Brenda!

You sure can, on both accounts! Hop by the ticket office and they'll be hoppy to get you upgraded to a Park Hopper or Annual Pass :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 17, 2020 at 1:45 a.m.
Beth Mat Says...

What is the cost of adding on a park hopper?like the cost just for the hopper. We are looking at the 4 + 1 day tickets, so 5 days. Thank you.

Reply
Jan 22, 2020 at 9:06 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Beth!

Adding the Hopper option to a 5-day base ticket will cost about $80/per ticket.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 9, 2020 at 7:21 p.m.
Susan Says...

Hi there,

I just want to clarify, we want to do single park tickets for two days and a park hopper for the third day of our trip. What is the best way to do this without paying for the park hopper all 3 days? Should I get the upgrade on the 3rd day at the gate or can I buy 2 single day tix and then one park hopper ticket? It sounds like buying one park hopper ticket in advance is not possible with multiple day tix so I just want to clarify. Thanks so much, very informative site!

Reply
Jan 10, 2020 at 9:51 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Susan!

The Park Hopper add on is valid for the length of your ticket, so while you can upgrade on your last day, you'll pay about $60 for the upgrade. Purchasing the 2-day base and the one day hopper looks to be more expensive than it would be to upgrade the third day to a park hopper. But be sure to do some math, too, because $70 would cover a hopper for all three days of your ticket :) We'd recommend either going for the hopper in advance for all three days, or purchase base in advance and upgrade at the ticket booth on the third day. Have a great trip!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Dec 15, 2019 at 4:08 p.m.
Stefanie Says...

Are there any park to park passes to allow back and forth from WDW to US?

Reply
Dec 16, 2019 at 7:38 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Stefanie!

Park hoppers are limited to either Universal or Disney (Universal offers park-to-park tickets to allow you to hop back and forth between Universal's Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida; while Walt Disney World offers a park hopper that allows you to hop between Disney's Animal Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Magic Kingdom and Epcot). There is not a park hopper offered for Walt Disney World and Universal combined. You can check out all of our ticket options here!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Nov 16, 2019 at 1:49 a.m.
Coey Says...

Hi there. I would like to ask if the prices shown on the website are in USD?

Reply
Nov 18, 2019 at 8:51 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Coey!

Yes, the prices on our site are shown in US dollars.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Nov 13, 2019 at 5:41 p.m.
Kae Says...

Hi! If I buy a 6 day ticket (no hopper) and only visit the parks 4 days, can I use the remaining 2 days to visit multiple parks on 1 of those 4 days?

Reply
Nov 13, 2019 at 1:20 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kae!

No, unfortunately Base tickets only allow you to enter one park per day. You could, however, buy a 4 day base ticket and a 1 day hopper!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 30, 2019 at 3:05 p.m.
Annie Says...

Hi. I guess my question is do I need a base ticket to add the hopper option or does the hopper work as it'S own ticket to enter the park?

Reply
Oct 30, 2019 at 12:14 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Annie!

The Park Hopper ticket is your admission - no need to add on a base ticket :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Sep 23, 2019 at 2:37 a.m.
Maria Pabilo Says...

I want to visit two parks in one day. What could be the best choice? buying one park hopper ticket? does it allows me to accomplish the "one day, two parks"? Or do I have to buy a park hopper ticket and a base ticket for the other park? Thanks in advance for your answer

Reply
Sep 23, 2019 at 9:12 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Maria!

To visit two parks in one day, you'd just need a one day park hopper - that allows you access into any of the four parks in that same one day period :)

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Aug 16, 2019 at 8:42 p.m.
Kevin Says...

Hi, I’m planning to go to the Disney world at the beginning of October for two days with hopper tickets, can I use this hopper to go to animal kingdom in the morning then switch to the magic kingdom for the Halloween special night at the same day? Does it counts in park hopper or I still need to get a separate ticket for the Halloween ticket even though I have park hopper? Thank you.

Reply
Aug 19, 2019 at 5:31 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kevin!

The Halloween party is a separately ticketed event, so you'd need a separate party ticket to be able to attend.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 8, 2019 at 5:11 a.m.
Edwin Says...

Hello,

With the park hopper, can you return to the same park after visiting another park mid day.

Reply
Aug 8, 2019 at 9:35 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Edwin!

Yes, you sure can! You can hop in and out of the parks as many times as you'd like within your ticketed days. Enjoy!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 7, 2019 at 1:36 p.m.
Zeke Says...

Hi! We have the park hopper tickets and we are planning on going to animal kingdom first and then magic Kingdom by 2 pm or so. Do you think it would be better to use our 3 fast passes for magic Kingdom and since we'll be at animal kingdom when they open just risk waiting in lines for the rides hoping we can "beat the rush" or does this not make any sense? We're going the first of August. Thank you!

Reply
Jul 9, 2019 at 2:09 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Zeke!

In general, that's the strategy we recommend! It's also worth considering what your ride priorities are, though, because you can continue to book FastPasses once you use up your initial three. If you'd like to try to ride Flight of Passage, for example, and you're able to snag a reservation, it might be worth booking an additional two FastPasses in Animal Kingdom and then continuing to book in Magic Kingdom (which means you may not be able to snag a FastPass for Seven Dwarfs or Space Mountain). If the Pandora rides don't matter as much to you, we'd suggest rope dropping Animal Kingdom and heading for Everest or any other big ticket ride that isn't in Pandora (since that's where everyone heads!) and booking your FastPass reservations for Magic Kingdom.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jul 4, 2019 at 1:44 p.m.
Tanika Says...

Hello,

I have a quick question. I'm buying a park hopper option to visiti universal studios and islands of adventure in the same day. my question is, if i start my day at US, then head over to IOA, can i go back to US? am i allowed to go to those 2 parts back and forth throughout that 1 day ticket or is for just one entry per 2 parks? hope this makes sense

Reply
Jul 8, 2019 at 10:56 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tanika!

With a Park to Park ticket at Universal, you're able to bounce back and forth between Islands of Adventure and Universal Studios Florida as many times as you'd like. Enjoy!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 9, 2019 at 11:51 a.m.
Marie Says...

We have 2 Day Park Hopper tickets for July 1-5. We would like to combine two parks a day. Which parks should we combine together? Also, which rides should we make sure we ride with a 12 and 5 year old?

Reply
Jun 10, 2019 at 8:52 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Marie!

This one is tricky. Epcot and Hollywood Studios are the closest together in terms of proximity, so they make a lot of sense to hop between. However, the other two parks, Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom, will be where your tadpoles will likely want to spend the most time. Because of this, we suggest combining Animal Kingdom with either Epcot or Hollywood Studios (depending on the Crowd Calendar, including Extra Magic Hours). Then, hit whichever park is left with Magic Kingdom. We'd suggest hitting Magic Kingdom second so that you can finish off your evening with the fireworks. You can find more of our Park Plans here. Have a great trip!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 6, 2019 at 10:30 a.m.
Jodie Says...

We are planning our first trip to WDW from Australia and are staying onsite for 15 nights, we are planning on getting an 8 day park hopper ticket (as want to also do Universal whilst we are there). We currently plan to attend our first WDW park on the 8th Sept can you help me work out when my last date to go to a WDW Park would be as I have read things that say our tickets will expire 14 days after activation, 12 days after activation and I have to do 8 days straight. Thanks

Reply
Jun 7, 2019 at 12:36 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jodie,

If you go to the details page of the ticket you are interested in, you can enter your date and get these details! For example, if you get an 8-day park hopper with a Sept. 8 start date, your ticket would be valid any 8 days between Sept. 9 and Sept. 19.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jun 3, 2019 at 4:34 a.m.
Denisse Says...

How do you park hop ? Do you ride your car to the other park ? Are the parks conectes in the inside ?

Reply
Jun 3, 2019 at 2:42 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Denisse!

Disney offers several free modes of transportation to allow you to park hop. These include buses at all parks, boats and the monorail at some. Alternatively, Ubers, Minnie Vans and taxis are all available if you'd prefer.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 7, 2019 at 4:50 p.m.
Nazira Constantino Says...

With each ticket, do you get a fast pass with it? I just want to make sure I understand correctly.

Reply
May 7, 2019 at 1:24 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nazira,

That's correct! At Walt Disney World Resort, FastPass+ reservations are included in your ticket. Regardless of where you are staying, you'll have access to book 3 per day in advance (30 days for those not staying at a Disney Resort hotel, and 60 for those who are staying at a Disney Resort hotel). Once you've used your initial 3, you'll be able to book more, one by one, as many times as you'd like. These reservations can be made via My Disney Experience (be sure you link your tickets first!). We hope this helps - let us know if you have any additional questions!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
May 4, 2019 at 3:43 p.m.
Robin Says...

I have 2 day base tickets already but only going for one day .... Can I use 1 day in the morning go to Animal Kingdom and get my 3 fast passes then in the evening use my 2nd day base ticket and reserve 3 separate fast passes. The reason I ask is because I already purchased the 2 day base ticket without park hopper option but I am only going to be there one day now so just trying to utilitze my time. I know way more expensive I am more asking if Disney would allow me to use 2 separate base tickets the same day....didn't know if finger scanner would prevent that one ticket is under my account and my other day is under my mom account but in my name

Reply
May 6, 2019 at 9:30 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Robin!

You may get dinged at the gate because of the finger scan; we'd suggest heading to the ticket booth instead and seeing if they have any options for you that meet your needs without breaking the bank.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 18, 2019 at 12:08 a.m.
Ann Says...

If I bought a hopper pass in 2000 and did not use all the days on it can I still use the day I have left?

Reply
Apr 18, 2019 at 8:03 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Ann!

This will depend on the type of ticket and whether or not any days were used on it. Check on the back of your ticket to find the expiration date, and any fine print about use date (as many have a 14-days from time of use expiration). You can verify the amount of days available on your ticket (and its validity) by calling (407) 939-1289 or visiting Guest Relations.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 10, 2019 at 9:26 p.m.
Elizabeth Says...

If I get a 3 day park hopper plus, can I go to Magic Kingdom fireworks all 3 days?

Reply
Apr 11, 2019 at 8:24 a.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Elizabeth!

You sure can. Enjoy!

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 26, 2019 at 4:35 p.m.
Kelly Says...

If I have purchased a 5-day PH+ and plan to stay 7 days; I have enough ticket days to get into the 4 major parks for 5 days and use the other 2 days for water parks , correct?

Reply
Mar 26, 2019 at 12:25 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kelly,

That's correct! With the 5 day park hopper plus, you get 5 park hopper days, plus 5 "plus" visits to any of the "plus" activities (including the water parks). Enjoy!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 22, 2019 at 7:45 p.m.
tom Says...

can you buy a DW base 1 day ticket and add 1 day hopper to it?

Reply
Mar 22, 2019 at 3:17 p.m.
FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tom!

You sure can - you can either purchase a 1 day Park Hopper ahead of time, or you can purchase a Base ticket and visit a Guest Services representative to upgrade during your visit.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply

Leave a comment

Search blog articles

About Undercover Tourist

Undercover Tourist is the leading supplier of online discount tickets to Orlando, Florida-area attractions, including Walt Disney World® Resort, Universal Orlando Resort, SeaWorld® Orlando, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort and more.

Sign Up for Our Newsletter

Get the inside scoop on theme park news, planning tips, concert and sports announcements, special offers and much more!

Park Plans

Our step-by-step guides will save you up to 4 hours a day.