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All of the Benefits of Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel

by Mommy Frog on February 26, 2024 83 Orlando   Video

Benefits to Staying a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel – Pinterest

One of the biggest decisions you can make in planning your trip to Walt Disney World is where to stay. There are hundreds of options in the Orlando area, which can make your decision even more difficult. But it's really simple for us: We prefer to stay on-site (and did we mention we offer hoppin' deals on Walt Disney World Resort hotel stays? Get 35% off select stays from March 25, 2024 through July 7, 2024!). We recommend it for everyone but first-timers especially. Many guests refer to it as the "Disney bubble" for a reason — there's just something special about never feeling like you leave the magic!

Since Jan. 9, 2024, a big change has been in effect. Theme park reservations will no longer be required for date-based tickets. For any other admission types and annual passholders, theme park reservations may be required.

While some benefits have evolved, there are still plenty of reasons to stay in the magic. Let's hop into all of the benefits of staying on-site at the Most Magical Place on Earth!

Overview of Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

You'll have plenty of options when choosing a Walt Disney World Resort hotel — there are more than 25 resorts and villas! There's something for every theme and budget. Disney World Resorts are separated into three categories based on price point. We have separate guides detailing everything to know about value, moderate and deluxe resorts.

Coronado Springs Resort - Dig Site Pool

Walt Disney World Value Resorts

Walt Disney World Moderate Resorts

Walt Disney World Deluxe Resorts

Walt Disney World Deluxe Villa Resorts

Special Partner Hotels

There are a few select resorts that are not technically Disney-owned, but guests still receive the same on-site benefits. These include:

Top Benefits of Staying at Walt Disney World Resort Hotels

Admission to one Disney Water Park on Arrival Day

A brand new perk for hotel guests planning a visit in 2025 is complimentary access to either Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park or Disney's Blizzard Beach Water Park on your check-in day! Now that's how you kick off vacation in style! Save some green with Undercover Tourist! Theme park tickets and Walt Disney World Resorts for 2025 are available for purchase starting on Feb. 27, 2024. Be sure to double-check the water park's operating hours on the day of your visit.

First Access to Disney Genie+ Selections and Advance Dining Reservations

Walt Disney World Resort hotel guests have two distinct advantages when it comes to planning their vacations. They can book individual Lightning Lane selections and Advance Dining Reservations (ADRs) before anyone else. This means resort guests can snag reservations for the most popular rides and restaurants.

Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind

Lightning Lane is a part of Disney Genie+ (which replaced the Disney FastPass+ system). For an additional cost per day, per person, guests can access most attractions through the Lightning Lane entrance. Reservations can be made one at a time on that day only, starting at 7 a.m.

For an additional cost, guests can make individual Lightning Lane selections for popular rides such as TRON Lightcycle / Run and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train at Magic Kingdom, Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance at Disney's Hollywood Studios and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind at EPCOT. Each park has rides that are paid a la carte and are not part of the Genie+ service. These selections can be made once the park has opened. For resort guests, you'll be able to book up to two individual Lightning Lane selections at 7 a.m. This means guests staying at a Disney World hotel get first dibs on some of the most popular rides and attractions in the parks. This can be a huge perk to guaranteeing your Lightning Lane selection hours before general guests, especially for rides such as Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind, which can sell out of reservations for the day by late morning on busy days.

For ADRs, all guests (those staying on-site and off) can book dining reservations starting 60 days out, but guests staying at an official Disney World hotel can book those reservations for their full stay. If you were planning a 10-day stay at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel, you would be able to make reservations for the later days during your vacation when others cannot. For example, say you're visiting from Dec. 1 to 10. When it hits the 60-day mark, you would be able to book dining reservations for every day of your trip. On the exact same 60-day mark, an off-property guest who is visiting during the same timeframe would only be able to book reservations for Dec. 1 and then would have to book for subsequent days over the next nine days.

Be Our Guest Restaurant at Magic Kingdom

This is a big deal because the most popular restaurants are often booked by the 60-day mark. Here are the most popular restaurants at Disney World:

Disney often allows guests staying at select Walt Disney World resorts to book special tickets ahead of the general public. This can be a huge perk for highly sought-after events, such as After Hours or holiday parties, and a key benefit to booking on-site.

Out with Extra Magic Hours, in with Early Theme Park Entry

Benefits to Staying a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel - Early entry sign in front of Cinderella Castle

One of the other benefits of staying at an official Disney World hotel is extra time in the parks. Previously, at least one park each day hosted Extra Magic Hours — either an hour before the park opens or two hours after the park closes — just for resort guests. However, a new benefit, called Early Theme Park Entry, has debuted for resort guests! Unlike Extra Magic Hours, Early Theme Park Entry allows hotel guests to enter any park 30 minutes early, every day.

In the past, it was important to understand how Extra Magic Hours worked when planning days in the parks because sometimes the park hosting Extra Magic Hours would actually be more crowded than the others. Since the purpose of Early Theme Park Entry is to spread guests out among the four theme parks, this benefit has less of an impact on crowds (and provides hotel guests with more options!). While all Disney Resort hotel guests have access to Early Theme Park Entry every morning, Deluxe and Villa guests also have access to Extended Evening Hours on select nights.

Discounted MagicBands and Other Perks

Disney no longer provides free MagicBands to resort guests, but they may be purchased at a discount. Resort guests may customize their MagicBands prior to their trip, up to six days before check-in. If you customize your bands at least 11 days before your visit, they will be shipped to your home (U.S. residents only). You get to pick the color of the band and can add a name or nickname to the inside of the band for easy identification. All of this can be done in My Disney Experience. For repeat resort guests who have multiple MagicBands, you can also use an old favorite instead.

Benefits to Staying a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel - MagicBand

If you need even more pixie dust in your life, MagicBands or even your phone can serve as your room key and entry into the park. With the mobile check-in option, you can bypass the lobby and go straight to your room!

Tap and go at Lightning Lane queues, ride photo stations and PhotoPass photographers. Additionally, guests staying at a Disney World hotel can assign a four-digit pin for their band that can be used for purchases at the hotel, in the parks and at some Disney Springs retail locations and restaurants.

Disney World has brought the features of MagicBand to guests' smart devices via a new service called Disney MagicMobile. Much like a MagicBand, MagicMobile serves as a contactless way for guests to enter the theme park by holding their smartphone or Apple Watch near a touchpoint. Guests who choose not to purchase a discounted MagicBand or use an older MagicBand can use the My Disney Experience app or a Key to the World card during their visit instead to unlock their room doors. MagicBands will remain available in retail locations and on shopDisney.com, and guests will be able to continue using the wearables throughout Walt Disney World Resort.

Free Transportation Around the Parks

Guide to Disney World Transportation - Disney Skyliner gondolas

While Disney's Magical Express has retired as of Jan. 1, 2022, Mears Transportation continues to offer bus service from MCO airport to all area theme parks for an additional cost. Other third-party options are available, as well! For more information about Orlando transportation options, hop over to our full post.

Transportation from the hotel to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs remains free with busses, boat, monorails or the Skyliner.

As of Jan. 10, 2023, overnight self-parking at resorts is once again complimentary for hotel guests. If you drive to the parks and are staying on-site, you will not be charged to park at the theme parks. This can be a big cost savings because standard car parking at the theme parks is $25 each day! You can also pay the difference between standard and preferred parking if you want to upgrade for a shorter walk.

Renting a car is a good option if you'll be visiting Universal or other theme parks, are traveling during peak times when transportation waits will be extra long or just want the maximum flexibility. (Pssst. Did you know we offer toadally ribbeting rates for car rentals?)

Location, Location, Location

One of the biggest reasons to stay at a Walt Disney World hotel is location. Some hotels are within walking distance of the parks. Others are a boat, bus, monorail or Skyliner ride away. But they are all on the Disney World property, which makes it easier to take a break in the afternoon when crowds are at their peak or the tadpoles just need some downtime.

Being Inside the Disney Magic

Disney's Contemporary Resort — Fantasia gift shop

Last but not least, one of the best benefits of staying on-site at a Walt Disney World hotel is that you are completely immersed in the world of Disney your entire trip! If you've never experienced it, you might think it's no big deal, but if you stay on-site, you will get the full Disney treatment your entire stay. Every person you encounter on your vacation, from the bellhop to the concierge desk attendant and from the parking attendant to the ride attendant, is trained to bring you Disney's world-class customer service.

We've outlined the major benefits of staying at a Walt Disney World hotel, but the biggest one isn't an official benefit — it's simply being surrounded by the magic. Anyone who has been to Disney World can tell you the magic is real, and you get more of it staying on-site. The hotels are so incredibly themed, with their own special Disney touches, character breakfasts and awesome pools. If you stay on-site, you never have to leave the Disney "bubble."

Now it's your turn. We want to hear why you stay on-site! Leave us a comment and let us know your reasons for staying on site. For those who haven't stayed at a Walt Disney World hotel, let us know what questions you have! 

Related: How to Pick the Best Disney Deluxe Resort for Your Family

Hoppy planning!

Keep hopping, Mommy Frog!
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Jan 2, 2024 at 4:31 p.m. Art Says...

Are Swan and Dolphin still Disney hotels?

Didn't see them in the list

Reply
Jan 2, 2024 at 11:18 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Art!

The Swan and Dolphin and Swan Reserve are not technically Disney-owned, but are one of the few non-Disney resorts where guests can still enjoy the Disney on-site benefits such as booking dining reservations for the length of stay and individual Lightning Lane selections at 7 a.m. and having access to Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Dec 22, 2023 at 5:23 p.m. Carol Says...

We especially like Port Orleans Riverside and have stayed there many times.Facilities are nice along with the pools. We’ve stayed at Value resorts. They are especially good with small children as there’s room for them to run around outdoors. When it opened we stayed at Animal Kingdom Lodge. See ing the animals roaming up close from our room was truly special. All

Reply
Dec 22, 2023 at 11:25 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

We love those picks, too, Carol!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 20, 2023 at 5:45 p.m. Katie Says...

I’m looking for a hotel with a kitchen in Disney Springs or at a hotel nearby but when I search, it pulls everything, is there a list you could share?

Reply
Aug 24, 2023 at 3:15 p.m. Natalie Says...

If you book an off property resort through the Disneyworld website "more great accommodations" or "good neighbor" are you still considered on site for benefits such as earlier reservations, LL, genie etc?

Just wondering because good neighbor hotels at Disneyland were able to book reservations earlier....

Reply
Aug 24, 2023 at 1:23 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Natalie!

It depends! For Early Theme Park Entry, select partner hotels have this benefit, and you can view a full list of participating hotels here.

Otherwise, guests at the Swan and Dolphin, Swan Reserve and Shades of Green receive the following benefits: Extended Evening Hours, ability to make dining reservations 60 days out for their entire length of stay and earlier access to individual Lightning Lanes (booking at 7 a.m. as opposed to park open).

All guests can make their first Genie+ reservation at 7 a.m. (don't have to wait until you're inside the park, unlike at Disneyland Resort.)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Nov 16, 2021 at 5:52 p.m. Manny Says...

Staying onsite is no longer magical. Disney has made it a priority to squeeze more money out of it's guests while eliminating the perks. Save hundreds by staying offsite and most hotels have free shuttle service.

Reply
Oct 17, 2021 at 6:32 p.m. Barbara Ann Tarleton Says...

Staying on property was magical a few years ago. Now many services cost extra. Currently the dining plan isn't available and that is a deal breaker for me. My family's planned trip is in February. Will the dining plan be reinstated by then?

Reply
Oct 17, 2021 at 8:09 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Barbara!

Disney hasn't announced a timeline for when the dining plans are returning yet, but they are confirmed to come back.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 13, 2021 at 7:10 p.m. Michelle Says...

You may want to update your information. All of the above are reasons my friends and I would stay on property but a lot of that is changing. Magic bands are no longer included with your hotel stay. You can still get them though, and I think you can buy them at a discount if you’re staying on property. Also, Disney recently announced that the Magical Express busses between the airport & hotel will be discontinued January 1, 2021.

Before going, you might want to check that your favorite rides are open as I believe not all have reopened. Do not count on shows, many have been paused due to COVID and some have been permanently cancelled.

Disney Magic is not what it was pre-COVID. You should do your homework before going so that you are not surprised or upset at any changes. That said, my friends and I look forward to going again. We can’t wait to ride the Rise of the Resistance ride! We will stay on property if we get to go later this year. Next year, we will probably stay off property for the first time since most other hotels offer airport transportation and transportation to parks too.

Reply
Aug 22, 2021 at 7:30 p.m. Dianne Nieuwland Says...

Magical Express is free until January 1, 2022

Reply
Jul 13, 2021 at 4:21 a.m. Liz Says...

Agreed, no fast passes (as of July 2021), additionally Disney resorts no longer have full Mouse keeping (aka beds aren't made, rooms aren't cleaned during your stay). They will empty the trash and drop off new towels every other day, but if I stay off-site I can come back to a clean room and save hundreds of dollars. Besides 30 extra early minutes a day and theme I'm not sure why anyone would stay on property as if 2022.

Reply
Jan 14, 2021 at 12:25 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Thanks Michelle! We've updated this post with the recent news.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
May 11, 2020 at 3:08 p.m. Michael Case Says...

Post Coronavirus, the most important consideration for me - and I am an AP holding DVC owner - is which hotel offers e the most protection from contracting the disease. That means cleaning the hotel and maintaining social distancing and PP gear like gloves ad masks.

Reply
May 11, 2020 at 12:09 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Michael!

We toadally agree that safety takes top priority! We have some details about sanitization and safety procedures in place, including at the Walt Disney World Resort hotels, in this post. As soon as we know more, we’ll be publishing a post detailing all of the specifics resort-wide, as well.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 20, 2019 at 5:31 p.m. Judy Says...

If you stay at a DisneyWorld Resort, is your onsite meals included in your daily price?

Reply
Oct 21, 2019 at 8:36 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Judy!

Generally speaking, no, meals are not included with your hotel stay. However, Disney does offer vacation packages that include a dining plan (which you pay for separately in advance).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 22, 2021 at 11:37 a.m. Tracy Says...

Hi there

I am aware that there are many changes and much is not confirmed for 2021, but I was wondering if we booked our vacation with you instead of directly through Disney- would we still be able to add on the Dining Plan option if it were available in 2021

Reply
Jan 23, 2021 at 10:24 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tracy!

Previously, dining plans were only available to add on to packages purchased through Disney directly. Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 18, 2019 at 1:02 a.m. Amanda Jones Says...

Amanda

Hi, how can kids stay at a resort for free?

Reply
Aug 20, 2019 at 8:06 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Amanda!

Tadpoles are free at Disney World Resort hotels, as long as the room doesn't exceed occupancy.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 12, 2019 at 2:26 a.m. Derrick Says...

Hello we are looking to travel next year with 2 adults and 3 kids (7,10,11) some places say kids stay free at resorts is this true?

Thanks

Reply
Aug 12, 2019 at 3:02 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Derrick!

Yes, kids stay free at Disney Resort hotels - but more than two adults will incur an additional room charge (and if your total guests exceed room capacity).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Aug 1, 2019 at 2:05 p.m. Heather Says...

Hey if I book a Disney resort room is it possible to buy tickets later or does it have to be at the same time or can I buy them later and still get all the benefits of staying at the resort like fast passes? Or is it just better to buy them all at the same time?

Reply
Aug 1, 2019 at 11:27 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Heather!

You can absolutely book these separately, though the payment process in terms of deposits and when they are due changes a little! If you book a vacation package that includes your room and your tickets, you'd owe a deposit, and then would need to pay the balance in full 30 days before you arrive; if you book a room-only reservation, you'd owe a deposit but would pay the remaining balance upon arrival. Often, vacation packages give you a deal by bundling the two, and as you noted, you'd need both your tickets and room reservation linked to the My Disney Experience account to make advance FastPass reservations at the 60 day mark - so you'd want to be sure to add your tickets by then if purchasing separately! Hope this helps!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 20, 2019 at 4:16 a.m. Daniah Faris Says...

If I stay in a resort at Disney will I not have to pay for the park tickets

Reply
Apr 22, 2019 at 8:57 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Daniah!

Disney Resort hotel guests still need to purchase separate park admission, though Disney does offer vacation packages to bundle your hotel and park tickets.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 8, 2019 at 1:05 a.m. Samiam Says...

If we stay at the art of animation resort are we allowed to park at the contemporary hotel when we visit magic kingdom?

Reply
Jan 17, 2019 at 8:58 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi there,

Unless you're an overnight guest at the hotel, you will be limited to a couple of hours at the resort hotel.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 15, 2018 at 3:26 p.m. RACHEL CHORLEY Says...

If i book a Disney hotel for one night of my stay (already have villa booking) will I get these benefits and will it guarantee entry? I ask as my first full day is July 4th and have heard the park may reach capacity as early as 10 am :/ any advice appreciated.

Reply
Oct 15, 2018 at 3:03 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Rachel!

You are able to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours on your days of check-in and check-out. If you take advantage of these, you should be fine getting into the park - but it is not guaranteed.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Oct 13, 2018 at 8:55 a.m. Debi Says...

Was refreshing my memory benefits to staying on Disney property. You need to amend this article because resort parking no longer free. And I had to fight with lady a booth for animal kingdom. She did not believe parking was free at parks.

Reply
Oct 15, 2018 at 10:52 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Debi!

Thanks so much for catching this. You're an honorary frog for the day ;)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 7, 2018 at 11:05 a.m. Natalie Says...

Hi,

We are staying at a universal hotel for 2 weeks in November for our honeymoon, we have tickets for both universal and disney and have just booked the Mickeys christmas party for the 12th and are thinking of booking one night in a disney hotel for that (we love the look of port orleans) would we be able to park at the hotel early that morning before we check in and use the transport to the parks? and would it be worth booking a disney hotel for one night?

Reply
Apr 10, 2018 at 10:44 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Natalie,

Yes, you can park at the hotel you'll be checking in at. You could even leave your luggage there if you want and they will hold it for you. We always think it's worth booking a Disney hotel, even for one night! Besides the convenience of getting to and from the parks, you'll enjoy the magic of Disney right at your hotel. :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 22, 2018 at 2:59 p.m. Krock Says...

Hello,

We decided last minute that we would like to schedule a trip to Disney World April 26th to April 29th. We would like to stay at a Disney resort for the easy access to the parks. We are traveling with 3 adults and 1 child. In our group we have one disabled adult and a special needs child with a special diet so a kitchen will be needed as well as easy access from park to hotel if needed. Which Disney hotel do you recommend?

Reply
Apr 5, 2018 at 1:18 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Krock,

We have this nifty tool that helps you compare Disney World hotels! By looking at this you can compare the various on-site hotels and see which ones will work best for you. Hope you have a great trip!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Mar 6, 2018 at 2:52 a.m. Julie Says...

First time in Disney with our kids! So excited! We will be staying at the Grand Floridian from 3/16-3/19 and bought park hopper passes when we booked the hotel as a package. We will actually be arriving on 3/14 and staying with family. We wanted to use our park passes on 3/15 - a day before checking. Will this be a problem? Totally stressing!!

Reply
Mar 6, 2018 at 12:17 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Julie!

Great question! This shouldn't be a problem. You can always verify by contacting Disney customer service, but there shouldn't be any issues.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Mar 2, 2018 at 7:19 p.m. Jane Says...

Booked an 11 day disney cruise leaving june 30. Flying in June 29. Are there any 1 day packages to stay at a Disney hotel and visit 1 park for the day be for our cruise? If so is there transportation from hotel to port and cost involved. Tis is for 4 adults 4 children, so would need 2 rooms. Thanks

Reply
Mar 6, 2018 at 11:38 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jane,

You can definitely choose to stay at a Disney Hotel and experience the parks the day before your cruise. Disney offers Disney Cruise Line buses that will take you from your Disney Hotel to Port Canaveral. It's about $35 per person. Here's more information: https://disneycruise.disney.go.com/guest-services/air-ground-transportation/

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jun 19, 2018 at 9:31 a.m. Jane Says...

Hi there - 2 Jane's querying something similar. funny. We're from NZ and will be over visiting in Sept 2018. We have booked a 4 day Disney Cruise. I've not been able to find much out yet about ground transport so was very interested in reading this. We could def get picked up at a WDW resort, and taken to where the ship departs ? We have booked outside of a WDW resort, but I think I am about to change my mind re this. Your site is very helpful, thanks and regards, Jane - NZ

Reply
Jun 19, 2018 at 11:48 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Jane,

If you're hopping over to Disney World before the cruise, you can take the Disney Cruise Line transfer. This bus will take you from Walt Disney World Resort to Port Canaveral. You can also take this bus straight from the airport, as well! Hope this helps.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Feb 21, 2018 at 1:36 p.m. Patricia Says...

Overwhelmed, is there a planning guide you recommend? I have a 10 yo and a 8yo. Any tips for autistic children? Thank you in advance..

Reply
Feb 21, 2018 at 10:58 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Patricia!

Don't worry - we'll be here to help every step of the way! Check out our Park Plans to help give you a starting point of planning your days at Disney World.

In terms of your autistic child(ren), we recommend requesting a Disability Access Services card at guest services upon arrival, or see what other accommodations you may be eligible for. Be sure to pack plenty of snacks and perhaps some toys to keep your little ones occupied and schedule some downtime during your trip, as Disney World can be overwhelming.

Please shoot us a comment whenever you have a question or concern ... we want to help you have an awesome trip with your family!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Feb 17, 2018 at 11:45 a.m. Lundy Says...

We are planning a 2 day trip in Aug 2018. It includes 9 adults and 5 children. Our best experience when our kids were little 15 years ago was staying at the Beach Club. I gasped at the price for one room. What would you recommend. We stayed at port orleans, sports and I believe Animal Kingdom. None of these gave us the experience of Beach location. With so many of us what do you recommend?

Reply
Feb 21, 2018 at 10:33 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Lundy!

If you're looking for a lower cost option for your group, Art of Animation is an awesome, fun value resort offering family suites. However, Beach Club is one of our favorite for family villas (and its location is amazing!) so if you had a positive experience there, we recommend sticking with it.

Keep hopping!

Leap

Reply
Jan 31, 2018 at 4:28 p.m. Tawnya Says...

We are starting super early for a large family vacation (winter 2019)... 11 adults and so far 6 kids. Any recommendations on which location would have the best amenities and deals for a group this large? We would like to stay in one big house but know that the amenities to staying in a WDW location are ideal.. tia!!

Reply
Jan 31, 2018 at 9:19 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tawnya!

That sounds like it will be an absolute blast! It sounds like the family suites at Art of Animation would be a great value option. You could also spend a bit more on a deluxe villa such as those at Animal Kingdom Lodge.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 31, 2018 at 7:01 a.m. Madge Says...

Hi! We have Port Orleans-Riverside booked from Sept 30 to October 6. We have two rooms of 4 adults and three 11 year old and one 8 year old boys. We were thinking a 4 day Disney pass but had Harry Potter World for one day in our head too. We are not a fan of other parts of Universal Studios. I see you have a deal of 4 days and an extra day. Is this still cheaper than a regular 4 day through the resorts at Disney?

Reply
Feb 1, 2018 at 3:58 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Madge!

Yes, we offer significant savings on both a 4-day Magic Your Way or Park Hopper ticket and the 4 + 1 Extra Day Magic Your Way or Park Hopper Tickets (this is a 5-day ticket).

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 30, 2018 at 1:27 p.m. Greg Says...

OK,

my wife, 7 year old sone and myself are heading to Disney Sept 2018. Nothing booked yet. We are sourcing as much as we can from the internet and friends. Our thouhgts are every second day at one of the Disney parks, the other days we head to our choice of activities with a rental car. We are only doing this once so we want to make it memorable. With this being said we think we want to stay at one of the Disney hotels, however we are unsure. The meals, simplicity of it all is why we are thinking resort hotel is better, however we just are not sure.

Thoughts?

Greg

Reply
Jan 30, 2018 at 9:06 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Greg!

We absolutely, toad-ally recommend staying at a Disney World resort hotel. Staying on Disney property is one of our favorite parts of the trip! It's truly a magical experience - plus comes with all of the perks and conveniences mentioned in this post. The best part? You can book discounted hotels through us! Let us know if you have any other questions. By the way, we recommend a value resort for your son for the ultimate fun Disney theming!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Sep 29, 2017 at 6:02 p.m. Marti Says...

Hello, We have been to Disney World twice and stayed onsite both times and really enjoyed it. We are wanting to visit one last time this upcoming spring. I have received a resort vacation certificate as a Christmas gift for a 7 day stay at no cost. I can book in the Orlando area no problem. I am concerned staying off site. We are wanting top dinning choices (Cinderella's Royal Table, Belle's Castle) and I am afraid it will be much harder to get reservations when off site. Plus I am worried about the fast passes and not getting our choices for those. Those are the two most important on-site perks. We want to save money but at the same time, it's not really worth going if you can't do what you want. Can you please advise? Thanks!

Reply
Oct 1, 2017 at 12:19 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Marti,

If you are worried about how much staying off-site will impact your visit, then we recommend staying on-site. You can save money on other ways — flights, food, inexpensive lunches, packing small snacks and limiting souvenirs.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jul 27, 2017 at 6:14 p.m. Adam Says...

are they still sending anything that you buy at the park to your room?

Reply
Jul 27, 2017 at 4:19 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Adam,

Yes, this feature is still available.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jul 5, 2017 at 2:49 p.m. Tina Says...

Do you get the early hours perks at any disney hotel even the budget ones? We were looking at Art of Animation

Reply
Jul 5, 2017 at 11:19 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Tina,

Yes, all Disney World Value Resorts allow you to use Extra Magic Hours at the parks.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
May 21, 2017 at 3:06 p.m. Cecilia Says...

We are thinking of staying at the shades of green vs onsite Disney hotel. Is it worth buying the magic bands? If I have already made dining reservations how do I connect them?

Reply
May 21, 2017 at 5:45 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Cecilia,

The Magic Bands allow you to add your tickets, Disney hotel room key and add room charging privileges. You may connect all your reservations through My Disney Experience.

Hoppy Planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Apr 29, 2017 at 6:55 p.m. Melissa Says...

Hi

I've never been to Orlando and I'm considering a trip with the family. We are thinking at the end of February and we will have an almost two year old, six year old and nine year old. I'm trying to figure out best options if we wanted to do Disney and Universal. My older two would love Harry Potter at Universal but I don't know what else at Universal it would offer them and I'm thinking not much for the almost 2 year old. But if we do Disney and Universal it seems like a lot to take on for one trip?! Advice for newbies that want to do both?! Should we stay onsite or off? Do we really need to book stuff 6 months in advance? I'm guessing there isn't transportation from a Disney resort to Universal unless I rent a car? And are the three days consecutive or can I split up my days?

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Apr 29, 2017 at 5:52 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Melissa,

The best advice we can give you on Universal/Disney is to get your kids involved and see what interests them. Ask if they want to spend one day or two. Maybe there is a Disney park they don't want to do so you have more time at Universal or switch a Universal day for SeaWorld.

For all your other questions, our Orlando planning page is a great resource!

Hoppy Planning!

Mommy Frog

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Apr 8, 2017 at 1:34 p.m. Spacy Staci Says...

how do the magic bands work if you are staying at the disney swan hotel? Help

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Apr 9, 2017 at 7:11 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Staci,

You may purchase Magic Bands separately at Orlando Airport, Disney Springs or online, and attach your admission and FastPass+ reservations to them.

Hoppy Planning!

Leap

Reply
Mar 30, 2017 at 3:26 a.m. Nicole Says...

Hello,

I'm debating on staying on site vs. off site. We'll be getting to Orlando on a Sunday and staying until Saturday in September. We will only visit Disney for two days and plan on going to Universal Studios, the beach and shopping. Please, give me your advice about which route we should take. Thank you in advance.

Reply
Mar 30, 2017 at 8:32 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Nicole,

Staying on site offers you advantages such as on-site transportation and select Extra Magic Hours at the theme parks with a Disney stay. Universal also allows early admission to The Wizarding World of Harry Potter. If those are important, stay on site. If they are not a big deal, and you'd rather just stay in one hotel, then off-site is the way to go. It can be less expensive as well. Check out some of our Frog Family Favorites here.

Hoppy Planning!

Mommy Fro

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Jan 14, 2017 at 3:04 p.m. Annabelle Bangsoy Says...

Hello Mommy Frog,

Thanks for the tips. My husband and I always travel with our five kids during their December to January school break. We just had an awesome second trip to Disneyland Paris and we saw that a lot of amenities were closed. Does it also happen to Disney World in Orlando during that time of the year? Winter is the only time our kids have a common break as they are in different levels--from primary school to College so we really make sure we maximize our time together.

Thanks for your time and tips.

Annabelle and family

Baguio City, Philippines

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Jan 16, 2017 at 6:47 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Annabelle,

Disney World will typically schedule ride refurbishments during the less crowded months = January-February There are also restaurants and quick serve locations that will operate on a seasonal basis. Look at our Refurbishment schedule to get an idea of the attractions and amenities that will be closed.

Hoppy Planning!

Mommy Frog

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Apr 29, 2016 at 11:03 p.m. Mary Says...

Hi, My Husband,our 10 year old son and I were looking to go to WDW in January 2017 from 20th to 29th. We have never been there before,. We are travelling from Canada and would like to know the best and Cheapest place to stay that would have flights, Hotel and, meals included.

Thank you

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Mar 3, 2016 at 3:27 p.m. Julia Says...

Not knowing anyone whose been to Orlando/theme parks is hard since you don't have anyone guiding you or providing pointers, but to have someone who takes the time and effort to put this together is amazing! Thanks so much, this webpage has provided valuable information and great guidance! THANK YOU !

Reply
Mar 7, 2016 at 9:49 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Julia,

We are so glad to be able to help!

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Feb 2, 2016 at 12:42 p.m. Rivki Locker Says...

First, thanks for a great site. I love your blog and you saved us a bunch of $$ on Disney tickets and auto rental in the past. :) Now, for my question: We are a family of 6 and have never stayed on property but are considering for this year.... The challenge is that we need three bedrooms, and the kids' rooms have to have 2 beds each, to accommodate my 4 picky kids. They just don't sleep well in a shared bed, or on a pullout couch in the living room. The disney options that are big enough for us are so costly! Are there any tricks? Like a property where we could get adjoining rooms for less $$? We'd love to stay on property but the villas are so costly. (We don't want to stay in Tree House villas - seems a little small, and want to be closer to the parks.) Thanks!

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Feb 10, 2016 at 11:53 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi there,

The 2-bedroom villas at Saratoga Springs and Old Key West would accommodate you and are the most affordable of the villas. I would compare them against adjoining rooms.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 22, 2016 at 2:49 p.m. Kathleen Says...

Hi! We are coming the week of July 4th with a family of 5, 3 kids:-) and my parents and sister. We are of course looking for the best deal, and will get tickets through you!;) trying to find rooms for all of us, so two rooms, at a good price on grounds. Those dates are not on sale yet, they usually do go on sale though correct? I see the value of staying on grounds! Thanks!!

Reply
Jan 26, 2016 at 2:01 p.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Kathleen,

These dates are available now, and we do offer discounts for these dates, but there is currently no promotion being offered. There are often promotions during this time, but it's likely that the dates around July 4th would be excluded. This is one of the most popular times to visit the parks.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

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Jan 18, 2016 at 4:30 p.m. Pia Says...

We are going on family trip to WDW on July, if we are going to stay just 1 night on WDW hotel and the rest of the stay outside Disney hotels, how does the FP+ work? considering i am buying a 3day ticket? so will I be able to to make FP+ 60 days before for 2 days and then for the last day just 30 days?

Also if i wanted to go before doing the checkin at WDW hotel to park and then do the checkin later is this posible? I dont want to lose time and I can leave my bags in the other hotel...or we need to make check in prior to enter the park like for using EMH ...

Reply
Jan 19, 2016 at 11:20 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Pia,

In the case of your example, yes, you would be able to book your FP+ 60 days in advance for your day of check-in and check-out at Disney. On your date of arrival to the Disney hotel, you would not need to check-in before you hit the parks.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Oct 17, 2017 at 7:26 p.m. Richard Dowell Says...

Just to clarify... it looks like if you check in online and have all your tickets/bands linked you could visit a park on the day you check in ( before the physical check in time)? If my check-in time is 3 on Dec 25th can I go to a park from 10 -3 check in and go back to the park? And would all members of the party have to be there for the physical 3 pm check in?

Reply
Oct 19, 2017 at 8:11 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Richard,

Yes, you may visit a park then head over to check in. The person whose name is on the reservation is the only person that needs to check in.

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
Jan 12, 2016 at 10:15 p.m. Crafty Staci Says...

This was perfect timing! I'm planning our trip for June, and just sat down to the computer to try and decide between Disney or non-Disney hotels. I'm sold!

Reply
Jan 13, 2016 at 10:10 a.m. FrogBlog Says...

Hi Staci,

Awesome! Glad we could help :)

Hoppy planning!

Mommy Frog

Reply
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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.

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