Is there still a benefit to staying at a Disney resort? We get asked this question often. Pre-covid, staying on Disney property in a Disney-owned resort had a long list of benefits. But some are questioning if that is still the case.
In short, YES, there are still many benefits to staying on property! We want to share some of our top reasons why we still opt for on property resorts.
• The Disney Bubble
There is an invisible bubble encompassing Walt Disney World that we Disney lovers affectionately call "The Disney Bubble." It exists, trust me. And we love it! From the moment we step on the Magical Express to head to our Disney resort, we escape the real world and are surrounded 24/7 by the Disney magic! There is no driving (or worrying about directions on unfamiliar roads). There is magic around every corner. The Cast Members you encounter every step of the way during your vacation are always looking for opportunities to make you smile and spread some magic. It is pure Disney magic.
• Proximity to the Parks
Some of the Disney resorts are within a few minutes walk to one of the Disney parks. Most are within a few minutes ride via monorail, skyliner, or bus. You can't beat that commute! Off property resorts may claim to be close to Disney, but even a few miles can turn into 30+ minutes of a drive. Don't waste precious park time (or sleep) dealing with traffic, parking, and then transit from the parking lot to the entrance of the park.
• Park Transportation
Monorails, boats, skyliner gondolas, and buses are available to and from Disney resorts. Transportation is generally quick and easy to and from Disney resorts and the theme parks. Some off property hotels offer transportation to parks, but they can be very sparse, unreliable, and drop off is often at the Ticket and Transportation Center, where you will then need to take other modes of transportation to the park of your choice.
• Charging Privileges
Disney resort guests have the ability to use their Magic Band or Key to the World card to charge purchases to their resort room. You can leave your credit card and cash at home and have one less thing to take into the parks with you.
• Ticket and Resort Packages
When staying on property, you are able to book a package that includes your resort and park tickets. There is only a $200 deposit due (final balance is due 30 days prior to arrival) and you will be able to immediately make your Park Pass Reservations. Your deposit is fully refundable up until final payment. If you were to stay off property and purchase tickets separately, those park tickets would be paid in full at the time of purchase and non-refundable. In unprecedented times of uncertainty, this can be a huge benefit for guests.
• More Availability for Park Pass Reservations
Park Pass reservations (and valid park tickets) are required to enter a Disney theme park. Disney has a separate allotment of Park Passes available for Disney resort guests. Guess which guests see Park Passes at capacity first? HINT: It isn't the ones staying at a Disney resort!
• Advantage for Dining Reservations
Disney resort guests can make their dining reservations for their entire vacation (up to 10 days) when they open up for booking (currently 60 days prior to arrival). Why is this important? Off property guests have to book dining each morning at 60 days prior, so their options are going to be much more limited. On property guests (or their Skye's the Limit Vacations travel advisor) will find more availability and have a greater chance at securing those hard to get dining experiences.
• Early Theme Park Entry
Disney Resort guests are able to enter any of the four theme parks 30 minutes early every morning, allowing them a jump start on getting to the biggest attractions! Similar to the former Disney's Extra Magic Hours, this is a benefit only for on-property guests. You will be surprised at how much this early start can help with getting things done in the parks...and getting awesome photos!
• Flexibility
Disney has always had a very favorable change and cancelation policy. However, since covid, Disney has stepped up and provided even more flexibility for guests. Through April 2021, guests can cancel up to, and including, the day of check in and still receive a full refund!
• Resort Themes
Each Disney resort has its own amazing theme. Whether you want to escape to an African safari while sitting on your balcony, or enjoy larger than life Disney characters, there is truly something for everyone! The pools are fantastic too.
Whatever your preferences or budget may be, your Skye's the Limit Vacations travel advisor will be able to help you find you find perfect Disney resort! We look forward to helping you with your next Disney vacation. Contact us today to get started!
