Magic Beyond the Theme Parks: The Allure of Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel

A Walt Disney World vacation is pricey, I get it. Your budget is at the center of vacation planning and Walt Disney World Resort hotels are often the biggest piece of that budget. So, it comes as no surprise when those planning their vacations often choose to stay off property, rather than at a Disney hotel. But in the long run, you’re giving up on tons of magical extras and likely will end up spending more money.

Staying on Disney World property offers a plethora of benefits that can enhance your overall vacation experience. From unparalleled convenience and accessibility to exclusive resort perks and immersive theming, choosing to stay within the magic of Disney can truly make your trip unforgettable. In this article, we will delve into the compelling reasons why staying on Disney World property is the optimal choice for visitors looking to maximize their time, enjoyment, and overall value during their stay at the most magical place on Earth.

Extra Time to Play in the Parks

The top benefit of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel is by far, the extra magic hours. Guests get extra time to play and make memories in the parks, a benefit available to those staying on property.

Guests of Disney Resort hotels can get a 30-minute jump on their Disney day with early theme park entry—available at all 4 Walt Disney World theme parks. Early theme park entry gives you a head start in the parks, so you’ll have access to select attractions, shops and dining before regular hours. And you can enjoy this benefit on each day of your stay—in any park, subject to capacity.

Guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resort Hotels or Disney Deluxe Villas can enjoy extended evening hours—experiencing select attractions, shops and dining after regular park hours—in select theme parks on select nights.

Together with early theme park entry—available to all Disney Resort hotel Guests—you’ll get to arrive earlier and stay later so you can maximize your time in the parks!

Immerse Yourself in the Magic

We all know that Disney is known for its attention to detail, and its on-site hotels are no different. Disney Resort hotels offer the same legendary detail, service and storytelling that Guests love in our parks. The Disney Resorts Collection immerses you in fantastical settings inspired by worlds both real and imagined. Throughout your stay, you’ll feel like you’ve left the world of everyday, and entered the world of happily ever after.

From unique accommodations to distinctive dining options, themed rooms and more, the Disney Resorts Collection offers Guests a variety of options that exemplify the Disney difference.

Proximity- Staying at a Disney Resort hotel keeps you in the magic—close to the theme parks, water parks and shopping at the Disney Springs area.

Activities and Amenities- Disney Resort hotels feature amenities that immerse Guests in the worlds of classic Disney tales—including themed pools with slides, poolside activities, Character Dining experiences, unique recreation, delightful surprises and so much more.

A More Magical Stay Starts with “Hey Disney!”- The “Hey Disney!” voice-assistant experience features tons of character fun. Plus the helpful host—the Disney Magical Companion—can order you extra towels and answer lots of your park questions.

Want to wake up, look out your window, and say good morning to a giraffe? You can when you stay at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. Ever stayed on the shores of the South Pacific? Drift away to Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. Or come home to larger-than-life recreations of scenes from favorite Disney and Pixar classics at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort! Endless Possibilities- With all of the great options in the Disney Resorts Collection, you’re sure to find one—or more than one—that fits you. From theme to budget, you have a world of amazing options to consider. You’re not just choosing a place to sleep at night—you’re choosing your home for the duration of your Walt Disney World vacation.

Get Around WDW Property with Ease and Style

It’s fun and easy to get around Walt Disney World Resort when you stay at a Disney Resort hotel. Just sit back, relax and let us get you where you want to go.

Resort Transportation- Disney’s complimentary bus, boat and monorail services are available to take you to popular destinations throughout Walt Disney World Resort—some Disney Resort hotels even offer convenient walking paths to nearby parks.

The Disney Skyliner allows guests to glide across the sky while traveling between:

Disney’s Hollywood Studios
EPCOT (International Gateway)
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort

Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels enjoy complimentary standard parking at Disney theme parks, Disney water parks and the Disney Springs area.

The Game Changers

The most game changing perks of staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel are advance dining reservations and Lightning Lane purchases.

Lightning Lane Passes: Purchase 7 Days in Advance of Your Stay

Save time in line for select attractions and experiences with our Lightning Lane passes! If you’re a Guest of a Disney Resort hotel, you’re eligible to purchase Lightning Lane passes up to 7 days in advance of your stay, for the length of the stay (up to 14 days). Guests of Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels and Shades of Green may also enjoy this early-purchase benefit. All other Guests are eligible to purchase passes up to 3 days in advance of their park visit.

Purchase Lightning Lane Multi Pass to enjoy multiple experiences or Lightning Lane Single Pass (up to 2 per day, subject to availability) for one of our most in-demand attractions—those not available with Lightning Lane Multi Pass. Or purchase both and enjoy more magic in every moment of your day!

Dining Reservations: 60 Days in Advance of Your Stay

Guests with a Valid Disney Resort Hotel Reservation: Make reservations for your entire length of stay (for up to a 10-night stay) up to 60 days in advance of your arrival! This can help you enjoy streamlined vacation planning, since you can make all your reservations on the same day—rather than checking availability day after day. Guests staying offsite can only book 60 days in advance of the day they wish to dine. This is a huge advantage for the popular dining options like character meals as you get access to booking days before everyone else.

NEW for 2025: Water Park Admission Included in Your Stay!

Guests arriving in 2025 can enjoy water park admission on check-in day—included with your stay! This new benefit is only for registered Guests on the Resort reservation.

With this water park benefit, you can splash into fun on the day you arrive. Get ready to zip down thrilling water slides, relax on sandy beaches, float along a lazy river… and let your cares drift away. Learn more about the Walt Disney World water parks.

Magical Extras

Make the most of your 2024 and 2025 Walt Disney World Resort vacation packages with Walt Disney Travel Company Magical Extras—including a variety of discounts and offerings on dining, entertainment, shopping and more.

When you book a room-and-ticket package, you’ll receive Magical Extras. Click here for a complete list of the 2024/2025 magical extras.

Staying on Disney World property provides a unique opportunity to immerse yourself fully in the magic and wonder of the Disney experience. With exclusive benefits, convenient amenities, and a touch of Disney charm at every turn, choosing to stay on-site can truly elevate your vacation to new heights.

Whether you’re seeking unparalleled convenience, enhanced guest experiences, or simply looking to create unforgettable memories, staying on Disney World property is a decision that is sure to leave you with lasting magical moments for years to come.