Waking up just minutes away from Cinderella Castle? That’s the dream. From the soft hum of boat horns to the distant view of fireworks lighting up the sky, these resorts offer more than just a place to sleep—they’re part of the story.
With refreshed rooms, dining options, and some of the best views on the property, it’s no wonder these hotels are in such high demand.
A Resort Stay Packed With Perks
There’s a reason people go out of their way to stay at a Disney Resort near Magic Kingdom—it’s just better. Here is a look at just a few of the free perks.
Early theme park Entry every morning means a serious head start on the most popular rides. You can catch the fireworks from your room or the beach, depending on where you’re staying. Disney offers free waterpark admission to resort guests, as well. You can choose between Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach on the day of your arrival.
You also have easy access to restaurants like ‘Ohana and California Grill, unique resort activities, themed pools, and unbeatable Disney immersion that never ends when you leave the parks.
In short, it’s convenience and magic all rolled into one. But even the most magical stay can hit a few bumps, especially after sundown. And these perks may not be worth the storm coming in a week.
A Major Problem Coming Next Week
On July 20, Disney kicks off the Starlight Parade—a stunning new nighttime spectacular set to dazzle guests every evening at Magic Kingdom. It’s been years since Florida had a nighttime parade, so fans are understandably thrilled. The glowing floats, synced music, and sparkling lighting are set to be show-stoppers.
But excitement brings crowds. And this time, those crowds will impact resort guests more than you might think.
Why You Might Get Stuck at the Monorail Station
As parade time nears, guests from all over the property—and off-property—are heading into Magic Kingdom for a front-row view. That surge is turning the monorail into a bottleneck.
If you’re staying at the Contemporary, Polynesian, or Grand Floridian, expect longer-than-usual waits, shoulder-to-shoulder cabins, and traffic jams just to get on board. And after the parade? The lines to leave are stretching way beyond their usual length.
How to Stay Ahead of the Chaos
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Get There Before 6 p.m. to beat the evening rush.
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Take the walking path at the Contemporary or Grand Floridian.
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Stick around post-parade—grab a snack or shop before attempting to leave.
Disney Starlight is going to be spectacular. Just don’t let the magic derail your monorail.
