Planning a Walt Disney World vacation is more than just booking a place to sleep—your resort experience is part of the Disney magic.
Whether you’re staying at a value resort, a deluxe villa, or something in between, Disney resorts offer far more than meets the eye.
Here are ten essential tips to help you maximize comfort, convenience, and that special sprinkle of pixie dust during your stay.
1. Use Mobile Check-In and Check-Out to Save Time
Skip the front desk entirely by using the My Disney Experience app.
You’ll get a notification when your room is ready, and your MagicBand or smartphone can be used to go directly to your room.
This hassle-free feature means more time for fun—and less time waiting in line.
2. Take Advantage of On-Site Guest Perks
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel comes with major benefits:
- Early Theme Park Entry gives you a head start before the crowds.
- Lightning Lane selections open earlier for resort guests.
- Advance Dining Reservations can be made 60 days out for your full trip.
- Complimentary Disney transportation connects resorts, parks, and Disney Springs.
These perks are a game-changer when it comes to maximizing your Disney day.
3. Master Disney Transportation Options
Disney transportation isn’t just practical—it’s part of the experience.
From buses and boats to the Monorail and Skyliner, knowing your options can save time and add magic to your journey:
- Skyliner connects EPCOT and Hollywood Studios to resorts like Art of Animation and Caribbean Beach.
- Monorail links Magic Kingdom to resorts like the Grand Floridian and Contemporary.
- Boats provide relaxing routes between parks and select resorts.
- Buses reach every resort, park, and Disney Springs location.
4. Resort Hopping: A Magical Side Activity
You don’t need to stay at every resort to enjoy their magic.
Resort hopping is a popular non-park day activity among Disney fans. Here’s what you can enjoy:
- Dining at themed spots like Ohana.
- Exploring unique shops with exclusive resort merchandise.
- Photo ops and atmosphere at iconic lobbies and grounds.
Take the Monorail or Skyliner to turn resort hopping into a mini adventure of its own.
5. Save Big With Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Point Rentals
Want deluxe resort perks at a fraction of the price?
Renting DVC points lets you stay in Deluxe Villas with upgraded amenities like kitchenettes, washers, and more—often for less than a standard room at a moderate resort.
6. Order Groceries to Your Room
Having groceries delivered is one of the best ways to save at Disney.
Services like Instacart, Amazon Prime Now, and Garden Grocer deliver straight to your resort’s Bell Services.
Stock up on:
- Breakfast essentials
- Bottled water and snacks
- Baby food, formula, or allergy-friendly items
It’s perfect for families who want to grab a quick bite before heading to the parks.
7. Participate in Free and Low-Cost Resort Activities
Resort fun doesn’t stop when the parks close.
Disney Resort hotels offer daily recreation options that are often overlooked:
- Movies Under the Stars screened poolside or on the lawn
- Campfires with marshmallow roasting
- Poolside games, crafts, and scavenger hunts for kids
Check your resort’s activity board or app for a full schedule.
8. Make a Strategic Room Request
Not all rooms are created equal—location matters.
When booking, consider your preferences:
- Close to the main building or transportation stops?
- Quiet area or near the pool?
- Upper floor or ground level?
Use the online check-in feature to make requests, or call Disney Reservations directly.
9. How to Use Disney’s Resort Airline Check-In for a Smoother Departure
If you’re flying with Southwest Airlines, Disney’s Resort Airline Check-In makes departure day much easier.
Here’s what you can do:
- Check your bags at your hotel
- Get your boarding pass
- Skip the airport counter entirely
It’s especially useful if you’re using Disney’s airport transportation.
10. Try a Split Stay for Two Vacations in One
Can’t decide between luxury and budget?
Try a split stay, where you spend part of your trip at one resort and finish at another.
Start with a value resort for park-heavy days, then relax at a deluxe villa for the finale. Disney will even transfer your luggage for you.
More Than Just a Hotel Stay
Your Walt Disney World Resort hotel is more than just a place to sleep—it’s a full Disney experience.
From immersive theming and exclusive perks to hidden recreation and travel hacks, there’s magic at every turn.
Plan ahead, take advantage of these tips, and you’ll unlock even more of what makes Disney vacations so unforgettable.
Have you tried any of these resort tips on your last Disney trip? Which one made the biggest difference—or do you have your own secret? Share your experience in the comments!
