For years, staying at a Disney World Resort hotel felt like being part of a storybook — special perks, themed touches, and seamless convenience made the high prices worth it. But that chapter may be closing. Disney appears to be tightening its belt, and this time, it’s resort guests who are feeling the squeeze.
Walt Disney World is quietly removing seven long-standing perks that once defined its “stay on property” experience. Fans are now questioning whether Disney’s magic is still worth the cost.
Why People Book Disney Resorts
Disney hotels aren’t just a place to sleep — they’re part of the experience. Families have long paid extra for themed rooms, early park access, and exclusive conveniences. It wasn’t about getting the cheapest room; it was about waking up to the magic.
But now, with so many of those little extras disappearing, even the most loyal Disney fans are wondering if the benefits still outweigh the price tag.
Package Delivery Permanently Let Go
One of the most convenient perks for parkgoers — package delivery — is officially gone. Before 2020, guests could purchase souvenirs and have them delivered directly to their resort rooms. The service was paused during the pandemic and is not expected to resume anytime soon.
It’s a subtle but frustrating loss for families who loved not having to lug bags around the parks all day.
Breakfast Costs Extra
If you’re expecting a complimentary breakfast with your stay, think again. Unlike traditional hotel chains, Disney resorts don’t include complimentary breakfast. Every cup of coffee, waffle, or pastry costs extra — and with prices already high, that can add up fast.
It’s another example of how Disney hotels operate differently, leaning into the “theme park” side of hospitality rather than the “resort” model most travelers expect.
Goodbye to Free Take-Homes
Remember those collectible H2O toiletry bottles guests loved to take home? They’re history. Disney replaced them with refillable wall dispensers to reduce plastic waste. It’s an eco-friendly choice, but many fans miss the small touches that made their stay feel personal. Those little bottles once served as a reminder of Disney magic long after checkout.
Room Service Removed
Room service — once a hallmark of luxury at Disney resorts — has vanished for good. Suspended in 2020, it never returned. Instead, guests are expected to mobile order or visit the food courts. While convenient, it’s a far cry from having a meal delivered after a long park day.
Magical Express Retired
Perhaps the most disappointing change remains the loss of Disney’s Magical Express. The once-free shuttle from Orlando International Airport to Disney resorts ended in 2022 and won’t return. The same company, Mears, still provides transportation, but now guests must pay per person.
It’s another blow to what was once one of Disney’s most generous perks.
Disney+: Magic Not Included
Even though Disney owns its own streaming service, it’s still not complimentary for resort guests. You’ll need to sign in using your personal account or cast from another device. It’s a small thing, but many feel Disney could easily turn this into a free perk — and simply hasn’t.
MagicBands Are No Longer Free
MagicBands were previously included with every resort stay. Guests loved customizing them, and they served as tickets, room keys, and payment devices. Now, they come at an extra cost. You can use your phone instead, but for those who prefer the nostalgia of wearing a band, there’s an additional add-on fee.
What Still Exists
Not everything’s gone. Guests still enjoy complimentary transportation around the property, available by bus, monorail, or Disney Skyliner. Early park entry continues for all resort guests, and Deluxe Resort visitors receive select extended evening hours.
Still, the list of what’s missing keeps growing, and the balance of “included” versus “extra” continues to shift.
The Resorts Feel Different
Disney’s decision to cut seven resort perks for 2026 reflects a new era of cost-saving efficiency. The magic isn’t gone, but it’s definitely been streamlined. What was once free is now optional, and what was once a perk is now a paid convenience.
For many guests, the changes feel less like evolution — and more like subtraction.
