Crashing at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel has always been the go-to move for a seamless, immersive Disney experience. Built-in perks like direct transportation and early ride access made staying on property a no-brainer.
Since the pandemic, Disney hotel rates have climbed, and many of the perks that once made them a must-have have been scaled back, paused, or disappeared entirely. That raises the big question: is staying at a Disney hotel still worth the pricetag? Here’s a look at what’s changed, what’s still included, and whether booking on-property is the right move for your next trip.
1) Disney’s Magical Express: Gone but Not Forgotten
One of the most beloved perks of staying on the property was Disney’s Magical Express, a complimentary shuttle service that transported guests from Orlando International Airport to their Disney Resort.
However, this service was officially discontinued as of January 1, 2022. While it was a great way to begin your Disney vacation, Disney opted to end the program in favor of other transportation options.
Mears Transportation, the company that provided the buses for Magical Express, now offers an alternative service that can transport guests between the airport and Disney resorts, though it is no longer complimentary.
Though it’s no longer free, Mears’ new service is affordable – especially in comparison to the price of an Uber or a Lyft – and still provides guests with a convenient way to get to their resorts without a car.
2. Early Theme Park Entry: A New Kind of Advantage
In the past, Disney resort guests enjoyed Extra Magic Hours, which allowed them to enter select parks an hour (sometimes even two hours) before the general public.
Since the parks reopened post-COVID, however, Extra Magic Hours have been replaced by Early Theme Park Entry, which grants resort guests 30 minutes of exclusive access at all four theme parks.
While 30 minutes may seem shorter than what Extra Magic Hours offers, the new system spreads guests across all parks, reducing overcrowding. This means you’ll still enjoy an exclusive advantage at all four parks, helping you make the most of your Disney vacation.
3. MagicBands – Now at a Low Cost
Previously, Disney resort guests received complimentary MagicBands, but that perk has been discontinued. However, MagicBands – or, to be more accurate, their next-gen replacement of MagicBand+ – are still available for purchase at a lower price.
Disney resort hotel guests and Annual Passholders can score a discounted MagicBand+ by purchasing through My Disney Experience before arrival. Resort guests qualify at least six days before check-in, while Passholders can grab one per pass.
If you have an older MagicBand, don’t worry—it will still work for your stay. Additionally, the My Disney Experience app can replace some of the functions of a MagicBand, including room key access, park tickets, and payment options.
4. Parking Fees at Resorts
For those driving to Walt Disney World, parking fees remain applicable at Disney Resort hotels. However, as of 2025, parking at Disney theme parks is complimentary for guests staying at on-property resorts.
This is a great perk for those who plan to visit the parks, as parking can add up quickly. Valet parking is still available at an additional cost, so if you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort or prefer a premium service, you can take advantage of that option.
5. Disney Dining Plan – Mostly the Same
The Disney Dining Plan went on pause after COVID-19, and only returned in 2024.
Back in the day (aka pre-COVID), Disney offered four dining plans ranging from quick bites to full-blown feasts. Now? The options have slimmed down to just two.
Guests can choose between the Quick-Service Plan (two quick-service meals, one snack, and a refillable resort mug) or the Standard Dining Plan (one quick-service meal, one table-service meal, one snack, and a refillable mug). Of course, like everything at Disney, prices have gone up—but if you time it right, resort packages can still land you a decent deal.
6. Disney Transportation – A Stress-Free Option
Disney’s Magical Express may be history, but getting around Walt Disney World is still a breeze. Staying on property means skipping the rental car hassle and tapping into Disney’s transportation network—Monorails, Skyliners, ferries, buses, and even scenic walking paths.
Even if your resort isn’t on the Monorail or Skyliner route, buses run frequently and make it easy to reach the parks. It’s one of the biggest perks of staying in the Disney bubble.
8. Exceptional Customer Service
Disney’s legendary customer service is a major perk of staying on property. From the moment you arrive, cast members go all-in to make your stay as seamless and magical as possible.
Whether you need a special request handled or just some park advice, they’ve got you covered – and that’s something that definitely hasn’t changed since the pandemic.
9. The Disney Bubble – The Ultimate Escape
Staying at a Walt Disney World Resort means stepping into the Disney Bubble—an all-encompassing escape where the magic never stops. No, it’s not a literal dome, but whether you’re in a Value, Moderate, or Deluxe Resort, you’re surrounded by Disney 24/7.
Themed rooms, oversized pools, and exclusive perks make staying on property a whole different experience. Even at a Value Resort, you’ll still get access to Disney-exclusive merch, themed dining, and that unmistakable sense of being fully immersed in the magic.
Should You Stay at a Walt Disney World Resort Hotel?
Even with some perk changes, staying at a Disney Resort still has its advantages. Guests get early park entry (30 extra minutes to hit the rides before the crowds), seamless transportation (buses, monorails, Skyliner, and ferries), and full immersion in Disney’s themed resorts.
If you want a stress-free, all-in Disney experience and don’t mind the updated policies on parking and transportation, staying on property is still a solid move. The perks may have shifted, but the magic is very much still there.
Do you think staying on property at Walt Disney World Resort is still worth the money?
