Disney Just Made a Major Change for Resort Guests—and It’ll Make Traveling With Kids So Much Easier
Here’s What Parents Need To Know This Summer
For many parents, a Disney World vacation is the trip of a lifetime—and also one of the most exhausting. Early mornings, long lines, and overstimulated kids can make “The Most Magical Place on Earth” feel a little overwhelming.
But this summer, Disney’s giving families a much-needed breather.
Starting May 27, Walt Disney World is launching a new lineup of perks just for resort guests, with one goal in mind: making vacations easier and more magical for families with young children. Sound like a dream? Wait until you hear what’s included.
Disney World Summer 2025: Early Character Appearances—and Way Less Waiting
Gone are the days of racing through the parks to catch a glimpse of Mickey before the crowds build. Disney is now introducing early character greetings during its daily early theme park entry period—exclusive to Disney Resort guests. Now, families staying at hotels like Disney’s Art of Animation, Pop Century, or Wilderness Lodge might just find their favorite characters right inside the gates, before the park even fully opens.
That means shorter waits, less stress, and more memorable moments—especially for toddlers and preschoolers who may not make it through a full park day. The magic doesn’t stop at the castle gates. Disney is bringing even more themed entertainment directly to resort hotels this summer, including:
-
Outdoor movie nights under the stars
-
Scheduled character meet-and-greets
-
Kid-friendly games and activities themed around Disney favorites
Hotels like Caribbean Beach Resort and Pop Century will be transformed into mini play zones, helping families wind down after long days in the parks—or even enjoy a slower-paced, park-free day.
Non-Resort Guests Can Still Join the Fun
And for parents flying Southwest Airlines, there’s a practical new perk: luggage assistance. Guests staying at Value Resorts like All-Star Movies or Art of Animation can now check their bags directly from the hotel, bypassing Orlando airport lines entirely.
Not staying at a Disney hotel? Don’t worry—Disney’s not leaving you out. All guests visiting Walt Disney World between May 27 and Sept. 1 can explore pop-up “kid zones” in the parks, with special appearances from characters like Stitch, Goofy, and more.
Storybook Circus in Magic Kingdom and CommuniCore Hall at EPCOT will host interactive activities like games, dancing, and mini shows to keep kids engaged and entertained between attractions.
A First in 10 Years: Nighttime Parade Returns to Disney World and So Much More
On top of all that, Disney fans have one more major reason to celebrate: the long-awaited return of a nighttime parade. Called “Disney Starlight,” the show marks the first nighttime parade at Walt Disney World in nearly a decade—and it’s expected to light up the Magic Kingdom later this summer.
Pair that with the debuts of “The Little Mermaid – A Musical Adventure” and “Disney Villains: Unfairly Ever After,” and it’s clear that summer 2025 is shaping up to be one of the most family-focused seasons Disney has ever hosted.
In a world where travel costs are rising and families are looking to get the most bang for their buck, Disney’s strategy is clear: reward those who stay on property with more magic, more convenience, and more value. For parents, that could mean fewer meltdowns, more memories—and a whole lot less stress.
