If you've ever wondered if it's worth it to stay on property at Disney World, the answer is YES!! You can do the trip a little cheaper staying off the resort but the benefits to staying on site completely outweigh the amount in my opinion.
Watch this great video and then read below for details... And if you're thinking, "Aw. It's a crummy commercial," then just watch. I love this commercial!!
So now that you're happily humming Disney music, let me give you a few more details about the benefits.
Location, Location, Location. It may seem obvious, but if you're staying closer to the parks and fun, there's more time for fun! And after a long day, it's nice to know that you don't have to find your way out of the resort area and to your non-Disney hotel.
Middle of the Magic. If you're like me, then you want to feel like your whole vacation is Magical, not just the time in the parks. When you stay on-site, the Magic never stops. Disney has the absolute best customer service in the world and it's obvious at the hotels. Many of the hotels have character meals and they all have special events such as outdoor movies and activities. Polynesian even has Dole Whip on site!!
Extra Magic Hours. Each Day there are Extra Magic Hours at a park. That means that only guests staying on Disney property are allowed to be in the park. Shorter lines and less crowds are always a bonus!!
FastPass Early Selection. Guests that stay at a Disney resort can book FastPasses 60 days in advance of their trip. Other guests must wait until 30 days prior. This means that the FastPass that you really want and need for Frozen Ever After or Snow White's Mine Train will most likely be gone before the 30 day window opens up. I've never had trouble getting these FastPasses when I reserve for my clients 60 days out.
MagicBands. MagicBands are your room key, your FastPass ticket, your admission into the park and your money if you choose to use it to pay for food and other items. So you truly don't have to carry anything with you. These are free to guests on site and available to other guests for a fee.
Parking and Transportation. If you are driving into Orlando, parking is free at the hotel and the parks for on site guests. Others will pay a parking fee. But the best part is that you really don't have to drive once you are there. Disney provides free transportation by monorail, bus and boats to all parks and hotels. I LOVE just sitting back while someone else drives me around. Maybe I need a chauffeur in daily life?
Magical Express. If you're flying into Orlando, then guests staying at Disney World enjoy complimentary transportation from the airport to the resort and back. It's a wonderful, stress-free way to get to Disney after dealing with airports. Sadly, it does return you to the airport after your stay which always makes me sad. I've heard others call it the Tragical Express when it takes you away from your Happy Place!!
Summer is coming - give me a shout and let me plan a Magical on-site vacation for you!!