When visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, there are a number of options for hotels that you can stay in. In fact, it’s probably a pretty critical decision that’s made when putting your vacation together. Everyone has their different needs when planning a vacation like this and it only makes sense to choose a place that takes some of the hassles out of the planning stages. A few minutes of careful consideration can save you from encountering an annoying problem later on in your trip, as well as saving you money.
Free Shuttle Service
In terms of convenience, the advantages of staying at a hotel near Disney World can’t be beaten. Transportation is often a headache for vacationers who are trying to balance their budget and their time, but the good news is that many hotels offer free shuttle service. Free shuttle transportation can save you a commute and a parking fee, or an expensive car rental. With shuttle access, there is no need to be frustrated over or worry about finding a parking spot along with hundreds of other people and losing time you could be spending inside of the park.
Walt Disney World Resort Transportation System
Another potential bonus is the availability for use of the Walt Disney World Resort transportation system. If you are interested in visiting the theme park, the water park, and taking in a game of golf all on the same day, walking to and from each place is time-consuming and often uncomfortable. There are four separate theme parks, golf courses, and many other attractions within the confines of the Resort. Simply navigating from one place to another can eat up precious time, and walking that great of a distance is exhausting. Driving a car means you will have to hunt for even more parking spots. The Walt Disney Resort transportation system can take you quickly and comfortably from one gate or attraction to another. Sitting back in an air-conditioned bus, or experiencing a fun ferryboat or water launch ride, is much easier than the amount of walking you would have to do otherwise. There is also the world-famous Disney monorail for speedy access from places such as the Magic Kingdom to places like Disney’s Polynesian Resort, and the Transportation and Ticket Center, which is a hub for other express transportation options. There are clearly marked pick-up points throughout the Resort, and after a short wait, transport will arrive to take you where you need to go. Do keep in mind that some routes are not direct and you will have to note connections you need to take, if there are any.
Early Entrance to Disney World
Those who stay in hotels near Disney World also have access to an early entrance to the park. As the day wears on, more people arrive, and the lines and waiting times get longer and longer. When you have the benefit of an early entrance, you are able to beat much of the crush of the crowds and in doing so gain more opportunities to explore Disney World without interruption and stress. If you are bringing small children along with you, the less hustle and bustle of crowds there are, the better. Keeping an eye on how much stimulation your child is exposed to at a park can keep them from tiring out and sending you back to your hotel ahead of schedule.
Disney World Fireworks
One of the major events for Disney World visitors is the nightly fireworks. The stunning nighttime display takes place at the EPCOT Center, Disney’s huge, popular attraction with futuristic and world themes. Every night, thousands converge to watch the fireworks take place. If you are staying at a hotel near the Resort, you can head out of the park after a long day of exploration to watch the fireworks from the privacy and comfort of your hotel. This could be a unique, more personal experience to take home with you, rather than the experience of standing elbow to elbow with countless other people. You can watch the fireworks display from your hotel as the finale to a busy, exciting day.
Summer is the most popular time for people to visit Walt Disney World, and it is important to many to remain comfortable in the elements. Winter’s harsh chill and rain can be as uncomfortable for some as the scorch of summer, too. The proximity of your hotel to the attractions and adventures at the Walt Disney World Resort is extremely useful for when you want to beat the intense summer heat or winter cold. Even if the weather is perfect, you may find yourself wanting to come back to your hotel for some rest during the busiest hours of the day. Take a relaxing dip in the pool to cool off, or sip some drinks poolside. You might want to take a nap to recharge before heading back out to discover new adventures at Disney World. Spend your morning at the Magic Kingdom, perhaps lunch at your hotel, take a nap or relax, and when it starts to cool down, explore Downtown Disney for a different Disney experience.
Disney World Vacation Planning
It is important to plan before you even step foot onto the Walt Disney World Resort. For example, determine how many of the parks and attractions you actually want to visit. Often people make the mistake of planning too many things per day, and end up exhausted and overwhelmed during what is supposed to be a fun vacation. Realistically deciding how many things you would want to see during your time is a must. Things like free shuttle transportation and the ability to come back to your hotel for some down time are great ways to manage your stress level. Explore your options and decide what is best for you and any of your guests. You might be surprised to learn how simple things provided by your hotel and by the Resort can be a great help, and they can also free up more money in your budget to go toward fun things. At the end of the day, the goal is to enjoy your time at the Happiest Place on Earth.