When planning a vacation to Walt Disney World, many people ponder the question of whether or not to stay on Disney property.  For me it is a non-negotiable easy decision. Staying on property has so many advantages,  it is well worth the added cost.

Staying in a Walt Disney World hotel means the Disney Magic doesn’t end when you leave the park. The resort hotels maintain that Disney feel. Some of the value hotels like Art of Animation and All Star Movies are filled with Disney characters. On the walk to the lobby at Art of Animation, the kids would announce the characters we passed and take pictures with them.

Walt Disney World hotels increase in cost from value to moderate and to deluxe. Every resort has a pool, gift shop, quick service cafeteria and access to free transportation around Disney World. As the price increases, the amenities at the resort get nicer and nicer. The more expensive resorts have table service dining options and more elaborate pool and recreation areas. These resorts are generally closer to the theme parks. A little advertised Disney secret is that guests staying at deluxe resorts can take advantage of extended hours in some of the parks. Take a look at this sample schedule for Summer 2022.

All resort guests can take advantage of Disney Extra Magic Hours. This program has changed over the years but currently allows resort guests to enter all 4 parks 30 minutes earlier than the opening time. Other perks include being able to make Lightning Lane and Genie+ selections at 7am before and sending purchases in the park back to your room instead of carrying them around all day.

Traveling from the resort to the theme parks is simple when you stay at a Disney resort hotel. The bus system is the most common way to get around. Then there is the Magic Kingdom monorail, and the Disney Skyliner that connects Caribbean Beach, Art of Animation and Pop Century to Hollywood Studios and Epcot. There are also water taxis and Minnie Vans (Lyft operated). Being able to go the resort quickly and easily and back again is super convenient. It allows for so many variations in your stay. You can go back to the room if you forgot something. Parties can split if younger ones (or older ones like grandparents) need a break. Grandparents can take the kids back early so the parents can enjoy some amazing alone time.

Staying in a Walt Disney World resort hotel means that you are on your Disney vacation around the clock from the moment you arrive.