• On Apr 2, 2019
    Tammy from NC Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    Hello again!! We are driving down this time. On our arrival day, AK has park opening @ 8 for resort guests. Can I take advantage of this? Drive to AK first thing, or go to resort first? If I do early check in, will that allow us to go right to AK at 8. TY

    Hey Tammy, thanks for stopping by the Disney Parks Moms Panel with your question. 

    I am so excited for your trip. Your plan is excellent! In fact, this is how I typically start off all of my Walt Disney World vacations because I drive too and don't want to miss out on a moment of magic. As a Guest of any Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, you are absolutely able to take advantage of all of the perks, including Extra Magic Hours, on the day you arrive. What I typically do is check-in online a few days prior to my arrival. When doing this, I select an early time of arrival. I don't expect my room to be ready but more as a note that I'll be there in the morning. Your MagicBand will already be activated so all you'll have to do is show it to the parking attendant at the entrance of Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park and you'll be able to park for free, another great perk of being an on property Guest. During the day, if you've checked in online, you can expect a text letting you know your room is ready. You can actually bypass stopping in at the resort front desk once you've got the text and head straight to your room. Isn't that neat?

    Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park is so fun, it's going to be a great way to start your day. If you're looking for a yummy snack to enjoy while you're there, check out the corn on the cob sprinkled with curry seasoning. You can find it being freshly grilled at a small kiosk near the Kilimanjaro Safaris. It's my new favorite snack. 

    I hope this helps. If you have any other questions please feel free to come back and ask. 
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Meet the Panelist: Jackie, North Carolina

I love all things Walt Disney World.  In fact, since becoming Annual Passholders, my family of 3 is always hopping in the car for a quick trip to visit with Mickey Mouse!  I've been known to make the 8 hour each way drive to Walt Disney World (in one day!) to indulge in a Mickey Waffle or enjoy a sunny day at Disney's Typhoon Lagoon Water Park.  I may have a small family, but we are always up for some BIG fun at the Walt Disney World Resort.   Learn More About Jackie

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