Hi Helen,
Welcome to planDisney!
With your trip approaching in a little over a month, I am doing a happy dance! My dance slowed down a bit as I did some research for your question. When I checked the Lyft mobile app for the
Disney Minnie Van™ Service Connected by Lyft option to Magic Kingdom, I did see not see the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace as an option for a pick-up point. I also called the hotel and the person I spoke with at the front desk did not believe Disney Minnie Vans provide service to the hotel. Of course, please double-check. You may get a different staff member at the hotel who has additional information. In better news, when I checked the resort hotels eligible for
early theme park entry, the Hilton Orlando Buena Vista Palace is currently on the list.
My family prefers
Disney Resorts Collection hotels because of the fantastic theming and complimentary transportation as well as proximity to the theme parks. If you do decide to stay at a non-Disney hotel, I will also suggest that you get clear information about the available transportation to the Walt Disney World® theme parks. I once was at a non-Disney hotel which advertised complimentary transportation, but it only ran once every hour. It was not convenient.
My family actually prefers resort hotels within walking distance to a theme park or that have multiple transportation options.
Disney's Pop Century Resort, for example, has access to
Walt Disney World® Bus Service and the
Disney Skyliner. Disney's Contemporary Resort has access to
Walt Disney World® Monorail Transportation and is within walking distance to Magic Kingdom.
Helen, I will offer one last tip. Time is of value. When we are deciding on our options for resort hotels, we consider how long it would take us to travel to and from the hotel. We also consider, as you are, whether or not the hotel allows us early entry or
extended evening hours at the theme parks. So, even if the resort hotel might cost more, if it saves us time or gives us more time in the parks with lower crowds, I consider that a factor in making our decision. So, let the dancing begin again! Sending you a little extra pixie dust as you make those final plans!
Magic and memories,
Donyell