Hiya, Carolyn!
It's always a treat to help one of Mickey's Floridian neighbors here at planDisney. I'm so glad you stopped by with your question!
As a Georgia resident, I must admit that I'm more than a little jealous of your proximity to the magic. It must be so wonderful to have the opportunity to pop over to simply enjoy your favorite attraction, character hug, or meal!
With this in mind, I'm happy to share that access to
Disney's BoardWalk is not exclusively reserved for those calling the BoardWalk Inn their magical home away from home. In fact, it's one of my favorite places to enjoy a bit of Disney magic on days I don't have access to the theme parks. With shopping, dining, entertainment, and a view of EPCOT's nighttime fireworks display, there's no shortage of ways to fill your time, and it's definitely worth a visit.
While the BoardWalk is open to the public, unfortunately,
BoardWalk Inn parking is exclusively available for those with a hotel or dining reservation. While there is a chance that a Cast Member will permit entrance to the parking lot if you explain your intention to dine without presenting a reservation, this is ultimately done pending parking availability and at the individual Cast Member's discretion. In my experience, it never hurts to ask, but with the understanding that an accommodation to your request would be the exception rather than the rule.
If you are unable to park at Disney's BoardWalk Inn, all hope of enjoying a day on the BoardWalk is not lost! You could book a
Minnie Van through the Lyft app and have it drop you off at the hotel, pay to park at Disney's Hollywood Studios and take the
Disney Skyliner to EPCOT, or park at
Disney Springs and catch a complimentary bus to Disney's BoardWalk Inn, Disney's Beach Club, or Disney's Yacht Club.
However you choose to travel to Disney's BoardWalk, be sure to allow plenty of time to explore!
If you have any additional questions about visiting the various destinations that make up
Walt Disney World Resort, don't hesitate to come see us again at
planDisney. We're happy to help!
Thinking Happy Thoughts,
Lizzie