Hey, Tierney! This is a really great question, so I am glad you sent it in to us! There are so many wonderful benefits to staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel - the
complimentary transportation, early admission to select parks with
Extra Magic Hours,
room charging privileges, and
resort merchandise delivery just to name a few. However, the two benefits you mentioned have to be among the most fun aspects of a Disney Resort Hotel stay.
Everyone staying in a Disney Resort Hotel is welcome to hop online prior to their arrival and
customize a complimentary MagicBand for each guest in their party. There is a rainbow of colors available, as well as
upgrade options if you would like to further declare your favorite Disney character or theme. Personally, I have my eye on the Dole Whip adorned MagicBand! While guests staying off Disney property will not receive a complimentary MagicBand, they can still purchase one for use during their magical vacation. These can be purchased online at
shopDisney or the
Shop Merchandise link within the
My Disney Experience mobile app. If you prefer, you can wait until you arrive and check out the
huge selection found all across the Resort. Once purchased, you will need to
link it to your My Disney Experience account so that you can use it to access your Disney Theme Park Ticket and FastPass+ selections.
Speaking of
FastPass+, you will be able to make these selections in advance no matter where you may be staying. All you need are Disney Theme Park Tickets linked to your account. The only difference is the timing of selections. Those staying at a Disney Resort Hotel can make theirs up to 60 days in advance of check-in, while all others can make theirs up to 30 days in advance of each day they plan to visit a theme park.
I hope this information helps you plan your pixie-dusted adventures! Thanks for stopping by and please let us know if you have any other questions.
Bandyh