Welcome to planDisney, Maria!
How exciting that you or someone you know will be bravely conquering the Dopey Challenge in just a few short weeks! Although I have crossed the finish line of several
runDisney 5Ks, 10Ks, half marathons, and marathons, I have never completed them all in a single race weekend, and I am consistently in awe of those who do! Since the
Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is just around the corner, there's no time to waste. Let's
race right to your question!
All of the races that make up the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend begin in the EPCOT parking lot, so the closest Disney Resort hotels will be those surrounding Crescent Lake just outside of EPCOT's International Gateway entrance -
Disney's Beach Club Resort,
Disney's Yacht Club Resort, and
Disney's BoardWalk Inn. It's important to keep in mind that the races will begin before EPCOT opens for the day, so you will be unable to walk through EPCOT to access the parking lot and will need to utilize the
complimentary bus transportation available for Guests of Disney Resort hotels. With this in mind, the proximity of Disney's Port Orleans Resorts -
French Quarter and
Riverside and
Disney's Old Key West Resort to the starting line would also make convenient choices for a brief bus ride.
No matter where you choose to call your magical home away from home, as the race weekend approaches I encourage you to check out
Digital Expo & Event Guide available online. Whether you are a runner or a spectator, it's filled with helpful information! Additionally, my pals Melissa and Betsy are
runDisney veterans, and they were
featured on the planDisney Podcast earlier this year in an episode filled with great tips for those looking to
go the distance.
If you're in need of any additional information about
runDisney or Walt Disney World Resort as you finalize the plans for your upcoming visit, feel free to
stop back by. I'm always happy to help!
Thinking Happy Thoughts,
Lizzie