When are the extended hours for the different parks released? We always try to take advantage of extended hours for reservations, but since we have to make park reservations now I want to know which parks are open later before making the reservation.”

Hi Jennifer! Welcome to planDisney! 

As you know from previous trips, getting a head start on the planning process is the best way to set yourself up for an amazing Walt Disney World Resort stay. There is so much to see and do that having a good plan will only enhance your experience. With Disney requiring Theme Park Reservations now, you will want to set these dates as soon as you can.

Currently, Walt Disney World is offering extra time at the parks in both the morning and in the evening. Early Theme Park Entry is offered to all Guests staying at a Disney Resort hotel and select other hotels. These Guests are able to enter any of the four theme parks 30 minutes before the scheduled opening. On my recent trip, my family took full advantage of this time. We were able to ride Seven Dwarfs Mine Train and hop over to Peter Pan's Flight all before the official park opening. During the busy holiday season, Disney did extend the entry to 60 minutes prior to opening. Since you will be arriving during an anticipated busy Spring Break season, I would check on any announcements to see if they decide to do the same.
Note: As always, this offer is subject to change but I anticipate this perk being around for the extension of the Walt Disney World 50th Anniversary Celebration!

Walt Disney World also introduced Extended Evening Theme Park Hours for anyone staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort, a Disney Deluxe Villa Resort, or a few other select hotels. Currently, these extended hours are only listed until the end of March, with EPCOT offering them on most Monday evenings and the Magic Kingdom Park offering them on most Wednesday evenings. Disney should be releasing theme park hours any day for the month of April, so I would advise checking back to ensure that they continue offering this perk as well. 

While the early entry and extended hours do offer lower wait times at attractions, you can also utilize Disney Genie+ during normal park hours to help save some time. Using this service will allow you to access the Lightning Lane entrances and bypass the stand-by queue. By using your My Disney Experience App, you will be able to select the next available attraction as the day progresses and cut down on any long lines throughout the day. You have the option to purchase this for your entire stay prior to arrival or on individual days as you see fit. 

Jennifer, have the most magical vacation! Please stop back to planDisney at any time before your visit with more questions that we can help with!

See ya real soon!
Greg