This is a great question, Erin. I’m glad you’re thinking ahead and planning your days in a way that will best suit your touring style!
Yes, Guests are permitted to leave the park they have
reserved a spot in and return later in the day. A lot of guests like to do exactly that. One of the touring strategies that ensures you make the most of your theme park day is to arrive really early and experience as many attractions as you can while the night owls are sleeping away the morning. When the afternoon arrives, you might pop back over to your resort hotel for a swim or a happy hour break and then return to the park for more fun in the evening. No matter how you choose to use your break time, you can rest assured that your admittance is guaranteed when you return to the theme park you reserved for the day.
Touring in this manner might lead you to enjoying dinner in one of the parks. In that case, I’d recommend considering
Via Napoli Ristorante e Pizzeria in Epcot,
The Hollywood Brown Derby at Disney’s Hollywood Studios or
Satu'li Canteen at Disney’s Animal Kingdom. Each of these in-park restaurants are tried-and-true favorites.
I hope that helps you plan an excellent Disney day, Erin!