Hi Janet, and welcome to planDisney! I’m excited to hear that you’ll be walking down Main Street, U.S.A., and eating all the Mickey-shaped snacks in just two more days. So I’d be happy to chat about all the special activities and perks going on right now!
While the
water park benefit is done for this year (it’ll be back next summer), there are lots of perks available for
Disney resort hotel guests year-round. My family’s favorite is taking advantage of extra time in the theme parks with
Early Theme Park Entry, where Disney resort hotel guests can get into all four theme parks 30 minutes before regular park opening… every day! It really helps my family maximize the morning before heading back to our resort hotel for a midday pool break (or nap for the little ones!). And if you’re staying at a Deluxe Resort or Deluxe Villa Resort, you also get access to
Extended Evening Theme Park Hours on select nights. Next week, this includes EPCOT on Monday night and Hollywood Studios on Wednesday night (check the
Hours & Events Calendar for the exact hours). As a night owl, I love the extra time in the parks after the sun goes down!
Another reason my family loves staying at Disney resort hotels is running into characters, often in the lobby or near the pool. We’ve had some of our best character interactions in these more intimate and casual settings. While it’s meant to be a surprise, sometimes Cast Members may have an idea of when the characters might show up next. Check with a Cast Member when you get to your resort hotel on Sunday!
And finally, each resort hotel also has its own unique lineup of activities throughout the day. You can preview what’s going on at your resort hotel by going to its page on the Disney World website, going to the Recreation section, and clicking on the activities schedule. The exact offerings vary by resort hotel, but typically include activities like silent disco, pool games, a campfire for roasting marshmallows, and tours.
One last thing I wanted to mention before I go. If you’re looking to have fun outside of the theme parks on your check-in day, I love heading to one of the two miniature golf courses (
Fantasia Gardens or
Winter Summerland) or to Disney Springs. Not only does Disney Springs have endless shopping and dining options, but there’s lots of entertainment too. From musical acts on stage to the games and challenges at
LEVEL99, there’s something for everyone! I usually grab a drink or snack and sit down at one of the stages to enjoy the performances. You can find the
calendar on the Disney Springs website.
I’m wishing you a magical stay at Disney World this weekend. And if you have any other questions, you’re always welcome back at planDisney!
JoAnna