Why hello again Julia, it's great to see you back at planDisney!
It sounds like you're getting
a lot of planning done since your last question about your stay at the
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel, and for anyone who may not necessarily be comfortable with taking advantage of the
complimentary resort transportation here, having a place to park your vehicle can certainly be high on your list of priorities!
Though in the past, the
Disney Resort Hotels had previously been more welcoming for day guests to
park their vehicles while enjoying "select dining, entertainment and recreation experiences" while visiting, there have been increased restrictions as to what extent this can entail in recent years. After we heard from guests that Parking and Security Host Cast Members were restricting access to guests who were either staying there or had a dining reservation, we tested it out and sure enough on several occasions Cast Members were observed requesting proof or a name to look up at the gate. Note that folks and families who previously had been able to pass with a
Mobile Order from
The Mara - the Quick Service dining location located at Jambo House - have not been permitted as the Cast Members don't consider that to be a valid dining reservation, and even drivers just dropping off guests were also turned away. While access may be at the discretion of these Cast Members or their leadership, it's always important to remember that they're really just doing as instructed and ensuring that the parking at busy Disney Resort Hotel locations is always convenient and available for those staying there - even if that might be a bit disappointing to folks just wanting to pay a quick visit during popular times.
You might have better luck with choosing Valet Parking service (if it's available and you're willing to pay the additional fee to do so) or scheduling a ride via
Minnie Van Service, where Cast Members are the drivers and more likely to be able to help you avoid any situations like this. Alternatively,
making a dining reservation at one of the locations at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge that the Security team will be able to look up as you arrive could be your way through - but the heartiness of
the feast found at Boma - Flavors of Africa would probably fill you up - while allowing you to enjoy as many waffles as you'd like!
I hope this was helpful as you plan ahead Julia; while policies may always be subject to change it's important to be aware of any challenges you may encounter as you drive out to the Disney Resort Hotels!
Wishing you all the best on your quest for parking on your upcoming Disney journeys!
Prince