Hi, there, Lyn! Welcome to planDisney! I love a fellow kindred spirit who enjoys planning ahead just as much as I do, and I'm happy to help you with this important detail.
I have good news for you.
Parking at
Walt Disney World hotels is typically reserved for Guests with hotel, dining or recreation reservations at that specific hotel. However, dropping off and picking up Guests is permitted, so your son will have no problem with this. When he reaches security, he'll be asked for identification and your name, as the Guest, and then he'll be allowed through.
Now that we've got you settled on how you're getting to your resort, can we take a few moments to talk about
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge? This is arguably the most unique Walt Disney World hotel because of one very special reason, animals. While it's not unusual to see wildlife at any Disney resort, this is the one hotel where you can feel like you're vacationing on an African reserve. Giraffes wandering around while sipping coffee on your balcony? Yes, please! Even if you don't reserve a room looking out over the savanna, there are many viewing locations all throughout the resort. For an even more exclusive way to see animals, look into the
Starlight Safari at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge.
Plus, it's home to one of my favorite buffets on property,
Boma - Flavors of Africa. Boma features African flavors that are exotic, yet very approachable. Don't sleep on the zebra domes, which can be found on the buffet or at
The Mara, the quick service restaurant at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge. If you're looking for something a little more upscale,
Jiko - The Cooking Place is just as unique but elevated.
Lyn, I hope this has been helpful and that you bring any other planning questions you have back to
me and my other planDisney pals.
Have a magical trip!
Melanie