Hi Anne!
Welcome back to planDisney! Thanks for stopping by to see us again as you prepare for your trip to Walt Disney World Resort later this year. I feel like
The Most Magical Place on Earth becomes a bit more magical during the
holiday season, with beautiful decorations, festive special events, and yummy treats!
As you know, Anne, some changes are coming to bus transportation at
Disney Springs. I just happened to be at Disney Springs this week, and the signs are already posted announcing the updates. According to information we currently have, Guests boarding Disney Resort hotel buses and the Sassagoula River Cruise from Disney Springs will be asked to show a valid Disney Resort hotel room key, dining reservation, or experience reservation for the Resort they are visiting beginning on June 28, 2026. Since the
Drury Plaza Hotel Orlando Lake Buena Vista is not a hotel in the Disney Resorts Collection, you should expect to be asked for confirmation of a dining or activity reservation at a Disney Resort hotel to board the buses at Disney Springs during your stay. Since this is a new update, I would encourage you to check back closer to your trip for any additional details regarding transportation options, just in case something changes or further clarification is available.
If you're thinking about renting a car, keep in mind that
complimentary parking is currently available at Disney Resort hotels when you have a confirmed dining or activity reservation. It's important to remember that this parking is intended only for the length of your reservation. Several of my panelist pals who either rent cars during their vacations or are local to Walt Disney World have shared that Cast Members issue a parking pass valid for 3 hours when arriving for those reservations.
While I know this may not be the answer you were hoping for, Anne, I'm sending plenty of pixie dust and happy thoughts as you continue planning your trip! As always, stay tuned to official Disney Parks social channels and the
Disney Parks Blog for the latest updates and announcements, and please stop by to see us again here at planDisney if you have more questions!
You've Got a Friend in Me!
Kristi