• On Jan 9, 2017
    Lorrie from WV Asked Note: This answer was provided prior to the change to planDisney and may still contain references to Disney Parks Moms Panel.

    Experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    We are not staying at a Disney resort and do not get the extra magic hours, which are after closing. How does that work? Are we able to walk around the park during the extra magic hours but not ride? What if we try to buy something on the way out after 8?

    Hello Lorrie!  Welcome to the Disney Parks Moms Panel!

    As you know, the Extra Magic Hours are offered to guests as a unique benefit for staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels.  Not all attractions are available during these extended hours and the ones that are will be monitored by a Cast Member who scans the MagicBand or Admission card of a member of your party to confirm that you are staying at the resort. 

    While non-resort guests are unable to experience the attractions, no Cast Member (in my experience) has ever asked whether I was staying on or off resort when I was purchasing souvenirs or snacks.  Most of your dining options will be limited during these hours as most restaurants close at the same time as the park regularly closes however, and you will find that a lot of stores and food carts will stop selling during the Extra Magic Hours.

    Basically, the main stores and food carts near the main gates at each of the 4 Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks will be open during the Extra Magic Hours, as well as shops connected to attractions that remain open during these times.  While there is no one there to usher you out of the park, you will probably find your options limited and may be inclined to leave on your own.

    As an alternative to Extra Magic Hours, I recommend spending a night after the park closes strolling down Disney's Boardwalk or experiencing the the eclectic offerings at Disney Springs.

    The Magic is Endless at Walt Disney World Resort and doesn't have to end when the park closes!
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Meet the Panelist: Todd, Ontario

Hello, I’m Todd – fun dad to two super kids, a beautiful princess and adventurous pirate, and husband to a loving wife. By day, I work as a storyteller and high school teacher, where I help others find their own stories through the magic of the Walt Disney World Resort!

Learn More About Todd

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