Jambo, AnMarie!
Welcome to planDisney, and thank you for sending us this magical question! I love using the Park Hopper Option when visiting the Walt Disney World Resort, as although I like to plan most things, Park Hopper tickets allow you to make last-minute changes to your itinerary. Honestly, I couldn't go to the theme parks without it!
While there are a few things you would need to consider, it would be possible for you to leave your car at the second park you intend to visit. Indeed,
Park Hopper rules and guidelines have changed a little bit since the pandemic and due to the theme park reservation system. First, Park hopping is available after two P.M. ET, and park-to-park buses are available starting at 1:30 PM every day. While the exact hours and availability are subject to change, you would not be able to take Disney transportation from one park directly to another before 1:30 PM. Second,
Disney bus transportation is available 45 minutes before park opening and up to an hour past park closure. Therefore, if you are planning on taking bus transportation to another destination and then to your second park, you would need to make sure that Disney transportation is also available at this time at your second park. However, as long as you have paid for parking or have access to complimentary theme park parking from your Resort hotel reservation or your Annual Pass, you should be able to park at the second theme park you intend to visit.
Now, as a big
Disney's Animal Kingdom fan, I must share some of my favourite things to do when I rope drop the theme park. First, I love going to Creature Comforts to get my breakfast and head to the Tree of Life trails next to the Cotton Top Tamarins. This trail, located right behind the Tree of Life, has a great view of the water, where you may be able to see some of your favourite characters go by! Second, while Florida rain is usually a Guest's worst enemy, I absolutely love rainy days at Disney's Animal Kingdom. You can head to indoor attractions, but my favourite thing is to go on the
Kilimanjaro Safaris. The animals are usually way more active during rainstorms, so rainy days make for the best safaris!
I hope this was helpful, AnMarie, and that you and your fellow wilderness explorers will have the best day ever on your next Disney adventure. If you have any other questions in the time leading up to your visit, please don't hesitate to reach out. As wilderness explorers ourselves, we are always happy to offer assistance!
Have a magical day, and remember: the wilderness must be explored! Kaw kaw, rawr!
Ariane