Hello Claire!
Welcome to
planDisney. It's great to see a fellow Maryland-based runner here. Let's lace up those sneakers and get going!
Disney Princess Half Marathon Weekend is my favorite
runDisney event of the year. I'll also be racing the red carpet with my crew of royal ladies in 2025! In recent years, runDisney hasn't offered special hotel rates for race participants, but you never know what can happen. I recommend following the
runDisney Instagram account for news about upcoming race weekends. Last year, runners received a surprise discount on
Walt Disney World Water Park tickets!
In the meantime, here are some tips for scoring a great rate at a
Walt Disney World Resort Hotel.
*Consider your memberships and affiliations. Are you or your spouse a member of the US Military? Do you belong to AAA? Do you have a
Walt Disney World Annual Pass or
Disney Visa credit card? Check
this website for special offers; some are just for particular groups like those listed above. The page is updated frequently, and you can usually modify a reservation if offers become available in the future.
*The
Walt Disney World Swan Hotel and
Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel currently list discounts for Marriott Bonvoy members, teachers, US Military members, nurses, doctors, paramedics, firefighters, and more. Call the hotels directly or check their website to see if you qualify.
*Some of my favorite hotels for a runDisney race weekend are also the most economical. I love to stay somewhere quiet and away from the noise of theme park evening entertainment so I can fall asleep sleep early in preparation for race morning.
Disney's All-Star Movies Resort,
Disney's All-Star Music Resort, and
Disney's All-Star Sports Resort fit the bill perfectly. Even the non-discounted prices at these resorts are reasonable, so if a special rate isn't available, I like to book here. Treat yourself a little and choose a "preferred room" for a shorter walk to the lobby and bus stop. You'll be logging enough miles as it is!
I hope this is helpful, Claire, and that you find a resort that works for you. Best wishes for a safe and healthy training season, and I'll see you on the race course! Thanks for sending your question to us, and have a magical day.
Betsy