Hello, Megan! I'm so happy to welcome a fellow Pennsylvanian to planDisney!
Megan, how exciting that your Magical visit is rapidly approaching! My husband and I are visiting in July as well and I'm already counting down the days. Don't forget that
dining reservations can be booked 60 days in advance of your stay and often fill up quickly. If you are interested in table-service dining, I recommend securing reservations if you haven't already done so.
Now, let's chat about onsite transportation. The scenario you described is one that often fits my traveling party, so I appreciate this question and am happy to share that we have done exactly what you are suggesting. Whether we drive to our
Disney Resort Hotel or are dropped off by a shuttle from the airport, we will often arrive for our vacation early in the day, before the official check-in time. We typically
drop our bags with Bell Services and utilize
complimentary transportation to
Disney Springs. I know other guests love to kick off their vacation with park time, so you are welcome to use transportation to any of the parks as well. Since you're driving, make sure to let the Cast Member at the gate know that you're checking in that day (even though your room likely won't be ready for hours) and they'll direct you to the parking area.
Megan, I hope this helps as you're planning ahead. If you have any other questions don't hesitate to come on back to planDisney. My fellow panelists and I love answering questions even more than
Andy loves his backyard toys!
Wishing you a Magical visit,
Lauren