Couple enjoying pretzel at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park
  • On Jun 6, 2023
    Kristy from NY Asked Please note that experiences, policies, pricing and other offerings are subject to change and may have changed since the date of this answer.

    I purchased a park hopper ticket but don’t plan on going to a park until after 2pm some days. Do I still need to make a park reservation for that park?

    Hiya Kristy!

    Welcome to planDisney!! I'm normally not a Park Hopper as it tires my kids out so much but I have plans soon to hop along just like you from one Park to another in Walt Disney World! 

    Now, these Park Hopper options combined with Theme Park Reservations can be kind of tricky but I promise you that this will only be an issue until January 9, 2024, in most situations. At this time, for the date of your trip arrival, and with a Park Hopper ticket, you will still have to make a Theme Park Reservation for your day even if you are not arriving at your first Park until after 2 pm. That initial check-in at the first Park is needed for the 2 pm "hop" to be allowed. If the first Park of the day is not entered until 2 pm then that should be the Park you make your Theme Park Reservation for. From there you can go to any Park you like without making reservations. 

    Now, if you have an Annual Pass you can visit any theme park after 2 pm without a Theme Park Reservation, except on Saturdays and Sundays at Magic Kingdom Park. 

    I also want to make sure you know that your arrival coincides with one of the best times of the year! Mickey's Not-So-Scary Halloween Party will be in full swing when you arrive and a ticket to this party will let you enter Magic Kingdom Park at 4 pm. The party does not start until 7 pm but you can enjoy a lovely late afternoon in the Park until things get spooky in the evening. With this ticket, no regular Park ticket is needed nor do you need a Park Reservation. I love dressing up with my family and trick-or-treating around the Park and I hope you get to experience it.

    I hope this helps and you have a fabulous time! Let me know if you have any more questions! 

    Happy Planning!

    -Nimmy 
thumbnail image for Nimmy

Meet the Panelist: Nimmy, New York

Hey, it's Nimmy from New York! Just like my guy Jiminy Cricket I am your wisecracking and helpful guide to making the best decisions for your Disney vacation! My husband and I work very hard to journey to our favorite place on Earth, Walt Disney World Resort, as much as we can. We have traveled as just adults, with babies, kids, teenagers, and senior citizens. We have seen so many characters, eaten at amazing places, and consumed a ton of Dole Whips. So "give a little whistle" and let me be your guide! Learn More About Nimmy

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