Welcome to planDisney, Jacob, and thanks for this great question. I'm a Florida resident, so I enjoy the
perks and discounts when I visit
Walt Disney World Resort, too. Let's look at how you can check in at your
Disney Resort Hotel and keep that resident discount intact.
I spoke to a knowledgeable Cast Member named Jennings, and he said your easiest option is to complete
Online Check-in in your My Disney Experience account on your computer or mobile app.
Once online check-in is complete, you'll receive a message when your room is ready on the arrival day. Your party can skip the front desk and go straight to the hotel room. If they're linked to your account as
Family and Friends, they should be able to
unlock the door using the app or a
MagicBand.
When you arrive, you will stop by the Front Desk to show
proof of Florida residency to keep your room discount.
My tip is to call
Disney Resort Hotel Reservations now to explain that you are the resident and will be arriving a day later. Request that they add a note to your reservation so the Front Desk will see the situation when your party arrives without you.
You are visiting during the most festive time of year, so I hope you enjoy the brand new
Frozen Holiday Surprise show at Magic Kingdom Park. Check the mobile app for show times and gather at the castle for the snow...er...show!
Jacob, I'm sending a sleigh full of pixie dust so your upcoming visit is full of magical memories. Please
stop by planDisney anytime!
Magic awaits,
Elaine