Hey there, Wayne, and welcome to planDisney.
It sounds like you are planning a pixie-dusted adventure, and I'm thrilled to help you today.
As a Marriott Bonvoy Member, I stay at the Walt Disney World Dolphin several times a year. There is just something about that lobby with all the sparkling crystals that makes me happy. Like you, I am always in a hurry to get to the parks as soon as I arrive, and you will have no problem parking before official check-in. Here are my tips on how to do this based on my experience. When you arrive, pull up to the hotel's turnaround area. You can head to the front desk to begin your check-in process. Although it's not guaranteed, I've occasionally been pleasantly surprised to find that my room is already ready. The staff will ask if you plan to park a car and will note this on your reservation. They will then direct you to the parking area and provide additional instructions. Once you've parked, you're free to bounce off to the parks like the lovable Tigger! Keep in mind that there is a nightly parking fee at the Disney Dolphin. According to the
Walt Disney World Resort website, self-parking currently costs $36 per night (plus tax), while valet parking is $44 per night (plus tax).
I'm not sure which park you will explore on your check-in day, but another pixie-dusted piece of good news is that you will also be free to use the Disney Dolphin's complimentary transportation into the parks. If you go to Disney's Animal Kingdom or Magic Kingdom, you will find the busses outside the front doors. If you are heading off to EPCOT or Disney's Hollywood Studios, hop on one of the
FriendShip Boats. You can find them by going down the escalator from the lobby and heading straight out the doors.
Wayne, across the bridge, you'll find the Disney BoardWalk area, and I hope you'll have time to explore all it has to offer. I tell my friends it is a hidden gem within Walt Disney World Resort. I had the most delicious Bayside Brownie À la Mode during my last visit at
BoardWalk Ice Cream. If you're a coffee enthusiast like I am, check out the Nitro Cold Brew at
Carousel Coffee; it's definitely worth the walk!
Woo-hoo-hoo-hoo, I hope you have the most magical trip. Stop by planDisney anytime! We are always here to help.
Happy planning,
Shonette