Hiya Jordan!
Welcome to planDisney, and thank you for sending us this magical question! I am so excited that you decided to spend some time visiting the Disney Resort hotels. They have so many unique offerings that are perfect for taking some time away from the theme park crowds and the Florida heat!
I am happy to let you know that, yes, you can park at the Transportation and Ticket Center even if you do not have a Magic Kingdom Park reservation for the day. If you do not have a dining reservation or another cause to access
complimentary day parking at the Disney Resort hotel of your choice, you will not be able to park your car at those Resorts and will instead be advised to park at the Transportation and Ticket Center or Disney Springs. Just don't forget that you will still need a
theme park reservation if you decide to visit the theme parks, and you may be reminded of this when entering the parking lot, but they will not make sure that you have a reservation at the gate.
Now, let's talk about some of the things you will be able to experience while exploring those beautiful Disney Resorts! Personally, I always need to stop by
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa for a quick stop at Basin White. Their hand-washing station is a must when visiting the shop as you can try some of their famous scrubs and perhaps buy a souvenir or two! Also at the Grand Floridian, I highly recommend either getting a reservation at the
Grand Floridian Cafe or stopping by
Gasparilla Island Grill for a quick bite. Both restaurants have excellent food options, and Gasparilla's mac and cheese is, in my opinion, the best quick-service mac and cheese on Disney property. Over at Disney's Contemporary Resort, the new restaurant
Steakhouse 71 is already a fan favourite that I would highly recommend checking out as well. Make sure to stop by Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, however, to
get a Dole Whip and watch the
fireworks to end your day in the best way.
I hope this was helpful, Jordan, and that you will have the best day ever visiting the Disney Resort hotels on your next visit to the Walt Disney World Resort. If you have any other questions or need more Resort hopping suggestions, please don't hesitate to reach back out. As a big fan of the Grand Floridian, it is always my pleasure to help fellow Resort hoppers!
Have a magical day,
Ariane