Hi, there!
Welcome back to planDisney, Jareel. We're thrilled to hear you're planning another visit to the Walt Disney World Resort!
Arriving early in Orlando is the very best way to squeeze as much magic as you can into your vacation. My family always opts for an early arrival too. We don't visit a theme park on our arrival day, so we use that time to explore our Disney Resort hotel, visit Disney Springs, and enjoy a nice dinner!
I'm pleased to tell you that there is
complimentary bus transportation available from
Disney's Contemporary Resort to Disney Springs. The Walt Disney World Resort website states that bus service to Disney Springs is available during Disney Springs operating hours and ends one hour after closing, but in my experience, bus service typically begins about an hour earlier than opening time. The bus stop is just a short walk from the lobby of Disney's Contemporary Resort.
There is so much to see and do at
Disney Springs! Shopping at
World of Disney is an absolute must-do for my family. We always find the perfect souvenirs there! I also love strolling through the
Marketplace Co-Op. For lunch, I recommend grabbing a bite at
D-Luxe Burger. They have the best burgers and fresh-cut fries! Do you have a sweet tooth? If you do, you'll want to be sure to stop by
Amorette's Patisserie,
Everglazed Donuts & Cold Brew, or
Gideon's Bakehouse for dessert. I'm getting hungry just thinking about all those scrumptious treats!
My family enjoys swimming at our Disney Resort hotel's pool on our arrival day. We each pack a backpack as our carry-on with a swimsuit, sunscreen, and any other essentials so that we don't have to wait for our luggage to arrive before going swimming. Don't worry about packing towels; complimentary towels are available at all pools! If your room isn't ready for you when you arrive, just stop by the Front Desk and ask about the available facilities where you can get changed.
Your arrival day is the perfect time to book a unique dining reservation for dinner. I suggest dining at
California Grill, conveniently located on the 15th floor of Disney's Contemporary Resort! With incredible views of Magic Kingdom Park and gourmet dining, it's surely a magical way to kick off your vacation.
You'll want to turn in early so that you're ready for an adventure-filled day in the theme parks the next morning, but before you do, be sure to catch the
Electrical Water Pageant. You won't want to miss this floating nighttime parade on the Seven Seas Lagoon!
I hope this was helpful, Jareel. Please visit us again soon with any new questions you may have about your Walt Disney World Resort vacation!
Ashley