Hi there, Ellen!
Welcome to planDisney, and thanks for stopping by with your question. You're in for a great vacation with your upcoming stay at a
Disney Resorts Collection hotel! One of my favorite perks of staying on property is the ability to park hop with ease using the
complimentary transportation options—whether it's to follow my cravings for a delicious snack, adjust plans based on crowd levels, or make sure I catch my favorite nighttime spectacular. With so many ways to travel between parks, there's always an opportunity to maximize the magic!
To answer your question, the parking lots at Walt Disney World theme parks typically open about an hour before the park's posted opening time, including any
Early Theme Park Entry for Disney Resort Hotel Guests. However, this timing is subject to change, so I always recommend checking with a Cast Member at your resort or using the
My Disney Experience app for the most up-to-date park hours.
If you're looking for the quickest route to EPCOT's International Gateway entrance (which places you right in the World Showcase near Remy's Ratatouille Adventure), you may want to consider walking instead of taking the
Disney Skyliner. While the Skyliner is a fantastic experience, it requires a transfer at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort before returning to EPCOT, which can add extra time to your journey. The walking path from Disney's Hollywood Studios to EPCOT is direct and only takes about 15 minutes at a leisurely pace—plus, you'll get some great views along the way! That being said, if you still want to enjoy the Skyliner, it's a perfect option for hopping back over to Disney's Hollywood Studios later in the day.
Once you've arrived at EPCOT, indulge in some of the most delicious treats from around the World Showcase! If you're looking for something refreshing, head to the France Pavilion for a citron slushy, a perfectly tart and sweet frozen drink, or stop by
Les Halles Boulangerie-Patisserie for a Frozé paired with a flaky, buttery pastry. Over in Italy, the pizza window serves up crispy, cheesy slices that are great for a quick bite on the go. If a savory snack is calling your name, grab a warm, salty pretzel in Germany and wash it down with an ice-cold grapefruit beer while enjoying the waterfront views. For a taste of Norway, the School Bread from
Kringla Bakeri Og Kafe is a must-try, perfectly paired with a Viking Coffee for an extra boost. And if you're feeling adventurous, head to
La Cava del Tequila inside the Mexico Pavilion and sip on an Avocado Mezcal Margarita, a creamy, slightly smoky drink that's unexpectedly delightful. No matter what you're craving, EPCOT is a foodie's paradise, and these treats are just the beginning!
I hope this helps as you plan your park-hopping adventure, Ellen. If you have any more questions or would like more recommendations,
please ask me another question!
See you real soon,
Brent