Hi Lisa,
Welcome to planDisney!
I'm so excited to hear that you have planned the
Keys to the Kingdom tour for your family. It's one of my favorite Walt Disney World
Enchanted Extras experiences and a must-do for every fan of the Most Magical Place on Earth.
Normally, I'm an advocate of using the
complimentary Disney transportation during a visit, but I'm not sure that's the best option for you this time. You may be able to take one of the Disney buses from the Dolphin to Magic Kingdom. Buses begin running an hour before the park opens.
You can check with the Dolphin staff to see what time they expect the first bus on the day of your tour. But, because you absolutely have to be there early to check in, I would worry that an unexpected morning delay could jeopardize your arrival time.
In your case, I think a
Minnie Van is going to be your most efficient and relaxing means of transportation from the Dolphin resort to Magic Kingdom.
The biggest advantage of the Minnie Van -- it will drop you right at the gate of Magic Kingdom, not at the Transportation and Ticket Center like other rideshare vehicles. The cost of a Minnie Van, which you reserve through the Lyft app, varies.
If Magic Kingdom is not yet admitting guests when you arrive, you will find cast members near the turnstiles who will direct you to the entrance for those with early reservations for dining and tours. Please remember that you will need valid park admission tickets in addition to your tour reservation.
I've done Keys to the Kingdom a few times, and I always learn something new about the history of Walt Disney World and the behind-the-scenes logistics that produce the magic year after year. I think you will love it.
I hope that's helpful, Lisa. Please check back with us here at planDisney any time you have planning questions. We've got decades of experience as Disney guests, and we're always happy to share our experiences.
Enjoy,
Wilma