Hiya Hillary! Welcome to planDisney!
Oh boy! I'm excited to hEAR about your upcoming visit to the Walt Disney World Resort in the new year. You'll be arriving just in time to take part in the
50th Anniversary Celebration, which will run through the end of March. This celebration has so much to offer, including two nighttime spectaculars that are out-of-this-world! Since you are staying within walking distance of EPCOT, I highly suggest spending a night there to watch
Harmonious in person. I was blown away by this show!
I don't come bearing the best news, Hillary. When staying at a non-Disney Resorts Hotel, you will not be able to use your
MagicBand for purchases around the parks. These purchases are tied to your resort reservation and are unable to be accounted for at a non-Disney hotel. You can, however, use it for its other intended purposes, such as using it as your park ticket, accessing Lightning Lane attractions, and a host of others.
I understand not wanting to have to pull out your wallet for every transaction, especially if you are traveling with little ones or a large party. There is so much you have to carry with you to the parks, that having to juggle for a payment option each time is not ideal. One alternative is to wear a smartwatch since you can link a credit card to it and use it as payment. Many quick-service dining and merchandise locations will give you the option to pay using your watch. This way, there will be no need to reach for your wallet since your payment method will be right around your wrist.
Hillary, I hope you have a wonderful stay at either the
Walt Disney World Swan or Dolphin Hotel. I absolutely love the location of these hotels, being within walking distance of both the International Gateway into EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios!
See ya real soon!
Greg