Hey There, Renvie!
Welcome to planDisney and thanks so much for stopping by with your question. Are you getting excited about your upcoming Walt Disney World Resort vacation? Now that your arrival is just about 30 days away, the final countdown is officially on! As you're checking items off your last-minute planning to-do list, now is a great time to search for advance dining reservations that might have been unavailable at the 60-day mark –– it's not unusual to see availability open up as your dates get closer, even in the 72-24 hours before you plan to dine. So, if you were unable to find a table at a popular spot –– for instance,
EPCOT's Space 220 Restaurant –– go ahead and try another search over these last few weeks. You might just be surprised with what pops up!
But before you can enjoy a great meal (or any of the other fun you have planned), you'll need to get settled in your room, right? That's why I'm happy to report that you'll be welcome to check in to your
Disney Resorts Collection hotel as soon as you arrive, even though you aren't planning to head directly to a Walt Disney World theme park. In fact, my family really enjoys doing this each time we visit, even if we arrive at Walt Disney World early in the morning. We love to arrive at the hotel and either head straight to the pool or explore some of the unique offerings and activities at our Resort. We also like to book a dining reservation at our Resort –– or another Resort close by –– before heading back for a (relatively) early bedtime. That way, we're well-rested and ready to head out for a full day of adventure in the parks the next morning!
If possible, I also recommend using
Disney's Online Check-In service to check in to your Resort
before you arrive. With this convenient option, you can skip the Front Desk and receive a text notification once your room is ready –– then you can head right to your room and unlock your door using your MagicBand or the
My Disney Experience mobile app. Since it sounds like you won't be arriving until the afternoon, there might even be a chance that your room is ready before you arrive. To start the Online Check-In process, simply open up your My Disney Experience app and tap on "Future Plans" in the main menu. Under your reservation, tap the blue "Start Check-In Now" button and follow the onscreen prompts to enter your arrival time and payment information, make any room requests, and so on. It's easy and convenient, just the way a great vacation should be!
I hope this helped to answer your question, Renvie, and I really appreciate you visiting planDisney. If you think of new planning questions over the next few weeks, please feel free to drop by again before you arrive at Walt Disney World Resort –– we're always here to help!
See Ya Real Soon,
Amy