Hiya, Jennifer! Given all the pandemic-related
updates, this is a great question. I'm happy to help you get to the bottom of it.
Guests who have been visiting the Walt Disney World Resort for many years probably know that exploring the various resort hotels is a real treat. It's a great way to try new restaurants, peruse merchandise or just take in the creative storytelling that is on display at each unique property. It sounds like you've done at least a little bit of this type of exploring yourself. I have, too. As far as the ability to resort hop now, in the current state of global health concerns, the answer is one of those good news, bad news, good news situations.
In this case, the good news is that guests are still welcome to visit a resort hotel in which he or she is not registered for an overnight stay. The bad news is that in order to do so, he or she must have a confirmed dining reservation in order to gain entrance to the resort. Remember, though, that I mentioned bad news being sandwiched by good news. The tail end of our good news is that any excuse to indulge in some Disney dining is a good one!
Some of the most popular restaurants at Walt Disney World can be found in resort hotels. My personal favorites include
California Grill,
Sanaa and
Narcoossee's (all of which are currently accepting reservations).
My advice, Jennifer, would be to
make a dining reservation at one of the restaurants within the resort(s) you'd like to visit during your trip. After enjoying your meal, feel free to explore a bit on foot. Not only can you walk off your dinner calories, but you'll also be treated to some excellent views, no matter which resort you visit.
I hope that helps. Don't hesitate to stop in again with another question if we can be of further assistance.