Hi Maury! Thanks for stopping by planDisney! I can absolutely relate to how you are feeling! One of my favorite things to do at the Walt Disney World Resort is to stay in the parks late! I’m happy to offer some advice that might keep you in the parks just a little bit later!
While I’m not sure which resort hotel you might be staying in, I want to start by sharing that Guests staying in deluxe resorts can take advantage of the Extended Evening Theme Park Hours benefit! On select nights, select parks will remain open later (beyond the posted closing time) for Guests staying in deluxe (and other participating) resorts.
I’ve included a list of deluxe (and other participating) resorts right here! Check it out to see if your resort hotel qualifies for the extended hours benefit!
Also, keep in mind that all Guests of any Walt Disney World Resort hotel (and other participating resorts) can take advantage of the
Early Theme Park Entry benefit! This perk allows Guests to enter any Disney Park 30 minutes before the posted park opening time! Guests must have valid theme park admission to enter.
Another park-going strategy that my family uses when we want to remain in the Disney Parks after the posted closing time, is to get in line for an attraction just before closing time! As long as you are in line to enjoy an attraction before closing time, you will be able to remain in the park until you’ve had a chance to enjoy the attraction. You will need to start making your way to the park exit once you complete the attraction. Depending on which attraction you get in line for this strategy can keep you in the park well beyond the posted closing time. We like to ride Seven Dwarfs Mine Train as our last attraction of the night which usually has a longer line. So, even though the posted “closing time” is 9:00 PM, we typically aren’t leaving the park until much closer to 10:00 PM.
Also, Maury, be sure to keep an eye on the
Disney Parks calendar. Park hours are occasionally adjusted as you get closer to your vacation dates, so check that calendar frequently for any updates. Please keep in mind that park hours are subject to change.
Dreams do come true!
Jonathan