Hi there, Christopher! Thanks for taking the time to send in your question to planDisney. It's hard to believe that the
2023 Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend is just over three weeks away. All those training runs you've been putting in this fall will soon pay off!
The
runDisney Health & Fitness Expo is a pretty exciting event in itself, and I'd make sure to schedule at least an hour or two to see everything. If you plan to go on the first day, you'll need to join the virtual queue from your
My Disney Experience app, and you'll also receive a QR code, which will be your pass to get into the venue. In addition to picking up your bib and race packet, there are also some unique vendors and photo opportunities.
Jeff Galloway, who is an official runDisney training consultant, is often there. I always like to stop and chat with him since I'm a follower of his
training plans.
Unfortunately, you will not be able to take a bus from the parks to the Expo. I usually take a bus from the nearest resort, which in your case will be Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (it is not necessary to go back to your specific resort hotel to catch a bus to the Expo). Just keep in mind that the Expo buses look different from the regular Disney transportation buses, and the bus stop can sometimes be in a separate location. Usually, there are runDisney signs posted near the porte cochere, but if in doubt, ask the Bell Services Desk stationed outside. As an alternative, you can also use a ride-share service directly from Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park.
I've been anxiously checking the runDisney website for the official
Digital Expo & Event Guide, which contains all the information you'll need for the Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend, including transportation. It's usually available a few weeks before the event under the Runner Info tab. The website will also be updated soon to contain
Spectator Information. Here you'll find a link to Runner Tracking, which is very helpful if you bring along a "cheer squad!"
Christopher, get ready, get set, and go have fun running those magical miles! See ya real soon!
Eean