Hey there, Lindy! Thanks for stopping by to see us again at the Disney Parks Moms Panel. Join me as we spend a little extra special time chatting about Walt Disney World today.
Extra Magic Hours are a special perk available to Guests staying at a Walt Disney World Resort hotel. On select days, a park may offer an extra hour before opening in the morning or a couple of extra hours at night for onsite Guests to have exclusive entry. If you're an early bird or a night owl, this extra special time can really be worth it!
I think people who advise against a certain park on an Extra Magic Hours day are talking mostly to Guests who are not staying onsite or locals (like me!) who might just be coming over for the day. For example, someone who is not staying onsite, but is planning to arrive at rope drop to get on some attractions before the crowds start to build will find their plan foiled when the park has already been open to Resort hotel Guests for an hour. Additionally, there are often more people in the parks later in the day when there are evening Extra Magic Hours.
If you're able to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, Lindy, I'd do it! You can always take a break back at your Resort hotel at midday, as the parks get a little more crowded, and return to the same park later in the day, even without a Park Hopper option.
I hope this helps you plan your practically perfect days at Walt Disney World. Please visit again if you have any more questions!
Have a magical day,
Kathy K.