Welcome to planDisney, Kara!
As someone who just returned from a magical stay at
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, I completely understand your desire to explore this particular Disney Resort hotel during your vacation. From the grand lobby to upscale dining offerings and incredible views of Seven Seas Lagoon, there's so much to see and do!
Because parking at Disney Resort hotels is reserved for Guests with a hotel or dining reservation, your plan to park at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) is a wise one. As the only parking available for Guests visiting Magic Kingdom Park, all cars parking at the TTC are required to pay the parking fee — even if those who aren't planning on entering the theme park. At this time,
the only exception to this policy applies to Guests of Disney Resort hotels and select Annual Passholders who receive complimentary theme park parking, so unless you fall into one of these two categories, you'll need to pay the parking fee.
Since you mentioned you'll be heading to the Grand Floridian during your 'free day', you might consider allocating a bit more time and exploring all of the Disney Resort hotels located along the
Walt Disney World Monorail. Whether you're grabbing a
DOLE Whip at
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort or enjoying a
Tinker Bell's-eye view of Magic Kingdom Park from
Disney's Contemporary Resort, I think you'll love spending a day
standing clear of the doors and hopping on and off the monorail. If you'd rather feel the breeze in your hair, these hotels also offer
water taxis across Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake that are such a fun (and unexpected) way to travel!
I hope this clears things up, Kara, and gives you a few more ideas for making magical memories during your upcoming vacation. If you'd like any additional tips, feel free to stop back by
planDisney. You've got a friend in me!
Thinking Happy Thoughts,
Lizzie