Hi Emma!
Thanks for stopping by planDisney with your question - I'm happy to help!
There’s so much to see and do on a Walt Disney World Resort vacation! Visiting the Disney Resort Hotels to eat and explore is a wonderful idea, especially since each resort has its own unique theme, charm, and style!
If you have dining reservations at one of the Disney Resort Hotel restaurants, you’ll receive complimentary self-parking at that resort while you dine. When you arrive at the security gate, just let the Cast Member know you have a dining reservation, and they’ll direct you to the appropriate parking area. You may need to show your reservation confirmation, so having that handy is a good idea. Make sure to secure
dining reservations in advance, especially for popular spots like
‘Ohana at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort or
Chef Mickey’s at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
If you want to explore the resorts
without a dining reservation, you
might still be allowed to park for free, but it’s not guaranteed. Parking at the resorts is primarily reserved for guests staying at the resort or those with dining or recreation reservations. During busy times, security may restrict parking to only those with reservations. If you’re visiting less-crowded resorts, such as
Disney's Port Orleans Resort or
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort, you may have an easier time parking to explore.
You can also consider paying for parking at one of the four Disney theme parks and using Disney transportation (
Monorails,
Buses, and
Water Transportation) to hop between resorts. For example, park at the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) and use the Monorail to visit the Magic Kingdom area resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Between the three of those resorts, there are lots of amazing shopping and dining opportunities!
Another option is to park at Disney Springs, which offers free parking in several convenient lots. From there, you can catch a bus to any of the resorts you want to visit. This option allows you to spend some time exploring
Disney Springs, perhaps grabbing a snack or doing some shopping before or after your resort adventures.
Exploring the Disney Resort Hotels is a fantastic way to experience more of the Disney magic, even when you’re staying off-property. Have a great time!
Diane W.