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Perks of staying at Disney ?

What are the perks of staying on a Disney property? We are flying in in May and will go to the parks for 1-2 days before leaving for a cruise. Thanks!

Staying at a Disney Resort hotel offers several benefits, especially for short visits before a cruise. Even if you only have 1–2 days in the parks, these perks can enhance convenience and enjoyment.

Main perks include:

  • Early Theme Park Entry: Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels can enter the parks 30 minutes before regular opening, giving you a head start on popular rides and attractions.
  • Complimentary Transportation: Disney provides buses, monorails, boats, and Skyliner gondolas between resorts, theme parks, and Disney Springs. This eliminates the need for car rental or parking fees at the parks.
  • Extended Access to Genie+ or Lightning Lane: Depending on ticket type, staying on property can make it easier to book Lightning Lane selections or use Genie+ efficiently.
  • Convenient Dining Reservations: Resort guests can book table-service dining reservations up to 60 days in advance (with some options for 60+10 days if staying at Disney hotels), which is useful for popular restaurants.
  • Magical Extras: Disney Resort guests often receive perks like Disney’s Magical Express (note: this ended in 2022, but check for any replacement services), resort-specific activities, themed pools, character meet-and-greets, and merchandise delivery from parks to your hotel room.

Additional practical advantages:

  • Proximity to parks reduces travel time, helpful for short visits or if you want to nap or rest between park visits.
  • Convenient luggage handling and storage, especially if your cruise departs shortly after your Disney visit.
  • Immersive theming and unique resort experiences, which can make even a short stay feel more magical.

For a 1–2 day stay before a cruise, the main benefits you’ll notice are the early park entry, convenient transportation, and ease of managing dining and luggage, which helps maximize your time in the parks without stress.

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