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Should I stay on property for my Disney vacation? This is one of the most common questions on Disney message boards and vacation pages.

While each family and trip has unique needs and budgets which you should discuss with your Disney Vacation Planner, as a general rule of thumb, my recommendation is to always stay on site. Read along for my “11 Reasons Why”.

Benefits for staying on property at both Walt Disney World Resort and Disneyland Resort:

1. Close proximity to the parks. At Disneyland, all 3 on property resorts are walkable to the theme parks. At Disney World Resort, some resorts are walkable to the parks, some allow for unique transportation such as the Skyliner, Monorail, or Boat, the rest are a quick Disney bus ride away, and all take you as close as possible to park entrances.
2. Staying inside the magic. Staying on property, you fall asleep and wake up in Disney themed rooms, unique Disney transportation options, and you are surrounded by Disney Cast Members that offer next level service. You never know when you may get “pixie dusted.”
3. Early Entry! Resort guests get 30 minute early entry to the theme parks. This applies to all 4 parks every day at Walt Disney World, and applies to one park a day at Disneyland Resort. Check the Disneyland App for the latest park hours.
4. Room charge available across the resort. Simplify your day by scanning your room key or Magic Band to charge any souvenirs, beverages, or meals to your room.
5. No resort fees. Disney does not charge resort fees at their hotels.

Additional benefits for staying on property at Walt Disney World Resort:

1. Complimentary parking at resorts and theme parks. Staying off property to save money? You’re either going to need to uber back and forth in traffic, or you’ll have to pay to park. Either way you are paying to travel to and from the park in some capacity.
2. Complimentary Disney transportation on property. This includes Disney buses, Skyliner, Monorail, and Boats, which is perfect for families that don’t want to travel with car seats. Note: Traveling with or without car seats is a personal decision and your Disney Vacation Planner can provide alternative recommendations for transit.
3. Eligible for the Disney Dining Plan.
4. Book Genie+ Lightning Lanes starting at 7 am. Those staying off-property cannot book their first Lightning Lane until the park opens.
5. Book advanced dining reservations and magical experiences 60 days prior to first day of vacation, plus the length of stay.
6. Deluxe and Deluxe Villa guests eligible for special extended evening hours.

Questions? Ready to book your Disney Vacation Package? Let’s chat!