If you’ve never been to Disney World, then it’s difficult to understand how much a Disney hotel adds to the experience. A quick Internet search reveals off-property alternatives, but you’ll get numerous advantages if you stay on-property. Here are 10 of the best reasons to stay at a Disney resort when you visit Disney World. 

1. It’s More Time-Efficient 

Disney World is enormous. If you stay off-property, you’ll spend hours commuting from your hotel to whichever park you’re visiting. Save time by staying on-property. 

2. Free Transportation 

When you stay at a Disney resort, Disney’s Magical Express buses whisk you to your resort from the airport, for free. Additionally, you get free bus and boat transportation to theme parks and other attractions. It’s economical and saves tons of time. 

3. Access to Extra Magic 

One of the four theme parks will either open an hour early or stay open an hour late every day. If you stay at a Disney resort, you get to take advantage of Extra Magic Hours, a perk that’s not available to off-property guests. 

4. Your MagicBands Are Free 

Recently, Disney converted to the use of MagicBands instead of cards for access to hotel rooms and theme parks. You can even charge purchases with your MagicBand if it’s linked to a credit card. Guests at non-Disney hotels must pay a fee for their MagicBand. 

5. Early FastPass+ Reservations 

This is one of the top perks of staying in a Disney hotel. Your room reservation makes it possible for you to reserve up to three experiences per day in the parks a full 60 days in advance of check-in. Non-resort guests are allowed 30 days. This gives you first crack at peak attractions. 

6. Early Dining Reservations 

Disney’s most popular restaurants fill up quickly, especially in the busier seasons. Hotel guests on Disney property may book all their dining reservations at once as soon as they are within 180 days of their check-in date. Guests at non-Disney properties may only make their dining reservations one at a time as they hit the 180-day mark for each day of their stay. 

7. Parents Get a Break 

Many Disney hotels offer childcare and kids’ clubs that keep youngsters entertained for hours. Make a romantic dinner reservation. You know the kids are in good hands. 

8. Excellent Locations 

Every Disney hotel is conveniently close to something whether it’s a theme park, a water park or Disney Springs. This gives you the ideal opportunity to take a break when you need some relaxation. 

9. Amazing Amenities 

Even the value Disney resorts are highly themed and detailed. Incredible amenities, including some of the most imaginative swimming pools in existence, make every stay an absolute pleasure. From bike rentals and boating to quiet trails and game rooms, these hotels have everything. 

10. The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Can Save You Money

The Disney Vacation Club is Disney’s vacation ownership product that is designed to save families money on Disney resorts over time. You buy in to the club and are given points to use towards Disney resort stays each year. If you buy these DVC points online from an existing DVC owner, you can save even more money. When you no longer wish to be an owner, simply sell Disney Vacation Club online for cash.

11. It Gives the Full Disney Experience

Many repeat guests wouldn’t dream of leaving the “Disney bubble” until the end of their vacation. Staying on-site means that the magic never ends.