One of the most challenging decisions many Disney travelers face is choosing the perfect Disney resort for their visit. With so many incredible options, making that final decision can be a real dilemma. But what if I told you there’s a way you don’t have to choose just one? In this post, I’m talking about the magic of planning a split stay at Disney World and why it could be the game-changer for your next Disney vacation.
What is a split stay?
A split stay is the key to unlocking a world of Disney magic. Simply put, it means planning to stay at more than one resort during your visit to Walt Disney World. It’s a choice that offers numerous benefits, and here’s why you might want to consider it.
Benefits of Planning a Split Stay at Disney World
Each Disney resort is a unique experience, and with a split stay, you get to enjoy not one but two (or more) different hotels. It’s like having two separate vacations in one.
Are you eyeing a stay at a Deluxe Resort but worried about the cost? A split stay allows you to indulge in the luxury of a Deluxe Resort for just a few nights, making it easier on your budget.
Plus, if you opt for a Deluxe stay, you gain access to Extended Evening Hours, which means lower crowds, shorter lines for attractions, and the opportunity to join virtual queues for new rides like TRON and Guardians of the Galaxy.
And if you’ve ever wondered about the Disney Dining Plan, a split stay lets you try it for only a portion of your trip, giving you the flexibility to sample Disney’s culinary delights without committing to it for the entire vacation.
How to Plan A Split Stay at Disney World
Booking a split stay is a bit more complex but absolutely worth it. A knowledgeable travel agent can streamline the process for you.
You’ll need to choose your travel dates, select the resorts you’d like to experience and decide on the number of nights at each. Booking separate reservations is necessary as the Disney system doesn’t accommodate multiple resorts under one booking.
When it’s time to transition to your second resort, bell services will handle the luggage transfer, so you don’t have to worry about lugging bags around.
Tips for Planning a Split Stay
Planning a split stay at Disney World is all about crafting an experience that seamlessly combines the best of both worlds. To help you make the most of this unique strategy, here are some valuable tips to keep in mind:
Strategic Sequencing:
- If you have the flexibility, consider scheduling your stay at a Deluxe Resort toward the end of your trip. Why? It makes transitioning from a more luxurious setting to a less extravagant one much smoother. It’s like easing back into the real world after living the high life. Plus, when you’re winding down your vacation, you’ll have a chance to bask in the premium amenities and services a Deluxe Resort offers. It’s the perfect way to savor the Disney magic as you wrap up your adventure.
Take It Easy:
- While it’s tempting to spend every moment exploring the parks, remember to allocate some downtime to appreciate the unique amenities at each resort. Whether it’s a lazy day by the pool, a tranquil walk through beautifully landscaped gardens, or savoring delectable cuisine at the resort’s restaurants, don’t rush through your stay. Part of the charm of a split stay is experiencing the distinctive character of each resort. So, relax, unwind, and enjoy what each has to offer.
Optimize Extended Evening Hours:
- If one of your chosen resorts falls into the Deluxe category, pay special attention to the dates when Extended Evening Hours are available. These hours grant Deluxe Resort guests the privilege of enjoying the parks after regular closing time, which means fewer crowds, shorter lines, and a more relaxed atmosphere. It’s a game-changer for experiencing popular attractions with minimal wait times. To fully maximize this perk, make sure the dates of your Deluxe Resort stay align with Extended Evening Hours. This way, you’ll make the most of your time in the parks during those magical, less crowded evenings.
Examples of a Split Stay at Disney World
Let’s walk through a sample split stay: Imagine a six-night stay. Begin at a value or moderate resort like Pop Century or Caribbean Beach for the first 4 nights. Take advantage of the Skyliner access for trips to Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. And you can make a visit to Animal Kingdom during this time as well.
For the remaining 2 nights, shift to a monorail deluxe resort like the Polynesian or Contemporary. Slow down your pace, soak up the amenities, savor great restaurants, and leverage that convenient transportation for a fantastic Magic Kingdom experience. Early entry and extended evening hours could be your ticket to more attractions with fewer crowds.
Now you’re in on one of the best-kept Disney secrets. Your Disney World experience just got a magical upgrade. I hope this post has shed some light on the enchantment of split stays at Disney World. If you’re ready to start planning your split stay for 2023 or 2024, click here to request a quote, and I’ll help plan an epic trip for you. Thanks for reading, and until next time, happy planning! 🏰✨
