8 Questions You Should Ask When Checking In to Your Disney World Hotel

When it comes to staying on Dinsey World property, there are so many things you may not know!

Let’s Check In!

Luckily, it never hurts to ask questions. We learn new things about the parks and hotels constantly– and we are there EVERY DAY. We want you to learn from our experiences, so we compiled a list of what you should ask as you’re checking in to your hotel at Walt Disney World! When it comes to check-in, there are no dumb questions. Whether you’re a Disney World novice or someone who goes yearly — things are always changing, and it is always good to ask about things you’re unsure of.

Grand Floridian Front Desk

Now, let’s dive in!

1. What time is Early Theme Park Entry and/or Extended Evening Hours?

When it comes to things happening in the parks, the Cast Members at your hotel may not have ALL of the answers, but they know a LOT about the parks and resorts! Since Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours happen pretty often in Disney World, Cast Members are the people to go to with any questions.

Animal Kingdom During Extended Evening Hours!

If you’re unsure what the difference is between the two, we got you! Early Theme Park Entry is for guests staying on Disney World property or at select good neighbor hotels. The parks open early for those guests, but the times can vary from day to day, depending on the park hours. Extended Evening Hours are ONLY available to guests who are staying at a Disney Delxue Resort, so make sure you ask what you’re eligible for at check-in to get all of the details for your trip!

2. What are the hotel activities?

When staying at a Disney World hotel, there are a ton of activities right at your resort. It is always good practice to ask about what activities are happening and when so you don’t miss something you want to do! Some hotels have movie nights under the stars, arcades, and MORE. Make sure you ask about what is happening when you check in so you can stay in the loop!

Movie Under the Stars Schedule

If you plan on using the hotel’s amenities, like the pool or food court, make sure you ask about hours if you’re unsure of when things open or close.

3. Are there any special events happening while I’m here?

It feels like there is always some sort of special event happening at Disney World. If you’re curious about what events could be happening during your trip, ask away! A lot of after-hours parties require a special ticket to enter, and we recommend getting them EARLY since they can sell out quickly.

Magic Kingdom During Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party!

However, there may be some special events or other things happening at the parks that the Cast Members at the hotel know about! 

4. Do you have any pinboards?

Who said pin trading is just for the parks and Disney Springs?! Not us! When checking in, ask a Cast Member if they have a pinboard nearby. They usually have one at the check-in desk for pin trading.

Pin trading board

Make sure you have your pins out and ready! You never know what you might find.

5. What are my transportation options?

There are a few different methods of transportation around Walt Disney World! Not all hotels have the same options, so it is always good to see what your options are when you’re checking in. You don’t want to spend time wandering around looking for the buses or the Skyliner when those are precious moments when you could be in the park!

Disney Skyliner

After you ask what your options are and where they are located, be sure to see if they know approximately how long it takes for you to get from your hotel to the parks. Like we said, these are precious moments!

6. Can I upgrade or change my room?

While we recommend doing this prior to your arrival, it is still possible to ask when you check in! Whether you want a room upgrade, a different view, or to be closer to transportation — this is the time to ask!

Lion King Room at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

Remember that upgrades will come at an increased cost, so plan accordingly if it is something you hope to ask about. 

7. Is this room wheelchair/ECV accessible?

When it comes to booking your rooms prior to your trip, the Disney website should note which rooms are accessible. However, things happen (and injuries happen), so you may not have needed one at the time of booking.

ECV rental in Disney World

Be sure to ask the Cast Member at check-in if your room is accessible or if you can switch to one that is!

8. What time is checkout?

We know; we don’t want to think about checkout either, especially when you’re barely checked in! Nevertheless, it is important information to have for the dreaded day of check-out. This can help you prepare and figure out your game plan for the day you leave.

Frontier Plane at the Orlando Airport

There are so many questions you can ask when checking in, and this is just the tip of the iceberg. We’ll keep you updated with more important questions to ask soon, so in the meantime, keep checking in with us at DFB for updates!

Answering the 45 Disney World Questions You’re TOO Afraid to Ask!

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Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you’re a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

What is something you always ask at check-in? Let us know in the comments below!

The post 8 Questions You Should Ask When Checking In to Your Disney World Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog.