Disney Resort Hopping

Want to enjoy some Disney magic but avoid the chaos of the park itself? Park hopping is a great way to experience the magic of Disney with a price tag much smaller than the Disney entrance fee! While you aren't allowed to swim, you can feel free to walk around, eat and shop to your heart's content.

There are 11 resorts that we think are worth a visit because each has its own style. We recommend you park at downtown Disney and then use the free bus system to get around.

Here's an overview of each resort (in alphabetical order):

Animal Kingdom Lodge

See over 30 species of wildlife including zebras, giraffes, gazelles or enjoy the food at Boma. Come after dark and enjoy storing telling around a campfire or watching the animals through night vision goggles that cast members will share!

Art of Animation

You can spend hours at this resort playing amongst all of the giant Disney characters. You want thingamabobs, they've got plenty! Plus, the food at the Landscape of Flavors foodcourt is amazing!

Beach Club & Yacht Club

Just a short walk from EPCOT, play a round of mini putt at Fantasia Gardens or enjoy some ice cream at Beaches and Cream soda shop.   

Caribbean Beach

Take a long stroll around the bay past each of the six resort villages or try a cuban or jerk chicken sandwich at the Old Port Royale food court.  

Contemporary

The monorail goes right through the middle of this resort - how convenient! See the "Wishes" fireworks show from here, visit the butterfly gardens, or just take in the spectacular architecture and artwork!

Coronado Springs

Play at the Mayan playground, see the Mayan pyramid at the pool and try some Tex-Mex flavours at the Maya restaurant.

  

Grand Floridian

One of the poshest resorts on Disney property and the place where many weddings take place, the buildings on the property are worth a look! You can splurge to dine with characters at 1900 Park Fare or hear a live performance by a pianist or big band! 

Pop Century

Travel through the decades as you walk through this world of all things giant! Rubix cubes, Mister Potato Head, floppy discs, Play-Doh, a yo-yo and bowling pins...the photo ops are endless!

Polynesian Village

This resort is just a quick monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom and there are all sorts of things to see if you walk around. Try some food with pork and pineapple at Captain Cook's or buy yourself a ticket to the Spirit of Aloha dinner show. Sometimes there are even opportunities to make your own lei or get a hula lesson - fun!

Port Orleans

Walk around the French Quarter or treat yourself to N'awlins finest fare at Boatwright's Dining Hall. You can even enjoy some songs and storytelling around the "Campfire on de' Bayou"!

Wilderness Lodge

Rustic elegance is what you'll find here along with tons to do! Dine with a panoramic view at the Artist Point or Whispering Canyon Cafe or have your own barbecue using one of the complimentary grills. Take the free 1-hour Wonders of the Wilderness Lodge tour,  sing songs around the nightly campfire, see a geyser, look at steam train memorabilia in the front lobby,  or visit the Tri-Circle-D Ranch to meet Cinderella's ponies!

If you do decide to resort hop, each of the 11 resorts featured in this post has a gift shop to browse and free showings of Disney movies each evening. Enjoy!