Disney World Fans Are Nervous About These New Resort Rules

A trip to Disney World could look a bit different, thanks to some changes that were recently announced by the theme park giant in central Florida. While Disney is not ending its resort hopping privileges, changes to the transportation system could leave some travelers stranded. Here is what you need to know if you have a trip planned to the House of Mouse.

Disney Restricts Transportation from Entertainment Complex

The holidays are already ramping up at the Disney World Resort. However, recently announced changes could put a wrench in the plans of some theme park goers. Earlier in the summer, the resort began limiting the free transportation access at its popular Disney Springs shopping, dining, and entertainment district.

In the past, any visitor at Disney Springs could hop on a bus or boat headed to one of the dozens of resort properties. Known as resort hopping, tourists could easily visit the different themed Disney resorts to shop, grab a bite to eat from a quick service location, or take pictures. However, the resort is now only allowing guests staying at the hotel or with a dining reservation or other booked experience to access this free transport from Disney Springs.

While some guests are upset about the changes, other families are praising the decision. For instance, guests at the Port Orleans resorts often faced long lines for water taxis as non-guests utilized this transportation to visit the food court for the popular Mickey beignets.

Disney is still encouraging guests to resort hop. The only restriction so far is to prohibit visitors not booked at a particular resort from using its transportation from Disney Springs. Guests are still allowed to lean on the free resort transportation to Disney hotels from all its theme parks.

Guests with confirmed hotel reservations can park at any theme park and their specific hotel for no cost. They cannot park for free at other resorts unless they have a confirmed experience or dining reservation.

The Disney Parks Blog noted that “For guests staying at the resorts or for those with valid dining reservations, the Disney Resorts Collection offers a wide array of bright and merry holiday decor,” signaling that the restrictions will continue.