For those who don’t know, resort hopping is a great way to sample the Walt Disney World resorts. By spending some time outside of the parks you can see in person what every resort has to offer. Choosing which Walt Disney World resort will be the perfect fit for your family can be an expensive and tough decision, and that’s why resort hopping can be so important. Actually stepping inside of each lobby can give you a sense of whether or not this resort would be the perfect fit for your family on your next trip to Walt Disney World. The benefits don’t stop there. Here are my 4 reasons why you should resort hop on your next Walt Disney World vacation:
1) Dole Whips at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Yes, you can get Dole Whips in Adventureland, but at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort there is little to no line. The little service window called the Pineapple Lanai is the new location to find your favorite pineapple treat. Unlike in Adventureland, you won’t be fighting for a spot to sit because here at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort there is tons of seating. If sitting at one of the tables isn’t for you there is also plenty of seating inside the recent renovated lobby. While the Dole Whips are no longer self-serve, which they used to be, I have still found that I receive a bigger portion at the Pineapple Lanai as compared to Adventureland. Even if you don’t have a sweet tooth this resort is an easy monorail trip or boat ride away from the Magic Kingdom making it a must do on your resort hopping list.
2) Taking in the music in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
Overstimulated and need a break from the crowds? I highly suggest taking a break in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. This lobby is not only gorgeous, but it also occasionally offers a live jazz band or pianist. Sitting back and relaxing on one of the many couches while listening to the calming jazz music will make you want to book a night at this resort. For the over 21 crowd there is also a bar behind the live jazz band on the second floor if you’d like a drink. While the resort can feel a little snooty, just remember everyone is just on vacation the same as you. So relax and enjoy the music.
3) Eating at Beaches and Cream Soda Shop between Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Enjoying ice cream while visiting two resorts in one stop. Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is a great place for you and your family to enjoy ice cream, floats, sundaes, and shakes! This retro experience is one of a kind at Walt Disney World and is a huge reason to visit Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. You will love this ice cream parlor as much as your kids. After you eat your treats make sure you check out Stormalong Bay, the pool shared between Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. While you can’t swim in this pool unless you are a resort guest, you will be so enchanted by this pool that you’re probably going to want to book your next stay here.
4) Relaxing at many of the Walt Disney World Resort beaches
While you are resort hopping, taking the time to relax on one of the many beaches in a hammock! Taking a nap on the beach will energize you for the rest of your day at Walt Disney World. With plenty of beach chairs, many of the Walt Disney World resorts offer a very real beach experience. Although you can’t swim in the lakes, the beaches, the sand between your toes, the beach volleyball, and the boat rentals make this the perfect excuse to resort hop.
Stephen "Steve" Porter started going to the parks with his family in 1996. Since then he hasn't looked back! Steve was a cast member participating in the Disney College Program in 2013. Most recently he graduated from Penn State University!
