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Through Heather's Looking Glass

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5 Tips for a Magical Trip Staying Offsite at Disney World

April 11, 2023 | Disney

When it comes to planning a trip to Walt Disney World, where you stay can make a big difference in the overall experience. While there are plenty of great on-site options, staying offsite can offer some unique benefits. To help you make the most of your offsite stay, I’ve put together five tips that will ensure your trip is nothing short of magical.

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1.) Choose a Hotel Near Walt Disney World

One of the biggest benefits of staying offsite is the opportunity to save money on accommodations. However, you don’t want to sacrifice convenience and end up spending more time commuting than enjoying the parks. To avoid this, I recommend choosing a hotel that’s within a few miles of Walt Disney World. Not only will this save you time and money on transportation, but it will also allow you to take advantage of any free shuttles that may be available.

staying offsite

Caribe Royale is very close, and has great amenities including huge rooms!

2.) Look for Family-Friendly Amenities

Just because you’re staying offsite doesn’t mean you have to miss out on the perks of a Disney resort. Many offsite hotels offer family-friendly amenities like pools, game rooms, and complimentary breakfasts. Look for hotels that cater to families and offer the amenities you need to make your trip comfortable and enjoyable.

    Residence Inn Flamingo Crossings has a great free breakfast complete with Mickey waffles!

3.) Consider a Vacation Rental

If you’re traveling with a large group or extended family, a vacation rental may be a great option for staying offsite. Not only will you have plenty of space to spread out, but you’ll also have access to a full kitchen and other amenities that can make your stay more comfortable. Vacation rentals are also a great way to save money on food by preparing meals at home.

staying offsite

Rent a small or large home from Reunion Resort and give everyone space to spread out

4.) Plan Your Transportation Ahead of Time

When staying offsite, transportation can be a bit more complicated than simply walking to the parks from your hotel. Make sure you plan your transportation ahead of time, whether that means renting a car, using rideshare services, or taking advantage of free shuttles. It’s also important to factor in travel time, especially during peak hours when traffic can be heavy.

staying offsite

Staying somewhere right next to Disney property like Gaylord Palms takes the guesswork out of drive times

5.) Explore Offsite Dining Options

While there are plenty of great dining options within the parks, offsite dining can offer a unique culinary experience. From local favorites to chain restaurants, the Orlando area has something for everyone. Plus, many offsite restaurants offer discounts and special deals for Disney guests. Take advantage of this by doing some research ahead of time and planning at least one meal offsite during your trip. You may discover a new favorite restaurant and create a fun family memory outside of the parks!

Caribe Royale has several different restaurants including an awesome breakfast buffet!

I hope you enjoyed these tips, please let me know if you have any questions about staying offsite! You can email me at heather@heatherslookingglass.com or catch me on Instagram at @HeathersLG

Related: Top 10 tips for saving money in Walt Disney World

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I am Heather Montgomery, a 30 something southern girl living in Knoxville, Tennessee with my husband Bobby, 10-year-old daughter Emma Kate, and our goldendoodles Dolly and Luna. I’m just a regular girl who likes to workout, travel, hang with my family, text, and eat chips and queso. Be sure to check out my “about me” page for more info!
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