The ultimate cost of a Disney resort depends on three factors: length of stay, time of year, and resort choice. Rooms are booked on daily rates; weekday rates are ten to thirty dollars cheaper per night. Disney offers the best room rates during the Value Season, the times throughout the year in which park attendance is historically lower. The value season includes January and February, September through mid-October and the week after Thanksgiving until the week before Christmas. Book a rooms at a Value resort like the All-Star Music, Sports and Movie Resorts and the Pop Century Resort. These properties offer rooms at lower rates for families on a budget.
Seek discounts on Disney World park admission from reputable sources. The Kissimmee Walmart, located at 4444 West Vine Street, sells discounted multiple-day theme park passes to the general public; however, they must be purchased in person, as they cannot be mailed.
Members of certain groups and organizatoins may also qualify for Disney discounts. AAA members should contact their local office to see if discount tickets are available. Members of the US armed services can receive discounts on park admission. Discount tickets are available at the Navy Exchange ITT/MWR office, which is located at the intersection of Tradeport and Earhart Drive, near the Orlando Airport.
For travelers who do not plan to leave Disney property, skip the car rental and use the Disney Magical Express shuttle from the airport to the resort. This will avoid the unnecessary expense of a weekly car rental. The Disney transportation system within Walt Disney World really is one of the best Disney bargains. It is totally free for resort and park guests. Buses, monorails and boats carry passengers from their hotels to the theme parks and attractions, all at no additional charge. No rental car needed.
Tee shirts, toys and souvenir pins get costly in a hurry at the Disney World gift shops. Planning ahead can save lots of cash. Before you leave home, buy Disney character tees at your local discount department stores. Graphic tees are popular and can be purchased at home for around ten dollars. You can wear the same adorable Disney characters for a fraction of the cost.
For travelers heading to Disney by car, the Disney Character Warehouse Outlets offer theme park merchandise at reduced rates. Stores are located in outlet centers in Orlando, on International Drive and St. Augustine, on I-95.
Guests who give into the temptation to spend money, especially after a thrilling ride, may feel regret at purchasing a silly souvenir upon returning to their room. No problem. Any Disney resort gift shop location will accept merchandise returns, as long as the item is in original, unworn condition, the tags are still affixed and you present the original receipt.
Disney offers discount rates and publishes them seasonally. Discounts for the fall season are typically announced at the end of August, and winter discounts are usually announced at the end of November. Promotions offer Magic Your Way Package deals, discounts from 35 to 40 percent off room rates and even free dining, if you travel within certain dates and book early.
