Epcot - Boardwalk Parking?

[mloren]

Would like to park near the boardwalk and then visit Epcot from there (in order to see Illuminations, and then get out relatively easily).

Where are you allowed to park? Does it matter if you are staying at a Disney Resort or not (not a Boardwalk resort)?

I've only ever used Disney buses before. This is first time with a car.

Thanks!

[pbhunt]

Boardwalk resort dwellers on these boards get a little bit inflamed about folks who use the Boardwalk resort parking to visit Epcot and view Illuminations. You can Valet park at Boardwalk for $8 and do as you wish. That's what we did:)

[Miranda]

Unless, like us, you didn't bother bringing a car with you. :) I could have cared less who parked in our parking lot. ;)

[CarolMN]

There is free parking available to guests (both on site and off site) who want to visit the Boardwalk area restaurants and attractions. If you are going to EPCOT, Disney (and those guests who want to visit the Boardwalk area) would prefer that you use the EPCOT parking lot.

Lately, the relatively close in, self-parking lots for the Boardwalk have been reserved for hotel guests staying at either the BWI or BWV. My understanding is that a resort ID card is necessary to access these lots. The guards at the Boardwalk entrance gate will direct others to the lot across the street, which is about a 10 minute walk from the Boardwalk. There are no trams between the lot and the Boardwalk. I'd estimate that it is about 3/4 of a mile from that lot to the International Gateway entrance to EPCOT. There is a boat that runs between the Boardwalk and the IG entrance.

If you're not up to the walking, the suggestion to valet park is a good one. As far as I know, the charge is $6 plus tip.

[mloren]

Thanks for the replies.

Either the 10 minute walk, or the valet parking are great options for us. Just wasn't sure what we were supposed to do.

Just to be clear: we want to go into Epcot for Illuminations only, and then spend some time strolling the Boardwalk. Just wouldn't make sense to park on the Epcot side. But definitely don't want to take up a parking spot that is intended for hotel guests.

Thanks!

[brubaby1]

Greetings,
When my wife and I visted in October we parked our car at Downtown Disney and took the Disney bus over to the Boardwalk. The buses run on a regular basis and drop you right in front. It is a short walk to access the entrance to Epcot so this may work out for you and take the stress out finding close in parking. It worked out great for us.

Kevin :smooth: