1st time w/ car in WDW Ques??

[Ducky4Disney]

This upcoming trip to WDW is actually a trip to Orlando for a conference that turned into a WDW vacation with a conference on the side! We got a good deal through Expedia by booking the whole thing together and we will have a convertible in WDW!!

Now for the car questions. I figure we will probably drive in to WDW and park somewhere, then use Disney transportation to get around and park hop. Let's say that DH and I go to Epcot and have too good of a time in Germany and shouldn't drive home. Our hotel has a shuttle to and from WDW, so we could get home, but what would happen to our car? Would it be towed or something?

How does parking in Disney work? I've never had to do it! How much does it cost and where are good places to park at? Does one park have more parking than another?

Help!

D4D

 

[safetymom]

If you are staying onsite the parking for the parks is free. You will get a pass for your dashboard. They will wave you through the gates when they see it.

If you think you are going to be drinking why not just take the bus in the first place?

 

[Ducky4Disney]

I was a little unclear in my original post. We will not be staying onsite so taking the Disney Bus in the first place is not an option. We need to get onsite and park, then we can use the Disney transportation system.

I was just wondering what other people do when they drive to WDW. Is it better to drive to each park separately or to park at one place and then take Disney transportation?

Thanks
D4D

 

[NotUrsula]

I think it depends on where you are going during the day. If you are visiting resorts (except at the Epcot area) at all it pays to move the car. On the other hand, MK parking is a major PITA, IMO, and can take nearly 2 hrs off your day just getting from there into the MK and back.

If you park at a park and leave the car, make sure you park the car at the park where you will close out your day. It's easier to move around in the morning than after parks have begun to close.
I honestly don't know if they tow from the theme park lots after closing; I've never been in one of those lots at closing.

If you think that you will be in Epcot late and possibly unable to drive, I would pony up for the valet parking at the Boardwalk. (I think it is good for 24 hours, but you should check on that before you leave your car.) To get to Epcot or MGM from there, you can walk/take the boat, or use the Boardwalk bus to get directly to the MK or AK.