Driving/parking tips when offsite?

[jenbren]

We are staying offsite for the first time because we have 13 extended family all doing Christmas with Mickey! We got a 6BR house in Windsor Palms and will have 2-3 vehicles to transport the 4 generations we have. Here is where the trouble comes in - we just found out that you have no in and out privileges when you stay offsite. Does anyone have any good advice on how to get the most bang for our buck with parking? My parents are in their 80s and I just don't think they are going to be able to handle the length of time in the parks that some of the rest of us will want to do but to take them home and then drive back to the park will cost an extra $13 each time. Any advice?
Thanks!
Jennifer

 

[JANNYANS]

I am sure you only pay once for parking so if you leave the park to take someone home just keep hold of your parking ticket and it will be good for your return.The same applies if you change car parks.

We have just returned and the parking was $12 BTW

 

[Chelley00]

You get a receipt with the date on it when you pay to park the first time. You just show that when you go back to any park and you can park again for free. it doesn't have to be the same park either for parking. It's pay per day, not per visit.

 

[lovesmurfs]

You only pay once in the Disney parking areas per day. When you get to the park again (or different park), just show your receipt and you're fine.

 

[jenbren]

I am so relieved to hear that!! My sister was on the phone making ADRs and apparently was given some mis-information when she asked about parking! Thanks for clearing it up - I knew I would get the straight scoop here!!

 

[swilshire]

You might also want to check taxi fares. Windsor Hills is so close that it couldn't be much of a fare. By the time you leave the park, get to the car, make the short drive there and back, and make your way back through security into the park, you're talking a good hour. Might be better to just put the folks in a cab and continue your Disney day.

On the other hand, we stay next door to there and sometimes go back to the condo for lunch, going to a different park when we return.

Another thing you must consider since you're visiting at Christmas, the parks frequently close throughout the day and won't admit any off-site vehicles. If you leave, you may not be able to come back when you want to. The Magic Kingdom seems to be the worst for that.

Sheila