EMH before checking in?

[abajorek]

Question: Can you go to Extra Magic Hours before checking in on the day of the start of your stay?

We check in to the Wilderness Lodge on Sunday 12/21 and we live within a couple hours' drive to WDW. I was going to hit MK in the morning for EMH 7-8 AM, but we won't be checked in yet. Before leaving at 5 AM, I want to be sure I'll be able to get in to MK. Anyone have experience with this?

 

[TheRustyScupper]

. . . I was going to hit MK in the morning for EMH 7-8 AM, but we won't be checked in yet . . .

1) You can check-in at WL as easly as 6:05am, then go to MK.
2) If you arrive at 5:00am, unpack the car and wait in the WONDERFUL lobby.
3) The fire and comfort seats will do well for you.

 

[kaytieeldr]

And what RustyScupper implied but didn't outright state is, no, you must check in first. Until you do, you're not considered an onsite gusst and not entitled to any of the perqs.

 

[illinidp]

You don't have to check in first to get into the park unless you have package tickets. But, you would have to pay to park and you wouldn't have any dining credits if you are on the ddp.

 

[CAS239]

No you don't have to check in first to enjoy early magic hours. You can simply show the cast member your confirmation email or something showing that you check in that day and they'll let you in. I've done it before and there was no problem. Pulled up the email, showed the cm then got right in the park

 

[Lisa loves Pooh]

No you don't have to check in first to enjoy early magic hours. You can simply show the cast member your confirmation email or something showing that you check in that day and they'll let you in. I've done it before and there was no problem. Pulled up the email, showed the cm then got right in the park

But be advised, parking in the park lots will likely result in a fee. I would to straight to the hotel where you should not have trouble parking as a guest checking in that day.