Free parking when first arrive at resort?

[ansadler]

We are trying to make RD at MK and also check in at WL that day. We will already have our tickets, so can we park at WL (for free) but not officially check in until later. Is there a gate when you come in? Do you have to show your confirmation number? We really don't need to get in our rooms, and would rather not have to wait in lines at WL to check-in, in order to make RD at MK.

We are renting points through DVC, so is there a way to still check-in on-line?

 

[EpcotBill]

Just tell the guard that you are checking in. I would take the time to actually check in to get the best choice of rooms.

I have no idea what RD is and I know a lot of acronyms.

 

[Lynne M]

There's never a charge for parking at any Disney resort, whether you're a guest of that resort or not. When you get to the WL guard shack, just tell them you're checking in and give them your name. They'll give you a parking pass. You don't have to check in right away if you'd rather go straight to the parks.

As a renter, I don't think you'd be able to do online check-in. As far as I know, DVC owners do this thru the member site. That's how I did it a couple of weeks ago.

 

[Lynne M]

I have no idea what RD is and I know a lot of acronyms.

RD= rope drop

 

[EpcotBill]

Rope drop huh, ok. In that case if you're pulling in to WL that early in the morning there won't be a line to check in. If you come back later in the day and wait to check in to get a less than desirable room you'll be kicking yourself.
I don't get the whole line up for rope drop thing anymore. In this modern age of FastPass and not going through the turnstiles early like we could way back in the 90's I don't see any advantage to it. But hey, go for it.

 

[MinnieGi]

Are you planning on driving to MK from WL? Is that what your are referring to when you mention you don't want to pay for parking? As pp mentioned parking at resorts is free. I would recommend checking in and then take WL's boat transportation to MK. Although your room will probably not be ready so early in the morning at least you will be checked in with minimal line wait.

 

[ansadler]

Great that I don't have to worry about paying to park. Never had a car on-site before, so wasn't sure. We'll swing in to WL and if we have time we'll check-in. Not too worried about room selection, since we're staying in a 1BR Villa (are there bad ones?) We don't really have a preference on view. BUT, if there is no line we'll check in. If not, we'll boat on over to MK.

Thanks for the tips!