Looking at going to WDW in 2023 and have some questions...

[Dameon2k]

We are preparing for our first WDW trip since 2014 and I have quite a few questions. Is it still a as much of a necessity to stay on Disney Grounds as it was at one time? How about purchasing the Park Hopper option? In the past years, the extra magic hours determined this. I avoided the extra magic morning park and attended the extra magic evening park. Now I am reading conflicting information that EMH are completely gone and you need to pay $129 for an extra ticket to attend something similar. At the same time I am also reading that EMH morning hours have been extended to all parks as 30 minutes early and EMH evening still occur sporadically. If EMH is done, I really do not see the reason for park hopper or necessarily staying on the grounds. Of course, there is always the convenience argument and all things should be Disney all the time, but it also seems like a way to save money as Disney keeps raising prices. So how viable are these options now? I would not mind doing some price comparisons, do any of you have favorite off site options? I am also confused on the fastpass replacement. It seems I may have to book this before I even get to the park??? Then there is a lightning option as well? Has anyone ever took Amtrak down? If you want a rental car can you get one dropped off at the station for pickup? How difficult is that process? Thanks for all the help in advance.

 

[Dameon2k]

You can ignore the Fastpass question I just saw that board post....great information in there.

 

[sponica]

Here's a good beginner's post:

https://www.disboards.com/threads/planning-tips-for-your-disney-trip-start-here.3873895/

I stay in the bubble for convenience. My youngest is still in a 5 point restraint and I don't really want to travel with the car seat.
Currently every theme park has a 30 minute early entry for resort guests. additional guests at deluxe resorts and deluxe villas have extended evening hours (typically on Mondays and Wednesdays at Epcot and MK).
My off site experience is limited, but we got a really good rate at Caribe Royale one year.