Walt Disney World has expanded its list of partner hotels to include the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek. Guests staying at these two hotel properties will soon be able to enjoy special benefits including Extra Magic Hours at the theme parks and the larger 60-day FastPass+ booking window.
It has been reported that guests staying at these two properties will receive vouchers that will grant them access to the Extra Magic Hours at Walt Disney World. They will also be able to make their FastPass+ selections 60 days before the first day of their trip instead of the usual 30-day window that’s available for guests not staying on property.
These two hotels join a growing list of Disney Springs Resort Area Hotels that also enjoy similar benefits.
While this is extremely positive news for guests looking to stay at a non-Disney resort, it may weaken the argument about whether it’s worth it to stay on property at Walt Disney World. The 60-day window and Extra Magic Hours used to be exclusive benefits to guests staying on property. Now, more and more hotels are offering the same perk.
It’s also worth noting that the expansion of non-Disney hotels offering these perks could produce larger crowds during Extra Magic Hours at the theme parks (as if they weren’t crowded enough as is), and more competition over FastPass+ reservations for the most popular rides. That last point could prove to be a big deal as guests battle to snag FastPass+ selections for Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge.
