Free Ways To Experience Disney This Summer

BanksPhotos / iStock.com

Commitment to Our Readers

GOBankingRates' editorial team is committed to bringing you unbiased reviews and information. We use data-driven methodologies to evaluate financial products and services - our reviews and ratings are not influenced by advertisers. You can read more about our editorial guidelines and our products and services review methodology.

20 Years
Helping You Live Richer

Reviewed
by Experts

Trusted by
Millions of Readers

The most magical place on Earth typically comes with a heavy price tag, but experiencing Disney World or Disney Land this summer might be more easy on your budget than you thought.

Whether you’ve already bought tickets to the park, booked a resort stay or just want to soak up the Disney Magic without the extra cost, these options could make your Disney experience satisfying for you and your wallet.

Resort Hopping

Did you know you don’t have to book a stay to experience Disney’s resorts at Disney World or Disney Land? You don’t even need tickets to one of the parks. Non-guests are welcome to explore the resort grounds, gift shops, restaurants and entertainment. Much like everything else Disney-related, these resorts don’t skimp on theming or the magic. 

For example, the Disney Animal Kingdom Lodge in Disney World’s Magic Kingdom area might feel like stepping into an African Safari. There’s a 43-acre wildlife preserve on the property where you can see giraffes, zebras, gazelles and flamingos from a viewing area. There’s also free entertainment throughout the day. 

The only parts you won’t be able to access without a stay at the resorts are the pools, fitness centers and, of course, rooms. If you plan it well, you could visit multiple resorts in one day by using the free transportation to get to each one. It’s important to note that parking at the resorts might be limited to hotel guests during busy times, so come prepared to park at one of the main lots if necessary.

Transportation

Walking isn’t the only way to get around Disney’s parks and resorts. There are several modes of free transportation inside Disney World and Disneyland. 

• Monorail (both)
• Buses (both)
• Disney Skyliner (Disney World)
• Boats (Disney World)
• Running or walking the trails

The Disney Skyliner could almost pass as a ride itself. It’s a gondola-style transportation that can get you to most of the resorts within Disney World. As it bonus, it comes with stellar views along the way. There are also free boat rides that can take you between the parks and resorts in Disney World, which can be thrilling for kids of all ages. And of course, you can’t forget the monorail, which is available in both parks. 

Pin trading

If you’re a collector of Disney pins and want to trade your way to the ones you’ve been searching for, you could spend the day pin trading. As you hop around to the different resorts, check out the front desk of the hotel or the gift shops for a Mickey-shaped pin board. These will have pins available for you to trade. 

Fireworks

Obviously, it won’t be as close as what you’d see in the parks, but it’s still magical to save some money and watch the iconic Disney fireworks show from one of the resorts you’ve hopped to. If you’re at the Epcot or Magic Kingdom areas in Disney World, you can visit one of the resort beaches to watch the lights and fireworks from the sand. And yes, you can access the resort beaches for free even if you aren’t staying there. 

Free Live Entertainment

Within Disneyland’s Downtown Disney District, there are scheduled live musical events held at these locations:

• Downtown Disney LIVE! Stage
• Splitsville Kingpin stage
• Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill

There’s nightly entertainment at the Jazz Kitchen Coastal Grill, as well as occasional events at the other two locations. At Disney World, you can find a wide array of entertainment in the Boardwalk area or the Epcot resorts area. 

Share This Article: