Drop your bags off at Bell Services

First things first, you’ve probably got a lot of stuff with you, so you’ll need somewhere to store it in the meantime. Your next move needs to be visiting bell services by the front desk of your hotel.

Bell services will be able to hold your belongings for you since you’re checking into the Disney World hotel and will give you a ticket to reclaim your things once your room is ready. This will help you become fun and fancy-free (with less luggage to tote around) and keep them stored safely while you’re out!

Hit the parks

This might seem like a no-brainer but you’re at DISNEY WORLD! The urge to hit the Disney parks is real!

After you’ve stashed your bags at the hotel, fighting the overwhelming compulsion to get right over the parks seems futile and quickly becomes a matter of how soon you get over there. We don’t blame you — this was a popular opinion we all shared, too! So if you’ve already got admission to the park (and made your park pass reservation) you’re good to head over anytime you like!

Go eat

Ok, this could be very dependent on WHEN you’re arriving but some of us have chosen to eat as soon as we get our stuff stored and honestly, that’s a great choice, too!

We rave about the food around the Disney hotels constantly, and if you’re saving your park tickets for another day during your vacation, this could be a great opportunity to explore the food at the hotel you’ve chosen to call home. Whether you’re hopping over to a dining reservation, picking up a quick service meal at the food court, or just grabbing a snack, we can’t say we blame you — after all, food IS a theme park!

Resort hop

Just like going to eat somewhere else, this could be a prime opportunity to check out a few of the other Disney hotels you’ve admired!

Suppose you’ve always wanted to eat at a certain hotel or check out some of the different theming, decor, or seasonal offerings … the world is your oyster! Depending on which hotel you want to visit, Disney transportation might require a bit of maneuvering. For example, if you are staying at All-Star Sports and you want to visit the Polynesian Village, your best bet is probably to take a bus to Magic Kingdom, even though you aren’t entering the park, and then hop on the resort monorail to the Polynesian Village stop. There are some resorts you can walk between, or take the monorail or Skyliner to — it all depends on where you’re staying and where you want to go! If you have questions, a Disney Cast Member can help you plan your route. You don’t have to be staying at THAT Disney hotel to enjoy at least some of what they have to offer so take advantage of this chance if you’ve got the time!

Go shop

Ok, you’ve lightened your load of luggage and now you’re feeling a bit empty-handed; why not try out some retail therapy?

Taking in the sights, sounds, and atmosphere of Disney Springs is another popular choice. They’ve also got plenty of dining options to help break up your time shopping. In addition to shopping at Disney Springs, you’ll also have a chance to see a Cirque du Soleil show, go bowling, see a movie at the theater, take a ride in a hot air balloon, and hop in a car that glides in the water, but that’s a whole story of its own.

Is a Disney Springs Amphicar Ride Worth the Money? Click Here!

Enjoy the amenities

You’ve just made the long trek into your hotel, don’t you think you deserve some time to unwind?

There are so many ways to do this at your own hotel without ever having to leave (if you don’t want to!). This could serve as a great chance to book that appointment at the spa, get in a few games at the hotel’s onsite arcade, or take a quick dip in the pool (we hope you saved back your swimsuit and change of clothes!).

Wrap up work remotely

Alright work-a-holics, this option is for you! If you’re really not able to disconnect, or just need to wrap up a few things before you can really start relaxing on vacation, there’s a perfect spot to do this and you DON’T have to be in the comforts of your own hotel room!

Many of the Disney World hotels have lounge areas where you can work peacefully at your leisure until your working day is done (or your room becomes available if you prefer!). It’s also worth noting that most of these lounges are just steps away from the nearest bar or quick service location, giving you all you need for a quick bite or cup of coffee to keep you going!

Golf

Whether you’re ready to swing with the big folks or just take in a friendly game of miniature golf, you can do BOTH at Disney World!

You’ll want to be sure to book a tee time for a full round of golf, but most mini-golf is available without an advance reservation, and Disney’s complimentary transportation can get you there. It’s a great way to spend time bonding together without having to leave the Disney bubble for entertainment outside of the theme parks. HOT TIP: Ask at the hotel front desk for a Magical Extras Savings Card — you might even score that mini golf round for FREE!

Be sure to check back with us at Disney Food Blog for the latest in Disney tips, tricks, and more!

The Cheapest Hotel Room You Can Get and Still Walk to Magic Kingdom

Do you have a favorite from this list (or maybe something else you do) while you wait for your Disney World hotel room to be ready? Tell us in the comments below!