Is a Disney World split stay worth it? We share everything you need to know about what a split stay is, and why to consider it for your trip.

Have you ever stayed at multiple Disney resorts during a single Disney World vacation? You can divide your time between various resorts on and off Disney property. Split stays have become my family’s new favorite way to enjoy more than one Disney resort or good neighbor hotel during our trip. If staying at different resorts during your vacation interests you, here’s why you should consider it.

What is a Disney World Split Stay?

A split stay lets you enjoy more than one resort during your Disney World vacation, and I am a huge fan. Maybe you’ve always wanted to stay at the BoardWalk Inn Resort, but to stay for an entire trip costs too much. You could split your stay, one or two nights at the BoardWalk, and then the rest of your vacation at All-Star Movies. You could also splurge on a one or two-night stay at the Contemporary Resort and finish your trip offsite at a good neighbor hotel. The combinations are endless. 

Pros to a Split Stay

I love staying in the Disney bubble and exploring all the resorts on my non-park days. As I explored more and more resorts, I dreamed of staying at every single one. My budget wouldn’t allow me to do that, so I started splurging on at least one or two nights at a deluxe resort and spending most of my nights at a moderate, value, or even a Good Neighbor hotel. Split stays have allowed me to stay at some resorts I never thought possible and have truly enhanced my Disney World vacations. My kiddo enjoys experiencing all the different pools; it’s his favorite part of split stays.

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. Photo by Danny McBride

You can also mix and match the areas where you stay. For example, if you split your stay between the Beach Club and the Yacht Club, you’ll be close to Epcot. If you stay at the Grand Floridian, you can easily walk to the Magic Kingdom. Additionally, you can explore all the resorts in these areas before switching to your second hotel, which could be in a completely different location, even off-property, if you prefer. Now, you get to explore a whole new area. It’s a fantastic way to experience the Disney World resorts outside the theme parks.

You can determine the length of your trip and how many nights work best for you and your family to stay at each resort. For me, one to two nights at a deluxe resort worked by spending most of my trip at a more budget-friendly choice. Pro tip: Save your best resort for the end of your stay.

Split Stay Cons

As wonderful as split stays are, you must ensure they work for you and your family. One drawback of splitting your stay is the necessity to pack up and move between resorts. If you prefer to settle in during your trip, the thought of unpacking and packing multiple times may not be appealing. For many, staying in a single location is more enjoyable than switching between resorts.

Another downside is transportation between resorts if you don’t have your car or a rental. You will need to schedule an Uber or a Minnie Van to move from one resort to another. Switching from resort to resort can also be time-consuming and may reduce your time at the parks. Depending on the length of your stay, changing locations might not be ideal. 

Photo by Laurie Sapp

Regardless of how you plan your Disney vacations, you will enjoy time with your family in the most magical place on Earth, and a split stay can add an extra sprinkle of pixie dust.

To book a Disney World split stay, we recommend using our trusted travel agent partner. They’ll help you find the best deals, and make the process as stress-free as possible. Simply fill out the quick and free form to get in touch now.