Credit: Disney Staying at a Disney Resort is supposed to be part of the magic. For many families, the convenience and atmosphere are worth every penny. But something brewing might throw a wrench in that dreamy Disney stay, especially if you’re headed to Magic Kingdom.
Free Resort Perks
With so many perks—Early Entry, proximity to the fireworks, free waterpark admission, and access to immersive dining experiences—it’s no surprise that Magic Kingdom-area hotels are some of the most sought-after on property. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, the Contemporary, and the Polynesian Village Resort are all iconic.
And when you add newer options like the Villas at the Grand Floridian or refreshed DVC rooms, it’s easy to see why these hotels are packed night after night. But with all that popularity comes a new problem that most guests weren’t expecting.
Starlight Parade Shines Bright—and Brings the Crowds
Beginning July 20, the Disney Starlight nighttime parade will light up Magic Kingdom each evening. This brand-new experience is packed with glowing floats, enhanced lighting effects, and music designed to leave guests in awe. It’s been years since Disney featured a full-fledged nighttime parade in Florida, and fans are more than ready to see the magic return.
But with this excitement comes a new challenge—getting there.
Because the parade happens after dark, many guests stick around to see it, and those staying outside the parks are flocking in during the evening hours specifically for this experience. That’s where the trouble starts.
Expect Major Backups on the Monorail Line
Resort guests hoping to glide into the park for a peaceful night might be caught in an unexpected traffic jam—on the monorail. With all three Magic Kingdom-area resorts (Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary) feeding into the same loop, it’s becoming one of the most crowded spots on property during the hours leading up to the parade.
Guests who thought they’d easily hop over to Magic Kingdom from their resort may now face long waits, standing-room-only cabins, and a lot of stroller congestion. And for those trying to leave the park afterward? Good luck—monorail lines will stretch longer than usual at closing time.
Plan Around the Chaos
Don’t get us wrong—staying at a Disney Resort still has major advantages. But if you’re visiting between now and the fall, and staying near Magic Kingdom, you’ll want to pad your travel time. Heading to the park between 6 and 8 p.m.? Expect crowds. Leaving right after the parade? That’s prime gridlock territory.
Tips to Make It Work
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Arrive Early: Beat the parade crowd by heading into Magic Kingdom before dinnertime.
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Use the Walking Path: Consider walking instead of riding the monorail if you’re at the Contemporary or Grand Floridian.
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Stay Late: Linger after the parade—grab a snack or hop on a ride to let the lines die down before heading back.
Disney Starlight is shaping up to be a must-see addition to Magic Kingdom—but for resort guests nearby, it’s also bringing a little extra hustle and bustle. The magic is still there—you might have to share it with a few more people than you planned.