You’ve survived the “Are we there yets” and “Don’t make me turn this thing arounds!” Time to reward yourself by driving under the Walt Disney World welcome arch!

Now that you’ve got your car into the “Most Magical Place On Earth,” it’s time to think about the un-magical side of this Disney World vacation — PARKING.

If you’re taking your car with you on your Disney World vacation, you’re going to need to know about the parking situation ahead of time. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as just pulling into a Disney lot and calling it good. There are some spots you can park at for free (yep, there are still free things at Disney!), and other spots you’ll have to pay to park.

So, let’s take a look at where you can park for FREE at Disney World.

Disney Springs

If you’re heading to Disney Springs, you’re in for a good time! With so many places to spend your hard-earned, hard-saved vacation dollars on delicious meals, frosty beverages, and unique collectibles, you’ll be happy to know you won’t have to spend a dime on parking here (those dimes can all be rerouted to your shopping spree).

Unless you’re using the valet parking, which is $20 per day, then parking at the Orange, Lime, or Grapefruit parking garage is completely free! Woo Hoo! (Disney assumes you’ll be returning the favor by purchasing copious amounts of merch. 😉)

Just like the resorts and parks, the parking garages offer a limited amount of electric charging stations for all your electric car charging needs.

Now, remember that there is no access to the Disney Parks from Disney Springs. So, if you’re hoping to park at Disney Springs for free while you skip over to spend the day at one of the Disney Parks, this is not the option for you.

Disney Resorts

Years ago, overnight self-parking at Disney World’s hotels was FREE for hotel guests. But Disney later changed things and introduced overnight parking fees for those staying at Disney World’s hotels, which varied in cost depending on what level of hotel you’ll be staying at. Now, things have changed again!

Overnight self-parking is FREE once again for guests staying at Disney World’s Resort Hotels. This change went into effect on the evening of January 10th.

Disney shared, “This is a Disney difference many of you have asked us to bring back, and we’re happy to reintroduce it to make your vacation a little easier and more affordable.”

Disney Parks

Yes, you read that right. You can park at the Disney Parks for FREE — but you’ll have to meet some criteria to qualify for this little perk.

So, who can park at the Disney parks for free? Disney World Resort Hotel guests get FREE standard parking at all Disney World theme parks.

Another group that gets to park for free is Annual Passholders. While all Annual Pass sales, except for the Pixie Pass, are paused right now, those with a pass get free standard parking at the theme parks.

If you’re gonna opt into Preferred Parking or use one of the electric vehicle charging stations, you will have to cover those fees; those aren’t included with the free perk of an annual pass or a resort stay.

With Disney vacations continuing to be a costly undertaking, it’s nice to know there are still some free options out there (or at least some options that are included with the high prices you’re already paying to visit Disney World). Keep an eye on DFB for more news and updates on how to maximize your Disney vacation!

Will YOU Have To Pay for Parking at Disney World?

Do you drive to Disney World or rent a car? Let us know in the comments below!