Disney World: What if I forgot to make a park reservation?

You are required to make theme park reservations for Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park. Theme Park Reservations are made on the Walt Disney World website only, not on the mobile app. 

But what happens if you forgot to make a reservation and the parks are at capacity? Can you still get into the park?

Sometimes same-day availability opens up, so keep checking the website everyday.

Do not show up without a reservation expecting to plead your case to the Cast Member at the gate. You will be denied entry without a reservation, assuming reservations are at capacity. Disney is firm on this. I see it happen all the time - heartbreaking!

One solution might be to add the Park Hopper option to your ticket. If you see availability at other Disney parks, make the reservation then park hop to the park you really want to visit.

Just keep in mind that park hopping begins at 2 pm.

The fee is approximately $100 per ticket, but on multi-day tickets, it will be valid for all your remaining ticket days.

I was hoping that Disney would eliminate the need for park reservations in 2023, but it appears leadership is just getting started. There are rumors that premium (paid) park reservation options may be coming.

Park reservations are subject to availability and they do book up on certain days - especially weekends.

It’s best to make your reservations as far in advance as possible. They can be adjusted later if there is availability. 

Have questions about planning your Orlando vacation? I have answers! Contact me now to get more out of your vacation.

Darren is a Disney-focused travel agent with Magical Vacations Travel and has over 13 years of experience. Readers of the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World rate him as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren is also an Orlando-based travel writer with topics ranging from theme parks to cruise lines.

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