FYI - you can't cut through the Grand Californian (they check for valid room keys or AD reservations before allowing you to enter on that side).
ETA - sorry for the duplicate info, stepped away for a min and someone else responded in the meantime. It really doesn't add too much time, I find it a pleasant walk.
Nope, not with the new security checkpoints.They don't let you walk through the front door of the resort without a reservation anymore?
Correct. They do not allow cutting through the GCH lobby toward DTD/the parks. They moved security to between ESPN zone and Earl of Sandwich so now there is a security check point from GCH into DTD. The GCH security is much too small to handle the masses who previously cut through, so entrance is limited to those with valid room cards and AD reservations.They don't let you walk through the front door of the resort without a reservation anymore?
That's amazing, I wish they would start doing that at WDW, with every resort there.Correct. They do not allow cutting through the GCH lobby toward DTD/the parks. They moved security to between ESPN zone and Earl of Sandwich so now there is a security check point from GCH into DTD. The GCH security is much too small to handle the masses who previously cut through, so entrance is limited to those with valid room cards and AD reservations.
Super helpful thanks a bunch!Just stayed last month It took me about 15-20 minutes. Walk breakdown:
2 minutes room to the crosswalk
5-7 minutes crosswalk to Paradise Pier Hotel (turn left here, then right at the traffic circle)
5 minutes to security tent
7 minutes or so to walk the length of Downtown Disney
It sounds much longer of a walk than it seems when actually walking it!