[["parks",[{"id":1,"name":"Magic Kingdom","abbreviation":"mk","created_at":"2009-07-13T15:28:25.000-07:00","updated_at":"2023-07-10T09:30:58.000-07:00","short_name":"Magic Kingdom","property_id":1,"time_zone":"Eastern Time (US & Canada)","permalink":"magic-kingdom","intro":"The original and most popular theme park at the Walt Disney World resort can be overwhelming and become quite crowded, even during the low season (see our Crowd Calendar for more info). We'll tell you how to get the most out of your time and money, and give you our picks for the best attractions and dining in the Magic Kingdom. Read our full Magic Kingdom overview.","dining_overview":"\r\n

\r\nThere are a dozens of restaurants in Magic Kingdom that have a range of quality. On this page you'll find restaurant ratings submitted by our readers after their own vacations, along with quick descriptions and links to each restaurant's menu. But first, some quick Magic Kingdom dining tips:\r\n

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Magic Kingdom Dining Tips

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Before you begin eating your way through Magic Kingdom, you need to know:

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Every Magic Kingdom table service and quick service restaurant ranked by reader survey responses.

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Best Magic Kingdom Table Service Restaurants
NameQualityDisney Dining Plan?Reader Ratings
The Crystal Palace
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFantasyland - Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFair\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t92%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Pancakes layered with fresh fruit for breakfast; prime rib, roast pork, and peel-and-eat shrimp for dinner; Thai curry mussels; grilled vegetables with balsamic glaze; pasta with wild mushrooms and chicken; shrimp; and a sundae bar. All-day character dining featuring Winnie the Pooh and friends.
Liberty Tree Tavern
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLiberty Square - Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t89%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFor lunch: New England–style pot roast, roast turkey, and sandwiches. Family-style dining at dinner, with all-you-can-eat turkey, carved beef, and smoked pork loin.
Be Our Guest Restaurant (lunch,dinner)
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFantasyland - Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t89%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Price Fixe 3-course dinner with choices including filet mignon, lamb chops, bouillabaisse and others.
The Plaza Restaurant
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMain Street, U.S.A. - Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t88%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tVeggie sandwich, club sandwich, chicken-strawberry salad, and ice-cream desserts such as the Plaza banana split or sundae.
Jungle Navigation Co. Ltd. Skipper Canteen
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAdventureland- Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t85%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Asian, African, and South American flavors. Dishes include Char sui Pork, Steak with Yuca Fries, Stir Fry, Falafel with a Cucumber Salsa, and Pineapple Coconut Cake.
Cinderella’s Royal Table
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFantasyland - Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFair\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t86%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tCreamy lobster soup; seared Scottish salmon; grilled New York strip steak; Chocolate Wave dessert. For kids: fish of the day, fried shrimp, cheesy pasta, and grilled chicken breast. All-day character dining with princesses.
Tony’s Town Square Restaurant
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMain Street, U.S.A. - Table Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPoor\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t73%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFor lunch: sausage-and-pepperoni flatbread and spaghetti with meatballs. For dinner: cioppino, braised short rib, and New York strip.
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Best Magic Kingdom Quick Service Restaurants
NameQualityDisney Dining Plan?Reader Ratings
Main Street Bakery
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMain Street, U.S.A. - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t94%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tCroissants, muffins, danishes, cinnamon rolls, sandwiches, cakes, brownies, cookies.
Sleepy Hollow Refreshments
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLiberty Square - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t93%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tWaffles, funnel cakes, ice cream cookie sandwiches, and waffle sandwiches.
Columbia Harbour House
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tLiberty Square - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t92%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tHealthful options such as grilled salmon with couscous and broccoli and the Lighthouse Sandwich with hummus and broccoli slaw. Other choices: fried fish and shrimp; lobster rolls; chicken nuggets; child’s plate with macaroni and cheese, PB&J sandwich, chicken nuggets, or tuna sandwich with grapes; New England clam chowder; vegetarian chili; coleslaw; garden salad; chocolate cake, seasonal cobbler, strawberry yogurt.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t
Gaston's Tavern
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFantasyland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t92%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Hummus with chips, cinnamon rolls, chocolate croissants, LeFou's Brew (frozen apple juice flavored with toasted marshmallow).\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t
Golden Oak Outpost
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFrontierland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t88%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSpecialty fries; chicken nuggets, and cookies.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Pecos Bill Tall Tale Inn and Cafe
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFrontierland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t88%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Steak or chicken burritos; rice bowls; chicken or spicy beef southwest salad; roasted vegetables; chili; churros and Greek yogurt.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Casey's Corner
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tMain Street, U.S.A. - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFair\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t86%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Hot dogs, corn-dog nuggets, fries, and brownies.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Cosmic Ray’s Starlight Cafe
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTomorrowland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t83%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tRotisserie chicken and ribs; burgers (and vegetarian burgers); hot dogs; Greek salad; chicken, turkey and vegetable sandwiches; chicken-noodle soup; chili-cheese fries; strawberry yogurt for dessert. Kosher choices available by request.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
The Pinocchio Village Haus
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFantasyland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFair\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t83%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tPersonal pizzas; chicken nuggets; fries; Caesar salad with chicken; meatball sub sandwiches; Mediterranean salad; kids’ meals of pizza, mac and cheese, or PB&J.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
The Lunching Pad
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTomorrowland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t82%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tSweet cream-cheese pretzel, frozen sodas, hot dogs.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\r\n\t\t\t\t
The Friar’s Nook
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFantasyland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tGood\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t82%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t Hot dogs, specialty macaroni and cheese (bacon cheeseburger, blue cheese with balsamic vinegar), veggies and chips with hummus, freshly made potato chips, lemonade slush.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Tomorrowland Terrace Restaurant
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tTomorrowland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFair\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t79%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tOne-third-pound Angus bacon cheeseburger; fried-chicken sandwich; chicken nuggets; pasta alone or with shrimp or chicken; lobster roll; beef-and-blue-cheese salad; citrus shrimp salad; chocolate cake, carrot cake, or yogurt for dessert. Only open seasonally.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
Tortuga Tavern
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tAdventureland - Quick Service\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tFair\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tYes\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\t74%
\r\n\t\t\t\t\t\tBarbecued pork, chicken, or beef brisket sandwich; roasted corn and vegetable salad; Uncrustables and mac and cheese for kids.\r\n\t\t\t\t\t
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Food Carts

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Food carts come and go in Magic Kingdom, but in most lands you'll be able to find bottled beverages, popcorn, and ice cream novelties. Special items include turkey legs (Frontierland), churros, and egg rolls (Adventureland). Don't worry, you're never far from a food cart in Magic Kingdom. While these carts move from time to time (that's why they have wheels), we do try to keep up with them on our comprehensive list of Magic Kingdom food spots.

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Seasonal Dining at Magic Kingdom

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There are some dining locations at Magic Kingdom that are only open during busier times of year (even then may only open for lunch). These include:\r\n

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","byline":null,"operator_id":80007944,"operator_index":0,"operator_name":"Magic Kingdom Park","traffic_patterns_content":"

When we research the Magic Kingdom, we study its traffic\r\npatterns, asking:

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1. WHICH SECTIONS OF THE PARK AND WHICH ATTRACTIONS DO GUESTS\r\nVISIT FIRST? When the park opens, guest traffic to Fantasyland and\r\nTomorrowland is heaviest, followed by Frontierland. Seven Dwarfs Mine Train pulls\r\npeople into the back reaches of the park, while\r\nSpace Mountain pulls people to the right.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\t\r\n\t\t\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n \t\r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n\t \r\n
Attractions That Get Crowded Early:
Frontierland\r\n\t \tSplash Mountain
\r\n\t \tBig Thunder Mountain Railroad\r\n\t
Fantasyland\r\n\t \tEnchanted Tales with Belle
\r\n\t \t\r\n\t \tSeven Dwarfs Mine Train
\r\n\t \tPeter Pan's Flight\r\n\t\t\t
Tomorrowland\r\n\t\t\t\tSpace Mountain
\r\n\t\t\t\tBuzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin
\r\n\t\t\t\tTomorrowland Speedway\r\n\t\t\t
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2. HOW LONG DOES IT TAKE FOR THE PARK TO FILL UP? HOW ARE THE\r\nVISITORS DISPERSED IN THE PARK? A surge of early birds arrive\r\nbefore or around opening time but are quickly dispersed throughout\r\nthe empty park. After the initial wave is absorbed, there’s a lull lasting\r\nabout an hour after opening. Then the park is inundated for about\r\n2 hours, peaking between 10 a.m. and noon. Arrivals continue in a\r\nsteady but diminishing stream until around 2 p.m. The lines we sampled\r\nwere longest between 1 and 2 p.m., indicating more arrivals than\r\ndepartures into the early afternoon. For touring purposes, most attractions\r\ndevelop long lines between 10 and 11:30 a.m.\r\n

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\r\nFrom late morning until early afternoon, guests are equally distributed\r\namong all the lands. However, guests concentrate in Fantasyland,\r\nLiberty Square, and Frontierland in late afternoon, with a decrease of\r\nvisitors in Adventureland and Tomorrowland. Adventureland’s Jungle\r\nCruise and Tomorrowland’s \r\nvisitors in Adventureland and Tomorrowland. Adventureland's and Tomorrowland's Buzz Lightyear and Space Mountain continue\r\nto be crowded, but most other attractions in those lands are\r\nreadily accessible.\r\n

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3. HOW DO MOST VISITORS TOUR THE PARK? Many first-time visitors\r\nare guided by friends or relatives familiar with the Magic Kingdom;\r\nthese tours may or may not follow an orderly sequence. First-timers\r\nwithout personal guides tend to be more orderly in their touring, but\r\nthey also tend to be drawn to Cinderella Castle upon entering the\r\npark, and thus they begin their rotation from Fantasyland. Repeat\r\nvisitors usually head straight to their favorite attractions.

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4. CROWD DISTRIBUTIONS We tested a\r\nfrequent claim that most people turn right into Tomorrowland and\r\ntour the Magic Kingdom counterclockwise. We found the claim to be\r\nbaseless. Neither do most people turn left and start in Adventureland.

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Here’s why: Magic Kingdom headliner attractions are located\r\nintentionally at opposite points around the park to distribute crowds evenly: Space Mountain on the east side, Splash Mountain and Big\r\nThunder Mountain Railroad on the west, Seven Dwarfs Mine Train to\r\nthe north, and so on.

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If, therefore, you were to start touring by heading left, you’d have\r\nlow crowds in Adventureland and moderate crowds in Frontierland—\r\nbut by the time you got to Fantasyland and Tomorrowland, you’d run\r\ninto the largest crowds of the day. A similar scenario would await you\r\nif you started by bearing right into Tomorrowland: packed crowds in\r\nthe rest of the lands you visit.

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Avoiding the biggest crowds in the park, then, requires the following:\r\n

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5. HOW DO SPECIAL EVENTS, SUCH AS PARADES AND LIVE SHOWS,\r\nAFFECT TRAFFIC PATTERNS? Parades pull huge numbers of guests\r\naway from attractions and provide a window of opportunity for experiencing\r\nthe more popular attractions with less of a wait. Castle Forecourt\r\nStage shows also attract crowds but only slightly affect lines.

\r\n\r\n

6. WHAT ARE THE TRAFFIC PATTERNS NEAR AND AT CLOSING TIME?\r\nOn our sample days, in busy times and off-season at the park, departures\r\noutnumbered arrivals beginning in midafternoon. Many visitors\r\nleft in late afternoon as dinnertime approached. When the park closed\r\nearly, guests departed steadily during the 2 hours before closing, with a\r\nhuge exodus at closing time. When the park closed late, a huge exodus\r\nbegan immediately after the early-evening parade and fireworks, with\r\na second mass departure after the late parade, continuing until closing.

\r\n\r\n

Because Main Street and transportation services remain open after the\r\nother five lands close, crowds leaving at closing mainly affect conditions\r\non Main Street and at the monorail-, ferry-, and bus-boarding areas. In\r\nthe hour before closing, the other five lands are normally uncrowded.

\r\n","opening_date":"1971-10-01","category_code":"theme_park","fastpass_content":null,"meta_description":null,"address":"1180 Seven Seas Dr","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079395277","themeparks_obj":"WaltDisneyWorldMagicKingdom","primary_color":"#801BC3","themeparks_id":"75ea578a-adc8-4116-a54d-dccb60765ef9","basics_arriving":"

FROM INSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD If you're staying at the Contemporary or Bay Lake Tower, it's a short walk to the Magic Kingdom.


If you're staying at the Grand Floridian Resort or Polynesian Village, use the Magic Kingdom monorail.


If you're staying anywhere at Wilderness Lodge or Fort Wilderness you can take a boat or bus. (Note that monorails and boats don't run when lightning is in the area; Disney will provide bus service instead.)


Guests at other Walt Disney World resorts can reach the park by bus.


All Disney resort guests are dropped off at the park's entrance, bypassing the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC), except those at the Swan, Swan Reserve, and Dolphin. Guests at these hotels are dropped off at the\n TTC and must take the monorail or ferry to the park.


DRIVING If you're thinking about driving to the Magic Kingdom, consider having a taxi or ride-hailing service drop you off at either the Contemporary or the Grand Floridian Resort instead, especially if you are arriving after park opening.


It may cost slightly more this way, but it's significantly faster. Otherwise, you'll encounter lines for parking, trams, security, and the monorail or ferry. This can take an hour or more on busy days.

","basics_getting_around":"

You'll find stroller, wheelchair, ECV/ESV rentals, and locker rentals are on your right, just inside the entrance.


On your left as you enter Main Street, U.S.A., is City Hall, the center for information, lost and found, and guided tours.


Main Street, U.S.A. ends at the Central Plaza, also known as \"The Hub\". From here are paths to five other lands: (clockwise from the left) Adventureland, Frontierland, Liberty Square, Fantasyland, and Tomorrowland.


Cinderella Castle, at the entrance to Fantasyland, is the Magic Kingdom's visual anchor. It's a great place to meet up with your group if you get separated - just be clear about whether you're meeting at the front or the back of the castle

","basics_rope_drop":"

'Rope Drop' refers to cast members using a length of rope to hold back crowds until the park opens. After the rope is dropped, guests can head to their first ride.


Arriving at the Magic Kingdom 30-60 minutes before official opening ensures the shortest possible waits for rides.


On-site guests who want to take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry should arrive at the park entrance 60 minutes before official opening (that is, 30 minutes before Early Entry) on all days.


Once in the park, you'll find most of the rides in Fantasyland and Tomorrowland running. Rides in Adventureland, Frontierland, and Liberty Square may start operations closer to the park's official opening time.


Off-site guests (who aren't eligible for Early Theme Park Entry) should arrive 30 minutes before official opening on all days.

","basics_fastpass":"

The Magic Kingdom might be the easiest park to recommend using Genie+ for. We think Genie+ is worth the cost here if you meet any of these criteria:


","basics_other":null},{"id":2,"name":"EPCOT","abbreviation":"ep","created_at":"2009-07-13T15:28:25.000-07:00","updated_at":"2023-07-10T09:30:58.000-07:00","short_name":"EPCOT","property_id":1,"time_zone":"Eastern Time (US & Canada)","permalink":"epcot","intro":"It's probably safe to say that Epcot was the thing that Walt Disney most wanted to build after the success of Disneyland. Designed to demonstrate new technology and innovation, Walt envisioned it as a sort of permanent World's Fair for companies, universities and governments to show off their latest creations.","dining_overview":"

\r\nDon't know where to eat in Epcot? On this page you'll find recommendations on where to eat, and where to avoid, as well as links to each restaurant's menu.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nSince the beginning, dining has been an important part of Epcot’s entertainment product. World Showcase has many more restaurants than attractions, and Epcot has added bars, tapas-style eateries, and full-service restaurants faster than any park in memory.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n

Touring Plans Tip

\r\n

If cost is an issue, make lunch your main meal. Entrees are similar to those on the dinner menu, but prices are significantly lower.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nEach pavilion (except United States) has a beautifully seductive ethnic restaurant or two. While the food isn’t always compelling, the overall experience is great. If you fail to dine in World Showcase, you'll miss one of Epcot's more delightful features.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n

Over 120,000 families subscribe to TouringPlans.com every year.
Join us and start planning your perfect Disney Trip.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Our Favorite Epcot Counter-Service Restaurants

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nIf you want to sample the ethnic foods of World Showcase without eating in restaurants requiring advance reservations, we recommend these counter-service specialties:\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Below you'll find links to menus for every restaurant, bar, and food cart in Epcot.

","byline":"Home to World Showcase and Remy's Ratatouille Adventure","operator_id":80007838,"operator_index":1,"operator_name":"Epcot","traffic_patterns_content":null,"opening_date":"1982-10-01","category_code":"theme_park","fastpass_content":null,"meta_description":"Save time and money at Disney World's Epcot. Here you'll find a Epcot crowd calendar, touring plans, info about Epcot attractions, and more.","address":"200 Epcot Center Dr","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078244321","themeparks_obj":"WaltDisneyWorldEpcot","primary_color":"#242389","themeparks_id":"47f90d2c-e191-4239-a466-5892ef59a88b","basics_arriving":"

ENTRANCES EPCOT has two entrances. The larger one is in World Celebration at the front of the park, and it's the one you'll use if you arrive by car, bus, or monorail. The other, the International Gateway (IG), is in the rear of the park, between the France and United Kingdom in World Showcase.


The World Celebration entrance can handle more people and is closer to headliner rides such as Soarin' Around the World, Test Track, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.


However, the IG entrance will put you closer to Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, which is important if you're touring with small children.


ARRIVING FROM INSIDE DISNEY WORLD If you're staying at an EPCOT resort, it will take you about 20-30 minutes to walk the mile or so from your hotel to the IG and then from there to the front half of the park.



Boat service is also available from the EPCOT resorts to the IG.



It's also about a 10- to 20-minute ride (20-40 minutes with crowds) on the Skyliner, which links the IG with Disney's Hollywood Studios and Disney's Caribbean Beach, Riviera, Pop Century, and Art of Animation Resorts. Add another 5-8 minutes to walk to the front of the park from the IG.



DRIVING Arriving by car is easy and direct. EPCOT has its own parking lot, and unlike the Magic Kingdom, doesn't require you to take a monorail or ferry to reach the park entrance. Take a tram or walk from the parking lot to the front gate.


Monorail service connects EPCOT with the Magic Kingdom (transfer required), the Magic Kingdom resorts (transfer required), and the Transportation and Ticket Center.


If you want to drive and use the IG entrance, you'll need to pay for parking at the resorts closest to EPCOT: the Swan, Dolphin, or Swan Reserve. It may be cheaper and/or easier to use a ride-hailing app.

","basics_getting_around":"

Navigating EPCOT is unlike getting around in the Magic Kingdom, where nearly every 'land' is discrete and visually distinct from its neighbors - for example, Liberty Square and Main Street, U.S.A.


EPCOT, by contrast, is visually open. And while it might seem odd to see a Japanese pagoda and the Eiffel Tower on the same horizon, getting around is fairly simple.


The park's architectural anchor is Spaceship Earth, a shiny 180-foot geosphere that's visible from almost everywhere in the park. Like Cinderella Castle in the Magic Kingdom, Spaceship Earth can help you keep track of where you are in EPCOT. But it's in a high-traffic area and isn't centrally located, so it's not a good meeting place.


Any World Showcase pavilion makes a good meeting place, but specifics matter. Each pavilion is a town in miniature, with buildings, gardens, and plazas. So instead of just saying Let's meet in Japan, pick a specific place — for instance, the sidewalk side of the pagoda.


If you'd like to get from the front of World Showcase (where it meets World Celebration) to the back of World Showcase (near Morocco), take a Friendship Boat near the Port of Entry store. The boats run continuously until just before the fireworks.

","basics_rope_drop":"

'Rope Drop' refers to cast members using a length of rope to hold back crowds until the park opens. After the rope is dropped, guests can head to their first ride.


ALL OF EPCOT'S LANDS typically open and close at the same time. On-site guests who want to take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry should arrive 60 minutes before official opening (that is, 30 minutes before Early Entry) on all days.


Off-site guests (who aren't eligible for Early Theme Park Entry) should arrive 30 minutes before official opening on all days.


Once the park opens, you'll be admitted on to your first ride. The ride you want to see first may the EPCOT entrances you choose to use.


WHICH EPCOT ENTRANCE TO USE? The IG is about 10 minutes closer to the family-friendly Remy's Ratatouille Adventure, located in World Showcase's France Pavilion, than the park's front entrance is. That's a huge head start.


But if seeing Ratatouille isn't a priority, then enter at World Celebration instead for easier access to Soarin' Around the World, Test Track, and Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind.

","basics_fastpass":"

We think Genie+ is worth the cost at EPCOT if you meet any of these criteria:



\n Regardless of the time of year you visit, arriving at park opening should allow you to see at least one of EPCOT's headliner attractions without significant waits.


Because so few EPCOT attractions participate in Genie+, and they're far apart, it's unlikely you'd use than five to seven ride reservations per day.


\n

On days of heavy attendance, though, you'll be competing with lots of other people for reservations, which pushes out return times and limits how many reservations you can obtain.

","basics_other":null},{"id":3,"name":"Disney's Hollywood Studios","abbreviation":"hs","created_at":"2009-07-13T15:28:25.000-07:00","updated_at":"2023-07-18T08:55:10.000-07:00","short_name":"Hollywood Studios","property_id":1,"time_zone":"Eastern Time (US & Canada)","permalink":"hollywood-studios","intro":"The Magic Kingdom entertains, modeling its attractions on Disney movies and TV. Epcot educates, pioneering exhibits and rides that teach. Disney's Hollywood Studios does both. All three parks rely heavily on Disney special effects and audio-animatronics (robotics) in their entertainment mix.","dining_overview":"

Disney's Hollywood Studios Dining Overview

\r\n\r\n

Dining at Hollywood Studios is less exotic than at Epcot and possibly less interesting than at any other park. The upscale Brown Derby is by far the best restaurant at the Studios. For simple Italian food, including pizza, Mama Melrose’s is fine; just don’t expect anything fancy. At the Sci-Fi Dine-In, you eat in little cars at a simulated drive-in movie from the 1950s. Though you won’t find a more entertaining restaurant in Walt Disney World, the food is hit or miss. Somewhat better is the 50’s Prime Time Cafe, where you sit in Mom’s time-warp kitchen and scarf down meat loaf while watching clips of classic sitcoms. It’s fun and the food is a step up. The best way to experience either restaurant is to stop in for dessert or a drink between 2:30 and 4:30 p.m. Hollywood & Vine features singing and dancing characters from the Disney Channel during breakfast and lunch.

\r\n\r\n

One TouringPlans staffer sums up the food situation at Hollywood Studios thusly:

\r\n
There's nothing sadder than finding yourself hungry at the Studios.
\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Disney's Hollywood Studios Dining Reservation Recommendations

\r\n

The park has five restaurants where dining reservations are recommended or required: The Hollywood Brown Derby, 50's Prime Time Cafe, Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant, Mama Melrose's Ristorante Italiano, and the Hollywood and Vine Cafeteria. See our WDW Dining Reservation page for information on how to make reservations.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Our Favorite Counter-Service Restaurants

\r\n \r\n\r\n

We receive considerable mail from readers recounting their DHS dining experiences. The 50’s Prime Time Cafe, for instance, is always a hot topic. First, from a Maryland reader:

\r\n
50’s Prime Time Cafe was fun, but the food was mediocre at best. If my mom cooked that way, I would’ve run away from home.
\r\n\r\n

But a West Newton, Massachusetts, family loved it:

\r\n
We decided to go against your recommendation and give it a shot. We’re so glad we did! For the five of us (ages 16–20), it was a blast. “Leroy,” our waiter and “big brother” for the meal, came and sat at our table and helped us set our places so we wouldn’t get in trouble with “Mom.” When one member of our party cursed, “Mom” arrived to punish him, making him clear the table onto her tray, which he did shamefully. It was a total kick that we talked about for the rest of the trip.
\r\n\r\n

If you arrive at the Studios without having arranged Advance\r\nReservations for meals, you can make them at the restaurants. The Hollywood Brown Derby, expensive but tasty, is usually among the last to fill. The companion Hollywood Brown Derby Lounge is far less crowded and offers a small-plate and dessert menu, including the famous grapefruit cake.

\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n \r\n

FANTASMIC! DINING PACKAGE

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

If you purchase a \"dining package\" to eat at one of the table-service restaurants at Hollywood Studios, you can obtain a ticket/voucher for the members of your dining party to enter the night's first showing of Fantasmic! without waiting in line and sit in a section of seats (one of the best in the theater) reserved specifically for dining package patrons.

\r\n

Here are the rules: You may call 407-WDW-DINE (or book online) up to 60 days in advance and request the Fantasmic! Dining Package for the night you want to see the show. This is a reservation and must be guaranteed with a credit card at the time of booking. There's a 48-hour cancellation policy.

\r\n

To keep guests from coming in and ordering the cheapest thing on the menu just to get Fantasmic! vouchers, Disney includes a fixed price meal in the package. Sample 2022 prices (excluding park admission, taxes, and gratuity) are roughly as follows:

\r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n \r\n
Hollywood
Brown Derby
(Lunch or Dinner)
Mama Melrose's
Ristorante Italiano
(Lunch or Dinner)
Hollywood & Vine
Buffet
(Breakfast)
Hollywood & Vine
Buffet
(Lunch or Dinner)
Sci-Fi Dine-In Theater Restaurant
(Lunch or Dinner)
50s Prime Time Cafe
(Lunch or Dinner)
Adult$73$54$54$71$49$51
Child (3-9)$29$22$36$47$22$29
\r\n

The price covers all you care to eat at the Hollywood & Vine Buffet or entree and dessert at the other restaurants. Nonalcoholic drinks are included. Allow yourself a minimum of two hours to eat and make your way to the Fantasmic! show. If you have made ordinary reservations for any of the participating restaurants, they will not include reserved seats for Fantasmic!. You have to buy the package to get the good seats.

\r\n

You will receive your tickets/vouchers at the restaurant. 30-45 minutes before the first Fantasmic! show of the night, report to the VIP seating entrance on Sunset Boulevard next to Beauty and the Beast. A cast member will collect your vouchers and direct or escort you to the seating reserved for dining package guests. Though you're required to arrive early, you can be seated immediately and won't have to stand in any lines. You will not have specific assigned seats in the reserved section. It's first-come/first-served, so arrive early for the best choice.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nIf Fantasmic! is cancelled due to weather or other circumstances, you won't receive a refund, but you will get a voucher good for another performance within 5 days (you'll also need another day of park admission). Here's what happened to one reader:\r\n

\r\nOn my last visit to WDW this May I booked the Fantasmic! dinner package at Mama Melrose and ate there and received my show voucher but the show was rained out. I thought I was out of luck but asked and was told the vouchers are good for 5 days for another show. I went to the show 4 days later and was able to use the voucher with no problem.\r\n
\r\n

\r\n","byline":"Home to Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge featuring Millennium Falcon: Smugglers Run and Star Wars: Rise of the Resistance","operator_id":80007998,"operator_index":2,"operator_name":"Disney's Hollywood Studios","traffic_patterns_content":"","opening_date":"1989-05-01","category_code":"theme_park","fastpass_content":"","meta_description":null,"address":"351 S Studio Dr","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079395277","themeparks_obj":"WaltDisneyWorldHollywoodStudios","primary_color":"#BB4F24","themeparks_id":"288747d1-8b4f-4a64-867e-ea7c9b27bad8","basics_arriving":"

ARRIVING FROM INSIDE DISNEY WORLDIf you're staying at an EPCOT resort, it'll take you 20-30 minutes to walk the mile or so from your hotel to the Studios' entrance.


Boat service is also available from the EPCOT resorts to the Studios, and it's about a 20-minute ride on the Skyliner system, which links the Studios to Disney's Caribbean Beach, Riviera, Pop Century, and Art of Animation resorts.


In addition to the Skyliner, Disney may offer bus service to the Studios from these hotels on days with high attendance.


Guests at other Disney resorts will get to DHS by bus.


If you're staying at Pop Century and Art of Animation and see a Skyliner wait of more than an hour, use a Disney bus (if available), a taxi, or a ride-hailing app to get to the park instead - that hour is not a great use of your time.


DRIVING The DHS parking lot is located next to the park. The parking lots open about an hour before official park opening.


Once you've parked, take a tram or walk from the parking lot to the front gate. There can be traffic delays in the morning while everyone waits for the lot to open.

","basics_getting_around":"

AT THE PARK ENTRANCE Guest Relations will be on your left. Go here for a park map, to report lost persons, or to access the Baby Care Center.


To the right of the entrance are locker, stroller, and wheelchair rentals plus the park's Lost and Found.


As in the Magic Kingdom, you enter the park and then pass down a main street. In this case, it's the Hollywood Boulevard of the 1930s and '40s. At the end is a replica of the iconic Grauman's Chinese Theatre, home of Mickey & Minnie's Runaway Railway.


As you face the Chinese Theatre, two themed areas, Sunset Boulevard and Animation Courtyard, branch off Hollywood Boulevard to the right. Branching left off Hollywood Boulevard is Echo Lake.


Beyond that, Grand Avenue holds Muppet-Vision 3-D and Mama Melrose's, a full-service Italian restaurant.


Toy Story Land's attractions are located behind the Chinese Theatre and to the left of Animation Courtyard.


Finally, Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is in the upper-left corner of the park, accessible from Grand Avenue and Toy Story Land.

","basics_rope_drop":"

'Rope Drop' refers to cast members using a length of rope to hold back crowds until the park opens. After the rope is dropped, guests can head to their first ride.


ALL RIDES START RUNNING as soon as guests are admitted into the park. Shows normally begin running an hour or more after the rest of the park.


On-site guests who want to take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry should arrive 60 minutes before official opening (that is, 30 minutes before Early Entry) on all days.


Off-site guests (who aren't eligible for Early Theme Park Entry) should arrive 30 minutes before official opening on all days.


","basics_fastpass":"

You almost certainly don't need Genie+ or Individial Lighting Lane at Holywood Studios if:

Otherwise, you may want to consider Genie+ or Individual Lighting Lane if any of the following apply to you:



Regardless of the time of year you visit, arriving at park opening should allow you to see at least two headliner attractions without significant waits.


Since only around Hollywood Studios attractions participate in Genie+ (and it's not useful for some of those), it's unlikely you'd need more than three or four reservations per day.


\n

On days of heavy attendance, though, the lack of attractions means you'll be competing with lots of people, which pushes out return times and limits how many Genie+ reservations you can obtain.

","basics_other":null},{"id":4,"name":"Disney's Animal Kingdom","abbreviation":"ak","created_at":"2009-07-13T15:28:25.000-07:00","updated_at":"2023-07-10T09:30:58.000-07:00","short_name":"Animal Kingdom","property_id":1,"time_zone":"Eastern Time (US & Canada)","permalink":"animal-kingdom","intro":"

At 500 acres, Disney's Animal Kingdom is five times the size of the Magic Kingdom and more than twice the size of Epcot. But like Disney's Hollywood Studios, most of the Animal Kingdom's vast geography is only accessible on guided tours or as part of attractions. Animal Kingdom consists of six sections, or \"lands:\" The Oasis, Discovery Island, DinoLand U.S.A., Africa, Asia, and Pandora - the World of Avatar. (An additional section, Rafiki's Planet Watch, is touted as a land by Disney but doesn't really qualify as such in our eyes.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nPandora - the World of Avataris the newest \"land\" in Walt Disney World, with an opening date of May 27, 2017. It's based on James Cameron's blockbuster 2009 film Avatar. The project began when Disney signed Avatar filmmaker James Cameron to a development deal in 2011. It turned into the largest expansion in the park’s history. Besides two new headliner rides - Avatar: Flight of Passage and Na'vi River Journey — Disney has brought to life the floating mountains and glow-in-the-dark plant life of Cameron’s blockbuster film.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Its size and expansion notwithstanding, Animal Kingdom features a limited number of attractions. To be exact, there are nine rides, several walk-through exhibits, an indoor theater, three amphitheaters, a conservation exhibit, and a children's playground.

","dining_overview":"

Tiffins, the Animal Kingdom's newest sit-down restaurant, is one of the highest-rated restaurants in Walt Disney World. The food, which includes Wagyu beef, lamb, and duck, is comparable to that found on the menus at Disney's best resort restaurants. Service is excellent.

\r\n\r\n

That said, food at the Animal Kingdom isn't particularly exotic. You'll find a lot of counter service fast food, along with Tusker House, a buffet-style restaurant,\r\nand Yak and Yeti, a table-service restaurant, in Asia. You’ll also find plenty of traditional theme park food—hot dogs, burgers—but even the fast food is superior to typical Disney fare. Our two counter-service favorites: Flame Tree Barbecue in Discovery Island, with its waterfront dining pavilions, and Yak & Yeti Local Food Cafes (just outside\r\nthe full-service Yak and Yeti) for casual Asian dishes, from egg rolls to crispy honey chicken.\r\n

\r\n

The Harambe Market, to the right as you approach Kilimanjaro Safaris, has four windows, each serving a different specialty, such as spice-rubbed ribs, batter-fried sausages, and chicken or beef kebabs. Beer and South African wines are also available.

\r\n\r\n

Another full-service restaurant in Animal Kingdom, Rainforest Cafe, has entrances both inside and outside the park, meaning you don’t have to buy park admission to eat there. Both Rainforest Cafes (the other is at Disney Springs) accept Advance Reservations.

\r\n\r\n

Tipping at Disney's Animal Kingdom

\r\n

A frequent area of confusion for Disney guests is the topic of tipping at Walt Disney World. International guests may be unfamiliar with American tipping in general. Gratuities are a part of life when you travel in the United States. We have a page dedicated to everything you need to know about tipping at Walt Disney World.

","byline":"Home of the Spectacular Pandora: The World of Avatar","operator_id":80007823,"operator_index":3,"operator_name":"Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park","traffic_patterns_content":"\r\n

Disney's Animal Kingdom's main draws are Pandora (Avatar - Flight of Passage and the Na'Vi River Journey), Kilimanjaro Safaris in Africa, and Expedition Everest in Asia. \r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

During busy times of year, guests will start lining up outside the\r\nAnimal Kingdom entrance an hour before opening to be close to the\r\nfront of the standby line for Flight of Passage. For now, plan on arriving\r\n45–60 minutes before park opening.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nPandora, the Safaris, and Everest are at opposite sides of the park,\r\nwhich allows for even guest distribution. Waits at Dinosaur remain\r\nlow until 10:30 or 11 a.m. Likewise, crowds don’t peak at Expedition\r\nEverest until about an hour after park opening, and even later than\r\nthat at Kali River Rapids. As the day wears on, guests who’ve experienced\r\nthe headliners turn their attention to other rides, animal exhibits,\r\nand shows, further distributing crowds\r\nacross the entire park.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Many guests who arrive at opening will leave\r\nafter having completed their tour of the park by\r\nlate afternoon. Wait times at the headliners historically\r\ndip as the afternoon wears on, usually\r\nbottoming out between 3 and 6 p.m. If evening\r\nhours return to the Animal Kingdom, crowds\r\nwill pick back up after sunset for the nighttime Kilimanjaro Safaris\r\nand for Pandora’s attractions as guests stay to see the land’s “bioluminescent”\r\nlandscaping.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n","opening_date":"1998-04-22","category_code":"theme_park","fastpass_content":"

\r\n\r\n\r\n","meta_description":"Save time and money at Disney's Animal Kingdom. Here you'll find a Animal Kingdom crowd calendar, touring plans, attractions and more.","address":"2901 Osceola Pkwy","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079395277","themeparks_obj":"WaltDisneyWorldAnimalKingdom","primary_color":"#2B5424","themeparks_id":"1c84a229-8862-4648-9c71-378ddd2c7693","basics_arriving":"

FROM INSIDE WALT DISNEY WORLD, Disney buses are the only free option for getting to Animal Kingdom from on-property resorts, but service from many resorts is erratic.


DRIVING Animal Kingdom is in the southwest corner of Walt Disney World; from I-4, take Exit 65 for Osceola Parkway, then follow the signs. The Animal Kingdom Lodge hotel is about a mile from the park on its west side; Blizzard Beach, Coronado Springs Resort, and the All-Star Resorts are also in the vicinity.


Animal Kingdom has its own vast paid parking lot with close-in parking for guests with disabilities. Disney usually opens the parking lot about an hour before official park opening. Once parked, you can walk or catch a tram to the entrance.

","basics_getting_around":"

Animal Kingdom is arranged somewhat like the Magic Kingdom, in a hub-and-spoke configuration. You enter the park through The Oasis, a set of lush, green, pathways past waterfalls, streams, and forests.


All of the paths get you to the same spot: a bridge to Discovery Island. Dominated by the park's central icon - the 14-story hand-carved Tree of Life - Discovery Island is the park's retail and dining center.


From Discovery Island, guests fan out to access the themed areas: Africa, Asia, DinoLand U.S.A., and Pandora.


Discovery Island also hosts a theater attraction in the Tree of Life and several short nature trails. You should be able to take in all of Animal Kingdom in one day—but we encourage you to take your time.

","basics_rope_drop":"

'Rope Drop' refers to cast members using a length of rope to hold back crowds until the park opens. After the rope is dropped, guests can head to their first ride.


ANIMAL KINGDOM is usually the first Disney World park to open in the morning, and the first to close. Expect it to open around 8 a.m. daily, and earlier during holidays and other times of peak attendance.


Disney resort guests who want to take advantage of Early Theme Park Entry should arrive 60 minutes before official opening (30 minutes before Early Entry).


Off-site guests (who aren't eligible for Early Theme Park Entry) should arrive 30 minutes before official opening on all days.


Once you're in the park, you'll usually find all of Pandora, along with It's Tough to Be a Bug, Expedition Everest, Dinosaur, and TriceraTop Spin already open. Kilimanjaro Safaris usually opens when the park opens to the public.


During slower or colder periods, the park may delay opening its secondary attractions: Kali River Rapids and Maharajah Jungle Trek in Asia, as well as The Boneyard in DinoLand U.S.A.


The Wildlife Express Train and Conservation Station may either open late or remain closed for the day.

","basics_fastpass":"

You almost certainly don't need Genie+ or Individial Lighting Lane at Animal Kingdom if:

Otherwise, you may want to consider Genie+ or Individual Lighting Lane if any of the following apply to you:



\n Regardless of the time of year you visit, arriving at park opening should allow you to see at least two headliner attractions without significant waits.


Since only around a dozen Animal Kingdom attractions participate in Genie+, it's unlikely you'd need more than three or four reservations per day.


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On days of heavy attendance, though, the lack of attractions means you'll be competing with lots of people, which pushes out return times and limits how many Genie+ reservations you can obtain.

","basics_other":null}]],["hotels",[["Campground",[{"id":434,"property_id":1,"name":"The Campsites at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort","code":"ORL329","address":"4510 North Fort Wilderness Trail","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078242900","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/cabins-at-fort-wilderness-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"fort-wilderness-campsites","created_at":"2020-10-05T03:21:19.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-21T20:41:09.000-08:00","overview":"Fort Wilderness (also home to over 400 individual cabins) has over 800 campsites spread among many different \"loops.\"","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":false,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":800,"theme":"Camping","cost_range":"$82 - $348","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"campground","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":false,"meta_description":"Exclusive interactive floor plans, with details, rates, and images for every single room at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort Cabins. A Disney Moderate, the Disney Fort Wilderness Cabins Resort is a pleasant option for your Walt Disney World vacation. Use your Disney Dining Plan at Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue, Meadow Snack Bar, Trail's End Restaurant, and Trail's End Restaurant - To Go Counter.","survey_update_hash":"55f696172c0d32f7ced3720f5ca03bb7","author_user_id":2,"fax_number":"4078243508","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":null,"blog_slug":"fort-wilderness-campsites","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"campsites at disneys fort wilderness resort","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010392,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/campsites-at-fort-wilderness-resort/","opened_on":"1971-11-19","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"fwcamp","refresh_year":null,"renovation_year":null,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":null,"max_guests_std":10,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":167,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Some of the nicest campsites you'll find, with water, electricity, and cable TV hookups, plus clean, comfortable comfort stations. Picnic tables, waste containers, grills, and free WiFi are standard. We've camped here several times and had a blast.","dining_overview":"It's a hike to most dining locations. There's also a general store, a lounge, full-service restaurant, and dinner theater.","good_for":"Campers who love Disney","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":10,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null}]],["Deluxe",[{"id":228,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge (Jambo House)","code":"ORL002","address":"2901 Osceola Parkway","city":"Bay Lake","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079383000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-lodge/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-animal-kingdom-lodge","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:30.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00","overview":"

Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Overview

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Among the best themed hotels anywhere, Disney's Deluxe Animal Kingdom Lodge allows you to stay in a room with views of real African animals such as zebras and giraffes. Adjacent to Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park, Animal Kingdom Lodge opened in 2001. Designed by Peter Dominick of Wilderness Lodge fame, the resort fuses African tribal architecture with the rugged style of grand East African national-park lodges. Five-story, thatched-roof guest-room wings fan out from a vast central rotunda housing the lobby. Public areas, and about half the hotel rooms, offer panoramic views of a private 43-acre wildlife preserve populated with some 200 free-roaming animals and 130 birds.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge is divided into two primary areas, the main Jambo House, which is comprised of standard hotel rooms, club level concierge rooms, and a small percentage of \"villa\" style rooms, and the adjacent Kidani Village, which is comprised entirely of studio, 1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and 3-bedroom villas which function as small apartments with in-room kitchen facilities.

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\r\nDisney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort map

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Most of the 972 Jambo House guest rooms measure 344 square feet and boast hand-carved furnishings. Standard amenities include a flat-panel TV, desk with two chairs, minifridge, and coffeemaker. Behind each headboard sits faux mosquito netting. Bathrooms have animal-themed wallpaper, two sinks, and a large mirror. Most rooms have full balconies.

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How Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe Resorts

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The unique feature that separates Animal Kingdom Lodge from not only all the other Walt Disney World resorts, but almost any hotel in the world, is the animals. Many rooms have a view of the hotel's savanna with various wild animals roaming around. You may wake up one morning and have a giraffe looking in your window. The nightly price for rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge fall in to the middle of the other WDW deluxe resorts. The Animal Kingdom Lodge is located near the Animal Kingdom theme park. It is however, somewhat removed from the other Disney theme parks. If you have small children and aren't drawn to the animal views, a better choice at a similar price point might be the Wilderness Lodge, which also has an outdoorsy theme but much easier access to the Magic Kingdom.

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Get to Know Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

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\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge's exterior and savanna.\r\n

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\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge's lobby.\r\n

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Real African animals graze outside your bedroom window.

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Rooms, Jambo House

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Most Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo rooms are 344 square feet and have two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a table and two chairs. Both Jambo House and Kidani Village have studios and one, two, and three-bedroom villas. Most rooms at Kidani Village are larger, however, and the difference is anywhere from 50 square feet for a studio to more than 200 square feet for a two-bedroom unit. (The three-bedroom Grand Villas at Jambo House, 148 square feet larger than those in Kidani Village, are the exception.) Because of the difference in area, one-bedroom units in Kidani Village can accommodate up to five people and two-bedroom units, which include a sleeper chair in the living room, can hold up to nine guests. At Jambo House, the one-bedroom \"value\" rooms sleep four, while the standard, savannah and club-level rooms sleep five.

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\r\nA typical Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo room with two queen beds.\r\n

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\r\nEach room has a table with two chairs, and a coffee maker with coffee.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Standard Room Layout\r\n

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Each Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House Resort room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House bathrooms are modestly-sized for a Disney deluxe resort, but they are larger than those at the moderate or value levels. Water pressure in the shower is adequate, but probably less than what you're used to at home. A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks and ample counter space. Combined with the shower/toilet rooms, this means that three people can have private dressing space at the same time. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided. Guests with long or thick hair may find that the dryer is underpowered for their needs.

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A typical Animal Kingdom Lodge bathroom.\r\n

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Animal Kingdom Lodge Room Classifications

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\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House rooms are priced depending on the view from the room. (Note: the classification system is different at the adjacent Kidani Village.):

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Savanna view rooms overlook giraffes, water buffalo, and other animals.\r\n

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Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge Level Rooms

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The deluxe Disney hotels all include a subset rooms offered with addition amenities and more personalized serivce. These \"concierge level\" or \"club level\" rooms have a different name at each hotel. At the Animal Kingdom Lodge they are known as the Kilimanjaro Club. The Kilimanjaro Club is comprised of about 70 rooms. Though most of the Kilimanjaro rooms are physically similar to the standard Animal Kingdom Jambo hotel rooms, there are also a handful of suites with additional bedrooms, significantly larger square footage, or features such as in-room kitchen facilities.

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Concierge Level guests receive additional amenities and personalized service beyond that available to regular guests. These include:

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort have around 50 handicap-accessible rooms in a variety of configurations to accommodate guests with hearing or mobility issues. Mobility access rooms comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms with roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower rooms have both 1 king bed and 1 double bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Dining Options at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

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The Animal Kingdom Lodge has table service, buffet, fine dining, lounge, and quick service dining options on site. Depending on whether you're staying in Jambo House or Kidani Village, some dining venues will be slightly more convenient than others. However, with the two sections of the resort just a 5-10 minute walk, or 2 minute shuttle ride, away all are easily accessible wherever your room is.

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A view of Boma from Victoria Falls Lounge

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The atmosphere at Jiko is relaxed but elegant.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge Pools, Recreation, and Amenities

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Animal Kingdom Lodge's Uzima Springs Pool.\r\n

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Silver Creek Spring's hot tub.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge's playground.

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Practical Matters

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Transportation to and from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

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Driving to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort is just off of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 3 - W Osceola Pkwy. Follow Osceola Pkwy for about 5.5 miles and Animal Kingdom Lodge will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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A security gate guards the entrance to Animal Kingdom Lodge's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.

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Guests keeping a car at the Animal Kingdom Lodge overnight will be charged $25 per day for standard self-parking or $33 per day for valet parking.

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From Orlando International Airport If you're arriving at Orlando International Airport, Disney's free Magical Express bus service will take you and your luggage directly from the airport to your hotel, then back to the airport when it's time for your flight home. For more information see our Disney's Magical Express Frequently Asked Questions page.

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute drive from Sanford to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort. If you're not renting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport offers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are generally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way. That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and $380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort. You may also want to consult ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft for their pricing options.

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs

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Disney provides free bus service from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort to Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere alongthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and service.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge's bus stop.

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Ask a Disney Cast Member about Animal Kingdom Lodge's bus schedule, and they'll tell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Animal Kingdom Lodge's bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed.

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For example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, you'll wait around 11 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus schedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 15-20 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 12 to 37 minutes for a ride.

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people are already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme parks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back to their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should average out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service is faster to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. We evaluate Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort's bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be found below.

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

\r\n\r\nIf you have dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower), hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi or ride sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. Rates are generally in the $15-25 range, depending on your destination, and Uber and Lyft are usually much cheaper than a taxi. A taxi can typically get you to most points in Disney World within 20 minutes (often much less), versus the one to two hours it might take using Disney's free transportation system. Taxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.

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To Universal Orlando

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If you're staying at Walt Disney World and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your hotel to Universal and back for about $20 per person. Pickup and return times are at your convenience. A one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have three to five people.

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The health club is fully equipped with cardio equipment and weights.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge has laundry rooms available for guest use.

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Reader Review Comments

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A family of four from Lincoln, England, gives Animal Kingdom Lodge a mixed, though mostly positive, review:

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We had a fab holiday, but we wouldn't recommend people paying the extra money to have a savanna room. The animals are scarce, and you don't really spend much time in your room. The pool was fantastic and the hotel stunning. We visited Boma: Flavors of Africa, but my children found the food very different and spicy. The food court was fine, although we wished they'd change the menu as after two weeks you're fed up of the same choices.
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A Portage, Indiana, family begs to differ with us:

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We disagree with your assessment that the Giraffe Trail is the least desirable wing of Animal Kingdom Lodge. We stayed in a pool-view room and loved it. The view was beautiful, even without the animals (which you can view elsewhere). The proximity to the pool, lobby, and restaurants was great, and a bonus was the direct exits from the hallway to the outside, which were very close to where Disney transportation picks up. And we saved about $500 over what we would've spent on a savanna view.
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A British mum had safety concerns:

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The room was very small and not very child-safe (REALLY high beds), but the hotel itself was fantastic in all other aspects.
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Finally, from a Chandler, Arizona, couple:

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Specifically wanted to stay at Animal Kingdom Lodge. We weren't disappointed! Fantastic resort. We loved sitting on our balcony in the afternoon and watching the animals. Found the transportation to be easy and convenient from this location as well.
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney Resort room on property. Click here for the Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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A glance at the resort map tells\r\nyou where the best rooms and villas are. Kudu Trail and Zebra Trail,\r\ntwo wings branching from the rear of Jambo House, form a semicircle\r\naround the central wildlife savanna. Along each wing are seven fivestory buildings, with accommodations on floors two through five. Five\r\nbuildings on each wing form the semicircle, while the remaining two buildings jut away from the center. The best rooms—on floors three and\r\nfour, facing into the circle—are high enough to survey the entire savanna\r\nyet low enough to let you appreciate the ground-level detail of this amazing wildlife exhibit; plus, these rooms offer the easiest access to the lobby\r\nand restaurants. Second-floor rooms really can’t take in the panorama,\r\nand fifth-floor rooms are a little too high for intimate views of the animals. Most of the fourth-floor rooms in Jambo House are reserved for\r\nClub Level guests, and the fifth and sixth floors house the DDV units

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Room 2356: A Kudu Trail room with a good savanna and easy access to the hotel lobby.
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Room 2281: Rooms on the lower levels show the little details of the savanna.
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Most rooms in the outward-jutting buildings, as well as rooms\r\nfacing away from the interior, also survey a savanna, but one not as\r\ncompelling as that of the inner circle. On the Zebra Trail, the first two\r\nbuildings plus the first jutting building provide savanna views on one\r\nside and look onto the swimming complex on the other.

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Less attractive still are two smaller wings, Ostrich Trail and Giraffe\r\nTrail, branching from either side of the lodge near the main entrance.\r\nSome rooms on the left side of Ostrich Trail (see map on page 175)\r\noverlook a small savanna. Rooms on the opposite side of the same\r\nbuildings overlook the front entrance. Least desirable is Giraffe Trail,\r\nextending from the right side of the lobby: Its rooms overlook either\r\nthe pool (water view) or the resort entrance (standard view). A Portage,\r\nIndiana, family begs to differ with our assessment, however:

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We stayed in a pool-view room in Giraffe Trail and loved it. The view\r\nwas beautiful, even without animals (which you can see elsewhere).\r\nThe proximity to the pool, lobby, and restaurants was great, and we\r\nsaved about $500 over what we would’ve spent on a savanna view.
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Room 1468: Lower level rooms facing the pool may not have the best view.
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Room 2356: An example of a room facing the edge of the savanna.
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Room 3138: Some savanna view rooms have trees that partially block the view.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Magnificent lobbyFew counter-service dining options
Along with Wilderness Lodge, it’s\r\nthe least expensive Disney Deluxe resortRooms are among the smallest of the\r\nDeluxe resorts
Best theming of any Disney hotelJambo House villas are smaller than those\r\nat Kidani Village
Amazing savanna viewsNo direct non-bus transportation to any\r\ntheme park
Excellent on-site sit-down dining options
Large, beautiful feature pool
On-site cultural and nature programs
","recommend_to_friends":86,"recommend_annual_change":9,"stay_again":94,"stay_again_annual_change":0,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":972,"theme":"African Game Preserve","cost_range":"$506 - $4,206","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ak","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":"Everything you need to know about Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge hotel: map, room descriptions with photos (including club level rooms), pool information, restaurants and dining options, and guest reviews. ","survey_update_hash":"f1ea0e683d00b0667691fb7b52311ce3","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079384799","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":344,"blog_slug":"animal-kingdom-lodge","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys animal kingdom lodge jambo house","club_name":"Kilimanjaro Club","operator_id":80010395,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-lodge","opened_on":"2001-04-16","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"akl","refresh_year":2019,"renovation_year":2019,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Animal Kingdom Lodge fuses African tribal architecture with the style of East African national park lodges. Thatched-roof guest-room wings fan out from the lobby. Savannah-facing rooms overlook animal grazing areas.","dining_overview":"Animal Kingdom Lodge boasts three of Disney's highest-rated restaurants, and dining is a strength at this resort. We recommend Boma without hesitation.","good_for":"Animal views, theming","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":226,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Beach Club Resort","code":"ORL003","address":"1800 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079348000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-beach-club-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:30.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:57.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Disney's Beach Club Resort Overview

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This five-story Deluxe resort has clapboard facades with whitewashed-wood \r\n\r\ntrim and is painted a bright blue. The Beach Club is embellished with beach \r\n\r\nscenes in foam green and white. The resort has a themed lobby, with sea-horse \r\n\r\nfixtures. The resort faces 25-acre Crescent Lake and has an elaborate swimming \r\n\r\ncomplex that it shares with the Yacht Club Resort.

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There are 576 guest rooms at the Beach Club, and 282 studio and one- and \r\n\r\ntwo-bedroom villas at the Beach Club Villas, part of the Disney Vacation Club \r\n\r\ntime-share program. Most of the hotel rooms are 381 square feet and have two \r\n\r\nqueen-size beds, a daybed, and a desk and a chair. Like the Grand Floridian's, \r\n\r\nrooms have a lot of drawer space. Beach Club rooms are decorated in soft green \r\n\r\nand blue tones. Some rooms have balconies.

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\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort map\r\n

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The Beach Club consists of a long main building with several wings \r\n\r\nprotruding toward Crescent Lake. Looking at the resort from Crescent Lake, the \r\n\r\nBeach Club adjoins the Yacht Club on the left and spreads toward Epcot on the \r\n\r\nright. The main building and the various wings range from three to five \r\n\r\nstories. Most rooms have balconies or, on the ground floor, patios. Balconies \r\n\r\nare either big enough for a couple of chairs, or about 6 inches deep (stand at \r\n\r\nthe rail or sit in a chair inside the room). Top-floor rooms often have \r\n\r\nenclosed balconies inset into the roof. Unless you'e standing, visibility is \r\n\r\nsomewhat limited from these dormer balconies.

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The Beach Club Resort shares restaurants, pools, and other amenities with \r\n\r\nthe Yacht Club Resort and Beach Club Villas. A small business center serves \r\n\r\nguests' work needs for both the Yacht and Beach Clubs and Beach Club \r\n\r\nVillas.

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As a Disney Deluxe resort, the Beach Club provides excellent service. \r\n\r\nWithin the Yacht and Beach Club are nine restaurants and lounges and are \r\n\r\nwithin walking distance of Epcot and the BoardWalk. Transportation to other \r\n\r\ndestinations is by bus or boat. Walking time to the transportation loading \r\n\r\nareas from the most remote rooms is 7 minutes.

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How Disney's Beach Club Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

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The Beach Club (and its neighbor Yacht Club) have two major advantageous \r\n\r\nover other hotels. One, you can walk to the International Gateway entrance of \r\n\r\nEpcot in less than 10 minutes. And Two, it has the best pool of all the Walt \r\n\r\nDisney World resorts. The nightly price for rooms at Yacht & Beach Club fall \r\n\r\nin to the middle of all the other WDW resorts. Yacht Club does offer a fitness \r\n\r\ncenter, salon, barber shop, and a spa.

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\r\nThe Beach portion of the Beach Club Resort.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Beach Club's grounds. If you arrive \r\n\r\nby car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to \r\n\r\nprovide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

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\r\nCheck-in time at Beach Club is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. Beach \r\n\r\nClub participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nBeach Club's gift shop sells MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. \r\n

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\r\nBeach Club's lobby.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining \r\n\r\nreservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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\r\nThe Beach Club beach is especially nice at sunset.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort's Rooms

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Most of the Beach Club rooms are 381 square feet and have two queen-size \r\n\r\nbeds, a daybed, and a desk and three chairs.

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Each Disney's Beach Club Resort room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits under a counter or desk. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort Room Layout\r\n

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\r\nBeach Club's bathrooms aren't big, but they also aren't as \r\n\r\nsmall as the ones you'll find in Disney's moderate or value resort rooms. \r\n\r\nLuckily you won't feel claustrophobic in your room's bathroom. Water pressure \r\n\r\nin the shower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still \r\n\r\nenough to get your hair clean. Eventually.

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A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, and \r\n\r\nenough counter space to fit most of the toiletries you would need. There are \r\n\r\nalso two shelves under the sink that provide a small amount of storage. A \r\n\r\n1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; \r\n\r\nbring your own if you've got lots of hair.

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A typical Beach Club bathroom.\r\n

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Yacht & Beach Club Concierge Level Rooms

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The concierge level of a deluxe resort can also be referred to as club \r\n\r\nlevel. Each one throughout the property has a name for their concierge level. \r\n\r\nAt the Beach Club it is called the Stone Harbor and it’s located on the fifth \r\n\r\nfloor. Here guests willing to pay a premium are treated to special services \r\n\r\nincluding a lounge, complimentary food and drink, and personalized service. \r\n\r\nThere are about 70 Stone Harbor rooms most of which are similar to regular \r\n\r\nrooms throughout the resort, but there are also suites available. Club level \r\n\r\nprices can be up to $100 more than standard rooms at the Yacht & Beach \r\n\r\nClub

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Upon arriving to Yacht & Beach Club, concierge guests are taken to an \r\n\r\nexclusive area to be checked in and taken care of. Once guests are brought to \r\n\r\nthe club level they will be introduced to the cast members on hand at two \r\n\r\ndesks set up to be the resource for any special services they may need. These \r\n\r\nCMs are there to help folks with whatever they might need including ADRs, park \r\n\r\ntickets, and transportation options.

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Another special service provided to concierge level guests is a nightly \r\n\r\nturn down. Housekeeping cast members come to your room in the evening to \r\n\r\nprepare your bed for you to fall into it after a long day in the parks and \r\n\r\nleave chocolates.

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A more exciting benefit to staying in the Stone Harbor Club is access to \r\n\r\nfree food for most of the day. The breakfast offerings are relatively light so \r\n\r\ndon’t expect to fuel up for a full day here. Later in the day snacks are \r\n\r\navailable along with an assortment of drinks including soda, hot drinks like \r\n\r\ncoffee, and beer (much to my enjoyment). In the late afternoon/early evening \r\n\r\nthe menu changes but appetizers are put out for guests to enjoy before they \r\n\r\nbegin their evening. Wine and liqueurs along with desserts area served \r\n\r\nthroughout the evening as well.

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The selection of food and drink is laid out in the lounge only accessible \r\n\r\nto club level guests. There are several tables and chairs set up for folks to \r\n\r\nyou use throughout the day. The area is busy a breakfast time, but can be a \r\n\r\nquiet place to relax and maybe even get some work done if guests happen to be \r\n\r\nbusiness travelers. There are also a few couches in the mix where friends can \r\n\r\ngather to chat. Kids have their own area here with child sized table and \r\n\r\nchairs and a TV running cartoons and other Disney favorites.

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort have around 22 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms \r\n\r\nwith roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower \r\n\r\nrooms have both 1 king bed and 1 double bed. Use our hotel room \r\n\r\nfinder to see which rooms have which feature

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Standard Rooms and Preferred Rooms, Standard Views and Pool Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Beach Club's hotel rooms based on what you see from inside \r\n\r\nthe room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Beach Club Pools

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Beach Club has two pools. The largest, Stormalong Bay, sits along Crescent \r\n\r\nLake and is the best pool in all of Walt Disney World. The main \r\n\r\nfeature of the pool is the large shipwreck along the outside the houses a \r\n\r\nwaterslide. A must-experience feature of this pool is the sand that covers the \r\n\r\nbottom of much of the pool. There is also a hot tub, kiddie pool and water \r\n\r\nplayer area.\r\n

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The other smaller pool is located on the end of the resort closest to Epcot. This pool \r\n\r\nis also a basic concrete pool and is considered a \"quiet pool,\" meaning that \r\n\r\nloud play and splashing around are discouraged.

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Beach Club's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 \r\n\r\nfeet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. Yacht Club also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Stormalong Bay Pool.

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Stormalong Bay has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests \r\n\r\ncan find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, \r\n\r\nextending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Stormalong Bay Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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Stormalong Bay's shipwreck\r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Restaurants and Dining

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Beach Club has some excellent dining options, including three quick service \r\n\r\nrestaurants, two table service restaurants and one lounge.

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Cape May Cafe

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\r\nCape May Cafe Dinner Menu - Cape May Cafe, Goofy's Beach Club Character Breakfast

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Cape May has been a favorite for years because of its consistently good \r\n\r\nfood and efficient service. While the restaurant is large and tables turn over \r\n\r\nrapidly, Advance Reservations are recommended. Because Cape May is within easy \r\n\r\nwalking distance of the World Showcase entrance to Epcot, it's a convenient \r\n\r\nand affordable place to dine before IllumiNations. The natural-finish wood \r\n\r\nfurniture and padded booths are in a clean, nautical New England style.

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The buffet features peel-and-eat shrimp, tasty (albeit chewy) clams, \r\n\r\nmussels, snow-crab legs, fish of the day, hand-carved flank steak, barbecued \r\n\r\nribs, chicken, corn on the cob, Caesar salad, and a good dessert bar. The \r\n\r\nkids' bar includes chicken nuggets and mac-and-cheese.

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Beaches & Cream Soda Shop

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\r\nBeaches & Cream Lunch/Dinner Menu - Beaches & Cream Kid's Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Casual eats with a retro soda-fountain decor. There's often a line as \r\n\r\nguests in bathing suits and flip-flops queue up for the hearty burgers (veggie \r\n\r\nburgers, too) and piles of hot fries.

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Signature items include burgers (singles and doubles) and fries; giant hot \r\n\r\ndogs; hand-scooped ice cream including the gargantuan Kitchen Sink dessert, \r\n\r\nwith five flavors of ice cream smothered in topping.

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Beaches & Cream also has a quick service counter \r\n\r\nwith a smaller menu.

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The legendary Kitchen Sink ice cream sundae.

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Hurricane Hanna's Grill

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\r\nHurricane Hanna's Lunch/Dinner Menu - Hurricane Hanna's Kid's Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Hurricane Hanna's Grill is a quick service restaurant located poolside at \r\n\r\nStormalong Bay. Besides the usual assortment of Disney burgers Hanna's has a \r\n\r\nLobster, Shrimp and Scallop Roll that we've received positive feedback about. \r\n\r\nAll seating at Hurricane Hanna's is outdoors.

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Beach Club Marketplace

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\r\nBeach Club Marketplace Breakfast Menu - \r\n\r\nBeach Club Marketplace Kids' Breakfast \r\n\r\nMenu - Beach Club Marketplace Lunch/Dinner \r\n\r\nMenu - Beach Club Marketplace Kid's \r\n\r\nLunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Beach Club Marketplace is small counter service restaurant with a limited \r\n\r\nmenu. Prices range from $6 to $15 for an entree so you won't break the bank. \r\n\r\nThe standout items here are the fresh made pastries.

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Beach Club Marketplace.

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\r\n Beach Club Marketplace and Hurricane Hanna's Grill also participate in \r\n\r\nDisney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Beach Club participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 1 credit. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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\r\nMartha's Vineyard Lounge is Beach \r\n\r\nClub's lounge. Martha's Vineyard has indoor seating and a full drink menu, \r\n\r\nwith several beer selections, wines, and a selection of spirits. Lounges are usually open 4 PM to 11 PM daily.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Beach Club Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Beach Club Resort is just off \r\n\r\nof I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on Osceola Parkway. Turn right onto World Drive \r\n\r\nand then left on Epcot Resorts Blvd. Follow Epcot Resorts Blvd and Beach Club \r\n\r\nwill be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Beach Club Resort. If you're not renting a car, \r\n\r\nbe aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Yacht Club \r\n\r\nResort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-\r\n\r\npassenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Beach Club Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Yacht Club Resort to Magic \r\n\r\nKingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, \r\n\r\nTyphoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. No bus transportation is \r\n\r\nprovided to EPCOT's main entrance. \r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, \r\n\r\nbetween the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus \r\n\r\nstop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice. Disney's Beach Club Resort shares bus service with Yacht Club.\r\n

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Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios can also be accessed by boat from the \r\n\r\ndock near Stormalong Bay. Boat service may be suspended during thunderstorms, \r\n\r\nso if it's raining or looks like it's about to, Disney will provide buses.

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Why take a bus to EPCOT or Disney's Hollywood Studios when you can take a \r\n\r\nboat?

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Disney's Beach Club Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Beach Club's bus schedule, and they'll tell you \r\n\r\nthat buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Beach Club's bus schedule \r\n\r\nvaries considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 11 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the \r\n\r\nsame early in the day, with a bus arriving every 10-13 minutes, on average. \r\n\r\nBus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less \r\n\r\nfrequent, and you could wait anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 19 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and \r\n\r\nDowntown Disney. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. \r\n

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Disney’s Skyliner Service
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\r\nDisney’s Skyliner is an elevated, cable-driven gondola system that connects EPCOT and the EPCOT resorts – Beach Club and Beach Club Villas, Yacht Club, BoardWalk Inn and Villas, and the Swan and Dolphin - to Hollywood Studios, Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and the Art of Animation resorts. \r\n

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\r\nEach gondola is an enclosed, 10-person cabin with bench seats and lots of windows. Ventilation is provided by windows and vents that can be opened or closed depending on the temperature.\r\n

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\r\nSkyliner Hubs\r\nDisney’s Caribbean Beach Resort serves as the central hub for most Skyliner routes. If you’re trying to get to a theme park from a resort using the Skyliner, you’ll almost always have to disembark at Caribbean Beach to board another gondola going to your destination.\r\n

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\r\nThe Skyliner is most useful if you’re near its station at EPCOT’s International Gateway, and you want to go to one of the destinations it serves. Travel time from the International Gateway station to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is around 35-44 minutes during the busiest times; of that, only around19 minutes is spent in transit – the rest is in line waiting to board. In most cases, the Skyliner is at least as fast as Disney’s bus service, with a much better view.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Beach Club Resort \r\n\r\nIf you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to \r\n\r\ntake the Disney Skyliner (if you're going to a resort it serves). A second option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Beach Club Resort to Disney Springs (or an \r\n\r\nopen theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. \r\n\r\nDo the reverse to get back to Disney's Yacht Club Resort. While that's free, \r\n\r\nit can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination \r\n\r\nis \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Beach Club to wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride to get to most Disney hotels from Beach Club, and often less. Taxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

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You can also take a boat in Crescent Lake to Disney's BoardWalk Resort or \r\n\r\nthe Swan & Dolphin hotels. This option can also take some time depending on \r\n\r\nwhere you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Ship Shape Health Club is Beach Club's fitness center and \r\n\r\nspa. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are only available from 6:00 AM \r\n\r\nto 9:00 PM. Massage, facial, and body treatment services are available.

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Watercraft Rentals are available in Crescent Lake 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. \r\n\r\nKayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices \r\n\r\nvary.

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Beach Club's gift shop is Beach Club Marketplace. As you'd expect from a \r\n\r\nDisney gift shop, Everything Pop has a decent collection of souvenirs ranging \r\n\r\nfrom small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and \r\n\r\nDisney princess dresses. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay in \r\n\r\nthe theme parks or Disney Springs.

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\r\nBeach Club Marketplace also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, \r\n\r\naspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the \r\n\r\nlike. And Beach Club Marketplace has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail \r\n\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort. It is a scenic 0.8-mile course around around \r\n\r\nCresent Lake. Thanks to bridges over Cresent Lake guests are able to make a \r\n\r\nfull circle while passing by the Yacht & Beach Club, BoardWalk Resort, and the \r\n\r\nSwan & Dolphin Resorts.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Beach Club

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Beach Club \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407)934-3090.\r\n

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Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's Beach Club Resort

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TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney Resort room on \r\n\r\nproperty. Click here for the Disney's Beach Club Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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The Beach Club’s better views\r\nare from rooms that have full balconies, and from those that overlook\r\nthe lake. Other good rooms include those facing woods, with EPCOT in the background. The woods-facing rooms are the resort’s\r\nmost peaceful accommodations, both in terms of lack of noise and\r\nattractive scenery. These rooms are also the nearest to EPCOT’s International\r\nGateway entrance if you’re walking, but the farthest from the\r\nresort’s main pool area, lobby, and restaurants.

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Of the remaining rooms, most face courtyards, with some of these\r\nproviding oblique views of the lake and others overlooking parking\r\nlots and the resort’s front entrance.

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The following are our recommendations for good rooms at the\r\nBeach Club Resort. All room numbers are four digits, with the first\r\ndigit specifying the floor and the remaining three digits specifying the\r\nroom number.

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Heads-up: The Beach Club will charge you for a water view if there’s\r\nso much as a birdbath in sight. If you’re going to spend the money, get\r\na real water view.

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Water-view Rooms with Full Balconies Facing the Lake: Odd numbered\r\nrooms 2641–2645; suite 2647; 3501–3507; 3699–3725; 4607–4623;\r\nor Club Level rooms 5699–5725

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Standard-view Rooms with Full Balconies Facing the Woods and EPCOT: Even-numbered rooms 2512–2530, 2578–2596, 3512–3530, or\r\n4532–4596

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1643\"\r\n
Room 1643: Lower level room with a view of Crescent Lake.
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\r\n\"4579\"\r\n
Room 4579: Some upper level rooms have perfect views of Crescent Lake.
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\r\n\"4709\"\r\n
room 4709: a roof and some treetops aren't the most glamorous things to look at.
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\r\n\"1602\"\r\n
Room 1602: Some rooms on the front of the building the Beach Club \r\n\r\nVillas building.
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\r\n\"1532\"\r\n
Room 1532: A lower level \"Garden View\" room.
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","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Walking distance to Epcot’s\r\nInternational GatewayLack of good quick-service dining
Best pool complex of any WDW resortViews and balcony size are hit-or-miss
Walk, boat, or Skyliner to Disney’s Hollywood StudiosBus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Close to many BoardWalk and\r\nEpcot dining options
","recommend_to_friends":76,"recommend_annual_change":-8,"stay_again":100,"stay_again_annual_change":10,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":583,"theme":"New England Beach Club of the 1870s","cost_range":"$613 - $5,283","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"4d3e74aa1ab199fd633864390b3b1c70","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079343850","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":381,"blog_slug":"beach-club","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys beach club resort","club_name":"Stone Harbor Club","operator_id":80010389,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-resort","opened_on":"1990-11-19","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"bc","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2015,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Beach Club's bright blue color scheme highlights beach themes (of course). Don't miss Disney World's best pool: Stormalong Bay.","dining_overview":"The Cape May Cafe is a decent option for breakfast. You'll find much more variety a short walk away at either EPCOT or the other four EPCOT resorts.","good_for":"Best Disney pool","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":220,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's BoardWalk Inn","code":"ORL005","address":"2101 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079395100","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/board-walk-inn/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-boardwalk-inn","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:29.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:56.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort Overview

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On Crescent Lake across from the Yacht & Beach Club, the Board-\r\nWalk Inn is another of Disney’s Deluxe resorts. The complex is a detailed\r\nreplica of an early-20th-century East Coast beach boardwalk. Facades of\r\nhotels, diners, and shops create an inviting and exciting waterfront skyline.\r\nThink HBO’s Boardwalk Empire minus the icky criminal element.

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In reality, the BoardWalk Inn & Villas comprise a single integrated\r\nstructure behind the facades. Restaurants and shops occupy the boardwalk\r\nlevel, while accommodations rise to six stories above. The inn and\r\nvillas share a pool featuring an old-fashioned amusement park theme;\r\nthere are also two quiet pools for adults.

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The BoardWalk Inn’s 378 Deluxe rooms measure 371 square feet\r\neach. Most contain two queen-size beds with hardwood headboards,\r\nan upholstered daybed, a cherry desk and chair, a minifridge, a coffee\r\nmaker, and ceiling fan. Decor includes yellow-and-white-striped wallpaper,\r\ngreen carpet, and blue-and-gray curtains. Closet space exceeds\r\nthat of rooms in other Deluxe resorts. Most rooms have balconies.

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Readers give the inn high marks for room quality and check-in efficiency.\r\nService is excellent. The complex is within walking distance of\r\nEPCOT and is connected to other destinations by bus and boat. Walking\r\ntime to transportation loading areas from the most remote rooms is\r\n5–6 minutes. It’s about a 5-minute walk to the Skyliner’s International\r\nGateway station at EPCOT, if you’d rather use that to get to the Studios.

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\r\nDisney's BoardWalk Inn Resort map\r\n

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The Boardwalk Inn and Villas are well staffed and offer excellent service. The BoardWalk complex is a detailed replica of an early 20th-century Atlantic coast seaside boardwalk. Restaurants and shops occupy the street-level boardwalk. Painted bright red and yellow, alternating with paler blue and green, the BoardWalk resort is the only Disney hotel that uses neon signage as an architectural detail.

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Get to Know the BoardWalk Inn

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Disney's BoardWalk Inn Rooms

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The majority of BoardWalk Inn’s 378 rooms measure 371 square feet. Most contain two queen-size beds with hardwood headboards, an upholstered sleeper sofa, a cherry desk and chair, a mini-fridge, a coffee maker, and a ceiling fan. Decor includes yellow-and-white-striped wallpaper and striped green curtains. Closet space exceeds that of other Disney deluxe-level rooms. Most rooms have balconies.

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Each Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort rooms is furnished with the following:\r\n

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\r\nA BoardWalk Inn room.\r\n

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Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort Room Layout\r\n

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BoardWalk Inn's bathrooms are modestly-sized for a Disney deluxe resort. Water pressure in the shower is adequate, but probably less than what you're used to at home. A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks and ample counter space. Combined with the shower/toilet rooms, this means that three people can have private dressing space at the same time.

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Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort Bathroom\r\n

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Standard BoardWalk Inn Room Classifications

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BoardWalk Inn rooms are priced depending on the view from the room. (Note: the classification system is slightly different at the adjacent BoardWalk Villas.):\r\n

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BoardWalk Inn Concierge Level Rooms

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The deluxe Disney hotels all include a subset rooms offered with addition amenities and more personalized serivce. These \"concierge level\" or \"club level\" rooms have a different name at each hotel; at the BoardWalk they are known as the Innkeepers Club. The Innskeeper Club is comprised of about 60 rooms, located on two floors. Though most of the Innskeeper rooms are physically similar to the standard BoardWalk hotel rooms, there are also a handful of suites with additional bedrooms, significantly larger square footage, or features such as in-room kitchen facilities.

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Concierge Level guests receive additional amenities and personalized service beyond that available to regular guests. These include: \r\n

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Accessible Room Options

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Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort has approximately 20 handicap-accessible rooms in a variety of configurations to accommodate guests with hearing or mobility issues. Mobility access rooms comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, countertop, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard two queen-sized beds; however, all rooms with roll-in showers have one king-sized bed. A small number of roll-in shower rooms have both one king bed and one double bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Dining Options at Disney's BoardWalk Inn

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A key benefit of staying at the BoardWalk Inn is the close proximity to the dining opportunities at Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (with park admission). Additionally, the many restaurants at the Swan & Dolphin and Yacht & Beach Club resorts are easily accessible on foot. Guests staying at the BoardWalk can be at more than 100 dining venues within 15 minutes. If you're staying at a Disney value resort, you might only have two or three options within that time frame.

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The Boardwalk itself has a variety of dining options including:

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BoardWalk Inn Recreation and Amenities

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\r\nBoardWalk Inn's exterior.\r\n

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Luna Park Pool

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Practical Matters

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\r\nBoardWalk Inn's lobby.\r\n

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Transportation to and from Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort

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Driving to the BoardWalk Inn

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\r\nDisney's BoardWalk Inn Resort is just off of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center Dr.. Take Buena Vista Dr for about 1.2 miles to Epcot Resorts Blvd. Turn right on Epcot Resorts Blvs and BoardWalk Inn will be on your left.\r\n

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Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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\r\nA security gate guards the entrance to BoardWalk Inn's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. Guests keeping a car at the Boardwalk Inn overnight will be charged $25 per day for standard self-parking or $33 per day for valet parking. \r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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Sanford International Airport is about a 40-minute drive to Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort. If you're not renting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport offers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are generally much more expensive.

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs

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Disney provides free bus service from Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort to Magic Kingdom, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking lot.

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Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios can also be accessed on foot or by boat from the dock near on the BoardWalk. Boat service may be suspended during thunderstorms, so if it's raining or looks like it's about to, Disney will provide buses.

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Ask a Disney cast member about bus schedules, and they will tell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, BoardWalk Inn's bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're going. For example, if you're headed to a theme park between 8 AM and 11 AM, you'll wait approximately 12 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are less frequent. Buses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people are already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme parks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back to their hotel. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should average out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you have access car, it's faster to drive to Typhoon Lagoon, Blizzard Beach, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service is faster to the Magic Kingdom. Walking is the fastest way to Epcot. Walk or take the boat to Disney's Hollywood Studios. \r\n

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Disney’s Skyliner Service
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\r\nDisney’s Skyliner is an elevated, cable-driven gondola system that connects EPCOT and the EPCOT resorts – Beach Club and Beach Club Villas, Yacht Club, BoardWalk Inn and Villas, and the Swan and Dolphin - to Hollywood Studios, Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and the Art of Animation resorts. \r\n

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\r\nEach gondola is an enclosed, 10-person cabin with bench seats and lots of windows. Ventilation is provided by windows and vents that can be opened or closed depending on the temperature.\r\n

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\r\nSkyliner Hubs\r\nDisney’s Caribbean Beach Resort serves as the central hub for most Skyliner routes. If you’re trying to get to a theme park from a resort using the Skyliner, you’ll almost always have to disembark at Caribbean Beach to board another gondola going to your destination.\r\n

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\r\nThe Skyliner is most useful if you’re near its station at EPCOT’s International Gateway, and you want to go to one of the destinations it serves. Travel time from the International Gateway station to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is around 35-44 minutes during the busiest times; of that, only around19 minutes is spent in transit – the rest is in line waiting to board. In most cases, the Skyliner is at least as fast as Disney’s bus service, with a much better view.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort If you have dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort to Disney Springs or an open theme park, and then transfer to another bus heading to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower), hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that.

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The fastest option to get from the BoardWalk Inn to another hotel is almost always to drive, or use a taxi or ride sharing service such as Uber or Lyft. Rates are generally in the $15-25 range depending on your destination. A taxi can typically get to most points in Disney World within 20 minutes (often much less), versus the one to two hours it might take using Disney's free transportation system. Taxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney World and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your hotel to Universal and back for about $20 per person. Pickup and return times are at your convenience. A one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have three to five people.\r\n

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Getting to Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach from Disney's Beach Club Resort \r\n\r\nDisney does not make it particularly easy to get to and from their water parks. For Typhoon Lagoon, guests must take a bus to Disney Springs and switch to a Typhoon Lagoon bus. For Blizzard Beach, the transfer must be made at Disney's Animal Kingdom. If you're averse to waiting, your best bet may be a taxi or ride share.

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Reader Comments

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Reader comments about the BoardWalk Inn & Villas include the following. \r\n\r\nFrom an Iowa City, Iowa, family:

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We were surprised that so relatively few rooms at the BoardWalk \r\n\r\nInn have interesting views. We were in a group staying there before a Disney \r\n\r\ncruise, and the one couple who actually had a view of the boardwalk said it \r\n\r\nwas noisy.
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As is the case with several other Disney resorts, readers report that\r\nthe BoardWalk’s bus service is inefficient. This comment is typical:

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The bus to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom was the worst. We\r\nalmost missed a dinner reservation for which we’d left 1½ hours early.
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TouringPlans Videos About BoardWalk Inn

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Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort

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TouringPlans.com offers pictures of the view from any Disney Resort room on \r\nproperty. Click here for the Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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The complex consists of several\r\nwings that radiate from the lobby complex, in a rough H shape. Crescent\r\nLake and the pedestrian BoardWalk itself are to the north, the entrance is to the south, and the canal that runs to Disney’s Hollywood\r\nStudios is to the west. If you book a BoardWalk room through\r\nDisney’s agents or website, water view means Crescent Lake and the\r\nBoardWalk area only; views of the canal or pool are considered standard\r\nview. But if you book a villa through a DVC member or the DVC\r\nwebsite, the same canal and pool are called garden or pool view, and\r\nthe view of the BoardWalk is cleverly called a BoardWalk view.

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Most rooms have a balcony or patio, although balconies on the\r\nstandard upper-floor rooms alternate between large and medium. The\r\nBoardWalk Inn & Villas each share about half the frontage on the\r\npromenade, which overlooks Crescent Lake. The promenade’s clubs,\r\nstores, and attractions are spread about equally between the two sections,\r\nleading to similar levels of noise and commotion. However, the\r\ninn side is closer to EPCOT and the nearby access road; this means\r\neasier access to that theme park, but also more road noise.

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\r\n\"1332\"\r\n
Room 1332: Some rooms face the resort's quiet pool.
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Otherwise, the inn is actually less noisy than the more expensive villas;\r\nthere’s one tranquil, enclosed courtyard, and another half-enclosed\r\narea with a quiet pool (where BoardWalk’s Garden Suites are). There\r\nare many rooms to avoid at the inn, starting with rooms overlooking\r\naccess roads and parking lots, and rooms looking down on the roof\r\nof the adjacent conference center. And although the aforementioned\r\nquiet rooms face courtyards, the views are pretty ho-hum. When you\r\nget right down to it, the only rooms with decent views are those fronting\r\nthe promenade and lake, specifically odd-numbered rooms 3213–\r\n3259 and 4213–4259. We’re told by Disney insiders that most of these\r\nrooms are reserved more than 10 months ahead.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1353\"\r\n
Room 1353: A lower-level standard view room.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n

When you get right down to it, the only rooms with decent views are those fronting the promenade and lake, specifically odd-numbered rooms 3213–3259 and 4213–4259. We’re told by Disney insiders that most of these rooms are reserved more than 10 months in advance, so snagging one requires advance planning and a lot of luck. As for the others, you’re more likely to get a better view at the far less expensive Port Orleans, Caribbean Beach, or Coronado Springs Resorts.

\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Walking distance to Epcot’s International\r\nGateway and Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLong, confusing hallways
Vast selection of dining options for adultsSome may find room theming overly fussy
Fitness center is larger than Yacht & Beach\r\nClub’sLimited quick-service dining options\r\nsuitable for children
Clown pool may freak you out
Bus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Boardwalk-facing rooms can be noisy
","recommend_to_friends":90,"recommend_annual_change":14,"stay_again":100,"stay_again_annual_change":0,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":378,"theme":"East Coast Boardwalk Hotel of the Early 1900s","cost_range":"$665 - $4,940","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":"Disney's Boardwalk Inn is a deluxe resort within walking distance to Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios. Look here for floor plans and images from all rooms at this old time Atlantic City-themed hotel. ","survey_update_hash":"c438938127b91707a442dbc83999d784","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079395150","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":371,"blog_slug":"boardwalk-inn","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys boardwalk inn","club_name":"Innkeeper's Club","operator_id":80010386,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/boardwalk-inn","opened_on":"1996-07-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"bwi","refresh_year":2016,"renovation_year":2014,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The BoardWalk is a detailed replica of an early-20th century East Coast beach boardwalk hotel, with facades of hotels, diners, and shops to create an interesting waterfront skyline.","dining_overview":"Plenty of dining options are on the boardwalk, from cakes and sweets, to pizza, Italian, and bars. Room service is also available.","good_for":"Walk to EPCOT and Studios","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":199,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Contemporary Resort","code":"ORL008","address":"4600 North World Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078241000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/contemporary-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-contemporary-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:27.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-18T20:40:59.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort Overview

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\r\nDisney's Contemporary Resort map\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

This 655-room Deluxe Resort on Bay Lake is unique in that its\r\nA-frame design permits the Magic Kingdom monorail to pass through\r\nthe structure’s cavernous atrium. A 90-foot mosaic depicts American\r\nIndian children and nature. The off-white central tower is augmented\r\nby a three-story Garden Wing fronting Bay Lake to the south and by\r\nBay Lake Tower, a 295-room, 15-story Disney Deluxe Villa development,\r\nto the north.

\r\n\r\n

Standard rooms in the A-frame afford fantastic views of Bay Lake\r\nor the Magic Kingdom, and all have balconies. At 394 square feet\r\neach, they’re only slightly smaller than equivalent rooms at the Grand\r\nFloridian Resort.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nRooms in the Contemporary’s main building were refurbished in\r\nthe summer of 2021, adding characters from Pixar’s The Incredibles\r\nfilms. Off-white walls, bedspreads, and flooring are joined by carpets\r\nand couches in bold reds and other accent colors. Bathrooms have been\r\nremodeled as well, with a continuous countertop featuring two sinks\r\nand plenty of storage. The shower–tub combination remains standard,\r\nand it’s all enclosed by glass sliders. References to The Incredibles are\r\nfound on soft goods and posters and in hidden spots around the room.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nOur main criticism of the Contemporary’s refurbishment is that it’s\r\ndevoid of style, taste, and imagination. It’s no secret that Disney tries\r\nto shoehorn characters into every available space around the World,\r\nwhether they’re needed or not. It’s also not a secret that Disney cuts corners by standardizing everything, from the same white bedspreads\r\nin every room in every resort to common bathroom designs. In some\r\ncases, like the new rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, those\r\ntwo forces can still produce interesting rooms whose design melds with\r\nthe resort’s overall look and feel.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nIn the case of the Contemporary, Disney had a chance to make\r\nthis into one of America’s great midcentury-themed hotels, and they\r\ndidn’t—even though there are plenty of places they could have drawn\r\ninspiration from. Take the TWA Hotel at New York City’s JFK International\r\nAirport, for instance: Its rooms are miniature masterpieces of\r\nmidcentury modern design in small spaces. And a 2-hour drive from\r\nDisney’s headquarters in Burbank puts you in Palm Springs, the spiritual\r\nhome of the midcentury modern aesthetic, where you can’t walk a\r\nblock without running into fabulous retro architecture and furniture.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nWhat Disney has “designed” for the Contemporary is just lazy—\r\nit’s the same generic ideas they’ve been putting into every recent hotel.\r\nCompare the look of the Contemporary’s restyled rooms with those of\r\nthe TWA Hotel (twahotel.com) or even the Motel 6 Anaheim Maingate,\r\nnear Disneyland (tinyurl.com/anaheimmotel6), and ask yourself\r\nif the Contemporary is $400–$600 better per night. If you ask us, it’s\r\nnot. What Disney’s really selling these days at the Contemporary is\r\njust walking-distance access to the Magic Kingdom.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nDining options abound at the Contemporary. On the first floor is\r\nSteakhouse 71, a new restaurant specializing in grilled meats. Contempo\r\nCafe, a counter-service restaurant on the fourth floor’s Grand Canyon\r\nConcourse, serves upscale sandwiches, salads, and flatbread pizzas.\r\nChef Mickey’s, also on the fourth floor, hosts a popular character buffet\r\nat breakfast. On the 15th floor, the award-winning California Grill serves\r\ncontemporary American cuisine.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nThe pool has slides for kids and cabanas for rent. The resort also\r\nhas a few shops. The Contemporary is within easy walking distance\r\nof the Magic Kingdom; monorail transportation is available to both\r\nthe Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. Other destinations can be accessed\r\nby bus or boat. Walking time to transportation loading areas from the\r\nmost remote rooms is 6–9 minutes.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Disney's Contemporary Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

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The major advantage of Contemporary is that is a short walk to Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld's flagship theme park, Magic Kingdom. If you don't want to make the 10 \r\n\r\nminute walk you can also take a Monorail, which has a station in the \r\n\r\nContemporary's lobby. The same Monorail can be also be used to ride to the \r\n\r\nTransportation And Ticket Center, here guests can tranfer to another Monorail \r\n\r\nand ride to the front gate of Epcot. In terms of room size, Contemporary's \r\n\r\nrooms are in the upper end of Disney's other deluxe resorts. At 394 square \r\n\r\nfeet they are smaller than Grand Floridian's 440 sf, and Polynesian's 415 sf, \r\n\r\nbut larger than rooms in every other resort. These factors come at the cost of \r\n\r\na high nightly price. Rooms at Contemporary fall in to the upper end of all \r\n\r\nthe other WDW deluxe resorts.

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\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nContemporary's exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Contemporary's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Contemporary is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nContemporary participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nContemporary's gift shops will sell you MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. \r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nThe Grand Canyon Concourse is home to Contemporary's lobby, as well as shops \r\n\r\nand dining.\r\n

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\r\n

\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining \r\n\r\nreservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n

The famous Mary Blair mural in The Grand Canyon Concourse.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort's Rooms

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The Contemporary’s rooms are, in our opinion, among the nicest of any Disney resort. Rooms were refurbished in 2021 and now are lightly themed to the Pixar film The Incredibles. While we were a little dubious about the change, the touches are light and the mid-century look fits the Contemporary nicely. Amenities include flat-panel LCD TVs, built-in closets, stylish soft goods, and comfortable beds. Wood accents in warm tones are a welcome relief from the bland beige that dominates so many hotel palettes.

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The old work desk has been replaced by a very large sofa, part of which converts to a daybed in case of a 5th person in the room. Lighting is superb, with top scores in the bathroom grooming, reading, and work areas. Small, stylish overhead lights are more than ample for reading in bed.

\r\n\r\n

The Contemporary’s beds are topped with 250-thread-count sheets and down-filled pillows. The air-conditioning system is a little louder than most. If you like to sleep with a bit of white noise in the background, however, you’ll be in heaven.

\r\n\r\n

Most of the Contemporary rooms are 394 square feet, which makes them some \r\n\r\nof the largest standard rooms in Walt Disney World.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nA standard Contemporary room lightly themed to The Incredibles.\r\n

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Each Disney's Contemporary Resort room is furnished with the following:\r\n

\r\n

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The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits under a counter or desk. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

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Disney's Contemporary Resort Room Layout\r\n

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A lot of thought went into the bathroom design, too. You enter the bath through a sliding pocket door instead of a traditional hinged model. The pocket door provides plenty of room and makes it easy to move around inside. (It’s such a great idea that Len has adopted it in his own home.) The rectangular, extremely inefficient sinks are gone, replaced with still modern, yet very usable oval versions.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Water pressure in the shower is average - probably less than what you get \r\n\r\nat home, but still enough to get your hair clean. Eventually.

\r\n

A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, and \r\n\r\nenough counter space to fit most of the toiletries you would need. There are \r\n\r\nalso two shelves under the sink that provide a small amount of storage. A \r\n\r\n1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; \r\n\r\nbring your own if you've got lots of hair. The dressing area includes a \r\n\r\nsliding door that separates it from the sleeping area. Combined with the \r\n\r\nbathroom, this means that 3 people can get dressed at the same time.

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\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n\r\n

A typical Contemporary bathroom.

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\r\n\r\n

Contemporary Concierge Level Rooms

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The concierge level of a deluxe resort can also be referred to as club \r\n\r\nlevel. Each one throughout the property has a name for their concierge level. \r\n\r\nAt the Contemporary it is called the Atrium Club and it’s located on the \r\n\r\ntwelfth floor. Here guests willing to pay a premium are treated to special \r\n\r\nservices including a lounge, complimentary food and drink, and personalized \r\n\r\nservice. There are about 60 Atrium Club rooms most of which are similar to \r\n\r\nregular rooms throughout the resort, but there are also suites available. Club \r\n\r\nlevel prices can be over $100 more than standard rooms at the \r\n\r\nContemporary

\r\n\r\n

Upon arriving to Contemporary, concierge guests are taken to an exclusive \r\n\r\narea to be checked in and taken care of. Once guests are brought to the club \r\n\r\nlevel they will be introduced to the cast members on hand at two desks set up \r\n\r\nto be the resource for any special services they may need. These CMs are there \r\n\r\nto help folks with whatever they might need including ADRs, park tickets, and \r\n\r\ntransportation options.

\r\n

Another special service provided to concierge level guests is a nightly \r\n\r\nturn down. Housekeeping cast members come to your room in the evening to \r\n\r\nprepare your bed for you to fall into it after a long day in the parks and \r\n\r\nleave chocolates.

\r\n\r\n

A more exciting benefit to staying in the Atrium Club is access to free \r\n\r\nfood for most of the day. The breakfast offerings are relatively light so \r\n\r\ndon’t expect to fuel up for a full day here. Later in the day snacks are \r\n\r\navailable along with an assortment of drinks including soda, hot drinks like \r\n\r\ncoffee, and beer. In the late afternoon/early evening the menu changes but \r\n\r\nappetizers are put out for guests to enjoy before they begin their evening. \r\n\r\nWine and liqueurs along with desserts area served throughout the evening as \r\n\r\nwell.

\r\n

The selection of food and drink is laid out in the lounge only accessible \r\n\r\nto club level guests. There are several tables and chairs set up for folks to \r\n\r\nyou use throughout the day. The area is busy a breakfast time, but can be a \r\n\r\nquiet place to relax and maybe even get some work done if guests happen to be \r\n\r\nbusiness travelers. There are also a few couches in the mix where friends can \r\n\r\ngather to chat. Kids have their own area here with child sized table and \r\n\r\nchairs and a TV running cartoons and other Disney favorites.

\r\n\r\n \r\n

Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Contemporary Resort have around 31 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms \r\n\r\nwith roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower \r\n\r\nrooms have both 1 king bed. Use our hotel \r\n\r\nroom finder to see which rooms have which feature

\r\n\r\n

Bay Lake Views and Theme Park Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Contemporary's hotel rooms based on what you see from \r\n\r\ninside the room. Luckily both sides of the main Contemporary tower offer great \r\n\r\nviews.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Contemporary Pools

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The Contemporary has two pools. The largest, The Feature Pool, sits sits in the \r\n\r\nmiddle of the Contemporary tower and the Garden Wing. There is also a hot tub, \r\n\r\nkiddie pool and water player area.\r\n

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\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Contemporary's Feature Pool and hot tub.\r\n

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\r\n

The other smaller pool, the Bay Pool is located near the Feature. This pool \r\n\r\nis considered a \"quiet pool,\" meaning that loud play and splashing around are \r\n\r\ndiscouraged.

\r\n\t\r\n

Contemporary's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 \r\n\r\nfeet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. Contemporary also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Silver Creek Springs Pool.

\r\n\r\n

Feature Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests can \r\n\r\nfind showers, storage lockers, and\r\n restrooms. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, \r\n\r\nextending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Feature Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

\r\n\r\nFor more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ. \r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Restaurants and Dining

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Dining options abound. On the first floor is Steakhouse 71, a restaurant with Floridian flares and throwbacks to Disney history. The Contempo Cafe, a counter-service restaurant on the fourth floor’s Grand Canyon Concourse, serves upscale sandwiches, salads, and flatbread pizzas. Chef Mickey’s, also on the fourth floor, hosts a popular character buffet at breakfast, brunch, and dinner. On the 15th floor, the award-winning California Grill serves contemporary American cuisine.

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California Grill

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\r\nCalifornia Grill Dinner Menu - California Grill Kids Menu

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High atop the Contemporary Resort, the award-winning California Grill sets \r\n\r\nthe standard for Disney dining. But expect a boisterous crowd-the noise level \r\n\r\nmakes quiet conversation difficult. Still, the view from the 15th floor is \r\n\r\nstellar, one of the best spots for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It's \r\n\r\nso popular that the Grill no longer allows just anyone on the elevator for a \r\n\r\nride to the top - you must have a dinner reservation. A show kitchen is the \r\n\r\ncenterpiece of the airy dining room.

\r\n\r\n

The California Grill still is one of Disney's top dining experiences, more \r\n\r\nlike a hot spot in L.A. or New York City than Disney World. We like the seats \r\n\r\nat the bar in front of the kitchen, or a coveted window seat. Though it's a \r\n\r\nsophisticated dining experience, be warned that you'll see plenty of kids in \r\n\r\nthe dining room.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Chef Mickey's

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\r\nFun Time Buffet Breakfast - Chef Mickey's Fun Time \r\n\r\nBuffet Dinner\r\n

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Chef Mickey's is a all-you-can-eat restaurant with that features a colorful, \r\n\r\nopen dining room with the monorail running overhead, this is one of the most \r\n\r\npopular Disney-character restaurants-mostly because you're guaranteed an \r\n\r\naudience with Mickey Mouse, who dons a chef's toque and poses for socially-distant photos. (Goofy, Minnie, Donald, and Pluto are on hand, too.) It's loud, crowded, busy, and fun for \r\n\r\nfamilies. We rarely see anyone here without kids in tow.

\r\n\r\n

Go hungry, and this all-you-can-eat setting is a good value for families; \r\n\r\nthere's plenty for picky eaters, and you can start or end the day with a full \r\n\r\ntummy and photos of the top Disney characters already checked off your to-do \r\n\r\nlist.

\r\n\r\n

Steakhouse 71

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\r\nSteakhouse 71 Breakfast Menu -\r\nSteakhouse 71 Lunch Menu - \r\nSteakhouse 71 Dinner Menu\r\n

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On the first floor of the Contemporary just past the front desk, Steakhouse 71\r\nputs a spin on some of Walt Disney's favorite meals in a modern setting.

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Contempo Cafe

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\r\nContempo Cafe Breakfast Menu - Contempo Cafe Kids Breakfast Menu - Contempo Cafe Lunch/Dinner Menu - Contempo Cafe Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Contempo Cafe is the resort's counter service restaurant. It has faster \r\n\r\nservice and is less expensive than Steakhouse 71, but still has its quirks. For \r\n\r\none, you place your order on an ATM-like touch-screen kiosk, leaving one to \r\n\r\nwonder whether dining at a $300 per night resort is supposed to feel like the \r\n\r\nself-checkout aisle at the grocery store. If you want to modify your order in \r\n\r\nany way - say, hold the onions on the flatbread - you have to walk to the \r\n\r\npick-up window and instruct the staff. The food is fresh and tasty, but the \r\n\r\nordering process is a bit convoluted. Noise from the nearby Chef Mickeys can \r\n\r\ndrown out all but the most enthusiastic conversationalist.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nContempo Cafe participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Contemporary participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan (when it's offered); meals cost 1 credit at Steakhouse 71, Chef Mickey's and Contempo \r\n\r\nCafe, and 2 credits at California Grill. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Outer Rim Lounge is located amid \r\n\r\nthe busy dining and shopping on the 4th Floor of the main tower at the \r\n\r\nContemporary. Outer Rim Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu, with \r\n\r\nseveral beers, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is usually open 4 \r\n\r\nPM to 12 AM daily. The The Sand Bar is \r\n\r\nlocated adjacent to the Feature Pool at the Contemporary. It also has a \r\n\r\nselection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Plus a small menu of burgers, hot \r\n\r\ndogs, sandwiches, salads, and desserts is available.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Transportation to and from Disney's Contemporary Resort

\r\n

\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Contemporary Resort is just off \r\n\r\nof I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on World Drive. Take World Dr. for about 5.6 \r\n\r\nmiles, and Contemporary will be on your right.\r\n

\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

\r\n

\r\n

From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

\r\n

From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Contemporary Resort. If you're not renting a \r\n\r\ncar, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Contemporary Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's \r\n\r\nContemporary Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV \r\n\r\nservice or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Contemporary Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

\r\n

Getting to the theme parks, water parks and \r\n\r\nDisney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Contemporary Resort to \r\n\r\nDisney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon \r\n\r\nLagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's Contemporary Resort's bus \r\n\r\nstops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in \r\n\r\nparking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

\r\n

Magic Kingdom is accessed via Monorail via the station inside the resort's \r\n\r\nGrand Canyon Concourse. Monorail service may be suspended at any time. \r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Epcot is accessed by taking the Monorail via the station inside the \r\n\r\nresort's Grand Canyon Concourse to the Transportation And Ticket Center. There \r\n\r\nguests travel to Epcot via the Epcot Monorail.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Contemporary Resort's bus stop.

\r\n
\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort's Bus Schedule

\r\n

\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Contemporary's bus schedule, and they'll tell \r\n\r\nyou that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Contemporary's bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Animal Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 13 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, \r\n\r\nwith a bus arriving every 8-17 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water \r\n\r\nparks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait \r\n\r\nanywhere from 20 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to Disney's Hollywood Studios. We evaluate Disney's Contemporary \r\n\r\nResort's bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be \r\n\r\nfound below.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Disney's Contemporary Resort \r\n\r\nIf you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to \r\n\r\ntake a Disney bus from Disney's Contemporary Resort to Disney Springs (or an \r\n\r\nopen theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. \r\n\r\nDo the reverse to get back to Disney's Contemporary Resort. While that's free, \r\n\r\nit can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination \r\n\r\nis \r\none of the other Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is \r\n\r\nstill open hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or \r\n\r\ntake a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We \r\n\r\nsuggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always an Uber, Lyft, or taxi from Contemporary to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels from Contemporary, and Uber and Lyft are often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

\r\n

You can also take a boat in Bay Lake to Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort, \r\n\r\nFort wilderness, and the Magic Kingdom. This option can also take some time \r\n\r\ndepending on where you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

\r\n\r\n

To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

Olympiad Health Club is Contemporary's fitness center and \r\n\r\nspa. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are only available from 8:00 AM \r\n\r\nto 7:00 PM. Swedish, Aromatherapy, and Firm Pressure massage treatment \r\n\r\nservices are available.

\r\n\r\n

Watercraft Rentals are available for use in Bay Lake 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. \r\n\r\nKayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices vary. \r\n\r\nAll rentals can be purchased in a booth near the Feature Pool.

\r\n\r\n

Every Tuesday and Thursday, Yoga is available 7:00 to 7:30 AM at Village Green. Participation is free but limited to the first 20 Guests. Mats and towels are provided.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Contemporary's gift shop is Fantasia Market. It is located on the fourth \r\n\r\nfloor. As you'd expect from a Disney gift shop, Fantasia has a decent \r\n\r\ncollection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as keychains and \r\n\r\npens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices for these \r\n\r\nitems are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nFantasia Market also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, \r\n\r\nallergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. \r\n\r\nAnd Fantasia Market has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Also located near Fantasia Market is the The Game Station \r\n\r\nArcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent video and \r\n\r\narcade games. Most games\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 0.89-mile jogging trail. The trail is located on the northern end \r\n\r\nof the resort between Bay Lake Tower and the Garden Wing.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort Child Care

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nDisney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous Contemporary

\r\n

There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use on Floor 2 of the Garden Wing Building. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.\r\n

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\"Contemporary\r\n\r\n
\r\n \r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Contemporary \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 824-1000.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

The Contemporary has two\r\nhotel buildings: the A-frame tower and the Garden Wing. Rooms in\r\nthe A-frame overlook either Bay Lake and the marina and swimming\r\ncomplex on one side or the parking lot, with Seven Seas Lagoon and\r\nthe Magic Kingdom in the background on the other. Except for most\r\nsecond- and third-floor rooms in the Garden Wing, each room has a\r\nbalcony with two chairs and a table. If you stay on the Magic Kingdom\r\nside of the A-frame, ask for a room on the ninth floor or higher.\r\nThe parking lot and connecting roads are less distracting there (see\r\ntinyurl .com/cr-room4848 as an example). On the Bay Lake side, the\r\nview is fine from all floors, though higher floors are preferable.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"View\r\n
Room 4848: a \"Theme Park View\" room looking out on to the Magic Kingdom.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"4626\"\r\n
Room 4626: Some Theme Park View rooms look on to the roof of the resort's convention center.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"View\r\n
Room 4616: a \"Bay Lake View\" room with a view of Bay Lake Tower.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n

In the Garden Wing, all ground-floor rooms have patios. Only end\r\nrooms on the second and third floors facing Bay Lake have full balconies;\r\nall other rooms have balconies only a foot deep. Also, keep in mind that the Garden Wing is a fair walk from the restaurants, shops,\r\nfront desk, guest services, and monorail station in the A-frame.

\r\n\r\n

There’s a lot of boat traffic in the lake and canal alongside the\r\nGarden Wing. Nearest the lake, and quietest, are rooms 6116–6123,\r\n6216–6223, and 6316–6323. At the water’s edge, but noisier, are rooms\r\n6107–6115, 6207–6215, and 6307–6315. Flanking the canal connecting\r\nBay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon are rooms 5128–5151, 5228–5251, and\r\n5328–5351. All of these have nice canal and lake views, which subject\r\nthem to some daytime noise from passing watercraft, but the whole\r\narea is exceptionally quiet at night.

\r\n\r\n

The Garden Wing also has rooms facing the marina, pool, and playground;\r\nthese work well for families with kids. The views don’t compare\r\nwith views from the rooms previously listed, but ground-floor\r\nrooms 5105–5127 and 6124–6130 provide easy access to the pool.

\r\n\r\n

In addition to offering some of the most scenic and tranquil guest\r\nrooms in Disney World, the Garden Wing likewise contains some of\r\nthe most undesirable ones. Avoid rooms ending with numbers 52–70—\r\nalmost all of these look directly onto a parking lot.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"5121\"\r\n
Room 5121: a room in the Garden Wing with a view of landscaping.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

The Garden Building also has rooms facing the marina, pool, and\r\nplayground; these work well for families with young children. The view\r\nisn’t comparable to views from the rooms previously listed, but ground floor\r\nrooms 5105–5125 provide easy access to the pool.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"6121\"\r\n
room 6121: some garden wing rooms look out on to bay lake.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

In addition to offering some of the most scenic and tranquil guest\r\nrooms in Disney World, the Garden Building likewise contains some\r\nof the most undesirable ones. Avoid rooms ending with numbers 52\r\nthrough 70—almost all of these look directly onto a parking lot.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"5164\"\r\n
Room 5164: a Garden Wing room with a view of a parking lot.
\r\n\r\n
","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Iconic architecture; the only hotel that\r\nthe monorail goes\r\nthrough“Magic Kingdom view” rooms mostly look\r\nout at parking lots and are overpriced
Easy walk to the Magic KingdomBus transportation\r\nis shared with Wilderness Lodge
Large, very attractive guest rooms with\r\nnice lake viewsSterility of theme and decor in public areas
Rooms in the Garden Wing are very large and can be\r\na relatively good valueLong walk from transportation to Garden Building
Recreation options on Bay LakeAtrium can be exceptionally noisy
Boat service to Fort Wilderness Resort &\r\nCampground
","recommend_to_friends":86,"recommend_annual_change":25,"stay_again":97,"stay_again_annual_change":16,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":655,"theme":"Future as Perceived by Past and Present Generations","cost_range":"$609 - $6,142","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"341025de2921580d2d756c73658fc3aa","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243539","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":394,"blog_slug":"contemporary","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys contemporary resort","club_name":"Atrium Club and Tower Club","operator_id":80010385,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/contemporary-resort","opened_on":"1971-10-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"cr","refresh_year":2018,"renovation_year":2014,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"One of Disney's classic designs, the Contemporary A-frame design permits the Magic Kingdom monorail to pass through the building's immense, open lobby. Don't miss the 90-foot tall tile mosaic in the lobby.","dining_overview":"You'll find many good dining options here, from quick-and-casual at Contempo Cafe, to upscale California Grill, and character dining at Chef Mickey's. ","good_for":"Dining, walk to Magic Kingdom","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":164,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa","code":"ORL010","address":"4401 Floridian Way","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078243000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/grand-floridian-resort-and-spa/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-grand-floridian-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:22.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:56.000-08:00","overview":"

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Overview

\r\n\r\n

Walt Disney World's flagship hotel was inspired by grand Victorian\r\nresorts such as the Hotel del Coronado in San Diego and Mount\r\nWashington Resort in New Hampshire. A complex of four- and fivestory\r\nwhite-frame buildings, the Grand Floridian integrates verandas,\r\nintricate latticework, dormers, and turrets beneath a red-shingle roof to\r\ncapture the most distinctive elements of 19th-century ocean-resort architecture.\r\nCovering 40 acres along Seven Seas Lagoon, the Grand Floridian\r\noffers lovely pools, white-sand beaches, and a marina.

\r\n\r\n

The 867 guest rooms, with wood trim and soft goods (curtains, linens,\r\ntowels, and the like) in tones of deep red, gold, and tan, are luxurious,\r\nthough we think the mocha-colored walls are a little dreary at\r\nnight. The woodwork, marble-topped sinks, and ceiling fans amplify\r\nthe Victorian theme. Large by any standard, the typical room is 440\r\nsquare feet (dormer rooms are smaller) and furnished with two queen\r\nbeds, a daybed, and a small desk with chair. Many rooms have a balcony.\r\nAll rooms have a Keurig coffee maker, a large dresser with minifridge,\r\nand a wall-mounted TV.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nDisney's Grand Floridian Resort map\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

With a high ratio of staff to guests, service is outstanding. The hotel\r\nis connected directly to the Magic Kingdom by monorail, boat, and a\r\npedestrian walkway, and to other Disney World destinations by bus.\r\nWalking time to the monorail-, boat-, and bus-loading areas from the\r\nmost remote guest rooms is about 7–10 minutes. It takes about 15−20\r\nminutes on the pedestrian walkway to get to the Magic Kingdom turnstiles\r\nfrom the farthest points of the Grand Floridian.

\r\n\r\n

The resort has several full-service restaurants. Others are a short monorail\r\nride or walk away.

\r\n\r\n

The Grand Floridian’s Senses spa, modeled after the spas on the\r\nDisney Cruise Line ships, is one of the best in the Orlando area, but\r\nit was still closed as we went to press. In addition, the resort’s pools\r\nare among the nicest on Disney property. The\r\nCourtyard Pool, large enough that local waterfowl\r\nmistake it for a lake, has a zero-entry\r\nramp for small children to splash in. Cabanas\r\nare available to rent here too. An Alice in\r\nWonderland–themed splash area sits between\r\nthe main building and the Villas. If your kids\r\nlike water, this is the place to be.

\r\n\r\n

The rest of the Grand Floridian’s grounds\r\nare maintained to an extremely high standard. It’s a lovely place to\r\nwalk around during the evening, with romantic light levels and charming\r\nbackground music. A stroll from the marina, past the resort’s main\r\nbuildings, and over to the Polynesian Village for a nightcap is a nice\r\nway to end the evening.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

\r\n

The major advantage of Grand Floridian is that is a short boat, walk, or Monorail ride to Walt Disney World's flagship theme park, Magic Kingdom. The same Monorail can be also be used to ride to the Transportation And Ticket Center, here guests can transfer to another Monorail and ride to the front gate of Epcot. At 440 square feet, Grand Floridian's rooms are some of the largest in all of WDW. These factors come at the cost of a high nightly price. Rooms at Grand Floridian fall in to the upper end of all the other WDW deluxe resorts.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nGrand Floridian's exterior.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

\r\n

A security gate guards the entrance to Grand Floridian's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Grand Floridian is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nGrand Floridian participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows you to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Grand Floridian's gift shop sells MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nGrand Floridian's lobby.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nGet theme park tickets and \r\n\r\ndining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n

Grand Floridian's front desk.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort's Rooms

\r\n\r\n

Most of the Grand Floridian rooms are 440 square feet, which makes them \r\n\r\nsome of the largest standard rooms in Walt Disney World, and have two queen-\r\n\r\nsize beds, a daybed, and a desk with chair.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nA standard Grand Floridian room. \r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Each Disney's Grand Floridian Resort room is furnished with the following:\r\n

\r\n

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
\r\n

The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits under a counter or desk. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Room Layout\r\n

\r\n
\r\n \r\n\r\n

Bathrooms are large, with plenty of counter space and fluffy towels.\r\nTwo shelves under the sink provide a small amount of storage.\r\nA 1,500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it’s not very\r\npowerful, so bring your own if you have lots of hair. Water pressure in\r\nthe shower is probably less than what you get at home but still enough\r\nto rinse out shampoo suds. A separate dressing area next to the bathroom\r\nincludes two sinks and enough counter space to fit most of your\r\ntoiletries. Combined with the bathroom, this allows three people to get\r\ndressed at the same time.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

A typical Grand Floridian bathroom.\r\n\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Grand Floridian Concierge Level Rooms

\r\n

The concierge level of a deluxe resort can also be referred to as club level. Each one throughout the property has a name for its concierge club(s).\r\n

\r\n

\r\nAt the Grand Floridian there are two concierge lounges. The first is called the The Royal Palm Club, and it's located on the fourth floor of the Main Building. A second concierge lounge is located in the Sugar Loaf Key building of the resort. This lounge has amenities and services similar to Royal Palm Club in the Main Building.

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\r\nGuests willing to pay a premium for a concierge-level room are treated to special services including a lounge/club, complimentary food and drink, and personalized service. There are about 175 Royal Palm Club rooms and around 90 Sugar Loaf Key rooms, most of which are similar to regular rooms throughout the resort, but there are also suites available. Club level prices can be over $100 more than standard rooms at the Grand Floridian.

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Upon arriving to Grand Floridian, concierge guests are taken to an exclusive area to be checked in and taken care of. Once guests are brought to the club level, they will be introduced to the cast members on hand at two desks set up to be the resource for any special services they may need. These CMs are there to help folks with whatever they might need including ADRs, park tickets, and transportation options.

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Another special service provided to concierge level guests is a nightly turn down. Housekeeping cast members come to your room in the evening to prepare your bed for you to fall into it after a long day in the parks and leave chocolates.

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A more exciting benefit to staying club level is access to free food for most of the day. The breakfast offerings are relatively light, so don’t expect to fuel up for a full day here. Later in the day snacks are available along with an assortment of drinks including soda, hot drinks like coffee, and beer. In the late afternoon/early evening the menu changes, but appetizers are put out for guests to enjoy before they begin their evening. Wine and liqueurs along with desserts area served throughout the evening as \r\nwell.

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The selection of food and drink laid out in the lounges is only accessible to club level guests. There are several tables and chairs set up for folks to use throughout the day. The area is busy at breakfast time, but can be a quiet place to relax and maybe even get some work done if guests happen to be business travelers. There are also a few couches in the mix where friends can gather to chat. Kids have their own area here with child sized table and chairs and a TV running cartoons and other Disney favorites.

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Grand Floridian Resort have around 31 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms \r\n\r\nwith roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower \r\n\r\nrooms have both 1 king bed. Use our hotel \r\n\r\nroom finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Theme Park Views, Lagoon Views and Garden Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Grand Floridian's hotel rooms based on what you see from \r\n\r\ninside the room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Grand Floridian Pools

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Grand Floridian has two pools. The Courtyard Pool, sits east of Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian's Main Building. There is also a hot tub, kiddie pool and water \r\n\r\nplay area.\r\n

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Grand Floridian's Courtyard Pool and hot tub.\r\n

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The other pool, the Beach Pool is located between the Main Building and the \r\n\r\nVillas. The Beach Pool is a 111,261-gallon pool overlooking Seven Seas Lagoon. \r\n\r\nIts main feature is a 181-foot water slide. The Beach Pool also has cabanas \r\n\r\navailable for rent.

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Grand Floridian's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to \r\n\r\n4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Grand Floridian also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near the Courtyard Pool.

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Beach Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests can \r\n\r\nfind showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, \r\n\r\nextending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Feature Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Grand Floridian's Beach Pool and Alice in Wonderland-themed water play area.\r\n

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Wheelchair Accessibility at Grand Floridian's Pool

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Grand Floridian's Courtyard Pool has a chair-lift device that can lower \r\n\r\nguests in wheelchairs into the shallow end of the pool. Check with any \r\n\r\nlifeguard for assistance on using the lift.

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Restaurants and Dining

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Grand Floridian has a number of fine dining options available, including \r\n\r\nWDW's flagship signature restaurant Victoria & Albert's.

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Victoria & Albert's

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\r\nVictoria & Albert's Dinner Menu

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With only 18 tables in the main dining room and Queen Victoria's Room, a \r\n\r\nnew private space with seating for eight, this is the top dining experience at \r\n\r\nDisney World. A winner of AAA's Five-Diamond Award (the only restaurant in \r\n\r\ncentral Florida so honored), Victoria & Albert's is civilized, lavish, and \r\n\r\nexpensive. Waitstaff in the Queen Victoria Room expertly revive the European \r\n\r\nart of tableside finishes for each dish.

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The menu changes daily, but chef Scott Hunnel's favorites include Jamison \r\n\r\nFarm lamb, Florida seafood, and Japanese Kobe beef. Any of master pastry chef \r\n\r\nErich Herbitschek's desserts are divine. Hunnel and his team prepare modern \r\n\r\nAmerican cuisine with the best of the best from around the world. While the \r\n\r\nmain dining room and Queen Victoria's Room are whisper-quiet, the convivial \r\n\r\nChef's Table is a whole other experience. For foodies, it's a bargain. Note \r\n\r\nthat the Tables in Wonderland discount card is only accepted for standard \r\n\r\ndining here (not Chef's Table or Queen Victoria Room).

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Victoria & Albert's has a strict dress code, which is enforced. From \r\n\r\nDisney's website:

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“Men: Dinner jackets with dress pants/slacks and shoes. Ties are \r\n\r\noptional (Please no jeans, shorts, sandals, flip-flops, or tennis shoes)\r\nLadies: Cocktail dress, dressy pant suit, skirt/blouse or nice dress. (Please \r\n\r\nno jeans, shorts, capri pants, sandals, flip-flops or tennis \r\n\r\nshoes)”
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Cítricos

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\r\nCítricos Dinner Menu - Cítricos Kids Dinner Menu\r\n

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This is one of the best-kept dining secrets at Disney World - it's \r\n\r\ngenerally easy to get Advance Reservations here. For an extra-special night, \r\n\r\nreserve the Chef's Domain, a private room for up to 12 guests where the chef \r\n\r\ncreates a special menu.

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The golds and yellows of the Mediterranean color this stylish dining room \r\n\r\non the second floor of the Grand Floridian. Diners often find chef Phillip \r\n\r\nPonticelli working his culinary magic in the full-view show kitchen. \r\n\r\nSelections include sauteed shrimp with lemon, feta cheese, tomatoes, and white \r\n\r\nwine; oak-grilled filet of beef; braised veal shank.

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A Tallahassee, Florida, reader thinks we underrate Cítricos at the Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian:

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How come you gave Cítricos only 3½ stars? We had the most amazing \r\n\r\nmeal ever there! The service was the most outstanding I have ever received, \r\n\r\nand the food matched. My grandmother had some dietary\r\n446 part 10 di di ning in and around Walt alt dis ney world restrictions; the \r\n\r\nchef came to our table to talk with her about what she could eat, then sent \r\n\r\nher out a side dish free of charge. They even let her order from the kids’ \r\n\r\nmenu even though she’s way over the 9-year-old limit.
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(For the record, Cítricos is one of the TouringPlans team’s favorite \r\n\r\neateries. The food is indeed excellent, and it’s one of the most quiet and \r\n\r\nsedate restaurants at Walt Disney World.)

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Grand Floridian Cafe

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\r\nGrand Floridian Cafe Breakfast Menu - Grand Floridian Cafe Kids Breakfast Menu - \r\n\r\nGrand Floridian Cafe Lunch Menu\r\n - Grand Floridian Cafe Dinner Menu - Grand Floridian Cafe Lunch/Dinner \r\n\r\nMenu\r\n

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Think of the Grand Floridian Cafe as an upscale coffee shop, the large dining \r\n\r\nroom - with high ceilings and decorative windows - looking out on the Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian's pool and center courtyard.

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Breakfast includes eggs prepared virtually every way known to mankind; \r\n\r\nwaffles; French toast. For lunch, there's Cobb salad and the Grand sandwich \r\n\r\nwith ham, turkey, and Boursin-cheese sauce. For dinner, choose from salmon, \r\n\r\nshrimp pasta, or grilled pork chop.

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Narcoossee's

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\r\nNarcoossee's Dinner Menu - Narcoossee's Kids Dinner \r\n\r\nMenu\r\n

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Stroll through the grounds of the Grand Floridian and toward the waterfront \r\n\r\nto this freestanding octagonal building at the edge of Seven Seas Lagoon. The \r\n\r\natmosphere is upscale casual, though hardwood floors make it noisy. Diners \r\n\r\nhave great views of the Magic Kingdom and the boats that dock nearby to pick \r\n\r\nup and drop off guests after a day at the park.

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Narcoossee's offers excellent service, a very good wine list-and steep \r\n\r\nprices. But it is one of the few places at Disney with a seafood-centric menu, \r\n\r\nand one of the few places where you can get fresh steamed lobster. A splurge \r\n\r\nfor grown-ups.

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1900 Park Fare

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\r\n1900 Park Fare Supercalafragilistic \r\n\r\nBreakfast - 1900 \r\n\r\nPark Fare Cinderella's Happily Ever After Dinner \r\n

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An OK choice for character dining, but too bright and loud for adults \r\n\r\nwithout children. The prime rib is 1900 Park Fare's major draw at dinner, but \r\n\r\ngo someplace else if you prefer your beef on the rare side of medium.

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Garden View Tea Room

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\r\nGarden View Tea Room Afternoon Tea Menu - Garden View Tea \r\n\r\nRoom My Disney Girl's Perfectly Princess Tea Party Menu\r\n

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Garden View Tea Room is home to traditional afternoon tea, served in grand \r\n\r\nBritish style. The menu includes a selection of international teas and an \r\n\r\nassortment of sandwiches and pastries.

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Gasparilla Island Grill

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\r\nGasparilla Island Grill Breakfast Menu - Gasparilla Island Grill Lunch/Dinner Menu - Gasparilla Island Grill Late Night \r\n\r\nMenu\r\n

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Gasparilla Island Grill is the resort's counter service restaurant. It has \r\n\r\na decent selection of burgers, sandwiches, and pizzas. There's also kid \r\n\r\nfriendly items like chicken nuggets and hot dogs. Gasparilla is unique in that \r\n\r\nit is open 24 hours a day. But past 11:00 PM the menu is very limited.

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\r\nGasparilla Island Grill participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Grand Floridian participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan (when it's offered); meals cost 1 credit at Grand Floridian Cafe, 1900 Park Fare \r\n\r\nand Gasparilla Island Grill, and 2 credits at Citricos and Narcoossee's. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Enchanted Rose is located on \r\n\r\nthe second floor in Grand Floridian's Main Building. Enchanted Rose has indoor \r\n\r\nseating and a full drink menu, with several beers, wines, and a selection of \r\n\r\nspirits. \r\n\r\nThe lounge is usually open 4 PM to 10 PM daily. The Courtyard Pool Bar is located \r\n\r\nadjacent to the Courtyard Pool at the Grand Floridian. It also has a selection \r\n\r\nof beers, wines, and cocktails. Plus a small menu of burgers, flat bread \r\n\r\npizzas, sandwiches, salads, and desserts is available. Beaches Pool Bar & Grill is \r\n\r\nlocated next to the Beach Pool. It also has a selection of alcoholic beverages \r\n\r\nand a dining menu of burgers, sushi, and salad.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Grand Floridian Resort is just \r\n\r\noff of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on World Drive. Take World Dr. for about 2.1 \r\n\r\nmiles, and turn left on Seven Seas Drive. After .8 miles, turn right on to \r\n\r\nFloridian Way. Grand Floridian will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Grand Floridian Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. If you're not renting a \r\n\r\ncar, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Grand Floridian Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service \r\n\r\nor 10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Downtown \r\n\r\nDisney\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Grand Floridian Resort to \r\n\r\nDisney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon \r\n\r\nLagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's Grand Floridian Resort's \r\n\r\nbus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-\r\n\r\nin parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

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Magic Kingdom is accessed via pedestrian walkway (it's about a 10-15 minute walk) or Monorail via the station on the second floor \r\n\r\nin the Main Building. Monorail service may be suspended at any time.

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EPCOT is accessed by bus or by taking the Monorail via the station on the second \r\n\r\nfloor in the Main Building to the Transportation And Ticket Center. There \r\n\r\nguests travel to Epcot via the Epcot Monorail.\r\n

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Grand Floridian Resort's Monorail station.

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Disney's Grand Floridian Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Castmember about Grand Floridian's bus schedule, and they'll tell \r\n\r\nyou that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Grand Floridian's bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Animal Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 15 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, \r\n\r\nwith a bus arriving every 8-17 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water \r\n\r\nparks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait \r\n\r\nanywhere from 20 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to Disney's Hollywood Studios. \r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Grand Floridian \r\n\r\nResort If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the \r\n\r\ncheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Grand Floridian Resort \r\n\r\nto Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there \r\n\r\nto your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 \r\n\r\nhours each way. If your destination is \r\none of the other Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is \r\n\r\nstill open, walk or hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Contemporary), or take a \r\n\r\nboat (to Fort Wilderness, the Polynesian, and the Contemporary). We suggest \r\n\r\nyou still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always an Uber, Lyft, or taxi from Grand Floridian \r\n\r\nto wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab \r\n\r\nride to get to most Disney hotels from Grand Floridian, and Uber and Lyft are often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Senses - A Disney Spa is Grand Floridian's spa. Senses \r\n\r\nincludes 15 treatment rooms offering a multitude of treatments and featuring \r\n\r\nFlorida citrus and botanicals. A unique touch to this spa is that each \r\n\r\ntreatment, or \"Journey\" as they call them, includes a small glass of a fruity \r\n\r\nelixir. Each Journey has its own flavored drink and this flavor carries \r\n\r\nthrough to the end of your Journey when you receive a very small gel that \r\n\r\ncontains the same flavors. Guests are encouraged to book ahead, they may do so \r\n\r\nby calling 407-WDW-SPAS (407-939-7727).

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Senses Spa.

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Senses also has a fitness center. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants \r\n\r\nare only available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

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Watercraft Rentals are available for use in Seven Seas Lagoon 10:00 AM to \r\n\r\n5:00 PM. Kayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices \r\n\r\nvary. All rentals can be purchased in a booth near the Sugarloaf Key and Conch \r\n\r\nKey buildings.

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Grand Floridian has a number of gift shops. Including Sandy Cove. As you'd \r\n\r\nexpect from a Disney gift shop, Sandy Cove has a decent collection of \r\n\r\nsouvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to \r\n\r\nembroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices for these items are \r\n\r\nabout what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

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\r\nSandy Cove also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, allergy \r\n\r\nand cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. And \r\n\r\nFantasia Market has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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Other shops include M. Mouse Mercantile, it features \r\n\r\nsouvenirs, character plush, toys, and Disney apparel. Commander \r\n\r\nPorter's sells men's apparel and some Grand Floridian-branded \r\n\r\nmerchandise. Basin is a bath and body store that specializes \r\n\r\nin high quality soaps. Finally, Summer Lace is a store on the \r\n\r\nfirst level that sells women's apparel.\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 1-mile jogging path located near the Main Building. The trail \r\n\r\nstarts at Grand Floridian and ends at the Polynesian Resort.\r\n

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Grand Floridian's Beach.

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Disney's Grand Floridian Resort Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Grand Floridian

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\r\nThere are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Grand Floridian \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 824-3000.\r\n

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\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and worst room views at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort

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TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on property. click here for the Disney's Grand Floridian Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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The resort is spread over a peninsula\r\nthat juts into Seven Seas Lagoon. In addition to the main building,\r\nthere are five dispersed rectangular buildings. Most of the rooms have\r\na balcony, and most balconies are enclosed by a rail that affords good\r\nvisibility. Dormer rooms, just beneath the roof in each building, have\r\nsmaller enclosed balconies that limit visibility when you’re seated.\r\nMost dormer rooms, however, have vaulted ceilings and a coziness\r\nthat compensates for the less-desirable balconies.

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The main building used to be a hub of activity well into the night,\r\nhosting everything from jazz bands to life-size gingerbread houses at\r\nChristmas. All of those activities have been suspended during the pandemic,\r\nwhich makes the main building much quieter.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"4307\"\r\n
Room 4307: a Theme Park View room in the Main Building.
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\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"4414\"\r\n
Room 4414: a Standard View room in the Main Building.
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If you want to be near the bus and monorail, most of the restaurants,\r\nand shopping, ask for a room in the main building (all Club Level\r\nrooms). The best rooms are 4322–4329 and 4422–4429, which have\r\nfull balconies and overlook the lagoon in the direction of the beach and\r\nthe Polynesian Village. Other excellent main-building rooms are 4401–\r\n4409, with full balconies overlooking the marina and an unobstructed\r\nview of Cinderella Castle across the lagoon.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"6101\"\r\n
Room 6101: most Sugar Loaf Key rooms look on to landscaping or a boat area.
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\r\n\r\n
Room 7130: Theme Park View room in Conch Key that is partially blocked by a tree.
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Of the four lodges, two—Boca Chica and Conch Key—have one\r\nlong side facing the lagoon and the other facing inner courtyards and\r\nswimming pools. At Conch Key, full-balcony rooms 7229–7231, 7328,\r\n7329, 7331, 7425–7429, and 7431 offer vistas across the lagoon to the\r\nMagic Kingdom and castle. Room 7427 is just about perfect. Lessexpensive\r\nrooms in the same building that offer good marina views\r\nare 7212, 7312, 7412–7415, 7417, 7419, 7421, 7513–7515, and 7517. (Grand\r\nFloridian room numbers are coded. Take room 7213: 7 is the building\r\nnumber, 2 is the floor, and 13 is the room number.) In Boca Chica,\r\nask for a lagoon-view room on the first, second, or third floor. A few garden-view rooms in Boca Chica have views obstructed by a poolside\r\nbuilding. These are the worst views from any Grand Floridian room.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"5106\"\r\n
Room 5106: a Garden View room in Sago Cay with a view of the monorail.
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\r\n\"5145\"\r\n
Room 5145: a theme park view room in Sago Cay with a view of Magic Kingdom.
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The two remaining buildings, Sugar Loaf Key (Club Level) and Sago\r\nKey, face each other across the marina. The opposite side of Sugar Loaf\r\nKey faces a courtyard, while the other side of Sago Key faces a finger of\r\nthe lagoon and a forested area. These views are pleasant but not in the\r\nsame league as those from the rooms listed previously. Exceptions are\r\nend rooms in Sago Key that have a view of the lagoon and Cinderella\r\nCastle (rooms 5139, 5144, 5145, 5242–5245, and 5342–5345).

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Room 8120: about half of Boca Chica's rooms face the resort's courtyard pool.
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Room 8113: a lagoon view room in Boca Chica.
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Room 9144: the Big Pine Key building has some Theme Park View rooms, but you may have to crane your neck to see it.
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","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Can walk, boat, or monorail to the Magic KingdomMost expensive WDW resort
High staff-to-guest ratioPublic areas often blocked by wedding parties
Excellent dining options for adultsNoise from Magic Kingdom, boat horns, and whistles
Very good on-site spaBus transportation to DHS, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs is shared by the Polynesian Resort
Large rooms with daybeds
Fantastic kids’ Alice in Wonderland-themed splash area
Lovely views of the lagoon and parts of Magic Kingdom
Diverse recreational options
Close to Palm, Magnolia, and Oak Trail Golf Courses
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","recommend_to_friends":67,"recommend_annual_change":-21,"stay_again":92,"stay_again_annual_change":5,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":867,"theme":"Turn-of-the-20th-Century Luxury Hotel","cost_range":"$816 - $5,983","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"1796417550762b1476c5e41873f4da33","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243186","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":440,"blog_slug":"grand-floridian","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys grand floridian resort spa","club_name":"Royal Palm Club and Sugar Loaf Club","operator_id":80010384,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/grand-floridian-resort-and-spa","opened_on":"1988-06-28","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"gf","refresh_year":2018,"renovation_year":2014,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Walt Disney World's flagship hotel, the Grand Floridian combines 19th-century, ocean-resort styled verandas, intricate latticework, dormers, and turrets under a distinctive red-shingle roof.","dining_overview":"Many of Disney highest-rated restaurants are here. The Grand Floridian Cafe has excellent casual meals. Citricos is upscale yet welcoming. And it's only a question of how many Michelin stars Victoria & Albert's will get, not if.","good_for":"Service & amenities, walk to park","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":86,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Polynesian Village Resort","code":"ORL012","address":"1600 Seven Seas Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078242000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/polynesian-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-polynesian-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:19.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:56.000-08:00","overview":"

Disney's Polynesian Resort Overview

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South Pacific tropics are re-created at this Deluxe resort, which\r\nconsists of two- and three-story Hawaiian longhouses situated around the four-story Great Ceremonial House, which contains restaurants, shops,\r\nand an atrium lobby with slate floors and many species of tropical plants.\r\nBuildings feature wood tones, including exposed roof beams and tribalinspired\r\ngeometric inlays in the cornices.

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Spread across 39 acres along Seven Seas Lagoon, the resort, which\r\nhas fewer than 500 standard hotel rooms, has three white-sand beaches,\r\nsome with volleyball courts. Its pool complex likewise captures the\r\nSouth Pacific theme. There is no dedicated fitness center, but guests are\r\nwelcome to use the Grand Floridian’s facilities, just a quarter-mile walk\r\nor 2-minute monorail ride away. Landscaping is superb—garden-view\r\nrooms are generally superior to equivalent rooms at other resorts.

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\r\nDisney's Polynesian Resort map\r\n

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difficult.

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The resort opened\r\nwith the Magic Kingdom in 1971. The most recent room refurbishments\r\nwere completed in summer 2021, adding bright, island-themed murals\r\nand subtle references to characters from Disney’s Moana.

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We’re always suspicious when Disney adds characters to anything,\r\nas it’s often an attempt to distract from something else. But this is one\r\nof Disney’s better room-renovation projects in recent memory, and the\r\nMoana additions work well with the resort’s theme. As before, most\r\nrooms have two queen beds, a sofa, a reading chair, a large dresser with\r\nplenty of shelf space, and a wall-mounted TV. A minifridge and coffee\r\nmaker sit between two large closets near the doorway and opposite the\r\nbathroom area. The closets are spacious and light. Lighting throughout\r\nthe room, including that for the desk and beds, has improved.

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The Polynesian Village has an on-site monorail station, and all\r\nrooms are within easy walking distance of the monorail station at\r\nthe Transportation and Ticket Center. Easily accessible by monorail\r\nare full-service restaurants at the Grand Floridian and Contemporary\r\nResorts, as well as restaurants in the Magic Kingdom. Bus service is\r\navailable to other Disney destinations, and boat service takes you to\r\nthe Magic Kingdom. Walking time to the bus and on-site monorail\r\nstations from the most remote rooms is 8–11 minutes. The pedestrian\r\nwalkway between the Poly and Grand Floridian continues to the\r\nMagic Kingdom—it’s about 1.5 miles from the farthest point at the\r\nPoly to the Magic Kingdom turnstiles.

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The Poly’s transportation options are a major draw for some readers:

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We stay at the Polynesian Village because it offers the best transportation.\r\nYou can walk to a direct monorail to both the Magic Kingdom\r\nand EPCOT, the water taxi can be a fast option, and the bus service\r\nto other parks is fairly direct.
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A Maryland family found the room soundproofing lacking, confirming\r\nour own research:

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We took towels from the pool and stuffed them under the door to\r\ndeaden the noise coming from the connecting room.
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TouringPlans and Unofficial Guide correspondents Dawn and Taylor gave us this\r\nscoop about self-parking:

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The parking situation here was INSANE! People were circling like\r\nvultures—like what you’d see at the mall on Black Friday.
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The Polynesian Village has two lounges, with Trader Sam’s Grog\r\nGrotto being the more themed. Modeled after the famed bar of the\r\nsame name at the Disneyland Hotel, Trader Sam’s serves whimsical (and\r\npotent) cocktails and tasty appetizers, along\r\nwith interactive art and “artifacts” stuffed into\r\nevery available inch of space. We love it ourselves,\r\nalthough in this Hartford, Wisconsin,\r\nreader’s eyes, it’s not special enough to warrant\r\na stay at the resort:

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After I stayed at Animal Kingdom Lodge in a savanna-view room, the\r\nPolynesian Village was a letdown. The proximity to the Magic Kingdom\r\nis nice, and Trader Sam’s was awesome, but otherwise it was nothing\r\nextraordinary. They need to step it up for what they charge.
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How Disney's Polynesian Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

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The major advantage of Polynesian is that is a short boat or Monorail ride (or slightly longer walk)\r\n\r\nto Walt Disney World's flagship theme park, Magic Kingdom. The same Monorail \r\n\r\ncan be also be used to ride to the Transportation And Ticket Center, here \r\n\r\nguests can transfer to another Monorail and ride to the front gate of Epcot. At \r\n\r\n415 square feet, Polynesian's rooms are some of the largest in all of WDW and the DVC rooms are even larger, making them the largest Studios in the DVC\r\n\r\ncollection. These factors come at the cost of a high nightly price. Rooms at Polynesian \r\n\r\nfall in to the upper end of all the other WDW deluxe resorts. There is no on-\r\n\r\nsite fitness center, but Disney officially lists Grand Floridian’s facility as an amenity of the Polynesian. Grand Floridian’s fitness center is located at the southern end of the resort, near the Grand Floridian Villas building. The closest Polynesian longhouses are Tuvalu, Fiji, Aotearoa, and Tonga. \r\n

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\r\nPolynesian's exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Polynesian's grounds. If you arrive \r\n\r\nby car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to \r\n\r\nprovide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

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\r\nCheck-in time at Polynesian is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nPolynesian participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n

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Polynesian Village's gift shop sells MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them.

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\r\nPolynesian's lobby inside The Great Ceremonial House.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining \r\n\r\nreservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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Disney's Polynesian Resort's Rooms

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Most rooms have two queen beds, a sofa, a reading chair, and a large dresser with a built-in flat-panel TV cabinet. A mini-fridge and coffeemaker sit between two large closets near the doorway and opposite the bathroom area. The dresser includes two horizontal shelves above and below the TV for extra storage capacity. The closets are spacious and light. Lighting throughout the room, including that for the desk and beds, is among the best on Disney property.

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Seafoam–colored walls are offset by the dark wood of the desk and beds and by lighter woods used as accents on the remaining furniture. The color scheme is brightened by the use of white bed comforters. Woven straw headboards and carved wood tikis provide texture throughout the room.

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King beds were added to some rooms in Fiji, Rarotonga, and Samoa. These can be booked directly through Disney’s website or by phone. All are categorized as garden-view rooms.

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\r\nA standard Polynesian room.\r\n

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Polynesian Village Villas and Bungalows

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The Tokelau, Moorea, and Pago Pago longhouses hold DVC studio\r\nrooms that sleep five and are the largest studios in Walt Disney\r\nWorld’s DVC inventory. They also have two bathrooms: The smaller\r\nbath has a small sink and step-in shower; the larger has a toilet, sink,\r\nand bath–shower combination. This allows three people to get ready\r\nsimultaneously. The studios also include kitchenettes.

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While these studios are functionally similar to the Poly’s standard\r\nrooms, they have enough small touches to make them different, including\r\nrecessed ceilings, more stone and tile work in the baths, and a\r\nslightly darker color scheme.

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The Polynesian’s 20 over-the-water Bora Bora Bungalows sit in front\r\nof Hawaii, Tokelau, and Moorea. Connected to land by a wood walkway,\r\nthese two-bedroom bungalows offer stunning views of the Magic\r\nKingdom fireworks and of Seven Seas Lagoon and its nightly Electrical\r\nWater Pageant. Not surprisingly, those stunning views come with stunning\r\nprices—up to $5,528 per night.

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Let’s start with the positives: The bungalows are well built, with topnotch\r\ndesign elements from top to bottom. The bedrooms are spacious,\r\nthe beds are the best on Disney property, the bathrooms are gorgeous,\r\nand the showers will make you feel as happy as anything nonsentient is\r\ncapable of. The open kitchen design works wonderfully, and you could\r\neasily host a good-size party inside. The floors are spotlessly clean, with\r\ninteresting slate and rug textures, so you’ll want to run around barefoot.\r\nHell, the doorbell plays a different chime every time you ring it.\r\nAnd yeah, the views are spectacular.

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The bungalows’ two fatal flaws: price and location. First of all,\r\n160 DVC points for a one-night stay is equivalent to about $3,000 in\r\ncash at the time of this writing. Check-in is at 4 p.m. and checkout at\r\n11 a.m., so a 19-hour stay costs about $158 an hour.

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Problem was, we couldn’t check in at 4—we never got our room\r\nassignment by text, email, or phone. It wasn’t until we walked back to\r\nthe front desk at 5 p.m. that we finally got our bungalow. The 75 minutes\r\nwe couldn’t use it amounted to about $200 in lost time—almost enough to pay for an entire night at Saratoga Springs. And nobody\r\nsaid a word about it.

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The first “Are you out of the room yet?” knock on our door came\r\nbefore 9 a.m. We’re not kidding.

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Then there’s the ferry horn. We were in 7019, the second-closest bungalow\r\nto the Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) ferry dock. A ferry\r\nleaves here about every 12 minutes, from about 30–45 minutes before\r\nthe park opens until an hour after closing. Every time a ferry departs,\r\nit has to sound a warning horn so that nearby craft know it’s coming.

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The sound of the horn is akin to an air-raid siren: loud enough to\r\nstop indoor conversation in its tracks. Reading, watching TV, getting a\r\nbaby to nap? Forget it. You simply can’t hear or think above the noise.

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If the bungalows were on the other side of the Poly’s marina, we\r\ncould almost justify selling a gently used organ to stay here again, but\r\nbetween the stratospheric prices and that hellish horn, we just can’t.\r\nIf you’re determined to stay here anyway, shoot for one of bungalows\r\n7001–7005, which are farthest from the TTC.

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The Polynesian Villas have a separate parking lot close to their longhouses.\r\nDining and transportation are shared with the main resort.

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\r\nA Polynesian Villa Studio room with the sofa bed closed and open.\r\n

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Each Disney's Polynesian Resort room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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\r\nA desk and daybed in a standard Polynesian room.\r\n

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\r\nKitchen area found in a Polynesian Studio Villa (left) Closet (right)\r\n

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The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits under a counter or desk. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

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Disney's Polynesian Resort Room Layout\r\n

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The Poly’s bathrooms were redone in 2021. Two large sinks offer\r\nplenty of counter space. A spacious, glass-enclosed shower provides\r\ngood-to-excellent water pressure. (Note: We’re pretty sure that most\r\nbathrooms have only showers, not bathtubs, so if a tub is important to\r\nyou, ask your travel agent or Disney about it when booking.) The new\r\nbathroom layout includes a door between the toilet and sink area, plus\r\nanother separating the entire bathroom from the rest of the room. This\r\nallows three people to get dressed at once—an improvement over the\r\nold bathroom design.

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A special Polynesian bathroom with walk-in shower.\r\n

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The two (2!) Polynesian Villa Studio bathrooms.\r\n

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Polynesian Club Level Rooms

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The concierge level of a deluxe resort can also be referred to as club \r\n\r\nlevel. Each one throughout the property has a name for their concierge level. \r\n\r\nAt the Polynesian it is called King Kamehameha Club and it’s located in the Hawaii and Tonga Longhouse. Here guests willing to pay a premium are treated to \r\n\r\nspecial services including a lounge, complimentary food and drink, and \r\n\r\npersonalized service. There are about 108 King Kamehameha Club rooms most of \r\n\r\nwhich are similar to regular rooms throughout the resort, but there are also \r\n\r\n6 suites available. Club level prices can be over $100 more than standard rooms \r\n\r\nat the Polynesian

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Upon arriving to Polynesian, concierge guests are taken to an exclusive \r\n\r\narea to be checked in and taken care of. Once guests are brought to the club \r\n\r\nlevel they will be introduced to the cast members on hand at two desks set up \r\n\r\nto be the resource for any special services they may need. These CMs are there \r\n\r\nto help folks with whatever they might need including dining reservations, park tickets, and \r\n\r\ntransportation options.

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Another special service provided to concierge level guests is a nightly \r\n\r\nturn down. Housekeeping cast members come to your room in the evening to \r\n\r\nprepare your bed for you to fall into it after a long day in the parks and \r\n\r\nleave chocolates.

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A more exciting benefit to staying in The King Kamehameha Club is access to \r\n\r\nfree food for most of the day. The breakfast offerings are relatively light so \r\n\r\ndon’t expect to fuel up for a full day here. Later in the day snacks are \r\n\r\navailable along with an assortment of drinks including soda, hot drinks like \r\n\r\ncoffee, and beer. In the late afternoon/early evening the menu changes but \r\n\r\nappetizers are put out for guests to enjoy before they begin their evening. \r\n\r\nWine and liqueurs along with desserts area served throughout the evening as \r\n\r\nwell.

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The selection of food and drink is laid out in the lounge only accessible \r\n\r\nto club level guests. There are several tables and chairs set up for folks to \r\n\r\nyou use throughout the day. The area is busy a breakfast time, but can be a \r\n\r\nquiet place to relax and maybe even get some work done if guests happen to be \r\n\r\nbusiness travelers. There are also a few couches in the mix where friends can \r\n\r\ngather to chat. Kids have their own area here with child sized table and \r\n\r\nchairs and a TV running cartoons and other Disney favorites.

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Polynesian Resort have around 71 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers or tubs with rails, while others include assistive hearing or visual devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more. Use our hotel room \r\n\r\nfinder to see which rooms have which features.

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Theme Park Views, Lagoon Views and Garden Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Polynesian's hotel rooms based on what you see from inside \r\n\r\nthe room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Polynesian Pools

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The Polynesian Village Resort has 2 pools. The largest, Lava Pool, sits behind theGreat Ceremonial House and near the Samoa, Niue and Rarotonga Longhouses. The pool \r\n\r\nfeatures a lava rock structure and a waterslide. There is also a \r\n\r\nhot tub, kiddie pool and water play area.\r\n

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Polynesian's Lava Pool.\r\n

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The other smaller pool, the Oasis Pool, is located between the Samoa, Niue, Hawaii, Tokelau, and Rarotonga Longhouse.

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Polynesian's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 \r\n\r\nfeet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. Polynesian also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Lava Pool.

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Lava Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests can \r\n\r\nfind showers, storage lockers, and\r\n restrooms. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 10 AM to 8 PM, extending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Feature Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Restaurants and Dining

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Polynesian has a number of excellent dining options, including one counter service restaurant and two table service restaurants.

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'Ohana

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\r\n'Ohana Best Friends Breakfast Menu - 'Ohana Dinner Menu\r\n

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'Ohana, which means \"family,\" gets high marks from our readers. The food is \r\n\r\ngood but not superior, but if you love meat and you go hungry, it's a great \r\n\r\nplace to fill up. The method of service and the fact that it just keeps coming \r\n\r\nmake it all taste a little better. Insist on being seated in the main dining \r\n\r\nroom, where the fire pit is.

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A large open pit is the centerpiece of the room. Here the grilled foods are \r\n\r\nprepared with flair - as well as flare: from time to time the chef will pour \r\n\r\nsome liquid on the fire, causing huge flames to shoot up. This is usually in \r\n\r\nresponse to something one of the strolling entertainers has said, evoking a \r\n\r\nsign from the fire gods. At any given moment, there may be a hula-hoop contest \r\n\r\nor a coconut race, where kids are invited to push coconuts around the dining \r\n\r\nroom with broomsticks.

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Skewer service is the specialty here-there's no menu. As soon as you're \r\n\r\nseated, your server will begin to deliver food. First comes bread and a green \r\n\r\nsalad, followed by honey-glazed chicken wings, pork fried dumplings, \r\n\r\npineapple-coconut bread, and fresh pineapple. The main course is steak, pork \r\n\r\nloin, chicken, and grilled peel-and-eat shrimp, accompanied by stir-fried \r\n\r\nvegetables and lo mein noodles placed on a lazy Susan in the center of the \r\n\r\ntable.

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During breakfast hours (7:30 AM to 11 AM), 'Ohana is a character meal with \r\n\r\nMickey, Pluto, Lilo and Stitch.

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Kona Cafe

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\r\nKona Cafe Breakfast Menu - Kona Cafe Kids Breakfast Menu - Kona Cafe Lunch Menu\r\n - Kona Cafe Dinner Menu - Kona Cafe Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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The casual Kona Cafe has a postmodern decor, with arched railings and \r\n\r\ngrillwork on the ceiling. If you want to escape the Magic Kingdom for a quiet \r\n\r\nlunch, hop on the monorail or take the resort launch to the Polynesian. This \r\n\r\nisn't a fancy dining room, but the food is on a higher plane than your average \r\n\r\njava joint's.

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House Specialty for breakfast is the Tonga toast, a decadent French toast \r\n\r\nlayered with bananas. For lunch we recommend stir-fried Asian noodles, \r\n\r\nbarbecued-pork taco, and sticky wings. For dinner try the pomegranate \r\n\r\nbarbecued pork chop, ginger-crusted rib-eye with tamarind jus, and sustainable \r\n\r\nfish.

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Trader Sam's Grog Grotto

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\r\nBar Menu\r\n

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\r\nFans of Trader Sam’s Enchanted Tiki Bar at the\r\nDisneyland Hotel couldn’t wait for Disney World to get a version of its own. But while the two share nostalgic interactive props and animatronics\r\n(the ones here are a nod to the old 20,000 Leagues Under the Sea attraction)\r\nand even a few menu items, the Grog Grotto has its own vibe. Off the\r\nPolynesian Village’s main lobby and featuring views of the marina and\r\nSeven Seas Lagoon, this tiki bar has its own lore built in: It was started by\r\nTrader Sam, Adventureland’s famous “head” salesman, who welcomes you\r\nto his enchanted South Seas hideaway to explore a menu of “magical\r\ntropical drinks and food.”\r\n

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Cocktails are the big draw, with names like Castaway\r\nCrush, Tahitian Torch, and the over-the-top Uh-Oa!—Myers’s and Bacardi\r\nrums mixed with various fruit juices and served in a communal tiki bowl\r\nwith straws all around; there are also “No Booze Brews” for teetotalers.

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Kona Island

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\r\nKona Island Breakfast Menu\r\n

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Kona Island is very casual, imitating the tones and textures of Kona Cafe but placed in an area of high traffic for the Polynesian. the small eatery seats about 20 diners. When eating in, guests can sit right at the bar, or be stationed against a glass wall with views of the resort's monorail stop, tropical gardens, and the ceremonial lighting of the torches on most nights. Kona Island currently serves coffee and pastries. Any of the menu items from Kona Cafe can be ordered here.

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Capt. Cook's

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\r\nCapt. Cook's Breakfast Menu (Kids) — Capt. Cook's Lunch & Dinner Menu (Kids)\r\n

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Capt. Cook's is Polynesian's counter service eatery. You'll find Tonga \r\n\r\ntoast, flatbreads, chicken sandwich, pork sandwich, turkey club, salads, baked \r\n\r\ngoods.

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\r\nCapt. Cook's participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Polynesian participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan (when it's offered); meals cost 1 credit at 'Ohana, Kona Cafe, and Capt. Cook's, \r\n\r\nand 2 credits at Spirit of Aloha. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Tambu Lounge is located on the second \r\n\r\nfloor in Polynesian's Great Ceremonial House, next to 'Ohana. Tambu has \r\n\r\nindoor seating and a full drink menu, with several beers, wines, and a \r\n\r\nselection of spirits. The Barefoot Pool \r\n\r\nBar is located adjacent to the Lava Pool at the \r\n\r\nPolynesian. It also has a selection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Barefoot \r\n\r\nPool Bar also has a few non-alcoholic selections such as the Lava Smoothie \r\n\r\nwith Raspberry Puree and Piña Colada Mix.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Polynesian Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Polynesian Resort is just off \r\n\r\nof I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on World Drive. Take World Dr. for about 2.1 \r\n\r\nmiles, and turn left on Seven Seas Drive. After .4 miles, turn right and \r\n\r\nPolynesian will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Polynesian Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Polynesian Resort. If you're not renting a car, \r\n\r\nbe aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Polynesian Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Polynesian \r\n\r\nResort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-\r\n\r\npassenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Polynesian Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Polynesian Resort to Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, \r\n\r\nand Disney Springs. Disney's Polynesian Resort's bus stops sit \r\n\r\nalong the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking lot. \r\n\r\nEach theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

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The Polynesian Resort is served by the Magic Kingdom monorail and is an \r\n\r\neasy walk from the transportation center. (It's also possible to walk to the Magic Kingdom via the Grand Floridian - the route takes 20 to 25 minutes depending on where you start.) At the center, you can catch an \r\n\r\nexpress monorail to Epcot. This makes the Polynesian the only Disney resort \r\n\r\nwith direct monorail access to both Epcot and the Magic Kingdom. To minimize \r\n\r\nyour walk to the transportation center, request a room in the Pago Pago, \r\n\r\nMoorea, or Tokelau guest buildings. You can also catch a Monorail on the \r\n\r\nsecond floor of the Great Ceremonial House. The Monorail will make a stop at \r\n\r\nDisney's Grand Floridian Resort, and then the Magic Kingdom. The same Monorail \r\n\r\nalso makes stops at the Contemporary Resort and the Transportation and Ticket \r\n\r\nCenter.

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Disney's Polynesian Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Polynesian's bus schedule, and they'll tell you \r\n\r\nthat buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Polynesian's bus schedule \r\n\r\nvaries considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Animal Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 15 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, \r\n\r\nwith a bus arriving every 8-17 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water \r\n\r\nparks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait \r\n\r\nanywhere from 20 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and \r\n\r\nDisney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to Disney's Hollywood Studios. \r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Polynesian Resort \r\n\r\nIf you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to \r\n\r\ntake a Disney bus from Disney's Polynesian Resort to Disney Springs (or an \r\n\r\nopen theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. \r\n\r\nDo the reverse to get back to Disney's Polynesian Resort. While that's free, \r\n\r\nit can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the other Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, hop on the Monorail (to the Grand Floridian and Contemporary), or exit the Monorail at Magic Kingdom and transfer to a boat to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, and the Contemporary. We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Polynesian to wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels from Polynesian, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Polynesian Resort's beach is a great place to watch Magic Kingdom's \r\n\r\nfireworks show>. We recommend you find a spot on the \r\n\r\nbeach at least 15 minutes before show time to guarantee a spot.

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The view from Polynesian's Beach.

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Polynesian has no spa or fitness center, but guests are allowed to use the \r\n\r\nfacility over at Grand Floridian. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are \r\n\r\nonly available from 8:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

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Watercraft Rentals are available for use in Seven Seas Lagoon 10:00 AM to \r\n\r\n5:00 PM. Kayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices \r\n\r\nvary. All rentals can be purchased in a booth near the Great Ceremonial \r\n\r\nHouse.

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Polynesian Resort's Marina.

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Polynesian has a number of gift shops, including Moana Mercantile. Moana Mercantile sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, \r\n\r\naspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and food and drink items to make simple meals from. Moana Mercantile also has Disney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, \r\n\r\nand similar items, if that's what you're looking for. Prices for these items \r\n\r\nare considerably higher - about double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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The other side of Moana Mercantile sells an assortment of Disney merchandise. As \r\n\r\nyou'd expect from a Disney gift shop, Moana Mercantile has a decent collection of \r\n\r\nsouvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to \r\n\r\nembroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices for these items are \r\n\r\nabout what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

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Other shops include BouTiki, it features men's and women's \r\n\r\napparel and some Polynesian-branded merchandise.

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Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 1-mile jogging path located near the resort's marina. The trail \r\n\r\nstarts at the Polynesian Resort and ends at Grand Floridian.\r\n

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Polynesian's Beach.

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Disney's Polynesian Resort Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Polynesian

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Polynesian \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 824-2000.\r\n

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Polynesian Villas & Bungalows

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The Tokelau, Moorea, and Pago\r\nPago longhouses hold DVC studio rooms that sleep five and are the largest\r\nstudios in Walt Disney World’s DVC inventory. They are also the first\r\nDVC studios to feature two bathrooms: The smaller bath has a small sink\r\nand step-in shower; the larger has a toilet, sink, and bath/shower combination.\r\nThis allows three people to get ready simultaneously.

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While these studios are otherwise similar to the Poly’s standard\r\nrooms, there are enough small touches to make them different, including\r\nrecessed ceilings, more stone and tile work in the baths, and a\r\nslightly darker color scheme.

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The Polynesian’s 20 new two-bedroom Bora Bora bungalows sit in\r\nfront of the Hawaii, Tokelau, and Moorea buildings; they’re connected\r\nto land by a wood walkway. The bungalows offer very good views of\r\nthe Magic Kingdom and Seven Seas Lagoon, at some astounding prices\r\n(up to $3,400 per night). They’re nice rooms, and we’re sure that Disney\r\nwill sell them, but we can’t say that the view is worth that cost.

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The Poly Villas have a separate parking lot on the east side of the resort. Dining, child care, and transportation will be shared\r\nwith the main resort.

","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

The Polynesian Village’s 11\r\nguest-room buildings, or longhouses, are spread over a long strip of\r\nland bordered by the monorail on one side and Seven Seas Lagoon on\r\nthe other. All buildings have first-floor patios and third-floor balconies.\r\nThe older buildings, which comprise more than half of the resort’s\r\nrooms, have faux balconies on their second floors. (The newer buildings\r\noffer full balconies on both the second and third floors, and patios\r\non the first.) A small number of patios in the first-floor rooms have\r\nviews blocked by mature vegetation, but these patios provide more\r\nroom than do the balconies on the third floor. If views are important\r\nand you’re staying in one of the eight older longhouses, ask for a thirdfloor\r\nroom.

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The Great Ceremonial House contains most of the restaurants and\r\nshops, as well as the resort lobby, guest services, and bus and monorail\r\nstations. The longhouses most convenient to the Great Ceremonial\r\nHouse—Fiji, the Tonga suites, Rarotonga, Niue, and Samoa—offer\r\nviews of the swimming complex, a small marina, or inner gardens (possibly\r\nwith the monorail). There are no lagoon views except for oblique\r\nviews from the upper floors of Fiji, Samoa, and Tuvalu; Aotearoa; and\r\na tunnel view from Tonga. Samoa, however, by virtue of its proximity\r\nto the main swimming complex, is a good choice for families who plan\r\nto spend time at the pool. If your children are under age 8, request a\r\nfirst-floor room on the volcano-pool side of Samoa.

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You can specifically request a lagoon- or Magic Kingdom–view room\r\nat the Polynesian Village, provided you’re willing to pay extra. The best\r\nof these rooms are on the third floor in Tuvalu and, if you’re staying in\r\na Club Level (concierge) room, the third floor in Hawaii.

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In addition to second-floor rooms in the older buildings (the ones\r\nwith fake balconies), we also advise against booking the monorail-side\r\n(south-facing) rooms in Rarotonga and Aotearoa. Garden-view rooms\r\nhere are especially nice, but the monorail, though quiet, runs within\r\nspitting distance.

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Many first-floor rooms in Hawaii (1501–1518) are garden- or lagoonview\r\nrooms; their scenery is blocked by the over-the-water bungalows.\r\nThese rooms still offer a chance to see the evening fireworks, however,\r\nand are a little less expensive than similar rooms on higher floors.

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Tuvalu, Fiji, and Aotearoa are the most distant accommodations\r\nfrom the bus stop. For large strollers or wheelchair access, take the\r\nferry to the Magic Kingdom.

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Good Rooms in Tonga Building

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Tonga is home to some of the resort's suites. Rooms facing south look out on to vegetation, but you may catch a glimpse of the Monorail. Rooms facing North have a view of the resort's Marina. If you squint you may be able to see Magic Kingdom. With all that being said, none of the rooms in Tonga have what we would consider bad views.\r\n

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\r\n\"6\"\r\n
Room 6: This is technically a Theme Park View room.
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Good Rooms in Aotearoa Building

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Aotearoa Rooms facing south look out on to vegetation and landscaping. The Monorail is also visible but this may cause higher than usual noise levels. Rooms facing north have a view of landscaping and foliage. But there are a hand full of Lagoon and Theme Park View rooms. However, we wouldn't call these the best Theme Park View rooms as Magic Kingdom is quite far in the distance.\r\n

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\r\n\"1226\"\r\n
Room 1226: A typical Garden View room in Aotearoa.
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Good Rooms in Fiji Building

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Fiji rooms facing west look out on to vegetation and landscaping. Rooms facing east look on to the resort's marina, but this may cause higher than usual noise levels.\r\n

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\r\n\"1312\"\r\n
Room 1312: Looking on to the resort's marina.
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Good Rooms in Tuvalu Building

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Tuvalu rooms facing north have mostly unobstructed views of Magic Kingdom, Seven Seas Lagoon, and the Grand Floridian. Rooms facing south look on to foliage and landscaping.\r\n

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\r\n\"1408\"\r\n
Room 1408: Looking on to the resort's marina.
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Good Rooms in Hawaii

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The Hawaii Building is home to Polynesian's Club Level rooms. Rooms facing north have mostly unobstructed views of Magic Kingdom, Seven Seas Lagoon, and the Polynesian's beach. Rooms facing south look on to foliage, landscaping, and the resort's Lava Pool.\r\n

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1516\"\r\n
Room 1516: A rare Lagoon View room were you can also see Magic Kingdom.
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Good Rooms in Samoa

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The Samoa Building the Lava Pool and the Oasis Pool. Because of the pools these rooms may have higher than usual noise levels.\r\n

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\r\n\"1607\"\r\n
Room 1607: View of the Lava Pool.
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Good Rooms in Niue

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Rooms in Niue have views of landscaping and foliage. The major advantage of this building is that it's next door to the Polynesian's lobby, the Great Ceremonial House.\r\n

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Good Rooms in Rarotonga

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Rarotonga is also next door to the Polynesian's lobby, the Great Ceremonial House. Rooms in Rarotonga have views of landscaping and foliage. Some rooms have a view of the Monorail.\r\n

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\r\n\"1813\"\r\n
Room 1813: Rarotonga is surrounded by landscaping and foliage.
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Good Rooms in Tokelau

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Rooms in Tokelau have views of landscaping and foliage. The building is next to the resort's Oasis Pool, but most views of it are blocked by large plants or trees.\r\n

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\r\n\"1910\"\r\n
Room 1910: Some rooms face other buildings.
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Good Rooms in Moorea

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Most rooms in Moorea facing north are facing the Polynesian bungalows. Rooms facing south have views of landscaping and foliage.\r\n

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Good Rooms in Pago Pago

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Pago Pago has the least amount of good views thanks to rooms facing southeast that look on to a parking lot. The other half of the rooms face landscaping and foliage. The major advantage of this building is that it is a short walk to the Transportation and Ticket Center. At the Transportation and Ticket Center you can catch a Monorail to Epcot, Magic Kingdom, Grand Floridian Resort, and the Contemporary Resort.\r\n

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\r\n\"1108\"\r\n
Room 1108: Bad view but a great location.
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\r\nRelated blogs:
\r\nResort Exploring Vol 7 - The Polynesian\r\n

","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Most family-friendly resort and dining on the\r\nmonorail loopNo spa or exercise facilities (guests can\r\nuse those at the Grand Floridian)
Boat and monorail transportation to\r\nthe Magic KingdomNoise from boat horns and whistles
Walking distance to Epcot monorailBus transportation to DHS, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs is shared by the Grand Floridian
Fun south seas theme with lovely views of the lagoon and parts of Magic Kingdom
On Magic Kingdom monorail
Multiple dining and bar options
Pool has one of the most elaborate child play areas
Among the best Club Levels of the\r\nDeluxe resorts
Close to Palm, Magnolia, and Oak Trail\r\nGolf Courses
","recommend_to_friends":75,"recommend_annual_change":-7,"stay_again":95,"stay_again_annual_change":3,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":479,"theme":"Hawaii-South Seas Islands","cost_range":"$734 - $6,059","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"5cf33035cc61b6c8144c2eda2bc64854","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243174","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":415,"blog_slug":"polynesian","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys polynesian village resort","club_name":"King Kamehameha Club","operator_id":80010388,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/polynesian-resort","opened_on":"1971-10-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"pv","refresh_year":2016,"renovation_year":2013,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The South Pacific tropics are recreated at this Deluxe resort, with two- and three-story Hawaiian longhouses set among some of Disney's best landscaping. Watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks from the pool.","dining_overview":"Lots of good dining options are found in the Polynesian's main building. If staying longer, more great options are a short walk away at the Grand Floridian.","good_for":"Tropical theme, good food","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":6,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Wilderness Lodge","code":"ORL017","address":"901 Timberline Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078243200","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/villas-at-wilderness-lodge/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-wilderness-lodge","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\nClick here to see Wilderness Lodge Room Types | Best Rooms to Request at Wilderness Lodge \r\n\r\n

This is our page covering the main Wilderness Lodge Resort building. Wilderness Lodge also has two Disney Vacation Club wings, which we cover in-depth on their own pages. See Boulder Ridge Villas and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins for more information.

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Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort Overview

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is inspired by grand, rustic Arts and Crafts\r\nlodges of the early 20th century—think The Ahwahnee in Yosemite\r\nNational Park and the Grove Park Inn in Asheville, North Carolina.\r\nSituated on the shore of Bay Lake, the lodge consists of an eight-story\r\ncentral building augmented by two seven-story guest wings, a wing\r\nof studio and one- and two-bedroom condominiums, and 26 lakeside\r\ncabins. The hotel features exposed timber columns, log cabin–style facades, and dormer windows, along with an 82-foot-tall stone fireplace\r\nin the lobby. Outside, there’s a beach and a delightful pool modeled\r\non a mountain stream.

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The lodge’s guest rooms were last refurbished in 2012. Darkly\r\nstained Mission-style furniture is complemented by soft goods in burnt\r\number and blue, accented with American Indian–inspired patterns.\r\nCarved-wood headboards, rough-hewn armoires, and rustic light fixtures\r\ncreate a log cabin atmosphere.

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\r\nDisney's Wilderness Lodge Resort map\r\n

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Typical rooms have two queen-size beds; some rooms have one\r\nqueen plus bunk beds or two queens plus a queen sleeper sofa. Rooms\r\nwith a single king-size bed are also available. All rooms have a table\r\nand chairs, a dresser, a TV, a two-sink vanity just outside the bathroom,\r\na minifridge, and a coffee maker. Rooms on the ground floor have\r\npatios; rooms above have balconies.

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The pool area features a children’s water-play area and a pool bar.\r\nDining choices encompass two full-service restaurants plus the outdoor\r\nGeyser Point bar and restaurant. More dining options are available\r\nvia a short boat ride to the Contemporary or Fort Wilderness.

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The resort is connected to the Magic Kingdom by boat and to other\r\nparks by bus. Your best bet for catching the first boat is to send someone\r\nout to the boat dock about 90 minutes before the Magic Kingdom’s\r\nofficial opening time. If a line has started to form but has fewer\r\nthan 30 people, get in line. If the line is longer than that, consider\r\ntaking a bus or ride-hailing service to the park. Boat service may be suspended during storms, so if it’s raining or rain looks likely, Disney\r\nwill provide buses. Walking time to buses and boats from the remotest\r\nrooms is 5–8 minutes.

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A Boone County, Indiana, reader thinks transportation is a weak spot:

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To paraphrase Mark Twain, rumors that Wilderness Lodge’s transportation\r\nproblems have been resolved are greatly exaggerated—it’s\r\nan easy boat ride to the Magic Kingdom, but bus trips to the Studios\r\nand Animal Kingdom take nearly an hour, which is just inexcusable.
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A mom from Oklahoma City concurs:

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During our most recent stay, transportation from Wilderness Lodge to\r\nthe parks was the worst we have ever experienced in all our trips to\r\nWDW. We waited more than an hour for a boat to the Magic Kingdom;\r\nthen, after it finally showed up and loaded, we made an unexplained\r\ntrip to Fort Wilderness and loaded 26 more people. It took 90 minutes\r\nto get to the Magic Kingdom! The bus system wasn’t much better—it’s\r\nnearly impossible to get to the parks before opening.
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How Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

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The major advantage of Wilderness Lodge is that the Magic Kingdom is short \r\n\r\nboat ride away. Wilderness Lodge's rooms are slightly smaller than some of \r\n\r\nDisney's other deluxe resorts. At 344 square feet they are smaller than \r\n\r\nBoardWalk Inn's 371 sf, Yacht & Beach Club's 381 sf, Grand Floridian's 440 sf, \r\n\r\nand Polynesian's 415 sf. The nightly price for rooms at Wilderness Lodge fall \r\n\r\nin to the lower end of all the other WDW deluxe resorts. Wilderness Lodge does \r\n\r\noffer a fitness center, salon, and a spa.

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\r\nWilderness Lodge's exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Wilderness Lodge's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

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\r\nCheck-in time at Wilderness Lodge is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows you to provide name, address, and credit card informationup to 60 days before your arrival. \r\n

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If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether. Wilderness Lodge's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.

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\r\nWilderness Lodge's lobby.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nGet theme park tickets and \r\n\r\ndining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort's Rooms

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Most of the Wilderness Lodge rooms are 344 square feet and have two queen-\r\n\r\nsize beds, a daybed, and a desk and two chairs.

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\r\nA Wilderness Lodge room.\r\n

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Each Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort Room Layout\r\n

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\r\nWilderness Lodge's bathrooms aren't big, but they also aren't \r\n\r\nas small as the ones you'll find in Disney's moderate or value resort rooms. \r\n\r\nLuckily you won't feel claustrophobic in your room's bathroom. Water pressure \r\n\r\nin the shower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still \r\n\r\nenough to get your hair clean. Eventually.

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A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, and \r\n\r\nenough counter space to fit most of the toiletries you would need. There are \r\n\r\nalso two shelves under the sink that provide a small amount of storage. A \r\n\r\n1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; \r\n\r\nbring your own if you've got lots of hair. The dressing area includes a \r\n\r\nsliding door that separates it from the sleeping area. Combined with the \r\n\r\nbathroom, this means that 3 people can get dressed at the same time.

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\r\nA typical Wilderness Lodge bathroom.\r\n

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Wilderness Lodge Concierge Level Rooms

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The concierge level of a deluxe resort can also be referred to as club \r\n\r\nlevel. Each one throughout the property has a name for their concierge level. \r\n\r\nAt the Wilderness Lodge it is called the Old Faithful Club and it’s located on \r\n\r\nthe seventh floor. Here guests willing to pay a premium are treated to special \r\n\r\nservices including a lounge, complimentary food and drink, and personalized \r\n\r\nservice. There are about 75 Old Faithful Club rooms most of which are similar \r\n\r\nto regular rooms throughout the resort. \r\n\r\nClub level prices can be up to $100 more than standard rooms at the \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge

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Upon arriving to Wilderness Lodge, concierge guests are taken to an \r\n\r\nexclusive area to be checked in and taken care of. Once guests are brought to \r\n\r\nthe club level they will be introduced to the cast members on hand at two \r\n\r\ndesks set up to be the resource for any special services they may need. These \r\n\r\nCMs are there to help folks with whatever they might need including ADRs, park \r\n\r\ntickets, and transportation options.

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Another special service provided to concierge level guests is a nightly \r\n\r\nturn down. Housekeeping cast members come to your room in the evening to \r\n\r\nprepare your bed for you to fall into it after a long day in the parks and \r\n\r\nleave chocolates.

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A more exciting benefit to staying in the Old Faithful Club is access to \r\n\r\nfree food for most of the day. The breakfast offerings are relatively light so \r\n\r\ndon’t expect to fuel up for a full day here. Later in the day snacks are \r\n\r\navailable along with an assortment of drinks including soda, hot drinks like \r\n\r\ncoffee, and beer. In the late afternoon/early evening the menu changes but \r\n\r\nappetizers are put out for guests to enjoy before they begin their evening. \r\n\r\nWine and liqueurs along with desserts area served throughout the evening as \r\n\r\nwell.

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The selection of food and drink is laid out in the lounge only accessible \r\n\r\nto club level guests. There are several tables and chairs set up for folks to \r\n\r\nyou use throughout the day. The area is busy a breakfast time, but can be a \r\n\r\nquiet place to relax and maybe even get some work done if guests happen to be \r\n\r\nbusiness travelers. There are also a few couches in the mix where friends can \r\n\r\ngather to chat. Kids have their own area here with child sized table and \r\n\r\nchairs and a TV running cartoons and other Disney favorites.

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Wilderness Lodge Resort have around 51 handicap-accessible rooms. \r\n\r\nSome feature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. \r\n\r\nA subset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms \r\n\r\nwith roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower \r\n\r\nrooms have both 1 king bed and 1 double bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Standard Views and Courtyard Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Wilderness Lodge's hotel rooms based on what you see from \r\n\r\ninside the room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Check MouseSavers.com for Disney hotel room discounts. If you're ready to book, we recommend and use Small World Vacations.\r\n

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Wilderness Lodge Pools

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Wilderness Lodge has two pools. The largest, Copper Creek Springs Pool, \r\n\r\nsits sits in the middle of the resort's courtyard. The pool is surrounded by \r\n\r\nrock work and lush vegetation, the entire complex looks great. There is also a \r\n\r\nhot tub, kiddie pool and water player area.\r\n

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Wilderness Lodge's Copper Creek Springs Pool and hot tub.\r\n

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The Boulder Ridge Cove Pool is located on the far right of the resort, next to \r\n\r\nthe Boulder Ridge Villas.

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Wilderness Lodge's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to \r\n\r\n4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. Wilderness Lodge also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Copper Creek Springs Pool.

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Copper Creek Springs has one water slide that all ages are free to use. \r\n\r\nGuests can find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, \r\n\r\nextending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Copper Creek Springs Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating \r\n\r\nhours. \r\n

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Copper Creek Spring's geyser.

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The entrance to Boulder Ridge Cove Pool

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Restaurants and Dining

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Wilderness Lodge has some excellent dining options, including three quick \r\n\r\nservice restaurants, two table service restaurants and one lounge.

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Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White

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\r\nArtist Point Dinner Menu - Artist Point Kids Menu

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The character meal at Wilderness Lodge features Snow White, the evil Queen, and a few dwarfs as well as an enchanted forest setting.

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Geyser Point Bar & Grill

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\r\nBreakfast Menu\r\n- All Day Menu\r\n- Beverage Menu \r\n

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At Geyser Point you'll find picturesque views of the resort’s geyser and pool area along with Bay Lake. Geyser Point is a hybrid quick service and table service lounge venue, with both sharing the same lovely seating area. The main food offerings are counter service, but there is a substantial bar menu with imaginative drinks and hearty snacks.

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Whispering Canyon Cafe

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\r\nWhispering Canyon Cafe Breakfast Menu\r\n- Whispering Canyon Cafe Kids Breakfast Menu\r\n- Whispering Canyon Cafe Lunch Menu\r\n- Whispering Canyon Cafe Dinner Menu\r\n- Whispering Canyon Cafe Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Just off the hotel's atrium lobby, the restaurant looks out on the lobby on \r\n\r\none side and a mountain prairie, created by Disney landscapers, on the other. \r\n\r\nTables have a barrel-top lazy Susan where food is placed.

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If you're hungry, the real value here is in the family-style service, with \r\n\r\nall-you-can-eat servings brought to you on platters and in crocks to pass \r\n\r\naround to your family. You can always order off the regular menu if you don't \r\n\r\nfeel like sharing, but you may end up paying more for the privilege. Lively \r\n\r\ndining room with servers who encourage kids to be rowdy - all in good fun.

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Roaring Fork

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\r\nRoaring Fork Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n- Roaring Fork Breakfast Menu\r\n

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Roaring Fork is small counter service restaurant with a limited menu. \r\n\r\nPrices range from $6 to $15 for an entree so you won't break the bank. The \r\n\r\nmenu is made up of burgers, sandwiches, and flatbread pizzas.

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\r\nRoaring Fork participate in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Wilderness Lodge participate in the Disney Dining Plan (when it's offered); meals cost 1 credit at Roaring Fork and Whispering Canyon, \r\n\r\nand 2 credits at Artist Point. Tables \r\n\r\nin Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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\r\nTerritory Lounge is Wilderness Lodge's \r\n\r\nlounge. Territory Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu, with \r\n\r\nseveral beer selections, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is \r\n\r\nusually open 4 PM to 10 PM daily.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort is just \r\n\r\noff of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on World Drive. Turn right onto World Drive and \r\n\r\nthen right on to Timberline Dr. Finally, make a left on to W Wilderness Rd and \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort. If you're not renting \r\n\r\na car, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Wilderness Lodge Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Wilderness \r\n\r\nLodge Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or \r\n\r\n10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort to \r\n\r\nMagic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, EPCOT, Disney's Animal Kingdom, \r\n\r\nBlizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, \r\n\r\nbetween the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus \r\n\r\nstop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

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Magic Kingdom can also be accessed by boat from the dock near Copper Creek \r\n\r\nSprings. Boat service may be suspended during thunderstorms, so if it's \r\n\r\nraining or looks like it's about to, Disney will provide buses. Boats to Magic Kingdom start running 30 minutes before the scheduled opening of the park and close 90 minutes after the park closes.

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Why take a bus to Magic Kingdom when you can take a boat?

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Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Wilderness Lodge's bus schedule, and they'll \r\n\r\ntell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Wilderness Lodge's \r\n\r\nbus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 11 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 14-20 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little \r\n\r\nless frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 20 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. We \r\n\r\nevaluate Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort's bus service annually, and the \r\n\r\nlatest transportation times can be found below.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Wilderness Lodge \r\n\r\nResort If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the \r\n\r\ncheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort \r\n\r\nto Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there \r\n\r\nto your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's Wilderness \r\n\r\nLodge Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 \r\n\r\nhours each way. If your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always an Uber, Lyft, or taxi from Wilderness Lodge \r\n\r\nto wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab \r\n\r\nride to get to most Disney hotels from Wilderness Lodge, and Uber and Lyft are often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Sturdy Branches is Wilderness Lodge's fitness center and \r\n\r\nspa. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are only available from 6:00 AM \r\n\r\nto 9:00 PM. Massage, facial, and body treatment services are available.

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Watercraft Rentals are available for use in Bay Lake 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. \r\n\r\nKayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices vary. \r\n\r\nAll rentals can be purchased in a booth near Copper Creek Springs Pool.

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Boat and Bike Rentals
Type of RentalCost - Length of rental
Sea Raycer$32 for 30 Minutes - $40 for 45 Minutes - $45 for 60 minutes
Montauk$45 for 30 minutes
Pontoon$45 for 30 minutes
Bike$9 for 60 minutes - $18 for 24 hours
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Wilderness Lodge's gift shop is Wilderness Lodge Mercantile. It is located \r\n\r\non the right side after you enter Wilderness Lodge's lobby. As you'd expect \r\n\r\nfrom a Disney gift shop, Mercantile has a decent collection of souvenirs \r\n\r\nranging from small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets \r\n\r\nand Disney princess dresses. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay \r\n\r\nin the theme parks or Disney Springs.

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\r\nWilderness Lodge Mercantile also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, \r\n\r\naspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the \r\n\r\nlike. And Wilderness Lodge Mercantile has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 0.75-mile shaded fitness trail and bike path that connects Disney's \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge and Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort.\r\n

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Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Wilderness Lodge

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort's Lost and Found department by calling (407)824-4245.\r\n

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","good_not_so_good_rooms":"\r\n\r\n

Best and worst room views at Disney's Wilderness Lodge resort

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TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on \r\n\r\nproperty. Click here for the Disney's Wilderness Lodge resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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The lodge is shaped like a very\r\nblocky letter V. The main entrance and lobby are at the closed end\r\nof the V. Next are middle wings that connect the lobby to the parallel\r\nend sections, which extend to the open part of the V. The V’s open end\r\nflanks pools and gardens and overlooks Bay Lake directly or obliquely.\r\nAvoid rooms on the fourth, fifth, and sixth floors numbered 67–99;\r\nthese overlook the main lobby and pick up every whoop, holler, and\r\nshout from the boisterous Whispering Canyon Cafe downstairs. The\r\nnoise makes it difficult to get to sleep before Whispering Canyon closes,\r\nusually at 10 p.m.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1168\"\r\n
Room 1168: Some rooms on the far northeast of the building have \r\nviews of Bay Lake.
\r\n\r\n
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\r\n\r\n\"1141\"\r\n
Room 1141: Rooms with a \"courtyard view\" look in to the middle \r\narea resort.
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The better rooms are on floors four, five, and six, toward the V’s\r\nopen end. On the very end of the northernmost V, rooms 4000–4003,\r\n5000–5003, and 6000–6003 offer a direct frontal view of Bay Lake\r\nthrough some tall trees. Toward the end of the V on the parallel wings\r\nbut facing inward, odd-numbered rooms 4005–4023, 5005–5023,\r\nand 6005–6023 face the courtyard but have excellent oblique lake\r\nviews. Even-numbered rooms 5004–5034 and 6004–6034 face the\r\nCascade Cabins, woodlands northwest of the lodge, and, beyond the\r\nwoodlands, the Magic Kingdom.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"4091\"\r\n
Room 4091: A bad view and a lot of noise thanks to the lobby being \r\n\r\nright outside your door.
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\r\n
\r\n\"7058\"\r\n
Room 7058: A nice view but is it worth over $500 a night in the \r\n\r\npeak season?
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Odd-numbered rooms 5035–5041 and 6035–6041, on the lake end\r\nof the parallel middle wings, offer a direct but distant view of the lake,\r\nwith pools and gardens in the foreground.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"7035\"\r\n
Room 7035: You may get lucky and have a courtyard view with a \r\n\r\ngreat view of Bay Lake.
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\r\n\"4007\"\r\n
Room 4007: Nice view of the Copper Creek Springs pool.
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Standard-view rooms X042–X066 are some of the cheapest in the\r\nmain building, with views of parking lots, service areas, and such, and\r\nthe Cascade Cabins in the foreground. Avoid these on the fourth floor.\r\nOn the fifth and sixth floors, however, these rooms afford views of\r\nthe Magic Kingdom fireworks and are more expensive. (Seventh-floor\r\nrooms are Club Level—that is, expensive.)

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1148\"\r\n
Room 1148: Trees. You're going to see a lot of these at Wilderness Lodge.
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The rooms listed previously afford the most desirable views, but if\r\nyou can’t score one, you’re pretty much assured of a woodland view\r\nor a room fronting the faux rocks and creek in the V’s inner courtyard.\r\nClub Level rooms on the seventh floor aren’t recommended:\r\nOnly those facing the Magic Kingdom have nice views, and even those have a service area in the foreground. Almost all rooms at Wilderness\r\nLodge have balconies.

","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
National-park-lodge theme is a favorite\r\nof kids and adults alikeNoise from main building’s lobby can be\r\nheard inside nearby rooms
Along with Animal Kingdom Lodge, it’s\r\nthe least expensive Disney Deluxe resortBus transportation\r\nshared with the Contemporary Resort
Boat transportation to Magic KingdomSmallest rooms and baths of Disney’s\r\nDeluxe resorts
Exceptionally peaceful location and\r\npublic areas
Great views from many guest rooms
Excellent bars for adults
Elaborate Child Play area near main pool
Close to recreational options at\r\nFort Wilderness
\r\n\r\n","recommend_to_friends":79,"recommend_annual_change":8,"stay_again":100,"stay_again_annual_change":11,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":true,"suites":false,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":430,"theme":"National-park Grand Lodge of the Early 1900s","cost_range":"$546 - $1,930","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Disney's Wilderness Lodge","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"169a701d06433d0f68582551e9de43c1","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243232","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":344,"blog_slug":"wilderness-lodge","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys wilderness lodge","club_name":"Old Faithful Club","operator_id":80010394,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/wilderness-lodge-resort","opened_on":"1994-05-28","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"wl","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2013,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Inspired by the grand, rustic Arts and Crafts national park lodges of the early 20th century, the Wilderness Lodge lobby features exposed log-cabin timbers and an 82-foot tall stone fireplace.","dining_overview":"Dining choices at Wilderness Lodge are informal and tasty. Breakfast at Whispering Canyon is almost a rite of passage. On cooler evenings, a drink at Geyser Point is a great way to end the day.","good_for":"National park vibe","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":1,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Yacht Club Resort","code":"ORL019","address":"1700 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079347000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/yacht-club-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-yacht-club-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:55.000-08:00","overview":"

Disney's Yacht Club Resort Overview

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This five-story Deluxe resort has clapboard facades with whitewashed-wood trim. The Yacht Club is painted a subdued gray and has a nautical theme with model ships and antique navigational instruments in public areas. The resort has a themed lobby, with a giant globe. The resort faces 25-acre Crescent Lake and has an elaborate swimming complex.

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There are 635 guest rooms and 21 suites at the Yacht Club. Most of the hotel rooms are 381 square feet and have two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a desk and two chairs. Like the Grand Floridian's, rooms have a lot of drawer space. Yacht Club rooms are decorated in blue and white. Some rooms have balconies.

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\r\nDisney's Yacht Club Resort map\r\n

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The Yacht Club Resort shares restaurants, pools, and other amenities with the Beach Club Resort and Beach Club Villas. A small business center serves guests' work needs for both the Yacht and Beach Clubs and Beach Club Villas.

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As Disney Deluxe resorts, the Yacht Club and Beach Club provide excellent service. They offer nine restaurants and lounges and are within walking distance of Epcot and the BoardWalk. Transportation to other destinations is by bus or boat. Walking time to the transportation loading areas from the most remote rooms is 7 minutes.

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Get to Know Disney's Yacht Club Resort

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\r\nThe exterior and lobby of Disney's Yacht Club Resort.\r\n

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Disney's Yacht Club Rooms

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Most of the Yacht Club rooms are 381 square feet and have two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a desk and two chairs. Most rooms have balconies.

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Most Disney's Yacht Club Resort rooms are furnished with the following:\r\n

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\r\nA Yacht Club King Bed room. \r\n

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Disney's Yacht Club Resort Room Layout\r\n

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Yacht Club's bathrooms are modestly-sized for a Disney deluxe resort, but they are larger than those at the moderate or value levels. Water pressure in the shower is adequate, but probably less than what you're used to at home. A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks and ample counter space. Combined with the shower/toilet room, this means that three people can have private dressing space at the same time. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided. Guests with long or thick hair may find that the dryer is underpowered for their needs.\r\n\r\n

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A typical Yacht Club bathroom.\r\n

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Yacht Club Room Classifications

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Yacht Club rooms are priced depending on the view from the room. \r\n

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Yacht Club Concierge Level Rooms

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The deluxe Disney hotels all include a subset rooms offered with addition amenities and more personalized serivce. These \"concierge level\" or \"club level\" rooms have a different name at each hotel; at the Yacht Club they are known as the Regatta Club. The Regatta Club is comprised of about 70 rooms, located on the resort's fifth floor. Though most of the Regatta rooms are physically similar to the standard Yacht Club hotel rooms, there are also a handful of suites with additional bedrooms, significantly larger square footage, or features such as in-room kitchen facilities.

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Concierge Level guests receive additional amenities and personalized service beyond that available to regular guests. These include:\r\n\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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Disney's Yacht Club Resort has approximately 25 handicap-accessible rooms in a variety of configurations to accommodate guests with hearing or mobility issues. Mobility access rooms comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more.

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Some accessible rooms have the standard setup of two queen-sized beds; all rooms with roll-in showers have one king-sized bed, and a small number of roll-in shower rooms have both one king bed and one double bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Dog Friendly Room Options

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For a nightly fee of $75 on top of the room charge, up to 2 dogs are allowed in Yacht Club rooms. A check-in package of dog-friendly items comes with the extra fee, but so do several special rules. Housekeeping will only enter the room while the human guests are present, special Do Not Disturb tags are mandatory, and guests may be called to come to their room if the dog is being too noisy. \r\n

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How Disney's Yacht Club Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe Resorts

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The Yacht Club (and its neighbor Beach Club) have two major advantages over other hotels. One, you can walk to the International Gateway entrance of Epcot in less than 10 minutes. And Two, it has the best pool of all the Walt Disney World resorts. If you or your children like to spend time poolside, there is no better place at Walt Disney World to do this. If you are planning to skip visiting the theme parks during one or more of your vacation days, then the Yacht and Beach Club resorts make an excellent hotel choice. The exceptional pool and quick access to the dining on the Boardwalk make the Yacht Club it easy to have fun without visiting the parks.

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The nightly price for rooms at Yacht & Beach Club fall in to the middle of all the other WDW resorts. Yacht Club does offer a fitness center, salon, barber shop, and a spa.

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Dining Options at Disney's Yacht Club

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One of the key benefits of staying at the Yacht Club is the close proximity to all of the dining opportunities at Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios (with park admission). Additionally, the many restaurants at the BoardWalk and Swan & Dolphin resorts are easily accessible on foot. Guests staying at the Yacht Club can be at more than 100 dining venues within 15 minutes. If you're staying at a Disney value resort, you might only have two or three options within that time frame.

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The Yacht Club, and its adjacent sister the Beach Club, have a variety of dining options including:

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Yacht Club Recreation and Amenities

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Yacht Club's Stormalong Bay Pool\r\n

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Stormalong Bay's shipwreck\r\n

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Practical Matters

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Transportation to and from Disney's Yacht Club Resort

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Driving to the Yacht Club

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Disney's Yacht Club Resort is just off of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center Dr. and you'll end up on Osceola Parkway. Turn right onto World Drive and then left on Epcot Resorts Blvd. Follow Epcot Resorts Blvd and Yacht Club will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Yacht Club Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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\r\nA security gate guards the entrance to the Yacht Club's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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\r\nGuests keeping a car at the Yacht Club overnight will be charged $25 per day for standard self-parking or $33 per day for valet parking. \r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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Sanford International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from Sanford to Disney's Yacht Club Resort. If you're not renting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport offers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are generally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to Disney's Yacht Club Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Yacht Club Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way. That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and $380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Yacht Club Resort. You may also want to consult ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft for their pricing options.

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Getting to the Theme Parks, Water Parks and Disney Springs

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Disney provides free bus service from Disney's Yacht Club Resort to Magic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. No bus transportation is provided to Epcot's main entrance. Disney's Yacht Club Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along the wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and service. Disney's Yacht Club Resort shares bus service with Beach Club.

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EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios can also be accessed by boat from the dock near Stormalong Bay. Boat service may be suspended during thunderstorms, so if it's raining or looks like it's about to, Disney will provide buses.

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Why take a bus to Epcot or Disney's Hollywood Studios when you can take a \r\n\r\nboat?

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Ask a Disney Castmember about Yacht Club's bus schedule, and they'll tell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Yacht Club's bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed. For example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, you'll wait around 11 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus schedules for Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 10-13 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people are already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme parks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back to their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should average out to around 19 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's Animal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service is faster to the Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. We evaluate Disney's Yacht Club Resort's bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be found below.

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Disney’s Skyliner Service
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\r\nDisney’s Skyliner is an elevated, cable-driven gondola system that connects EPCOT and the EPCOT resorts – Beach Club and Beach Club Villas, Yacht Club, BoardWalk Inn and Villas, and the Swan and Dolphin - to Hollywood Studios, Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and the Art of Animation resorts. \r\n

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\r\nEach gondola is an enclosed, 10-person cabin with bench seats and lots of windows. Ventilation is provided by windows and vents that can be opened or closed depending on the temperature.\r\n

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\r\nSkyliner Hubs\r\nDisney’s Caribbean Beach Resort serves as the central hub for most Skyliner routes. If you’re trying to get to a theme park from a resort using the Skyliner, you’ll almost always have to disembark at Caribbean Beach to board another gondola going to your destination.\r\n

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\r\nThe Skyliner is most useful if you’re near its station at EPCOT’s International Gateway, and you want to go to one of the destinations it serves. Travel time from the International Gateway station to Disney’s Hollywood Studios is around 35-44 minutes during the busiest times; of that, only around19 minutes is spent in transit – the rest is in line waiting to board. In most cases, the Skyliner is at least as fast as Disney’s bus service, with a much better view.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Yacht Club Resort

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If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Yacht Club Resort to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's Yacht Club Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower),hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi, Uber, or Lyft from Yacht Club to another hotel. \r\n Rates are generally in the $15-25 range depending on your destination, and Uber and Lyft are usually cheaper than a cab. A taxi can typically get to most points in Disney World within 20 minutes (often much less), versus the one to two hours it might take using Disney's free transportation system. Taxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

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You can also take a boat in Crescent Lake to Disney's BoardWalk Resort or the Swan & Dolphin hotels. This option can also take some time depending on where you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

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To Universal Orlando

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If you're staying at Walt Disney World and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your hotel to Universal and back for about $20 per person. Pickup and return times are at your convenience. A one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have three to five people.\r\n

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Reader Review Comments

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We receive a lot of mail about the Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, most of it positive. First, these remarks from a Wayland, Massachusetts, mother of two:

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This was the first time we stayed at the Yacht & Beach Club, and for us the amazing pool complex was worth the extra money. Several nights we climbed up to the top of the waterslide as the sun was setting, and it was an incredible sight—truly a memorable experience!\r\n
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This mom from Brownsville, Texas, however, has some issues with the Yacht & \r\n\r\nBeach Club:

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The room doors at the Yacht & Beach Club don’t fit very snugly, so any noise from the hall was practically broadcast into our room. The room was close to the elevators, so it sounded like everyone in the hotel was stampeding past our door in the morning. I like the Yacht & Beach Club very much, but if we go back I’ll ask for a more remote room way at the end of the hall.\r\n
\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Touringplans offers pictures of the view from any disney resort room on property. click here for the disney's yacht club resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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When you look at the Yacht Club from Crescent Lake, the resort is connected to the Beach Club on the right and angles toward the Dolphin hotel on the left. all Yacht Club rooms offer full balconies or, on the ground floor, patios. Rooms with the best views are as follows (the higher the last three digits in the\r\nroom number, the closer to lobby, main pool area, and restaurants):

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Fifth-floor rooms with full balconies facing the lake, with the boardwalk inn in the background club-level rooms 5161, 5163, 5241

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Fifth-floor rooms directly facing Epcot rooms 5195–5199, 5153

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Standard-view fourth-floor rooms facing epcot rooms 4195–4199, 4153

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\r\n\"4228\"\r\n
room 4228: a dirty roof and some treetops aren't the most glamorous things to look at.
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\r\n\"1111\"\r\n
room 1111: some rooms on the front of the building have okay views, but they still aren't that interesting.
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\r\n\"1005\"\r\n
room 1005: lower level room with a view of crescent lake.
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\r\n\"3185\"\r\n
room 3185: some upper level rooms have perfect views of crescent lake.
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Some other rooms face the Boardwalk or Epcot across Crescent Lake, but they’re inferior to the rooms just listed.

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Avoid standard-view rooms at either resort except for rooms 3512–3536 and 4578–4598 at the Beach Club; these overlook a dense pine thicket. in addition to offering a nice vista for a standard-view rate, these\r\nare the closest rooms to epcot available at any resort on crescent lake.

\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Walking distance to Epcot’s\r\nInternational GatewayLack of good quick-service dining
Best pool complex of any WDW resortViews and balcony size are hit-or-miss
Walk, boat, or Skyliner to Disney’s Hollywood StudiosBus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Close to many BoardWalk and\r\nEpcot dining options
","recommend_to_friends":89,"recommend_annual_change":7,"stay_again":100,"stay_again_annual_change":0,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":635,"theme":"New England Seashore Hotel of the 1880s","cost_range":"$622 - $4,257","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":"Disney's Yacht Club is a deluxe level resort. Learn here about room sizes and views, dining options, transportation, recreation, and other amenities. ","survey_update_hash":"33e81c72e34f8b67be43c563560e2fc4","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079343850","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":381,"blog_slug":"yacht-club","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys yacht club resort","club_name":"Regatta Club","operator_id":80010390,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/yacht-club-resort","opened_on":"1990-11-05","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"yc","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2017,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Yacht Club's nautical beach theme includes model ships and antique navigation instruments. The Resort's best features are its top-rated pool, walking paths to EPCOT and the Studios, and Skyliner access.","dining_overview":"Dining isn't a strength at Yacht Club, but tons of options are short walk away at EPCOT or the four other resorts.","good_for":"Best Disney pool","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":44,"property_id":1,"name":"Shades of Green at Walt Disney World","code":"ORL022","address":"1950 West Magnolia Palm Drive","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078243400","url":"http://www.shadesofgreen.org","off_site":false,"permalink":"shades-of-green-at-walt-disney-world","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00","overview":"

Shades of Green at Walt Disney World Overview

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Originally owned by Disney, Shades of Green was called The Golf\r\nResort when it opened in 1973 and renamed The Disney Inn in 1986.\r\nIn 1994 Disney reached an agreement with the U.S. Army Family and

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\r\nShades of Green Hotel map\r\n

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Shades of Green is open to active and retired US servicemembers\r\n(including reservists) and their families, among other qualifying groups.\r\nCivilians may accompany eligible military personnel as their guests.\r\n(For details, see shadesofgreen.org/about-shades\r\n-green/eligi bility.) If you’re planning a holiday\r\nvisit or a long weekend here, we recommend\r\nbooking as early as possible—up to seven months\r\nin advance. Guests at Shades of Green are eligible\r\nfor Disney’s Early Theme Park Entry and\r\nExtended Evening Hours.

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Shades of Green consists of one three-story\r\nand one five-story building nestled among three golf courses that are\r\nopen to Disney guests. At 455 square feet each, the 586 guest rooms at\r\nShades of Green are larger than those at the Grand Floridian.

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On its Frequently Asked Questions page, the website states that\r\n“Shades of Green would be comparable to the Disney Deluxe Resorts.”\r\nWhile the rooms are certainly large, nicely appointed, and immaculately\r\nmaintained, not to mention a great value for those who qualify to stay\r\nhere, they’re indistinguishable from the rooms at any number of decent\r\nmidpriced hotels. There’s no discernible theming or “wow” factor. The\r\ndining options are fine but not amazing. Service, on the other hand, is\r\nsuperb—definitely up to the Deluxe standard.

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Standard rooms have two queen-size beds, a single sleeper sofa, a\r\nminifridge,\r\na table and two chairs, and a TV. Junior suites sleep six with\r\nthree queen beds, one in the living area. Family suites sleep eight with\r\nthree queen sleeper sofas and a king bed; these suites also have two\r\nbathrooms. All rooms have a patio or balcony.

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A military mom from Loganville, Georgia, wishes we loved Shades\r\nof Green as much as she does:

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We loved our stay at Shades of Green. I know it’s only for military\r\npersonnel, but I feel like you could say a little more about it. The\r\nrooms are huge. The pools are fantastic. Kids 4 and younger eat for\r\nless than $4, and the buffet is better than a typical chain—when I\r\ncan feed my family of five for about $60, that’s pretty awesome. They\r\nhave fun themed nights all week and occasional kids’ activities too.
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Another mom, this one from Plainfield, Indiana, makes the case for\r\nexploring all of your lodging options:

\r\n
While it’s true that SOG is often a good deal, military families should\r\nstill do some comparison shopping. Room rates are tiered based on\r\nrank—the higher your rank, the higher the rate. Definitely check into\r\nmilitary rates at Disney properties, and also check out the Armed\r\nForces Vacation Club for condos near WDW [see afvclub.com for participating\r\nOrlando-area properties]. We rented a two-bedroom, twobath\r\ncondo with a full kitchen and pool for seven nights, and it cost\r\nus less than two nights at a Disney hotel.
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How Shades of Green Compares to Other Disney Resorts

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Shades of Green isn't run by Disney, and its service is less sugarcoated \r\nthan at Disney-run resorts. Shades of Green guests CANNOT park for free at theme parks. The resort offers its accommodations at rates based on a service member’s rank, as well as attraction tickets to the theme parks. For rates and other information, call (888) 593-2242 or see shadesofgreen.org.

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\r\nShades of Green's exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Shades of Green's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in. Hotel guest parking (there's a garage) at Shades of Green costs $17 per night.\r\n

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\r\nCheck-in time at Shades of Green is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 \r\n\r\nAM.

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\r\nLook for signs pointing you to the Registration/Check-In area. You'll need to \r\n\r\nprovide a government-issued photo ID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. \r\n

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Walt Disney World Shades of Green's Rooms

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At 455 square feet each, the 586 guest rooms at Shades of Green\r\nare larger than those at the Grand Floridian. Decor is pleasant though\r\nthoroughly unremarkable—pretty much the same as at any midpriced\r\nhotel. Most rooms have two queen-size beds, a daybed, and a table\r\nand four chairs, as well as a television in an armoire. All rooms have\r\na patio or balcony.

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\r\nA standard Shades of Green room (images provided Mindy Goldman)\r\n

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Each Shades of Green room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits under a counter or desk. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

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\r\nShades of Green's bathrooms aren't big, but they also aren't \r\n\r\nas small as the ones you'll find in Disney's moderate or value resort rooms. \r\n\r\nLuckily you won't feel claustrophobic in your room's bathroom. Water pressure \r\n\r\nin the shower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still \r\n\r\nenough to get your hair clean. Eventually. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted hair \r\n\r\ndryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; bring your own if you've got \r\n\r\nlots of hair.

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\r\nA standard Shades of Green bathroom\r\n

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Walt Disney World Shades of Green Pools

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Shades of Green has two pools. The Mill Pond Pool features a tiered\r\nwaterslide, while the Magnolia Pool has a zero-entry feature as well as\r\na splash-and-play area and hot tubs.\r\n

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\r\nLeft: Mil Pond Pool Right: Magnolia Pool.\r\n

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There is also a smaller pool located on the east side of the resort. This \r\n\r\npool is a basic concrete pools with minimal theming, but it does have plenty \r\n\r\nof lounge chairs and tables around the pool.

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Shades of Green's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to \r\n\r\n4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Shades of Green also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Mil Pond Pool.

\r\n Pool hours are at least 10 AM to 10 PM. Both pools will have \r\n\r\nlifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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You may need to bring your towels from your room to use at the pool - \r\n\r\nShades of Green sometimes stocks extra towels poolside, and sometimes they \r\n\r\ndon't. Our advice is to send someone\r\n down to the pool to check the towel situation before you go. If you end up \r\n\r\nusing your room towels at the pool, just call Housekeeping when you get back \r\n\r\nand request more.

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Pool toys are permitted in Shades of Green's pools, \r\n\r\nincluding \"pool noodles,\" and basic toys that would\r\nbe appropriate for water use such as rubber duckies and bucket & shovel sets. \r\n\r\nSome of us will occasionally bring something like a whiffle ball for playing \r\n\r\ncatch in the pool. As\r\nlong as you’re not disturbing other guests, you’ll be fine. Also note that \r\n\r\nkids with pool toys become very popular with other kids in the pool who want \r\n\r\nto play too. If you’re \r\ntraveling with an only child and want him to have some age cohort interaction \r\n\r\nduring your vacation, a nice strategy is to bring some extra toys. Chances are \r\n\r\nhe’ll make a buddy.\r\n

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Playgrounds at Shades of Green

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\r\nA small playground is also available at Shades of Green. The set has a small \r\n\r\nplastic slide and a couple of sections with a few steps for toddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Shades of Green's concern here - there \r\n\r\nare no swings, and the entire area is covered in a springy, poured rubber \r\n\r\nsurface and sand.\r\n

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\r\nPlayground at Shades of Green\r\n

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Dining at Shades of Green

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Restaurants include Mangino’s, an Italian eatery; the Garden Gallery\r\nbuffet; three quick-service options (Bistro to Go, Express Café, and Java Café); and Evergreen’s, a sports bar and grill.\r\nThe Army & Air Force Exchange Service, comparable to a convenience\r\nstore or hotel gift shop, sells Disney merchandise in addition to snacks,\r\nsoft drinks, alcohol, tobacco, and over-the-counter medicines.

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Transportation to and from Shades of Green

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Transportation to all theme parks is by bus; a transfer is required\r\nto almost all destinations. Walking time to the bus-loading area from\r\nthe most remote rooms is about 5 minutes. Readers including this Lancaster,\r\nOhio, woman report that bus service is a sore spot:

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Please, please, please stress to your readers how awful the transportation\r\nsystem is—there is no direct access to the Magic Kingdom or\r\nEPCOT, and the buses that go directly to the other parks run only once\r\nan hour. If you want to go back to your room midday, plan for an hour\r\nto an hour and a half of travel time there and then back to the park.
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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Shades of Green is just off of I-4 in \r\n\r\nLake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot/Downtown Disney. \r\n\r\nExit onto World Drive. Take World Drive for about 2.1 miles and then turn left \r\n\r\nonto Floridian Way. Turn left onto Magnolia Palm Drive and Shades of Green \r\n\r\nwill be on your left.\r\n

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Shades of Green's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Shades of Green. If you're not renting a car, be aware \r\n\r\nthat Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nShades of Green will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Shades of Green \r\n\r\nfor around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger \r\n\r\nvan is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Shades of Green. At those prices, it may \r\n\r\nbe less expensive to rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs. Shades of Green runs continuous shuttles from the resort to \r\n\r\nthe Transportation and Ticket Center, where guests can transfer to their final \r\n\r\ndestinations. Shades of Green's bus stops sit along the front wall of the \r\n\r\nlobby. From the Transportation and Ticket Center guests can take a Monorail or \r\n\r\nFerry boat to Magic Kingdom and a Monorail to Epcot.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Shades of Green If you've \r\n\r\ngot dining plans at another Disney hotel that is on the Monorail loop \r\n\r\n(Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower), the cheapest \r\n\r\noption is to take the bus from Shades of Green to Transportation and Ticket \r\n\r\nCenter, then ride a Monorail from there to your destination hotel. Do the \r\n\r\nreverse to get back to Shades of Green. While that's free, it can take \r\n\r\nanywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Shades of Green \r\n\r\nto wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab \r\n\r\nride to get to most Disney hotels, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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Recreation and Things to Do

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Shades of Green's fitness center is located near Manglno's \r\n\r\nBistro.

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Magnolia Spa is Shades of Green's full-service spa. \r\n\r\nMassages, body therapies and facials are available. Spa treatments are \r\n\r\navailable 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM.

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Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail at \r\n\r\nShades of Green. A jogging path runs from Shades of Green to Disney's \r\n\r\nPolynesian Resort and Disney's Grand Floridian Resort.\r\n

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Miscellaneous Shades of Green

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\r\nCoin-operated washers and dryers are in laundry facilities \r\n\r\nlocated on the first floor in the Magnolia Rooms or Palm Rooms building. The \r\n\r\nmachines take quarters, and a change machine is provided. A small selection of \r\n\r\nsoap, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are also sold. A typical wash cycle \r\n\r\ntakes 20 to 30 minutes, and a typical dry cycle takes 40 to 50.\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Shades of Green's \r\n\r\nLost and Found department by calling (407) 824-3400.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"You don’t have to worry much about bad room views or locations\r\nat Shades of Green: Except for a small percentage that overlook the\r\nentrance road and parking lot, most offer views of the golf courses that\r\nsurround the hotel or views of the swimming area. Note, however,\r\nthat a few rooms are located a good ways from the elevators. When you\r\nreserve, make your preference known.","strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":78,"recommend_annual_change":-14,"stay_again":78,"stay_again_annual_change":-22,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":true,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":586,"theme":null,"cost_range":null,"shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"wdw","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":false,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"4ceb3be3031584ba3980bb5661bb351c","author_user_id":2,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":455,"blog_slug":"shades-of-green","property_owned":false,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":"17.0","resort_fee":null,"sort_name":"shades of green at walt disney world","club_name":null,"operator_id":null,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":null,"opened_on":"1994-02-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":null,"refresh_year":null,"renovation_year":null,"pool_slide":false,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":null,"max_guests_std":null,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Shades of Green consists of one three-story and one five-story building nestled among three golf courses. At 455 square feet each, rooms at Shades of Green are even larger than those at the Grand Floridian.","dining_overview":"Restaurants include Mangino’s, an Italian eatery; the Garden Gallery buffet; two quick-service options; and a sports bar and grill.","good_for":"Military families staying on-site","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":431,"property_id":1,"name":"Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser","code":"ORL326","address":"201 South Studio Drive","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32836","phone_number":null,"url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/star-wars-galactic-starcruiser/","off_site":false,"permalink":"star-wars-galactic-starcruiser","created_at":"2019-08-23T05:55:53.000-07:00","updated_at":"2023-05-30T05:36:11.000-07:00","overview":"

The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser hotel is unlike any other Disney resort experience. The fully enclosed building uses video screens to simulate space and the Cast Members are not only totally in-character, but lead guests on missions and quests. Each experience is 2 nights, no more, no less. Think of it more like a cruise than a regular hotel stay, in both activities and price.

\r\n\r\n

What is it?

\r\n\r\n

Part hotel, part role-playing game. Galactic Starcruiser has rooms that you can sleep in for two nights as well as dining venues and other hotel-like things. There are many Cast Members acting out roles that keep the experience as Star Wars as you want to be.

\r\n\r\n

What is included?

\r\n\r\n

Every Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser vacation package includes a 2-night stay in a cabin or suite, meals (excluding alcoholic and specialty beverages), and exclusive experiences, missions and activities. The vacation adventure also includes entry to Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge for your planetary excursion to Batuu. Valet parking is also included.

\r\n\r\n

So what do guests do all day?

\r\n\r\n

A sample itinerary has been posted to Disney's website. It includes activities like Sabacc lessons (card game), a Captain's Reception, Lightsaber Training, and several hilariously-scheduled \"unexpected story moments.\"

\r\n\r\n

Unexpected Story Moments?

\r\n\r\n

Yep. This is where the Starcruiser really comes alive. These are things that are sprung on you like hiding a stowaway, joining a smuggling ring, or organizing and pulling off a heist. We are anxiously waiting on details like how much say the guest has in their story moments and whether, as part of the smuggling ring, we get to shoot a Rodian.

\r\n\r\n

But what does it cost?

\r\n\r\n

Well... it's a lot. Full price lists are not out yet, but Disney has given us a sample of a weekday price during one of the cheapest seasons. Sample Standard Cabin Rates for weeknights, August 20 through September 17, 2022 will run two guests $4,809, three guests $5,299, and four guests $5,999. The good news is that is for the entire two night stay. The bad news is that if you want a weekend, a busier time, or an upgraded room like a Galaxy Class Suite or Grand Captain Suite it will be more than that.

\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":100,"theme":"Ultra-themed Star Wars Hotel","cost_range":"$4,809+","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"hs","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":false,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":null,"author_user_id":null,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":250,"blog_slug":"star-wars-galactic-starcruiser","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":false,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":null,"sort_name":"star wars galactic starcruiser","club_name":null,"operator_id":null,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/star-wars-galactic-starcruiser/overview/","opened_on":"2022-03-01","extinct_on":"2023-10-01","opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"swgs","refresh_year":null,"renovation_year":2022,"pool_slide":false,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":true,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Galactic Starcruiser is a live-action role-playing game that just happens to come with a hotel room. Think of it as a cruise ship that doesn't float, and lives in the Star Wars universe.","dining_overview":"The one dining location, Crown of Corelia, serves cafeteria-style breakfast and lunch, and sit-down dinners. The food is better than we expected, some of it in unusual shapes and colors.","good_for":"Intense Star Wars fans","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":11,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":182,"property_id":1,"name":"Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel","code":"ORL020","address":"1500 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079347639","url":"http://www.swandolphin.com","off_site":false,"permalink":"dolphin-at-walt-disney-world","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:24.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:56.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel Overview

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Although these resorts are inside the World and Disney handles\r\ntheir reservations, they’re owned by Sheraton (Dolphin) and Westin\r\n(Swan) and can be booked directly through their parent companies,\r\ntoo. Both are served by Disney transportation to the theme parks, but neither participates\r\nin the Disney Dining Plan.

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Opened in 1990, the Swan and Dolphin face each other on either\r\nside of an inlet of Crescent Lake. The Swan Reserve is located across\r\nthe street from the Swan and Dolphin. Although they’re inside Walt\r\nDisney World and Disney handles their reservations, they’re managed\r\nby Sheraton (Dolphin) and Westin (Swan), and the Swan Reserve is\r\npart of the Autograph Collection. As such, they can be booked directly\r\nthrough Marriott as well as through Disney.

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\r\nWalt Disney World Dolphin Area Map\r\n

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All three resorts are served by Disney transportation to the theme\r\nparks and participate in Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening\r\nHours, but they don’t participate in the Disney Dining Plan.

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The Dolphin’s main building is a 27-story turquoise triangle. This\r\ncentral A-frame, with large wings extending from both sides and four\r\nsmaller arms from its rear, is attached to a large conference center.\r\nPerched on the roof, at the edge of each main wing, are two 56-foottall\r\ndolphins balanced vertically, with their tails in the air.\r\n

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Whereas the Dolphin is pointy, the Swan is rounded: Its gently arching\r\nmain building rises 12 stories and is flanked by two 7-story towers,\r\nwith two 47-foot-tall swans adorning its roof.

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The last renovation of the hotels’ guest rooms and lobby areas was\r\ncompleted in 2018. Key upgrades included new bedding and carpets,\r\nmore electrical outlets, new AC units, and new TVs. In addition to\r\nupdated decor, the Dolphin lobby has a larger bar area, Phins, and a\r\ngrab-and-go restaurant, Fuel.

\r\n\r\n

The Swan’s standard rooms are similar to but are, in our opinion,\r\nmore attractive than the Dolphin’s. Heavenly Beds make for ultracomfy\r\nsleeping. The reading light is great in or out of bed. A flat-panel TV sits on the dresser. The bathrooms, small for Disney, have step-in showers\r\nand limited counter space.

\r\n\r\n

Because these hotels aren’t run by Disney, service is less relentlessly\r\ncheerful than elsewhere on-property. Readers rate the Dolphin’s\r\ncheck-in service as below average.

\r\n\r\n

Be warned: Both resorts will nickel-and-dime you to death. Each\r\ntacks on a $35-per-day resort fee (plus tax) and another $29 per day (plus tax)\r\nfor self-parking. Whatever rate you’re quoted at either resort, count on\r\nanother $75 per day in miscellaneous costs.

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The two hotels collectively house more than a dozen restaurants\r\nand lounges and are within easy walking distance of EPCOT and the\r\nBoardWalk. They’re also connected to other destinations by bus and\r\nboat. Walking time from the most remote rooms to the transportation\r\nloading areas is 7–9 minutes. These readers from Houston say the\r\nSwan is the slightly easier of the two to navigate:

\r\n\r\n
While the Dolphin is closer to EPCOT, we prefer the Swan because\r\nit’s easier and more straightforward to walk from the hotel to the\r\npark and vice versa. The Dolphin has a very narrow, winding sidewalk\r\nthat doesn’t look like it gets much traffic.
\r\n\r\n\r\n

This Nashua, New Hampshire, couple gives the shared pool complex\r\nhigh marks:

\r\n
Neither the Disney nor the Swan and Dolphin website depicts how\r\ngreat the pool complex is. Not only are there multiple pools, a waterslide,\r\nand maybe the best poolside bar in all of Disney World, there’s\r\nalso a wonderfully green, restful grotto-in-tropical-forest theme.
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Dolphin Compares to Other Disney Deluxe Resorts

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Because the Swan and the Dolphin aren’t run by Disney, service is\r\nless relentlessly cheerful than at other on-property resorts. They’ll also\r\nnickel-and-dime you to death. For example, both tack on a $35-per-day\r\nresort fee and another $25 per day for self-parking. Even more shocking\r\nis the price the Dolphin’s gift shop charges for sundries: We paid\r\nalmost $10 for a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—roughly $3 more than\r\nDisney charges in its gift shops (and twice as much as Publix). Whatever\r\nrate you’re quoted at the Swan and the Dolphin, temper your expectations\r\nby adding another $50 per day in miscellaneous costs.

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\r\nDolphin's exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Dolphin's grounds. If you arrive by \r\n\r\ncar, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to \r\n\r\nprovide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Dolphin is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 12:00 PM. Swan & \r\n\r\nDolphin charge hefty fees for late check outs. Checking out between 12:00 PM \r\n\r\nand 2:00 PM will cost $40. Checking out between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM costs 1/2 \r\n\r\nDay's Rate. If you check out after 5:00 PM you will be charged a full day's \r\n\r\nrate.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nLook for signs pointing you to the Registration/Check-In area. You'll need to \r\n\r\nprovide a government-issued photo ID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. \r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

The Swan and Dolphin hotels charge a daily resort fee. \r\n\r\nGuests are charged $35 plus tax. There are some perks that this fee brings. \r\n\r\nGuests receive in room high-speed internet, unlimited local and domestic calls, use of the hotel's fitness club, and two bottles of water. Dolphin also charges a daily self-parking fee of $25 per a day. Valet parking is $35.

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Walt Disney World Dolphin's Rooms

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Most of the Dolphin's rooms are 360 square feet and have two full-size \r\nbeds. The current design incorporates light-colored\r\nwoods, glass surfaces, blue carpeting, and gray draperies. The plush Heavenly\r\nBeds are buttressed by oversize upholstered headboards. A 42\" high definition rests on a large dresser that also holds the mini-fridge. An oval, contemporary desk and chair complete the furnishings. Some rooms have\r\nbalconies. Westin’s Heavenly Beds make for ultra-comfy sleeping. The\r\nreading light is great in or out of bed.

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\r\nA standard Dolphin room.\r\n

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\r\n\r\n

Each Dolphin room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits in the dresser. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

\r\nDolphin's bathrooms aren't big, but they also aren't as small \r\n\r\nas the ones you'll find in Disney's moderate or value resort rooms. Luckily \r\n\r\nyou won't feel claustrophobic in your room's bathroom. Water pressure in the \r\n\r\nshower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still enough \r\n\r\nto get your hair clean. Eventually.

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A separate sink area is located next to the bathroom, it has enough counter \r\n\r\nspace to fit most of the toiletries you would need. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted \r\n\r\nhair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; bring your own if you've \r\n\r\ngot lots of hair.

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\r\nA bathroom in a standard Dolphin room.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nSwan and Dolphin have handicap-accessible rooms that are furnished with one \r\n\r\nking bed and are situated next to an optional connecting room with either two \r\n\r\nqueen beds at the Swan or two double beds at the Dolphin. Handicap-accessible \r\n\r\nrooms may include altered counter-tops, and dresser drawer height, door \r\n\r\nwidths, wheelchair ramps, and more. All handicap-accessible rooms include a \r\n\r\nfire alarm which contains a strobe light if activated, flashing door knocker, \r\n\r\nvibrating alarm clock, and a TDD machine for the room's telephone.

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Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Pools

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Swan and Dolphin has three pools. The largest, Grotto Pool, sits near the \r\n\r\nhotel's convention center. There is also a hot tubs, kiddie pool, and water play \r\n\r\narea.\r\n

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\r\nSwan and Dolphin's Grotto Pool.\r\n

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There are also two smaller pools located outside of each building. These \r\n\r\npools are basic concrete pools with minimal themeing, but they do have plenty \r\n\r\nof lounge chairs and tables around the pool.

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Swan and Dolphin's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to \r\n\r\n4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Dolphin also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Grotto Pool.

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Guests can find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 9 PM, extending to as much as \r\n\r\n8 AM to 12 AM during busy times.\r\n Grotto Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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Infants and children in diapers are welcome in all of Swan and Dolphin's \r\n\r\npools, as long as they're wearing swim diapers. Water wings \r\n\r\nare allowed at all pools, and\r\n every pool has free life vests in a variety of sizes:\r\n

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You may need to bring your towels from your room to use at the pool - Swan \r\n\r\nand Dolphin sometimes stocks extra towels poolside, and sometimes they don't. \r\n\r\nOur advice is to send someone\r\n down to the pool to check the towel situation before you go. If you end up \r\n\r\nusing your room towels at the pool, just call Housekeeping when you get back \r\n\r\nand request more.

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Pool toys are permitted in Dolphin's pools, including \r\n\r\n\"pool noodles,\" and basic toys that would\r\nbe appropriate for water use such as rubber duckies and bucket & shovel sets. \r\n\r\nSome of us will occasionally bring something like a whiffle ball for playing \r\n\r\ncatch in the pool. As\r\nlong as you’re not disturbing other guests, you’ll be fine. Also note that \r\n\r\nkids with pool toys become very popular with other kids in the pool who want \r\n\r\nto play too. If you’re \r\ntraveling with an only child and want him to have some age cohort interaction \r\n\r\nduring your vacation, a nice strategy is to bring some extra toys. Chances are \r\n\r\nhe’ll make a buddy.\r\n

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Playgrounds at Swan and Dolphin

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\r\nA small playground set is located near the pool on the Swan side of the \r\n\r\nresort. The set has a small plastic slide and a couple of sections with a few \r\n\r\nsteps for toddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Swan and Dolphin's concern here - there \r\n\r\nare no swings, and the entire area is covered in a springy, poured rubber \r\n\r\nsurface and sand.\r\n

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Restaurants and Dining

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Swan and Dolphin has a good variety of dining options, including five \r\n\r\ndifferent table service restaurants.

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Shula's Steak House

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\r\nShula's Dinner Menu - Shula's Kids Dinner Menu

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If we had to describe Shula's in one word, meat - really expensive but very \r\n\r\nhigh quality meat. Only certified Angus beef is served: filet mignon, \r\n\r\nporterhouse (including a 48-ounce cut), and prime rib. This is part of the \r\n\r\nchain owned by former Miami Dolphins football coach Don Shula. It's classier \r\n\r\nthan it is kitschy, though printing the menu on the side of a football and \r\n\r\nplacing it on a kickoff tee in the center of the table is a bit much. They \r\n\r\ncould also do without the rehearsed spiel from the waiters, who sound \r\n\r\ncompletely bored as they present raw examples of the beef selections and a \r\n\r\nlive lobster at each table. Once you get past that, however, you're in for \r\n\r\nsome wonderful steaks.

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Todd English's bluezoo

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\r\nBluezoo Dinner Menu - Bluezoo Kids Dinner Menu

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Celebrity chef Todd English opened this stylish Florida outpost, frequented by conventioneers who don't mind the high prices ($2.75 for a single oyster, $60 for the 2-pound lobster) or the expensive wine list. Food is sophisticated, but you can make a meal of the simple bowl of clam chowder with salt-cured bacon and the roasted-beet salad with greens, goat-cheese fondue,and walnut vinaigrette.

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The dreamy dining room is swathed in blues with iridescent bubbles suspended from the lights. The name is courtesy of chef Todd English's young son, who saw an under-the-sea movie and said it looked like a \"blue zoo.\" Open kitchen, raw bar, and \"dancing fish\" on a circular rotisserie.

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The Fountain Eats and Sweets

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\r\nountain Eats and Sweets Lunch/Dinner Menu - Eats and Sweets Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Fountain Eats and Sweets is the place for Dolphin guests to get a quick bite. Create your own sundae at The Fountain Sweet Treats. Specialties include build-your-own burgers and hot dogs, BLTs, shakes, and ice-cream cones. The peanut-butter-and-jelly milk shake is worth every calorie.

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Picabu

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\r\nPicabu Lunch/Dinner Menu - Picabu Kids Lunch/Dinner \r\n\r\nMenuPicabu Breakfast Menu - Picabu Kids Breakfast Menu\r\n

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Picabu buffet/cafeteria restaurant that is open around the clock. We like the Loaded Nachos and Chicken Pot pie for lunch and dinner. The breakfast menu is a lot smaller than the lunch/dinner menu, but you can never go wrong with an omelette.

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Fresh Mediterranean Market

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\r\nFresh Mediterranean Market Breakfast Menu - Fresh Mediterranean Market Breakfast Buffet Menu - Fresh Mediterranean Market Lunch Menu

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Fresh Mediterranean Market is a pleasant, quiet spot for breakfast or lunch, with a menu that's more healthful than many. Breakfast specialties include fresh-pressed fruit and vegetable juices, made-to-order omelets. For lunch there's pasta, fish, beef sliders, and generous salads.

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Cabana Bar and Beach Club is Dolphin's \r\n\r\nmain lounge. Cabana Bar and Beach Club has indoor and outdoor seating and a full drink menu with several beers, wines, and a selection of spirits. It also has an assortment of appetizers and entrees. The lounge is usually open 11 AM to 10 PM daily.

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Transportation to and from Dolphin

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Dolphin is just off of I-4 in Lake \r\n\r\nBuena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot/Disney Springs. Take Buena \r\n\r\nVista Dr for about 1.2 miles to Epcot Resort Blvd. Turn right on Epcot Resorts Blvd and Dolphin will be on your right.\r\n

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Dolphin's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Dolphin. If you're not renting a car, be aware that \r\n\r\nSanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDolphin will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Dolphin for around \r\n\r\n$140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around \r\n\r\n$190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Dolphin. At those prices, it may be less \r\n\r\nexpensive to rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Dolphin to Magic Kingdom and Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon \r\n\r\nLagoon, and Disney Springs. Dolphin's bus stops sit along \r\n\r\nthe front wall of the lobby. Each \r\n\r\ntheme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

\r\n

Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios can be accessed by boat from the \r\n\r\ndock located in between the Swan and Dolphin buildings. Boat service may be suspended during \r\n\r\nthunderstorms, so if it's raining or looks like it's about to, Disney will \r\n\r\nprovide buses.

\r\n\r\n

Dolphin's Bus Schedule

\r\n

\r\nAsk a Castmember about Swan and Dolphin's bus schedule, and they'll tell you \r\n\r\nthat buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Swan and Dolphin's bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 12 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Animal Kingdom is about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 10-15 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little \r\n\r\nless frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes for a ride.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom and Disney's Animal Kingdom. We evaluate Dolphin's bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be found below.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Dolphin If you've got \r\n\r\ndining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney \r\n\r\nbus from Dolphin to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take \r\n\r\nanother bus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back \r\n\r\nto Dolphin. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 \r\n\r\nhours each way. If your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, the BoardWalk , the Polynesian, and the Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Dolphin to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

\r\n

You can also take a boat in Crescent Lake to Disney's Boardwalk or the Yacht & Beach Club hotels. This option can also take some time depending on where you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

\r\n

To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

The Health Club is the Dolphin's fitness center. It is located on the west side of the first floor. At the Swan, the Health Club is located near the pool. Both fitness centers are open daily 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM.

\r\n\r\n

Mandara Spa is Dolphin's full-service spa and salon. Massages, body therapies and facials are available. Mandara also offers spa packages that range from $240 to $585. For reservations call 407-934-4772

\r\n\r\n

Swan and Dolphin's has a large amount of shopping options in it's two buildings. Daisy’s Garden in the Dolphin, and Disney Cabanas in the Swan, have a decent collection of Disney souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such \r\n\r\nas keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. \r\n\r\nPrices for these items are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nPicabu is a 24-hour convenience store that sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, \r\n\r\naspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay at home.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Lamont’s is a boutique that specializes in men and women's apparel. Other items include Florida souvenirs, candles, lotions, and other gifts.

\r\n\r\n

For candy lovers there's Sugar3 in the Dolphin hotel. Here you'll find a huge selection of candy and candy-related objects.

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail at \r\n\r\nSwan and Dolphin. It is a scenic 0.8-mile course around around Cresent Lake. Thanks to bridges over Cresent Lake guests are able to make a full circle while passing by the Yacht & Beach Club and BoardWalk resorts.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Swan and Dolphin Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

\r\n\r\n

\r\nTwo companies provide in-room sitting in Walt Disney World and surrounding \r\n\r\nareas. They're Kid's \r\n\r\nNite Out\r\nand Fairy Godmothers (no kidding). Both provide sitters older \r\n\r\nthan age 18 who are insured, bonded, \r\nscreened, reference-checked, police-checked, and trained in CPR. In addition \r\n\r\nto caring for your kids in your room, the sitters will,\r\nif you direct (and pay), take your children to the theme parks or other \r\n\r\nvenues. Neither service will transport your children in private \r\nvehicles or give baths. Both offer bilingual sitters.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t \r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
Babysitting Services
Kid's Nite OutFairy Godmothers
\r\n\t\t407-828-0920 or
\r\n\t\t800-696-8105
\r\n\t\tkidsniteout.com\r\n\t
\r\n\t\t407-277-3724\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tHotels Served
\r\n\t\tAll WDW and Orlando-area hotels\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tHotels Served
\r\n\t\tAll WDW and Orlando-area hotels\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tSitters
\r\n\t\tMen and women\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tSitters
\r\n\t\tMothers and grandmothers, female college students\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tBase Hourly Rates
\r\n\t\t1 child, $18
\r\n\t\t2 children, $21
\r\n\t\t3 children, $24
\r\n\t\t4 children, $26
\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tBase Hourly Rates
\r\n\t\t1 child, $16
\r\n\t\t2 children, $16
\r\n\t\t3 children, $16
\r\n\t\t4 children, $18
\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tExtra Charges
\r\n\t\tTransportation fee, $10; starting before 6:30 AM
\r\n\t\tor after 9 PM, +$2 per hour; additional fee for holidays\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tExtra Charges
\r\n\t\tTransportation fee, $14; starting after 10 PM,
\r\n\t\t+$2 per hour\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tCancellation Deadline
\r\n\t\t24 hours before service when reservation is made\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tCancellation Deadline
\r\n\t\t3 hours before service\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tForm of Payment
\r\n\t\tAE, D, MC, V; gratuity in cash\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tForm of Payment
\r\n\t\tCash or traveler's check for actual payment; gratuity in cash\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tThings Sitter Won't Do
\r\n\t\tTransport children in private vehicles,
\r\n\t\ttake children swimming, give baths\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tThings Sitter Won't Do
\r\n\t\tTransport children, give baths; swimming
\r\n\t\tis at sitter's discretion\r\n\t
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous Swan and Dolphin

\r\n

\r\nCoin-operated washers and dryers are in laundry facilities \r\n\r\nlocated on the first floor. Cost is around $2 per wash, and \r\n\r\nanother $2 per dry cycle.\r\nThe machines take quarters, and a change machine is provided. A small \r\n\r\nselection of soap, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are also sold, for\r\naround $1 each. A typical wash cycle takes 20 to 30 minutes, and a typical dry \r\n\r\ncycle takes 40 to 50.\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Dolphin's Lost \r\n\r\nand Found department by calling (407) 934-7639.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

These sprawling hotels are configured very differently, and their irregular\r\nshapes mean it’s easier to discuss groups of rooms in relation to\r\nexterior landmarks and compass directions rather than by room numbers.\r\nWhen speaking with a Disney reservationist, use our tips to ask for\r\na particular view or area.

\r\n

Consisting of a central A-frame with large wings jutting off each side and four smaller arms extending from the rear of the building, the Dolphin is attached to a large conference center, which means that the majority of guests are ostensibly there on business. The same amenities found at Disney Deluxe resorts are found at the Dolphin. All parks are accessible from a shuttle stop or a boat dock between the Dolphin and the Swan.

\r\n

If you want a room with easy access to shopping, dining, and transport to and from the parks, almost any Dolphin room will do. The shuttle (outside the main entrance) and the boat dock are equidistant from the main front and rear exits. Restaurants and shopping are primarily on the first and third floors. If you also want a view of something other than parking-lot asphalt, your choices narrow considerably. Rooms in the Dolphin with pleasant views are in the four arms on the rear of the building. Rooms on all the arms sport balconies from the first through fourth floors, then offer balconies or windows alternately on floors five through nine.

\r\n

One of the Dolphin's best views overlooks the Grotto pool on the far west side of the building. An artificial beach with a small waterfall is visible from rooms at the very end of the large west wing. None of these rooms has a balcony, but that might be a blessing, since the pool comes with canned tiki music and a bar. A better bet would be to ask for a room on the far west side of the first rear arm. These outer rooms have balconies and are more removed from the pool. Rooms on the inner, west part of that arm overlook a bladderwort-encrusted reflecting pool; these aren't recommended. Nor are the facing rooms on the next arm.

\r\n

Between the second and third arms looms the monstrous Dolphin fountain, and the better choices here are on the top two floors. There, from arm two you can see the BoardWalk (including any nighttime fireworks), and from arm three the Grotto pool. Otherwise, you may find you have a view of massive, green-concrete fish scales. The noise from the water is loud, and the fountain geysers continuously. Depending upon your personality, this is either soothing or maddening.

\r\n

Arm three and arm four are situated around a reflecting pool. A concern for rooms in this area is that the ferry toots its horn every time it approaches and departs the dock. Its path runs right by these rooms, and the horn blows just as it passes. The first time that happens, it's quaint. By the 117th, your hair will be coming out in clumps.

\r\n

The Crescent Lake side of arm four, and the small jut of the large Dolphin wing perpendicular to it, offer arguably the best views. You have an unobstructed view of the lake and Epcot fireworks, a fine BoardWalk view for people-watching, and, from higher floors, a view of the beach at Beach Club. There's ferry noise, but these rooms still have the most going for them. The best of the best in this arm are Rooms 8015, 7015, 5015, 4015, and 3015. Balcony rooms at the Dolphin generally run $40 a day more than rooms without balconies.

\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Usually cheaper than Beach Club, Yacht Club, or BoardwalkConventioneers may be off-putting to\r\nvacationing families
Participates in Marriott Rewards programDaily resort and parking fees
Walking distance to both Epcot\r\nInternational Gateway and Hollywood StudiosNo Disney’s Magical Express or\r\nDisney Dining Plan
Good on-site and nearby diningBus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Very nice pool complexArchitecture that was on the cutting edge\r\na few decades ago now seems dated
On-site car rental through National\r\nand Alamo
","recommend_to_friends":68,"recommend_annual_change":1,"stay_again":94,"stay_again_annual_change":26,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":true,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":1509,"theme":"Modern Florida Resort","cost_range":"$531-1,030","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":false,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"15cbb3d8767358fcd85d646e6e3200de","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":360,"blog_slug":"dolphin","property_owned":false,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":"29.0","resort_fee":"35.0","sort_name":"walt disney world dolphin hotel","club_name":null,"operator_id":80069788,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/dolphin-hotel","opened_on":"1990-06-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"dol","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2017,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"double","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Dolphin is an icon of postmodern architecture, its main building a 27-story blue triangle. The main building's wings are topped with 56-foot tall statues of dolphin fish - you can't mistake it for any other hotel.","dining_overview":"The Dolphin has plenty of dining options, from grab-and-go, to fancy steakhouses. If you want even more variety, four other hotels' restaurants are a short walk away.","good_for":"Marriott Bonvoy members","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":20,"property_id":1,"name":"Walt Disney World Swan Hotel","code":"ORL023","address":"1500 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079343000","url":"http://www.swandolphin.com","off_site":false,"permalink":"swan-at-walt-disney-world","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-21T20:41:07.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Walt Disney World Swan Hotel Overview

\r\n\r\n

Although these resorts are inside the World and Disney handles\r\ntheir reservations, they’re owned by Sheraton (Dolphin) and Westin\r\n(Swan) and can be booked directly through their parent companies,\r\ntoo. Both are served by Disney transportation to the theme parks, but neither participates\r\nin the Disney Dining Plan.

\r\n\r\n

Opened in 1990, the Swan and Dolphin face each other on either\r\nside of an inlet of Crescent Lake. The Swan Reserve is located across\r\nthe street from the Swan and Dolphin. Although they’re inside Walt\r\nDisney World and Disney handles their reservations, they’re managed\r\nby Sheraton (Dolphin) and Westin (Swan), and the Swan Reserve is\r\npart of the Autograph Collection. As such, they can be booked directly\r\nthrough Marriott as well as through Disney.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nWalt Disney World Swan Area Map\r\n

\r\n
\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

All three resorts are served by Disney transportation to the theme\r\nparks and participate in Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening\r\nHours, but they don’t participate in the Disney Dining Plan.

\r\n\r\n

The Dolphin’s main building is a 27-story turquoise triangle. This\r\ncentral A-frame, with large wings extending from both sides and four\r\nsmaller arms from its rear, is attached to a large conference center.\r\nPerched on the roof, at the edge of each main wing, are two 56-foottall\r\ndolphins balanced vertically, with their tails in the air.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Whereas the Dolphin is pointy, the Swan is rounded: Its gently arching\r\nmain building rises 12 stories and is flanked by two 7-story towers,\r\nwith two 47-foot-tall swans adorning its roof.

\r\n\r\n

The last renovation of the hotels’ guest rooms and lobby areas was\r\ncompleted in 2018. Key upgrades included new bedding and carpets,\r\nmore electrical outlets, new AC units, and new TVs. In addition to\r\nupdated decor, the Dolphin lobby has a larger bar area, Phins, and a\r\ngrab-and-go restaurant, Fuel.

\r\n\r\n

The Swan’s standard rooms are similar to but are, in our opinion,\r\nmore attractive than the Dolphin’s. Heavenly Beds make for ultracomfy\r\nsleeping. The reading light is great in or out of bed. A flat-panel TV sits on the dresser. The bathrooms, small for Disney, have step-in showers\r\nand limited counter space.

\r\n\r\n

Because these hotels aren’t run by Disney, service is less relentlessly\r\ncheerful than elsewhere on-property. Readers rate the Dolphin’s\r\ncheck-in service as below average.

\r\n\r\n

Be warned: Both resorts will nickel-and-dime you to death. Each\r\ntacks on a $35-per-day resort fee (plus tax) and another $29 per day (plus tax)\r\nfor self-parking. Whatever rate you’re quoted at either resort, count on\r\nanother $75 per day in miscellaneous costs.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

The two hotels collectively house more than a dozen restaurants\r\nand lounges and are within easy walking distance of EPCOT and the\r\nBoardWalk. They’re also connected to other destinations by bus and\r\nboat. Walking time from the most remote rooms to the transportation\r\nloading areas is 7–9 minutes. These readers from Houston say the\r\nSwan is the slightly easier of the two to navigate:

\r\n\r\n
While the Dolphin is closer to EPCOT, we prefer the Swan because\r\nit’s easier and more straightforward to walk from the hotel to the\r\npark and vice versa. The Dolphin has a very narrow, winding sidewalk\r\nthat doesn’t look like it gets much traffic.
\r\n\r\n\r\n

This Nashua, New Hampshire, couple gives the shared pool complex\r\nhigh marks:

\r\n
Neither the Disney nor the Swan and Dolphin website depicts how\r\ngreat the pool complex is. Not only are there multiple pools, a waterslide,\r\nand maybe the best poolside bar in all of Disney World, there’s\r\nalso a wonderfully green, restful grotto-in-tropical-forest theme.
\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Swan Compares to Other Disney Deluxe Resorts

\r\n

Because the Swan and the Dolphin aren’t run by Disney, service is\r\nless relentlessly cheerful than at other on-property resorts. They’ll also\r\nnickel-and-dime you to death. For example, both tack on a $35-per-day\r\nresort fee and another $25 per day for self-parking. Even more shocking\r\nis the price the Dolphin’s gift shop charges for sundries: We paid\r\nalmost $10 for a pint of Ben & Jerry’s ice cream—roughly $3 more than\r\nDisney charges in its gift shops (and twice as much as Publix). Whatever\r\nrate you’re quoted at the Swan and the Dolphin, temper your expectations\r\nby adding another $50 per day in miscellaneous costs.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nSwan's exterior.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

\r\n

A security gate guards the entrance to Swan's grounds. If you arrive by \r\n\r\ncar, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to \r\n\r\nprovide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Swan is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 12:00 PM. Swan & \r\n\r\nDolphin charge hefty fees for late check outs. Checking out between 12:00 PM \r\n\r\nand 2:00 PM will cost $40. Checking out between 2:00 PM and 5:00 PM costs 1/2 \r\n\r\nDay's Rate. If you check out after 5:00 PM you will be charged a full day's \r\n\r\nrate.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nLook for signs pointing you to the Registration/Check-In area. You'll need to \r\n\r\nprovide a government-issued photo ID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. \r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

The Swan and Dolphin hotels charge a daily resort fee. \r\n\r\nGuests are charged $35 plus tax. There are some perks that this fee brings. \r\n\r\nGuests now receive in-room high-speed internet, unlimited local and domestic calls, use of the hotel's fitness club, and two bottles of water. Dolphin also charges a daily self-parking fee of $25\r\n\r\nper a day. Valet parking is $35.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Walt Disney World Swan's Rooms

\r\n\r\n

Most of the Swan's rooms are 360 square feet and have two queen-size beds, \r\n\r\nand a desk and one chair. The current design incorporates light-colored\r\nwoods, glass surfaces, blue carpeting, and gray draperies. The plush Heavenly\r\nBeds are buttressed by oversize upholstered headboards. A 42\" high definition rests on a large dresser that also holds the mini-fridge. An oval, contemporary desk and chair complete the furnishings. Some rooms have\r\nbalconies. Westin’s Heavenly Beds make for ultra-comfy sleeping. The\r\nreading light is great in or out of bed.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nA standard Swan room.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Each Swan room is furnished with the following:\r\n

\r\n

\r\n

The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits in the dresser. \r\n\r\nIt's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep \r\n\r\ndrinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. \r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

\r\nSwan's bathrooms aren't big, but they also aren't as small as \r\n\r\nthe ones you'll find in Disney's moderate or value resort rooms. Luckily you \r\n\r\nwon't feel claustrophobic in your room's bathroom. Water pressure in the \r\n\r\nshower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still enough \r\n\r\nto get your hair clean. Eventually.

\r\n\r\n

A separate sink area is located next to the bathroom, it has enough counter \r\n\r\nspace to fit most of the toiletries you would need. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted \r\n\r\nhair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; bring your own if you've \r\n\r\ngot lots of hair.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nA bathroom in a standard Swan room.\r\n

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\r\n\r\n \r\n

Handicap-Accessible Room Options

\r\n

\r\nSwan and Dolphin have handicap-accessible rooms that are furnished with one \r\n\r\nking bed and are situated next to an optional connecting room with either two \r\n\r\nqueen beds at the Swan or two double beds at the Dolphin. Handicap-accessible \r\n\r\nrooms may include altered counter-tops, and dresser drawer height, door \r\n\r\nwidths, wheelchair ramps, and more. All handicap-accessible rooms include a \r\n\r\nfire alarm which contains a strobe light if activated, flashing door knocker, \r\n\r\nvibrating alarm clock, and a TDD machine for the room's telephone.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Pools

\r\n\r\n

Swan and Dolphin has three pools. The largest, Grotto Pool, sits near the \r\n\r\nhotel's convention center. There is also a hot tubs, kiddie pool, and water play \r\n\r\narea.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nSwan and Dolphin's Grotto Pool.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n

There are also two smaller pools located outside of each building. These \r\n\r\npools are basic concrete pools with minimal themeing, but they do have plenty \r\n\r\nof lounge chairs and tables around the pool.

\r\n\t\r\n

Swan and Dolphin's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to \r\n\r\n4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Dolphin also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Grotto Pool.

\r\n\r\n

Guests can find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 9 PM, extending to as much as \r\n\r\n8 AM to 12 AM during busy times.\r\n Grotto Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

\r\n\r\n

Infants and children in diapers are welcome in all of Swan and Dolphin's \r\n\r\npools, as long as they're wearing swim diapers. Water wings \r\n\r\nare allowed at all pools, and\r\n every pool has free life vests in a variety of sizes:\r\n

\r\n

\r\n\r\n

You may need to bring your towels from your room to use at the pool - Swan \r\n\r\nand Dolphin sometimes stocks extra towels poolside, and sometimes they don't. \r\n\r\nOur advice is to send someone\r\n down to the pool to check the towel situation before you go. If you end up \r\n\r\nusing your room towels at the pool, just call Housekeeping when you get back \r\n\r\nand request more.

\r\n\r\n

Pool toys are permitted in Dolphin's pools, including \r\n\r\n\"pool noodles,\" and basic toys that would\r\nbe appropriate for water use such as rubber duckies and bucket & shovel sets. \r\n\r\nSome of us will occasionally bring something like a whiffle ball for playing \r\n\r\ncatch in the pool. As\r\nlong as you’re not disturbing other guests, you’ll be fine. Also note that \r\n\r\nkids with pool toys become very popular with other kids in the pool who want \r\n\r\nto play too. If you’re \r\ntraveling with an only child and want him to have some age cohort interaction \r\n\r\nduring your vacation, a nice strategy is to bring some extra toys. Chances are \r\n\r\nhe’ll make a buddy.\r\n

\r\n \r\n

Playgrounds at Swan and Dolphin

\r\n

\r\nA small playground set is located near the pool on the Swan side of the \r\n\r\nresort. The set has a small plastic slide and a couple of sections with a few \r\n\r\nsteps for toddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Swan and Dolphin's concern here - there \r\n\r\nare no swings, and the entire area is covered in a springy, poured rubber \r\n\r\nsurface and sand.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Restaurants and Dining

\r\n

Swan and Dolphin has a good variety of dining options, including four \r\n\r\ndifferent table service restaurants and one counter service restaurant.

\r\n\r\n

Garden Grove

\r\n

\r\nGarden Grove Weekday Breakfast Menu - Garden Grove Weekend Character \r\n\r\nBuffet Breakfast Menu - Garden Grove Kids' \r\n\r\nMenu-Weekday Breakfast Menu - Garden Grove Lunch Menu - Garden Grove Kids' Menu-Lunch Menu - Garden Grove Dinner Character Buffet \r\n\r\nMenu-Mediterranean - Garden Grove \r\n\r\nDinner Character Buffet Menu-Seafood Sensation - Garden Grove Dinner Character \r\n\r\nBuffet Menu-Southern Barbecue

\r\n\r\n

Garden Grove's dependable fare isn't worth a special trip unless you want \r\n\r\nsome time with the Disney characters - and it's a bargain compared to other \r\n\r\ncharacter-dining experiences. The spacious dining room has a 25-foot faux oak \r\n\r\ntree as its centerpiece, and sunlight streams in from the restaurant's tall \r\n\r\nwindows. At night, the lights are dimmed, the oak tree is full of lanterns and \r\n\r\ntwinkling lights, and street lamps create the pleasant ambience of a nighttime \r\n\r\ngarden.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Il Mulino New York Trattoria

\r\n

\r\nIl Mulino Dinner Menu - Il Mulino Kids Dinner Menu - Family Style Dinner Menu

\r\n\r\n

A spinoff of the New York City restaurant, II Mulino takes an upscale-\r\n\r\ncasual approach to Italian cuisine, with family-style platters for sharing in \r\n\r\nthe noisy dining room. Tables are dark wood. An open kitchen creates a bustle. \r\n\r\nYou can request private dining in one of the smaller rooms.

\r\n\r\n

The tried-and-true menu never changes. Dinner starts with a complimentary \r\n\r\ntaste of Parmesan-topped roasted eggplant, along with ciabatta and foccacia \r\n\r\nbreads and cacciatorini sausages, and ends with a complimentary sip of \r\n\r\nlimoncello, the lemon-flavored Italian liqueur. The dining room's hardwood \r\n\r\nfloors and faux-exposed-brick walls create a contemporary space but don't \r\n\r\nbuffer the noise.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Kimonos

\r\n

\r\nKimonos Dinner Menu\r\n

\r\n\r\n

More and more diners are discovering this little out-of-the-way spot for \r\n\r\npristine sushi. The skill of the sushi artists is as much a joy to watch as is \r\n\r\neating the wonderfully fresh creations. There are no full entrees here, just \r\n\r\ngood sushi and appetizers. The Swan resort hosts many Japanese tourists, and \r\n\r\nyou'll find many of them here on any given night.

\r\n

Although sushi and sashimi are the focus, Kimonos also serves hot \r\n\r\nappetizers, including tempura-battered shrimp and vegetables; Kobe beef and \r\n\r\nduck satays; spicy Thai egg-drop soup; and miso soup. The decor consists of \r\n\r\nblack-lacquered tabletops and counters, tall pillars rising to bamboo rafters \r\n\r\nwith rice-paper lanterns, and elegant kimonos that hang outstretched on the \r\n\r\nwalls and between the dining sections. The chefs will greet you with a \r\n\r\nfriendly welcome, and you'll be offered a hot towel to clean your hands.

\r\n\r\n

Java Bar

\r\n

\r\nJava Bar All Day Menu\r\n

\r\n

Java Bar is located near the rear entrance of the Swan building. Its menu \r\n\r\nincludes a variety of coffees, pastries, and other beverages. As well as \r\n\r\nbagels, croissants, and paninis.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Cabana Bar and Beach Club \r\n\r\nis Dolphin's main lounge. Cabana Bar and Beach Club has indoor and outdoor \r\n\r\nseating and a full drink menu with several beers, wines, and a selection of \r\n\r\nspirits. It also has an assortment of appetizers and entrees. The lounge is \r\n\r\nusually open 11 AM to 10 PM daily.

\r\n\r\n

At the pool located next to the Swan building there is Splash Terrace. It also \r\n\r\nincludes a selection of alcoholic beverages. Splash Terrace dining menu is \r\n\r\nmade up of sandwiches, burgers, pizza, and ice cream.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Transportation to and from Swan

\r\n

\r\nDriving Your Own Car Swan is just off of I-4 in Lake Buena \r\n\r\nVista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot/Disney Springs. Take Buena \r\n\r\nVista Dr for about 1.2 miles to Epcot Resort Blvd. Turn right on Epcot Resorts \r\n\r\nBlvd and Swan will be on your right.\r\n

\r\n

Swan's GPS address and location are:\r\n

\r\n

\r\n

From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Swan. If you're not renting a car, be aware that \r\n\r\nSanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nSwan will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Dolphin for around \r\n\r\n$140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around \r\n\r\n$190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Swan. At those prices, it may be less \r\n\r\nexpensive to rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Swan to Magic Kingdom and Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Swan's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby. Each theme \r\n\r\npark has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

\r\n

Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios can be accessed by boat from the dock \r\n\r\nlocated in between the Swan and Dolphin buildings. Boat service may be \r\n\r\nsuspended during thunderstorms, so if it's raining or looks like it's about \r\n\r\nto, Disney will provide buses.

\r\n\r\n

Swan's Bus Schedule

\r\n

\r\nAsk a Cast Member about Swan and Dolphin's bus schedule, and they'll tell you \r\n\r\nthat buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Swan and Dolphin's bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 12 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Animal Kingdom is about the same early in the day, with a bus \r\n\r\narriving every 10-15 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water parks and \r\n\r\nDisney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait anywhere from \r\n\r\n20 to 40 minutes for a ride.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom and Disney's Animal Kingdom. We evaluate \r\n\r\nDolphin's bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be \r\n\r\nfound below.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Swan If you've got dining \r\n\r\nplans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus \r\n\r\nfrom Swan to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus \r\n\r\nfrom there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Dolphin. \r\n\r\nWhile that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. \r\n\r\nIf your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, the BoardWalk , the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). \r\n\r\nWe suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Swan to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

\r\n

You can also take a boat in Crescent Lake to Disney's Boardwalk or the \r\n\r\nYacht & Beach Club hotels. This option can also take some time depending on \r\n\r\nwhere you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

\r\n

To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

The Health Club is the Dolphin's fitness center. It is \r\n\r\nlocated on the west side of the first floor. At the Swan, the Health Club is \r\n\r\nlocated near the pool. Both fitness centers are open daily 6:00 AM to 9:00 \r\n\r\nPM.

\r\n\r\n

Mandara Spa is Swan and Dolphin's full-service spa and \r\n\r\nsalon. Massages, body therapies and facials are available. Mandara also offers \r\n\r\nspa packages that range from $240 to $585. For reservations call 407-934-\r\n\r\n4772

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Swan and Dolphin's has a large amount of shopping options in it's two \r\n\r\nbuildings. Daisy’s Garden in the Dolphin, and Disney \r\n\r\nCabanas in the Swan, have a decent collection of Disney souvenirs \r\n\r\nranging from small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets \r\n\r\nand Disney princess dresses. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay \r\n\r\nin the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nPicabu is a 24-hour convenience store that sells basic pharmacy items such as \r\n\r\nsunscreen, aspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, \r\n\r\nshampoo, cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's what \r\n\r\nyou're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - about \r\n\r\ndouble - than what you'd probably pay at home.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Lamont’s is a boutique that specializes in men and women's \r\n\r\napparel. Other items include Florida souvenirs, candles, lotions, and other \r\n\r\ngifts.

\r\n\r\n

For candy lovers there's Sugar3 in the Dolphin hotel. Here \r\n\r\nyou'll find a huge selection of candy and candy-related objects.

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail at \r\n\r\nSwan and Dolphin. It is a scenic 0.8-mile course around around Cresent Lake. \r\n\r\nThanks to bridges over Cresent Lake guests are able to make a full circle \r\n\r\nwhile passing by the Yacht & Beach Club and BoardWalk resorts.\r\n

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\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Swan and Dolphin Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

\r\n\r\n

\r\nTwo companies provide in-room sitting in Walt Disney World and surrounding \r\n\r\nareas. They're Kid's \r\n\r\nNite Out\r\nand Fairy Godmothers (no kidding). Both provide sitters older \r\n\r\nthan age 18 who are insured, bonded, \r\nscreened, reference-checked, police-checked, and trained in CPR. In addition \r\n\r\nto caring for your kids in your room, the sitters will,\r\nif you direct (and pay), take your children to the theme parks or other \r\n\r\nvenues. Neither service will transport your children in private \r\nvehicles or give baths. Both offer bilingual sitters.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t \r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
Babysitting Services
Kid's Nite OutFairy Godmothers
\r\n\t\t407-828-0920 or
\r\n\t\t800-696-8105
\r\n\t\tkidsniteout.com\r\n\t
\r\n\t\t407-277-3724\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tHotels Served
\r\n\t\tAll WDW and Orlando-area hotels\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tHotels Served
\r\n\t\tAll WDW and Orlando-area hotels\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tSitters
\r\n\t\tMen and women\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tSitters
\r\n\t\tMothers and grandmothers, female college students\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tBase Hourly Rates
\r\n\t\t1 child, $18
\r\n\t\t2 children, $21
\r\n\t\t3 children, $24
\r\n\t\t4 children, $26
\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tBase Hourly Rates
\r\n\t\t1 child, $16
\r\n\t\t2 children, $16
\r\n\t\t3 children, $16
\r\n\t\t4 children, $18
\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tExtra Charges
\r\n\t\tTransportation fee, $10; starting before 6:30 AM
\r\n\t\tor after 9 PM, +$2 per hour; additional fee for holidays\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tExtra Charges
\r\n\t\tTransportation fee, $14; starting after 10 PM,
\r\n\t\t+$2 per hour\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tCancellation Deadline
\r\n\t\t24 hours before service when reservation is made\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tCancellation Deadline
\r\n\t\t3 hours before service\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tForm of Payment
\r\n\t\tAE, D, MC, V; gratuity in cash\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tForm of Payment
\r\n\t\tCash or traveler's check for actual payment; gratuity in cash\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tThings Sitter Won't Do
\r\n\t\tTransport children in private vehicles,
\r\n\t\ttake children swimming, give baths\r\n\t
\r\n\t\tThings Sitter Won't Do
\r\n\t\tTransport children, give baths; swimming
\r\n\t\tis at sitter's discretion\r\n\t
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous Swan and Dolphin

\r\n

\r\nCoin-operated washers and dryers are in laundry facilities \r\n\r\nlocated on the first floor in the Dolphin building. Cost is around $2 per wash, and another $2 per dry \r\n\r\ncycle. The machines take quarters, and a change machine is provided. A small \r\n\r\nselection of soap, fabric softener, and dryer sheets are also sold, for\r\naround $1 each. A typical wash cycle takes 20 to 30 minutes, and a typical dry \r\n\r\ncycle takes 40 to 50.\r\n

\r\n\r\n \r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Swan's Lost and \r\n\r\nFound department by calling (407) 934-3000.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

These sprawling hotels are configured very differently, and their irregular\r\nshapes mean it’s easier to discuss groups of rooms in relation to\r\nexterior landmarks and compass directions rather than by room numbers.\r\nWhen speaking with a Disney reservationist, use our tips to ask for\r\na particular view or area.

\r\n

East-facing rooms offer prime views, particularly in the upper\r\nhalf of the seven-story wing above Il Mulino New York Trattoria. From this vantage point, guests overlook a canal and the BoardWalk, with Epcot\r\nin the distance. EPCOT fireworks enliven the view nightly. Balcony\r\nrooms are available on floors five, six, and seven for an additional $50 and\r\nup per night. However, rooms in the wing nearest the hotel’s main section\r\nhave the southern portion of their view obscured by the building’s easternmost\r\nportion, which juts east beyond the seven-story wing. There are some\r\neast-facing rooms on that portion of the main section, sans balconies.\r\nLofty palm trees obscure the view from east-facing rooms below the fourth\r\nfloor. The best rooms with an Epcot view are 626 and 726.

\r\n\r\n

North-facing rooms afford views of the Dolphin and (generally) of the courtyard. Exceptions are the north-facing rooms on the easternmost portion of the main section, which look across Crescent Terrace to the BoardWalk. These afford angled views of Epcot and are buffered by palms on the lowest three floors. The few north-facing rooms at the end of the Swan's two eight-story wings directly overlook Crescent Lake. However, the bulk of north-facing rooms are in the main section and overlook the courtyard, with greenery, fountains, and an indoor cafe in its center. Courtyard-facing rooms are subject to noise from below, though never much.

\r\n\r\n

Above the eighth floor, north-facing rooms in the main section overlook roofs of the shorter wings. In these rooms, height enhances the vista from your window, but only near the center of the hotel is the view not seriously marred by rooftops below.

\r\n

North-facing main-section rooms have a more direct view of the Dolphin across the lake than the courtyard-facing rooms in either eight-story wing. However, most wing rooms can view the lake at an angle. Those on the northern edge of the western wing also view the BoardWalk at an angle.

\r\n\r\n

Most courtyard-facing rooms have balconies; 224 rooms are so equipped, and these balconies offer panoramic 180-degree views. Of course, from most rooms at the Swan, part of any 180-degree view will include another section of the hotel.

\r\n\r\n

The Swan's worst views are from west-facing rooms above the fourth floor, which overlook the unsightly roof of the hotel's western wing. The northernmost rooms in the wing directly above Kimonos restaurant are an exception to this, as their balconies overlook the pool and the beach on Crescent Lake's western shore. Rooms 680-691 offer nice pool views.

\r\n

Above the Swan's main entrance, south-facing rooms overlook the parking lot, with forest and Disney's Hollywood Studios in the distance. However, the canal is also visible to the east. These rooms lack balconies.

\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Usually cheaper than Beach Club, Yacht Club, or BoardwalkConventioneers may be off-putting to\r\nvacationing families
Participates in Marriott Rewards programDaily resort and parking fees
Walking distance to both Epcot\r\nInternational Gateway and Hollywood StudiosNo Disney’s Magical Express or\r\nDisney Dining Plan
Good on-site and nearby diningBus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Very nice pool complexArchitecture that was on the cutting edge\r\na few decades ago now seems dated
On-site car rental through National\r\nand AlamoTiny bathrooms
Spotty front-desk service and\r\nhousekeeping
","recommend_to_friends":86,"recommend_annual_change":1,"stay_again":93,"stay_again_annual_change":-1,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":true,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":758,"theme":"Modern Florida Resort","cost_range":"$559-1,063","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":false,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"bdc6240cfae4cfeb36dffd164a09c535","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":360,"blog_slug":"swan","property_owned":false,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":"29.0","resort_fee":"35.0","sort_name":"walt disney world swan hotel","club_name":null,"operator_id":80069789,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/swan-hotel","opened_on":"1990-01-13","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"swan","refresh_year":2015,"renovation_year":2015,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Swan's 12-story main building has incredible, 47-foot tall swan sculptures. While it's probably best suited as a convention hotel, the bedding is excellent and it's a short walk to EPCOT and the Studios.","dining_overview":"The highlight of the Swan's restaurants is probably the sushi-and-karaoke Kimono's. For even more variety, four other hotels' restaurants are a short walk away.","good_for":"Marriott Bonvoy members","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":436,"property_id":1,"name":"Walt Disney World Swan Reserve","code":"ORL330","address":"1255 Epcot Resorts Boulevard","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078424900","url":null,"off_site":false,"permalink":"disney-world-swan-reserve","created_at":"2021-02-16T11:22:18.000-08:00","updated_at":"2024-11-13T20:41:07.000-08:00","overview":"

The Walt Disney World Swan Reserve is a brand new tower being built near the Swan and Dolphin area on Crescent Lake. The Swan Reserve is a Marriott Autograph Collection hotel, which means it should be a \"sharply-designed boutique hotel.\"

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\r\nWalt Disney World Swan Reserve Area Map\r\n

\r\n
\t\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":true,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":349,"theme":"Upscale Business Hotel","cost_range":null,"shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":false,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"4f3fd770bb6be1c3f00c71a404853ef7","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":330,"blog_slug":"disney-world-swan-reserve","property_owned":false,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":"29.0","resort_fee":"35.0","sort_name":"walt disney world swan reserve","club_name":null,"operator_id":null,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":null,"opened_on":"2021-10-13","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":"Fall 2021","extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"swanres","refresh_year":2021,"renovation_year":2021,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Swan Reserve is a smaller hotel than either the Swan or Dolphin, and sits across the road from the Swan. We think it's great for couples on a long weekend.","dining_overview":"Dining is a weakness at the Swan Reserve. There's only one kitchen to support the restaurant, all the bars, the pool, and room service.","good_for":"Marriott Bonvoy members","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":3,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null}]],["Deluxe Villa",[{"id":242,"property_id":1,"name":"Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort","code":"ORL239","address":"4600 North World Drive","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078241000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/bay-lake-tower-at-contemporary/","off_site":false,"permalink":"bay-lake-tower-at-disneys-contemporary-resort","created_at":"2011-03-18T11:47:54.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-14T20:40:57.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort Overview

\r\n\r\n

Opened in 2009, Bay Lake Tower is\r\na 15-story, 295-unit DDV resort consists of studios\r\nand one- and two-bedroom villas as well as two-story, three-bedroom\r\nGrand Villas with views of Bay Lake and the Magic Kingdom. Laid out\r\nin a semicircle, Bay Lake Tower is connected to the Contemporary by\r\nan elevated, covered outdoor walkway and shares the main resort’s\r\nmonorail service.

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\r\nDisney's Contemporary Resort map\r\n

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Bay Lake Tower has its own check-in desk as well as its own private\r\npool and pool bar, plus a small fire pit on the beach. Its Top of the World is the best bar on Disney property,\r\nbut, alas, it admits only DVC owners and their guests. If need be, offer\r\nto buy an owner a round of drinks in exchange for an invite.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Please see our description of the Contemporary for more \r\n\r\ninformation about the amenities shared with that resort.

\r\n

Besides room quietness, readers give Bay Lake an A rating for room\r\nquality and staff service. This Minnesota family of four loved it:

\r\n
We had a studio with a Magic Kingdom view. The balcony was a private\r\noasis where my husband and I would relax and watch the fireworks\r\ntogether after the kids were asleep. On our second night he\r\nlooked at me and said, “We’re always going to stay here.”
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort Compares to Other \r\n\r\nDisney Villa Resorts

\r\n

The major advantage of Bay Lake Tower is that is a short walk to Walt \r\n\r\nDisney World's flagship theme park, Magic Kingdom. If you don't want to make \r\n\r\nthe 10 minute walk you can also take a Monorail, which has a station in the \r\n\r\nContemporary's lobby. The same Monorail can be also be used to ride to the \r\n\r\nTransportation And Ticket Center, here guests can transfer to another Monorail \r\n\r\nand ride to the front gate of Epcot.

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\r\nBay Lake Tower exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Bay Lake Tower's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Bay Lake Tower is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nContemporary/Bay Lake Tower participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether. Registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBay Lake Tower's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if \r\n\r\nyou don't already have them. Get theme park tickets and dining reservations \r\n\r\nat the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Bay Lake Tower's Rooms

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Rooms are well appointed, with flat-panel TVs, DVD players, minifridges,\r\nmicrowaves, and coffee makers. Brightly colored accessories,\r\npaintings, and accent walls complement an otherwise-neutral color\r\nscheme. Wood tables and granite countertops add a natural touch. Each\r\nroom has a private balcony or patio. The rooms we’ve stayed in tested\r\nas the quietest on Disney property.

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Bay Lake Tower Studios:Studios sleep up to four people and include one queen-size bed\r\nand one double sleeper sofa. The part of the studio with the bed, sofa,\r\nand TV measures about 170 square feet and feels small with just two\r\npeople; four would be an adventure.

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\r\nA bedroom in a Bay Lake Tower 1-bedroom villa.\r\n

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\r\nA kitchen and living room in a Bay Lake Tower 1-bedroom villa.\r\n

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Bay Lake Tower 1-Bedroom Villa: One-bedroom villas sleep five people (the living room’s chair and\r\nsofa fold out to sleep three) and provide a formal kitchen, a second\r\nbathroom, and a living room in addition to the studio bedroom.

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Bay Lake Tower Two-bedroom villas: The two-bedroom villas—our pick for the best of the standard\r\nrooms—sleep nine and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a\r\none-bedroom, plus an extra bathroom. One of the baths is attached\r\nto a second bedroom with two queen beds or a queen plus a sleepersize\r\nsofa. As with the one-bedrooms, a sofa bed and sleeper chair in\r\nthe living room provide extra places to snooze, though they’re best\r\nsuited for small children. Bathrooms in the two-bedroom villas are a bit more spacious than those in the one-bedrooms. One odd feature in\r\nthe baths (also found at other DVC resorts) is a folding door separating\r\nthe tub from the master bedroom.

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Bay Lake Tower Grand Villas: The two-story Grand Villas sleep 12 and include four bathrooms, the\r\nsame master-bedroom layout, and two bedrooms with two queen beds\r\napiece. An upstairs seating area overlooking the main floor provides a\r\nsleeper sofa and chair. Two-story windows offer unparalleled views of\r\nBay Lake or the Magic Kingdom—with unparalleled prices to match.

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Bay Lake Tower Room Layout\r\n

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A lot of thought went into the bathroom design. You enter the bath through \r\n\r\na sliding pocket door instead of a traditional hinged model. The pocket door \r\n\r\nprovides plenty of room and makes it easy to move around inside. The curved \r\n\r\nshower-curtain rod is inspired. Combined with the pocket door, the curtain rod \r\n\r\nmakes the bathroom feel much bigger than it is. Another thoughtful touch: A \r\n\r\nsmall motion sensor detects when you’re up and moving at night, and turns on a \r\n\r\ndimmed bathroom light to help you find your way.

\r\n

Bay Lake Tower's bathroom sinks have an avant-garde flat-bottom design. If \r\n\r\nyou can name a single Belgian architect or you own shoes made in Scandinavia, \r\n\r\nyou’ll probably love them; other folks think they look like lab equipment. \r\n\r\nWhen brushing your teeth, spit directly over the drain; otherwise, the \r\n\r\ntoothpaste glob doesn't move. One minor gripe: You have to scoot around one of \r\n\r\nthe sinks to get in the shower. (We’re sure George Clooney has his quirks, \r\n\r\ntoo.)

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Water pressure in the shower is average - probably less than what you get \r\n\r\nat home, but still enough to get your hair clean. Eventually.

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A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, and \r\n\r\nenough counter space to fit most of the toiletries you would need. There are \r\n\r\nalso two shelves under the sink that provide a small amount of storage. A \r\n\r\n1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; \r\n\r\nbring your own if you've got lots of hair. The dressing area includes a \r\n\r\nsliding door that separates it from the sleeping area. Combined with the \r\n\r\nbathroom, this means that 3 people can get dressed at the same time.

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\r\nA bathroom in a Bay Lake Tower 1-bedroom villa.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Bay Lake Tower has around 44 handicap-accessible rooms. Some feature \r\n\r\nroll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A subset of \r\n\r\nthese rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have \r\n\r\nwhich feature

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Bay Lake Views, Theme Park Views and Standard Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Contemporary's hotel rooms based on what you see from \r\n\r\ninside the room. Luckily both sides of Bay Lake Tower offer great views.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Theme Park view rooms give great views of Magic Kingdom's fireworks.

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Bay Lake Tower Pools

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One pool is for use exclusively by guests of Bay Lake Tower. Bay Cove Pool \r\n\r\nsits sits in the middle of the courtyard in the middle of Bay Lake Tower. \r\n\r\nThere is also a hot tub, kiddie pool and water player area.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Bay Lake Tower guests may also use the Feature Pool and Bay Pool over at \r\n\r\nthe main Contemporary Resort tower.

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\r\nBay Lake Tower's Bay Cove Pool.\r\n

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Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 \r\n\r\ninches/1.1m to 4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during \r\n\r\nwinter. The pools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Contemporary also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Bay Cove Pool.

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Bay Cove Pool and Feature Pool each have one water slide that all ages are \r\n\r\nfree to use. Guests can find showers, storage \r\n\r\nlockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, \r\n\r\nextending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Feature Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

\r\n\r\n

For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ. \r\n

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Bay Lake Tower Restaurants and Dining

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Bay Lake Tower has no dedicated dining of its own, but it does have an \r\n\r\nexclusive lounge. Top of the World Lounge is \r\n\r\nlocated at the top of Bay Lake Tower, where both indoor and outdoor areas \r\n\r\nprovide excellent views of Magic Kingdom fireworks. Access to Top of the World \r\n\r\nLounge is limited to Disney Vacation Club members staying on Bay Lake Tower \r\n\r\nusing points.

\r\n\r\n

Contemporary Resort Restaurants and Dining

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California Grill

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\r\nCalifornia Grill Dinner Menu - California Grill Kids Menu

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High atop the Contemporary Resort, the award-winning California Grill sets \r\n\r\nthe standard for Disney dining. But expect a boisterous crowd-the noise level \r\n\r\nmakes quiet conversation difficult. Still, the view from the 15th floor is \r\n\r\nstellar, one of the best spots for watching the Magic Kingdom fireworks. It's \r\n\r\nso popular that the Grill no longer allows just anyone on the elevator for a \r\n\r\nride to the top - you must have a dinner reservation. A show kitchen is the \r\n\r\ncenterpiece of the airy dining room.

\r\n\r\n

The California Grill still is one of Disney's top dining experiences, more \r\n\r\nlike a hot spot in L.A. or New York City than Disney World. We like the seats \r\n\r\nat the bar in front of the kitchen, or a coveted window seat. Though it's a \r\n\r\nsophisticated dining experience, be warned that you'll see plenty of kids in \r\n\r\nthe dining room.

\r\n\r\n

Chef Brian Piasecki takes advantage of seasonal produce, fish, and meats. \r\n\r\nSushi chef Yoshie has been there for more than 16 years, creating sublime, \r\n\r\nartful sushi that's a meal in itself. Oven-fired flatbreads are always on the \r\n\r\nmenu, as well as grilled pork tenderloin with creamy polenta and Zinfandel \r\n\r\nglaze, a favorite since day one.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Chef Mickey's

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\r\nFun Time Buffet Breakfast - Chef Mickey's Fun Time \r\n\r\nBuffet Dinner\r\n

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Chef Mickey's is a all-you-can-eat buffet with that features a colorful, \r\n\r\nopen dining room with the monorail running overhead, this is one of the most \r\n\r\npopular Disney-character restaurants-mostly because you're guaranteed an \r\n\r\naudience with Mickey Mouse, who dons a chef's toque and visits every single \r\n\r\ntable for photos. (Goofy, Minnie, Donald, and Pluto are on hand, too.) The \r\n\r\nbuffet circles the center of the room. It's loud, crowded, busy, and fun for \r\n\r\nfamilies. We rarely see anyone here without kids in tow.

\r\n\r\n

Go hungry, and this all-you-can-eat buffet is a good value for families; \r\n\r\nthere's plenty for picky eaters, and you can start or end the day with a full \r\n\r\ntummy and photos of the top Disney characters already checked off your to-do \r\n\r\nlist. Selections at both breakfast and dinner are freshly prepared and served \r\n\r\nin casseroles and platters on special heated countertops - a small step up \r\n\r\nfrom chafing dishes.

\r\n\r\n

Steakhouse 71

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\r\nBreakfast Menu - Brunch Menu - Lunch Menu\r\n - Dinner Menu \r\n

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Steakhouse 71 is located on the first floor of Disney's Contemporary Resort, replacing the hilariously named The Wave... of American Flavors. It is a casual steakhouse serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner with decorative reminders of 1971, the year the hotel opened.

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\r\n\r\n

Contempo Cafe

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\r\nContempo Cafe Breakfast Menu - Contempo Cafe Kids Breakfast Menu - Contempo Cafe Lunch/Dinner Menu - Contempo Cafe Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Contempo Cafe is the resort's counter service restaurant. It has faster \r\n\r\nservice and is less expensive than Steakhouse 71, but still has its quirks. For \r\n\r\none, you place your order on an ATM-like touch-screen kiosk, leaving one to \r\n\r\nwonder whether dining at a $300 per night resort is supposed to feel like the \r\n\r\nself-checkout aisle at the grocery store. If you want to modify your order in \r\n\r\nany way - say, hold the onions on the flatbread - you have to walk to the \r\n\r\npick-up window and instruct the staff. The food is fresh and tasty, but the \r\n\r\nordering process is a bit convoluted. Noise from the nearby Chef Mickeys can \r\n\r\ndrown out all but the most enthusiastic conversationalist.

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\r\nContempo Cafe participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Contemporary participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 1 credit at Steakhouse 71, Chef Mickey's and Contempo \r\n\r\nCafe, and 2 credits at California Grill. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Pizza delivery is available to your room from Disney's own \r\n\r\ndelivery service. Besides pizza, chicken wings, desserts, beer, wine, and \r\n\r\nsodas are also available. However,\r\ndelivery can take up to 90 minutes, and the food quality is often below \r\n\r\naverage. You're probably better off either walking to the food court or \r\n\r\ncalling Domino's. Pizza\r\ndelivery hours are 4 PM to midnight daily. A medium (16\") cheese pizza costs \r\n\r\naround $14 and a pepperoni around $16. Minimum order is $15, and Disney will \r\n\r\ntack on an 18% tip, \r\n$3 delivery charge, and 7% sales tax. Thus, a $30 pizza order will cost you \r\n\r\n$40.50 delivered.\r\n

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Contemporary Resort Bars and Lounges

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Outer Rim Lounge is located amid \r\n\r\nthe busy dining and shopping on the 4th Floor of the main tower at the \r\n\r\nContemporary. Outer Rim Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu, with \r\n\r\nseveral beers, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is usually open 4 \r\n\r\nPM to 12 AM daily. The The Sand Bar is \r\n\r\nlocated adjacent to the Feature Pool at the Contemporary. It also has a \r\n\r\nselection of beers, wines, and cocktails. Plus a small menu of burgers, hot \r\n\r\ndogs, sandwiches, salads, and desserts is available.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Bay Lake Tower

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Contemporary Resort is just off \r\n\r\nof I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on World Drive. Take World Dr. for about 5.6 \r\n\r\nmiles, and Contemporary/Bay Lake Tower will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Contemporary Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Contemporary Resort. If you're not renting a \r\n\r\ncar, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Contemporary Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's \r\n\r\nContemporary Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV \r\n\r\nservice or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Bay Lake Tower. At those prices, \r\n\r\nit may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

\r\n

Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Downtown \r\n\r\nDisney\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Contemporary Resort to Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, \r\n\r\nand Disney Springs. Disney's Contemporary Resort's bus stops \r\n\r\nsit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking \r\n\r\nlot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice. Bay Lake Tower does not have its own bus stop or Monorail station. \r\n\r\nGuests must use the stations at the Contemporary.\r\n

\r\n

Magic Kingdom is accessed via Monorail via the station inside the \r\n\r\nContemporary Resort's Grand Canyon Concourse. Monorail service may be \r\n\r\nsuspended at any time.

\r\n\r\n

Epcot is accessed by taking the Monorail via the station inside the \r\n\r\nresort's Grand Canyon Concourse to the Transportation And Ticket Center. There \r\n\r\nguests travel to Epcot via the Epcot Monorail.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Contemporary Resort's bus stop.

\r\n
\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort's Bus Schedule

\r\n

\r\nAsk a Disney Castmember about Contemporary's bus schedule, and they'll tell \r\n\r\nyou that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Contemporary's bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Animal Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 13 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, \r\n\r\nwith a bus arriving every 8-17 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water \r\n\r\nparks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait \r\n\r\nanywhere from 20 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and \r\n\r\nDisney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to Disney's Hollywood Studios. We evaluate Disney's Contemporary \r\n\r\nResort's bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be \r\n\r\nfound below.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Disney's Contemporary Resort \r\n\r\nIf you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to \r\n\r\ntake a Disney bus from Disney's Contemporary Resort to Disney Springs (or an \r\n\r\nopen theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. \r\n\r\nDo the reverse to get back to Disney's Contemporary Resort. While that's free, \r\n\r\nit can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination \r\n\r\nis \r\none of the other Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is \r\n\r\nstill open hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or \r\n\r\ntake a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We \r\n\r\nsuggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Contemporary to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels from Contemporary, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

\r\n

You can also take a boat in Bay Lake to Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort, \r\n\r\nFort wilderness, and the Magic Kingdom. This option can also take some time \r\n\r\ndepending on where you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

\r\n\r\n

To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

Note: All the fitness center, recreational activities, and \r\n\r\ngift shops are available in the Contemporary Resort's main building. \r\n\r\n

Olympiad Health Club is Contemporary's fitness center and \r\n\r\nspa. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are only available from 8:00 AM \r\n\r\nto 7:00 PM. Swedish, Aromatherapy, and Firm Pressure massage treatment \r\n\r\nservices are available.

\r\n\r\n

Watercraft Rentals are available for use in Bay Lake 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. \r\n\r\nKayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices vary. \r\n\r\nAll rentals can be purchased in a booth near the Feature Pool.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nFireworks viewing deck at Top of the World Lounge.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n

Contemporary's gift shop is Fantasia Market. It is located on the fourth \r\n\r\nfloor. As you'd expect from a Disney gift shop, Fantasia has a decent \r\n\r\ncollection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as keychains and \r\n\r\npens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices for these \r\n\r\nitems are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nFantasia Market also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, \r\n\r\nallergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. \r\n\r\nAnd Fantasia Market has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Also located near Fantasia Market is the The Game Station \r\n\r\nArcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent video and \r\n\r\narcade games. Most games\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 0.89-mile jogging trail. The trail is located on the northern end \r\n\r\nof the resort between Bay Lake Tower and the Garden Wing.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Contemporary Resort Child Care

\r\n\r\n

Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous Contemporary

\r\n\r\n

There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Contemporary \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 824-1000.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nThe Sky Way Bridge connects Bay Lake Tower and the Contemporary.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort

\r\n

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney Resort room on property. Click here for the Bay Lake Tower map and to choose a room to see the view.

\r\n\r\n

If you’re paying for a Magic Kingdom\r\nview, request a room on an upper level—above the seventh floor, at\r\nleast—if you don’t want to look out on the parking lot. Even-numbered\r\nrooms XX06–XX16 have the best viewing angle of the park. Rooms\r\nXX24–XX30 may technically be described as having Magic Kingdom\r\nviews, but they’re oriented toward the Contemporary, and you have to\r\nturn the other way to see the park.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"8220\"\r\n
Room 8220: Theme Park View room on the 12th floor.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"8512\"\r\n
Room 8512: So close that you can hear the train whistle.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Rooms on the south side of the tower face the contemporary resort's main building. again, you'll see a lot of the parking lot in these rooms. beyond the parking lot you'll see seven seas lagoon and disney's grand floridian resort.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"8018\"\r\n
Room 8018: This is technically a Magic Kingdom View, but you may have to crane your neck to see it.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Low level rooms around the resort are usually tagged as standard view rooms. Views include landscaping, foliage, the courtyard and pool complex, and service areas.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"7142\"\r\n
Room 7142: A Standard View room with a view of Bay Lake.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n

We mentioned that Bay Lake Tower is laid out in a semicircle. Inside the semicircle you'll find views of the resort's Bay Cove Pool. Upper level rooms also have good views of Bay Lake.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"8225\"\r\n
Room 8225: 12th floor room categorized as a Bay Lake View.
\r\n
\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Easy walk to the Magic KingdomSterility of theme and decor
Boat service to Fort Wilderness Resort &\r\nCampgroundVery small studios sleep\r\nno more than 2 people comfortably
Extremely nice 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villasBus transportation \r\nis shared with the other monorail resorts
Beautiful views of Bay Lake from upper floorsNot so great views of your neighbors' decks from some rooms inside the C-shaped building
Best lounge at Walt Disney World\r\n(Top of the World)
Recreation options on Bay Lake
\r\n\r\n","recommend_to_friends":87,"recommend_annual_change":22,"stay_again":97,"stay_again_annual_change":-3,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":295,"theme":"Upscale, Ultramodern Urban Hotel","cost_range":"$695 - $5,910","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"02c5ea361bb378ee1bb556ea59d2d18e","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243539","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":339,"blog_slug":"bay-lake-tower-at-contemporary","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"bay lake tower at disneys contemporary resort","club_name":null,"operator_id":1,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/bay-lake-tower-at-contemporary","opened_on":"2009-08-04","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"blt","refresh_year":2016,"renovation_year":2013,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":199,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"A unique, 15-story resort in the shape of a letter C, Bay Lake has excellent views of the Magic Kingdom on one side, and Bay Lake on the other. Its rooms are some of the quietest on property.","dining_overview":"Bay Lake Tower has no on-site dining of its own - it shares all the restaurants (some of them very good) with Disney's Contemporary Resort. Room service is available.","good_for":"Walk to Magic Kingdom","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":5,"property_id":1,"name":"Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge","code":"ORL018","address":"901 Timberline Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078243200","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/villas-at-wilderness-lodge/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-wilderness-lodge-villas","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-18T20:40:59.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

This is our page covering the Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge. Wilderness Lodge also has a main building, as well as second Disney Vacation Club wing, which we cover in-depth on their own pages. See Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Copper Creek Villas & Cabins for more information.

\r\n\r\n

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Overview

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Wilderness Lodge resort is inspired by national-park lodges of the early \r\n\r\n20th century. The Wilderness Lodge ranks with Animal Kingdom Lodge as \r\n\r\none of the most impressively themed and meticulously detailed Disney resorts. \r\n\r\nSituated on the shore of Bay Lake, the hotel features exposed timber \r\n\r\ncolumns, log cabin– style facades, and dormer windows. The grounds are \r\n\r\nlandscaped with evergreen pines and pampas grass. The lobby in the main \r\n\r\nbuilding boasts an 82-foot-tall stone fireplace and two 55-foot Pacific \r\n\r\nNorthwest totem poles. Timber pillars, giant tepee chandeliers, and stone-, \r\n\r\nwood-, and marble-inlaid floors accentuate the lobby’s rustic luxury. Although \r\n\r\nthe resort isn’t on vast acreage, it does have a beach and a delightful pool \r\n\r\nmodeled on a mountain stream.

\r\n\r\n

The the 136 Boulder\r\nRidge Villas are studio and one- and two-bedroom units in a freestanding building to the right of the lodge. Studios have kitchenettes; one- and\r\ntwo-bedroom villas have full kitchens. The rustic decor features pine furniture,\r\ntextured rugs, curtains, and woodland creatures from Disney’s\r\nBambi decorating the pillows and bedding. Boulder Ridge has its own\r\npool but shares restaurants and other amenities with the main lodge.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nDisney's Wilderness Lodge Villas map\r\n

\r\n
\t\r\n

The villas’ studios have fold-down sleeper sofas. All villas have\r\narmoires and flat-panel TVs, and one- and two-bedroom units have\r\nstainless-steel kitchen appliances.

\r\n\r\n

We think more updates are needed. This reader from Buffalo, New\r\nYork, agrees:

\r\nAbsolutely hated the room at Boulder Ridge—any Hampton Inn I’ve\r\never stayed at for half the price had better rooms. The furniture was\r\nmismatched and outdated, the rugs were worn, and the pullout sofa\r\nbed was worse than the one we owned in the 1970s! Most upsetting,\r\nthere were no grab bars in the showers, which are a hotel-industry\r\nsafety standard. Perhaps because the bathroom was so small, Disney\r\nfigured we could just hold on to the walls?\r\n

A Plymouth, Massachusetts, family found a way to make the room\r\nmore comfortable:

\r\nThe sofa bed was improved greatly after we requested an additional\r\nmattress for it. We couldn’t use the sofa, but the extra mattress made\r\nfor a much better night’s sleep.\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Compares to Other Disney \r\n\r\nResorts

\r\n

The major advantage of Wilderness Lodge Villas is that the Magic Kingdom is \r\n\r\nshort boat ride away. Wilderness Lodge does offer a fitness center, salon, and \r\n\r\na spa.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nWilderness Lodge's exterior.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

\r\n

A security gate guards the entrance to Wilderness Lodge's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Boulder Ridge is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBan\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nDisney's Wilderness Lodge's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your \r\n\r\nstay (free MagicBands were discontinued in January 2021), if you don't already have them. Get theme park tickets and dining \r\n\r\nreservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Rooms

\r\n\r\n

Boulder Ridge Studios: Studios sleep up to five people following 2014 renovations; they now include one queen-size bed, and a queen-sized sofa bed. The total Studio room size is 356 square feet, with about half of that being dedicated to the kitchen and bathroom area

\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nBoulder Ridge Studio Villa.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Boulder Ridge One-Bedroom Villa: The one-bedroom villa sleeps 4 and provides a formal kitchen and a living room in addition to the studio bedroom, which contains a king bed. The living room's sofa folds out to provide a queen bed. One-Bedrooms Villas are 727 square feet.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nBoulder Ridge One-Bedroom Villa.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Boulder Ridge Two-bedroom villas: Two-bedroom villas sleep 8 and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, plus an extra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with two queen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one-bedrooms, a sofa bed in the living room provides an extra place to snooze. Two-Bedroom Villas are 1,080 square feet.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nBoulder Ridge Villas room layout.\r\n

\r\n
\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

For dining, shopping, recreation, and other amenities, see our main Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort page.

\r\n\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Villas

\r\n

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on \r\nproperty. click here for the disney's wilderness lodge resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"4561\"\r\n
Room 4561: Trees. You'll see a lot of these from your room at Wilderness Lodge Villas.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n

Except for a few rooms overlooking the pool, these rooms offer woodland\r\nviews. The best are odd-numbered rooms X531–X563 on floors\r\nthree through five, which open to the lake (northeast) side of the resort\r\n(you usually can’t see the lake, though). Rooms on the opposite side of\r\nthe same wing offer similar views, but with some roads and parking\r\nlots visible, and with traffic noise.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

The view from your window for the most part includes landscaping and trees. but some rooms look on to a walking path or a the resort's pool.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1542\"\r\n
Room 1542: Avoid rooms 1538-1544 if you don't want to see an electrical box outside your window.\r\n.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1509\"\r\n
Room 1509: Some rooms look out on to a walking path.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"1504\"\r\n
Room 1504: Thick woods are the view from most rooms. You'll feel very secluded.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 5533: you can kind of see Bay Lake from a handful of rooms, but don't count on it.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
National-park-lodge theme is a favorite\r\nof kids and adults alikeBus transportation is shared with the Contemporary Resort
Boat transportation to Magic KingdomSmallest rooms and baths of Disney’s\r\nDVC resorts
Exceptionally peaceful location and\r\npublic areasNo 3 BR Grand Villa units
Great views from many guest rooms
Smaller lobby area is understated and charming
Boulder Ridge has their own separate pool
Close to recreational options at\r\nFort Wilderness
Very nice 1- and 2 BR villas with full kitchens
Good on-site dining at Wilderness Lodge
","recommend_to_friends":79,"recommend_annual_change":4,"stay_again":85,"stay_again_annual_change":-15,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":136,"theme":"1860s Railroad Hotels of the American West","cost_range":"$546 - $2,625","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"ef406337ce02e131630c51032be5132b","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243232","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":356,"blog_slug":"wilderness-lodge-villas","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"boulder ridge villas at disneys wilderness lodge","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010393,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/boulder-ridge-villas-at-wilderness-lodge","opened_on":"2000-11-15","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"brv","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2017,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":6,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Boulder Ridge rooms are a short, covered outside walk from the Wilderness Lodge. The rustic decor features pine furniture and textured rugs. A large, private pool might be its best feature.","dining_overview":"Boulder Ridge shares restaurants with the Wilderness Lodge. Dining choices at Wilderness Lodge are informal and tasty. Room service is available.","good_for":"Wilderness theme","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":251,"property_id":1,"name":"Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge","code":"ORL247","address":"901 Timberline Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078243200","url":"https://disneyvacationclub.disney.go.com/destinations/list/florida/copper-creek-villas-and-cabins/","off_site":false,"permalink":"copper-creek-villas","created_at":"2017-07-25T08:46:05.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-21T20:41:08.000-08:00","overview":"

This is our page covering the Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge. Wilderness Lodge also has a main building, as well as second Disney Vacation Club wing, which we cover in-depth on their own pages. See Disney's Wilderness Lodge and Boulder Ridge Villas for more information.

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Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Overview

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Wilderness Lodge resort is inspired by national-park lodges of the early \r\n\r\n20th century. The Copper Creek, along with Wilderness Lodge and Boulder Ridge, ranks with Animal Kingdom Lodge as \r\n\r\none of the most impressively themed and meticulously detailed Disney resorts. \r\n\r\nSituated on the shore of Bay Lake, the hotel features exposed timber \r\n\r\ncolumns, log cabin– style facades, and dormer windows. The grounds are \r\n\r\nlandscaped with evergreen pines and pampas grass. The lobby in the main \r\n\r\nbuilding boasts an 82-foot-tall stone fireplace and two 55-foot Pacific \r\n\r\nNorthwest totem poles. Timber pillars, giant tepee chandeliers, and stone-, \r\n\r\nwood-, and marble-inlaid floors accentuate the lobby’s rustic luxury. Although \r\n\r\nthe resort isn’t on vast acreage, it does have a beach and a delightful pool \r\n\r\nmodeled on a mountain stream.

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Options include studios and one-, two-,\r\nand three-bedroom villas. The studios have kitchenettes, while most\r\none- and two-bedroom villas have full kitchens (the one-bedroom we\r\nstayed in had a galley kitchen). All rooms have vinyl “hardwood” floors,\r\nmodern furniture including a table and chairs, a coffee maker, and a\r\nmicrowave. Bathrooms are spacious, although sink space is limited;\r\nstorage is plentiful otherwise.

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Copper Creek rooms have less theming than those in the rest of the\r\nlodge—with another color of paint and different knickknacks, they\r\ncould be rooms at Saratoga Springs or Animal Kingdom Lodge. Nonetheless,\r\nreaders give these rooms an A for quality. In fact, they’re so\r\nwell appointed and comfortable that they highlight the need for refurbishments\r\nat the older Boulder Ridge Villas.

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We’ve also stayed at the lakeside Cascade Cabins. Their floor plan\r\n(see page 110) is similar to that of the Bora Bora Bungalows at Polynesian\r\nVillage. Room quality and views are excellent—and they’d better\r\nbe at these prices: more than $4,400 per night in peak season.

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We prefer the cabins over the bungalows, as does this Iowa City,\r\nIowa, reader:

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Loved the cabin at Copper Creek—better value than the Polynesian\r\nbungalows. Quiet and well arranged, but close to everything.
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How Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort & Villas Compares to Other Disney \r\n\r\nResorts

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The major advantage of Wilderness Lodge Villas is that the Magic Kingdom is \r\n\r\nshort boat ride away. Wilderness Lodge does offer a fitness center, salon, and \r\n\r\na spa.

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Copper Creek Villas & Cabins at Disney's Wilderness Lodge Rooms

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Studios: Studios sleep up to four people. They include one queen-size bed, and a queen-sized sofa bed. The total Studio room size is 345 square feet, with about half of that being dedicated to the kitchen and bathroom area

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\r\nCopper Creek Studio sleeping and kitchen areas.\r\n

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One-Bedroom Villas: The one-bedroom villa sleeps 4 and provides a formal kitchen and a living room in addition to the studio bedroom, which contains a queen bed. The living room's sofa folds out to provide a queen bed. One-Bedrooms Villas are 761 square feet.

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Two-bedroom Villas: Two-bedroom villas sleep 8 and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, plus an extra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with two queen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one-bedrooms, a sofa bed in the living room provides an extra place to snooze. Two-Bedroom Villas are 1,105 square feet.

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Three-bedroom Grand Villas: Grand villas sleep up to 12 in a total of 3204 square feet. Grand Villas contain three bathrooms, one of which you'll find in a master bedroom containing a king size bed. Another bedroom, which holds two queen beds, is also connected to a bathroom. The final bedroom also contains two queen beds. A couch in the living room converts in to a queen bed as well.

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\r\nA typical bathroom found in some Copper Creek Villas.\r\n

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Cabins: Copper Creek cabins sleep up to 8 and provides a kitchen, living room with queen size sofa bed and twin sleeper chair, bedroom with king bed and bathroom, a second bedroom with queen bed and pull down bunk-size bed, and bathroom next door to the kitchen. Cabins are 1737 square feet.

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\r\nA Copper Creek's Cascade Cabin.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Wilderness Lodge's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

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\r\nCheck-in time at Wilderness Lodge is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nWilderness Lodge's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining \r\n\r\nreservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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For dining, shopping, recreation, and other amenities, see our main Disney's Wilderness Lodge Resort page.

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360-degree View

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Post from RICOH THETA. - Spherical Image - RICOH THETA
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

These\r\nrooms are in the main building’s southeast wing. Avoid rooms X100–\r\nX106, which overlook the lobby. Odd-numbered rooms X107–X133\r\nface the interior courtyard and pool. Studios X119 have a nice view\r\nof the lake in the distance. Even-numbered rooms X108–X134 face the\r\nBoulder Ridge Villas, a garden area, and woods. Rooms on the sixth\r\nfloor are high enough for you to see the lake past Boulder Ridge and\r\nthe Cascade Cabins in the foreground.

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Guests in\r\ncabins 8001–8006 get to watch boats glide to the Magic Kingdom,\r\nwhile cabins 8023–8026 offer excellent fireworks views.

","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
National-park-lodge theme is a favorite\r\nof kids and adults alikeNoise from main building’s lobby can be\r\nheard inside nearby rooms
Along with Animal Kingdom Lodge, it’s\r\nthe least expensive Disney Deluxe resortBus transportation\r\nshared with the Contemporary Resort
Boat transportation to Magic KingdomSmallest rooms and baths of Disney’s\r\nDeluxe resorts
Exceptionally peaceful location and\r\npublic areas
Great views from many guest rooms
Excellent bars for adults
Elaborate Child Play area near main pool
Close to recreational options at\r\nFort Wilderness
\r\n\r\n","recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":false,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":220,"theme":"National-park Grand Lodge of the Early 1900s","cost_range":"$546 - $5,547","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"adfda7354bd3bb7b24364f3be876e5ec","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243232","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":345,"blog_slug":"copper-creek-villas","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"copper creek villas cabins at disneys wilderness lodge","club_name":null,"operator_id":18390992,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/copper-creek-villas-and-cabins","opened_on":"2017-07-17","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"ccv","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2017,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":6,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Copper Creek rooms are spread out among the main Wilderness Lodge building and in two-bedrooms cabins along Bay Lake. Whatever the rooms might lack in theming, they more than make up for in comfort and space.","dining_overview":"Copper Creek shares restaurants with the Wilderness Lodge. Dining choices at Wilderness Lodge are informal and tasty. Room service is available.","good_for":"National park vibe","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":433,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House","code":"ORL328","address":"2901 Osceola Parkway","city":"Bay Lake","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079383000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-lodge/","off_site":false,"permalink":"animal-kingdom-villas-jambo","created_at":"2020-10-05T03:21:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-21T20:41:09.000-08:00","overview":"Portions of Floors 5 and 6 of Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge are Deluxe Villa / Disney Vacation Club accomodations dubbed \"Jambo House.\"","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":214,"theme":"African Game Preserve","cost_range":"$476 - $4,971","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ak","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":false,"meta_description":"Everything you need to know about Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Jambo House hotel: map, room descriptions with photos (including club level rooms), pool information, restaurants and dining options, and guest reviews. ","survey_update_hash":"ca6f0b1af95a0a6fdd669dda0997e48d","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079384799","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":316,"blog_slug":"animal-kingdom-villas-jambo","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys animal kingdom villas jambo house","club_name":"Kilimanjaro Club","operator_id":5,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-villas-jambo/","opened_on":"2007-07-02","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"akvj","refresh_year":2018,"renovation_year":2018,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":228,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Animal Kingdom Villas fuse African tribal architecture with the style of East African national park lodges. Thatched-roof guest-room wings fan out from the lobby. Savannah-facing rooms overlook animal grazing areas.","dining_overview":"The Villas share all of the Animal Kingdom Lodge's restaurants, and that's a huge plus. Room service is available too.","good_for":"Animal views, theming","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":241,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Animal Kingdom Villas - Kidani Village","code":"ORL238","address":"2901 Osceola Parkway","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079383000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-villas-kidani/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-animal-kingdom-villas","created_at":"2011-03-11T12:24:58.000-08:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:57.000-08:00","overview":"

\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge Villas are found in both Kidani Village and Jambo House. If you are looking for a room in Jambo House, we have a separate Room Finder for Animal Kingdom Lodge - Jambo House.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village Resort Overview

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Near the popular, and beautiful, Animal Kingdom Lodge - Jambo House Disney built an all Disney Vacation Club property called Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge - Kidani Village. The two resorts share an overall design aesthetic, but Kidani Village is more intimate with a significantly smaller lobby. That is not to say that Kidani is somehow less than Jambo House: the design and details at Kidani are fantastic and many prefer the quieter, calmer feel of Kidani. Like Jambo House, Kidani Village borders the savanna and about half of its rooms have spectacular, animal-filled views.

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\r\nDisney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village map\r\n

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Consisting of a separate freestanding building shaped like a backward 3,\r\nKidani Village has 324 DDV units, a dedicated savanna, a well-themed\r\npool and splash zone, and Sanaa, a top-rated sit-down restaurant combining Indian and African cuisines. Other amenities include a fitness\r\ncenter; an arcade; a gift shop; and tennis, shuffleboard, and basketball\r\ncourts. Kidani Village is connected to Jambo House by a half-mile\r\nwalking trail; DDV guests at either resort can use the facilities at both.

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Kidani Village has studios and one-, two-,\r\nand three-bedroom villas. Except for the three-bedroom units, most\r\nrooms are larger than their counterparts at Jambo House by anywhere from 50 square feet (for a studio) to more than 200 square feet (for a\r\ntwo-bedroom unit). Kidani’s villas also have one more bathroom for\r\nthe one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Because of the difference in\r\narea, one-bedroom units in Kidani Village can accommodate up to\r\nfive people, and two-bedroom units can hold up to nine with a sleeper\r\nchair in the living room.

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Having stayed at Kidani Village more than a dozen times, we think\r\nit’s quiet and relaxed. The lobby and rooms have a smaller, more personal feel than Jambo House’s. The exterior isn’t anything special:\r\nIt’s basically a set of green rectangles with oversize African-themed\r\ndecorations attached. Kidani’s distance from Jambo House makes it\r\nfeel especially remote. The bus stops are a fair distance from the main\r\nbuilding, too, and it’s easy to head in the wrong direction when you’re\r\ncoming back from the parks at night.

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How Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

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The unique feature that separates Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas from not only \r\n\r\nall the other Walt Disney World resorts, but almost any hotel in the world, is \r\n\r\nthe animals. About half the rooms have a view of the hotel's savanna with \r\n\r\nvarious wild animals roaming around. You may wake up one morning and have a \r\n\r\ngiraffe looking in your window. Animal Kingdom Lodge does offer a fitness \r\n\r\ncenter.

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\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge's exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Animal Kingdom Lodge's grounds. If \r\n\r\nyou arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not \r\n\r\nnecessary to provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is \r\n\r\n11:00 AM. Animal Kingdom Lodge participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. \r\n

\r\n

If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge's gift shop sells MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them.

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nGet theme park \r\n\r\ntickets and dining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Villas's Rooms

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Both Jambo House and Kidani Village have studios and one-, two-,\r\nand three-bedroom villas. Most rooms at Kidani Village are larger,\r\nhowever, and the difference is anywhere from 50 square feet for a studio\r\nto more than 200 square feet for a two-bedroom unit. (The threebedroom\r\nGrand Villas at Jambo House, 148 square feet larger than\r\nthose in Kidani Village, are the exception.) Kidani’s villas also have one\r\nmore bathroom for one-, two-, and three-bedroom units. Because of the\r\ndifference in area, one-bedroom units in Kidani Village can accommodate\r\nup to five people, and two-bedroom units can hold up to nine via a\r\nsleeper chair in the living room. At Jambo House, one-bedroom “value”\r\nrooms sleep four; standard, savanna, and Club Level rooms sleep five.

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Having stayed at Kidani Village more than a dozen times, we think it’s\r\nquiet and relaxed. The lobby and rooms have a smaller, more personal\r\nfeel than Jambo House’s. The exterior isn’t anything special—essentially\r\na set of green rectangles with oversize African-themed decorations\r\nattached. Kidani’s distance from Jambo House makes it feel\r\nespecially remote. The bus stops are a fair distance from the main\r\nbuilding, too, and it’s easy to head in the wrong direction when you’re\r\ncoming back from the parks at night.

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Kidani Village Studios: Studios sleep up to four people \r\n\r\nand include one queen-size bed and one double sleeper sofa.

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Kidani Village 1-Bedroom Villa: The 1-bedroom villa sleeps \r\n\r\n5 and provides a formal kitchen, a second bathroom and a living room in \r\n\r\naddition to the studio bedroom. The living room's chair and sofa fold out to \r\n\r\nprovide beds for 3 more people.

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Kidani Village Two-bedroom villas: Two-bedroom villas \r\n\r\nsleep nine and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, \r\n\r\nplus an extra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with \r\n\r\ntwo queen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one- \r\n\r\nbedrooms, a sofa bed and sleeper chair in the living room provide extra places \r\n\r\nto snooze, though they're best suited to small children. Bathrooms in the \r\n\r\ntwo-bedroom villas are laid out a bit better than those in the one-bedrooms, \r\n\r\nwith more room to move about.

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\r\nKidani Village Studio Villa.\r\n

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Kidani Village Grand Villas: The two-story Grand Villas \r\n\r\nsleep 12 and include four bathrooms, the same master-bedroom layout, and two \r\n\r\nbedrooms with two queen beds apiece. An upstairs seating area overlooking the \r\n\r\nmain floor provides a sleeper sofa and chair. These rooms have two-story \r\n\r\nwindows offering unparalleled views of the resort's savanna.

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A Grand Villa living room.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Villas Room Layout\r\n

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\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge's bathrooms spacious, especially in the \r\n\r\n1-bedroom, 2-bedroom, and Grand Villas. Water pressure in the shower is \r\n\r\naverage - probably less than what you get at home, but still enough to get \r\n\r\nyour hair clean. Eventually.

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A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, and \r\n\r\nenough counter space to fit most of the toiletries you would need. A 1500-\r\n\r\nwatt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; bring \r\n\r\nyour own if you've got lots of hair. The dressing area includes a sliding door \r\n\r\nthat separates it from the sleeping area. Combined with the bathroom, this \r\n\r\nmeans that 3 people can get dressed at the same time.

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Kidani Village 1-Bedroom & Studio Villa bathroom.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Villas have around 20 handicap-accessible rooms. \r\n\r\nSome feature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. \r\n\r\nA subset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more. Use our hotel \r\n\r\nroom finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Standard Views and Savanna Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas's hotel rooms based on what you see from inside the room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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Animal Kingdom Lodge Pools

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Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas has one pool. Samawati Springs Pool sits \r\n\r\nsits near the outside of the lobby at the front of the resort. There is also \r\n\r\na hot tub, kiddie pool and water player area.\r\n

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Samawati Springs Pool ranges in depth from around 3 feet 6 \r\n\r\ninches/1.1m to 4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. The pool is open every day, including during \r\n\r\nwinter. The pools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. Animal Kingdom Lodge also has a \r\n\r\nhot tub located near Samawati Springs Pool.

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Samawati Springs Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests \r\n\r\ncan find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, \r\n\r\nextending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Samawati Springs Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

\r\n\r\n

For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Restaurants and Dining

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Sanaa

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\r\nSanaa Lunch Menu - Sanaa Dinner Menu - Sanaa Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu - Sanaa Wine List\r\n

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Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village has one restaurant located downstairs from the lobby. Sanaa (sah-NAH) is not as upscale as Jiko, the resort's African restaurant, \r\n\r\nbut the kitchen offers diners a chance to sample and share a variety of \r\n\r\nIndian-African creations. Diverse Old and New World wines match the \r\n\r\ncuisine.

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One floor down from the Kidani Village lobby, Sanaa's dining room is \r\n\r\ninspired by Africa's outdoor markets, with baskets, beads, and art on the \r\n\r\nwalls. It's a cozy space, with 9-foot-tall windows that look out on the \r\n\r\nresort's savanna - giraffes, water buffalo, and other animals wander within \r\n\r\nyards of you as you dine.

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All of Animal Kingdom Lodge's other restaurant's can be found in the resort's Jambo House building.

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Boma - Flavors of Africa

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\r\nBoma Breakfast Menu - Boma Dinner Menu

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The menu rarely changes, as Boma-Flavors of Africa is a favorite of locals \r\n\r\nand visitors who return time and again for the salads, roasted meats, and \r\n\r\ninteresting sauces. While Disney calls this a buffet, it's very different from \r\n\r\nwhat you'd typically expect (there are no steam tables, for starters). If you \r\n\r\nlike a major bang for your buck, try Boma.

\r\n\r\n

A big dining room with side-by-side food stations that encourage diners to \r\n\r\nroam about and graze, just like the animals that wander about outside the \r\n\r\nlodge. The house specialties are watermelon rind salad; Moroccan seafood \r\n\r\nsalad; roasted meats, Durban spiced roasted chicken, and vegetable \r\n\r\nskewers.

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\r\n

Jiko - The Cooking Place

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\r\nJiko Dinner Menu - Jiko Kids Dinner Menu\r\n

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Jiko has been winning awards and accolades (including AAA's Four Diamond \r\n\r\nAward) for its interesting fare and stellar wine list - one of the largest \r\n\r\ncollections of South African wines in any North American restaurant, with more \r\n\r\nthan 1,800 bottles. Dishes are beautifully spiced and full of flavor. Start \r\n\r\nwith some flatbread and wrap up with the Tanzanian chocolate crèmeux - a \r\n\r\nmousselike concoction with chocolate crunch, chocolate-cherry mascarpone, and \r\n\r\ncocoa nibs.

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Jiko has a special ambience, from the young African exchange students who \r\n\r\ngreet guests as they enter to a menu of unusual tastes. Jiko's spacious dining \r\n\r\nroom is inspired by the opening scenes of The Lion King. A pair of large \r\n\r\nwood-burning ovens dominates the center of the room.

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House specialties are the wood-fired flatbreads; trio of dips with house-\r\n\r\nmade naan (Indian flatbread); oak-grilled filet mignon with red-wine sauce and \r\n\r\nsweet-corn risotto; maize-crusted corvine.

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The Mara

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\r\nMara Breakfast Menu - Mara Kids Breakfast Menu - Mara Lunch/Dinner Menu - Mara Kids Lunch/Dinner \r\n\r\nMenu\r\n

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The Mara is small counter service restaurant with a limited menu. Prices \r\n\r\nrange from $6 to $15 for an entree so you won't break the bank. The standout \r\n\r\nitems here are the chicken or falafel pitas.

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\r\nThe Mara participate in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Animal Kingdom Lodge participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 1 credit at The Mara, Boma, and Sanaa, and 2 \r\n\r\ncredits at Jiko. Tables in \r\n\r\nWonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Animal Kingdom Lodge has one lounge and two pool bars to consume adult \r\n\r\nbeverages at. \r\nVictoria Falls Lounge is Animal Kingdom \r\n\r\nLodge's main lounge. Victoria Falls Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu \r\n\r\nwith several beer selections, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is \r\n\r\nusually open 4 PM to 9 PM daily.

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Uzima Springs Pool Bar is located \r\n\r\nadjacent to the Uzima Springs Pool at Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House. Uzima \r\n\r\nSprings Pool Bar has a small selection of specialty drinks, African beer and \r\n\r\nwine.

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Maji Pool Bar is located near the pool at \r\n\r\nKidani Village. It also offers a selection of specialty drinks, African beer \r\n\r\nand wine, as well as limited grab-and-go dining options.\r\n
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Transportation to and from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort is \r\n\r\njust off of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 3 - W Osceola \r\n\r\nPkwy. Follow Osceola Pkwy for about 5.5 miles and Animal Kingdom \r\n\r\nLodge will be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort. If you're not \r\n\r\nrenting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort will cost between $120 and $150, \r\n\r\ndepending on traffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Animal \r\n\r\nKingdom Lodge Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV \r\n\r\nservice or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort. At \r\n\r\nthose prices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort to \r\n\r\nMagic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, \r\n\r\nBlizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom Lodge Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, \r\n\r\nbetween the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus \r\n\r\nstop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice. Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village and Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House have their own their own bus stations but share bus service. Because of this busses will fill occasionally with people at Jambo House and then head to Kidani Village.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Animal Kingdom Lodge's bus schedule, and they'll \r\n\r\ntell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Animal Kingdom \r\n\r\nLodge's bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and \r\n\r\nwhere you're headed.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 11 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 15-20 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little \r\n\r\nless frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 12 to 37 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge \r\n\r\nResort If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the \r\n\r\ncheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge \r\n\r\nResort to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from \r\n\r\nthere to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's Animal \r\n\r\nKingdom Lodge Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes \r\n\r\nto 2 hours each way. If your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, Polynesian, and\r\nGrand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always an Uber, Lyft, or taxi from Animal Kingdom \r\n\r\nLodge to wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute \r\n\r\ncab ride to get to most Disney hotels from Animal Kingdom Lodge, and Uber and Lyft are often \r\n\r\nless.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Survival of the Fittest Fitness Center is Animal Kingdom Lodge Villas's fitness \r\n\r\ncenter and spa. It is open 24 hours a day.

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Animal Kingdom Lodge's gift shop is Johari Treasures. It is located on \r\n\r\nthe right side after you enter Animal Kingdom Lodge's lobby. As you'd expect \r\n\r\nfrom a Disney gift shop, Johari Treasures has a decent collection of souvenirs ranging \r\n\r\nfrom small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets Disney Vacation Club exclusive merchandise. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay in \r\n\r\nthe theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nJohari Treasures also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, \r\n\r\nallergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. \r\n\r\nAnd Johari Treasures has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 0.5 mile path that connects \r\n\r\nDisney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Jambo House and Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani \r\n\r\nVillage.\r\n

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Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Animal Kingdom Lodge

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Animal Kingdom \r\n\r\nLodge Resort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) \r\n\r\n938-3000.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Kidani Village

\r\n\r\n

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney Resort room on \r\nproperty. Click here for the Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge Resort Villas map and to choose a room to see the view.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"7512\"\r\n
Room 7512: Fifth floor room with the savanna and Jambo House in the background.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"7212\"\r\n
room 7212: Low level rooms tend to have limited views of the savanna.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

The best views in Kidani Village are from the north-facing rooms near the bottom and middle\r\nof the backward 3. Try rooms 7X38–7X44, 7X46–7X52, 7X06–7X11,\r\n7X68–7X82, and 7X61–7X67 (X indicates numbers 0–9). These overlook\r\nthe savanna next to Jambo House’s Kudu Trail rooms and beyond into\r\nundeveloped woods. West- and south-facing rooms in the bottom half\r\nof Kidani Village overlook the parking lot; west-facing rooms in the top\r\nhalf have either pool or savanna views.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"7244\"\r\n
Room 7244: Some savanna view rooms are partially blocked by trees.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"7235\"\r\n
Room 7235: A Standard View room with a view of the parking lot.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Beautiful, understated lobbySavanna views can be hit-or-miss
Amazing savanna viewsNo quick-service dining options other\r\nthan pool bar
Beautiful Grand Villas sleep 12Must walk through parking area to get to pool
Sanaa restaurant is one of our favoritesNo direct nonbus transportation to any\r\ntheme park
Close to Jambo House amenities and\r\nrestaurants
Nice pool with excellent splash area
Under-building parking close to elevators
Great fitness center
","recommend_to_friends":91,"recommend_annual_change":13,"stay_again":94,"stay_again_annual_change":0,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":458,"theme":"African Game Preserve","cost_range":"$506 - $4,915","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ak","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"13deb5b9a5db11b81a7af4e29af93212","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079387474","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":344,"blog_slug":"animal-kingdom-villas","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys animal kingdom villas kidani village","club_name":null,"operator_id":273239,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/animal-kingdom-villas-kidani","opened_on":"2009-05-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"akvk","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2012,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Just across from the Animal Kingdom Lodge's main building is Kidani Village. Kidani has its own savannah and animals, a well-themed pool, and plenty of recreation options.","dining_overview":"Kidani has one very good restaurant - Sanaa - and quick-service options","good_for":"Animal views, extra space","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":225,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Beach Club Villas","code":"ORL004","address":"1900 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079342175","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-villas/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-beach-club-villas","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:30.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-10T02:01:19.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

Disney's Beach Club Resort Villas Overview

\r\n

This Disney Deluxe Villa property is purportedly inspired by\r\ngrand Atlantic seaside homes of the early 20th century. In point of fact,\r\nthere’s little to differentiate the Beach Club Villas from the Yacht &\r\nBeach Club Resorts, or from the parts of the BoardWalk Inn & Villas\r\nthat don’t front the BoardWalk.

\r\n

Configured roughly in the shape of a fat Y or slingshot, the Beach\r\nClub Villas are set back away from the lake adjoining the front of the\r\nBeach Club Resort. Arrayed in connected four- and five-story taffyblue\r\nsections topped with cupolas, the villas are festooned with white\r\nwoodwork and slat-railed balconies. The effect is clean, breezy, and\r\nevocative . . . though of what exactly we’re not sure.

\r\n\r\n

Accommodations include studios, which have a kitchenette, a queen\r\nbed, a single pull-down bed, and a sleeper sofa, and one- and twobedroom\r\nvillas with full kitchens. The rooms are a bit small but attractively\r\ndecorated in neutral shades accented by seashore-themed art.

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\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort map\r\n

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\t\r\n

\r\n\r\n

A Springfield, Illinois, reader found her studio villa somewhat lacking\r\nin terms of space and amenities:

\r\n\r\n\r\n
(1) There’s very little space to unpack and store clothes. Drawer space\r\nis minimal, which left me living out of my suitcase. (2) No full-length\r\nmirror, which is inconvenient not to have when you have one at home.\r\n(3) The pullout vanity mirror is not height-adjustable.
\r\n\r\n

Regarding her last point, we’ve also seen the vanity mirrors mounted\r\nat different heights in different bathrooms.

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The Beach Club Resort Villas share restaurants, pools, and other amenities \r\n\r\nwith the Yacht Club Resort and Beach Club Villas. A small business center \r\n\r\nserves guests' work needs for both the Yacht and Beach Clubs and Beach Club \r\n\r\nVillas. Please read our description of the Yacht & Beach Club resorts for information \r\n\r\nabout amenities shared with that resort.

\r\n\r\n

We don't like the Beach Villas as well as the Copper Creek\r\nVillas, which are newer and better appointed, or the villas of Disney's Old Key West Resort which are roomier, more luxurious, and more private. The\r\nBeach Club Villas have their own modest swimming pool but otherwise\r\nshare the restaurants, facilities, and transportation options of the\r\nadjoining Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. The villas’ strengths and weaknesses\r\ninclude all of those listed for the Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.\r\nAdditional strengths include laundry and kitchen facilities in the oneand\r\ntwo-bedroom units, and self-parking directly adjacent to the building.\r\nThe villas’ one additional weakness is that they offer no lake views.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

How Disney's Beach Club Resort Villas Compares to Other Disney Vacation Club Resorts

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The Beach Club Villas have two major advantageous over other hotels. One, you can walk to the International Gateway entrance of Epcot in less than 10 minutes. And two, the Beach Club Resort has the best pool of all the Walt Disney World resorts. Unlike other DVC resorts, there are no Grand Villas at Beach Club Resort Villas.

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\r\nThe Beach portion of the Beach Club Resort.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining Reservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Beach Club Villa's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

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\r\nCheck-in time at Beach Club Villas is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nBeach Club participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows you to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nBeach Club's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort Villas's registration staff can provide MagicBands \r\n\r\nfor your stay, if you don't already have them. Get theme park tickets and \r\n\r\ndining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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\r\nThe Beach Club beach is especially nice at sunset.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort Villas' Rooms

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Beach Club Villas Studios: Studios sleep up to five people and include one pull out bed, one queen-size bed and one double sleeper sofa. The total Studio room size is 356 square feet, with about half of that being dedicated to the kitchen and bathroom area.

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Beach Club Villas 1-Bedroom Villa: The 1-bedroom villa sleeps 4 and provides a formal kitchen and a living room in addition to the bedroom. The living room's sofa folds out to provide beds for 2 more people. 1-Bedrooms Villas are 726 square feet.

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Beach Club Villas Two-bedroom Villas: Two-bedroom villas \r\n\r\nsleep eight and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, plus an extra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with two queen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one-\r\nbedrooms, a sofa bed in the living room provide extra places to snooze, though they're best suited to small children. It should be noted that dedicated two-bedroom villas sleep eight, while lockoff two bedroom villas sleep nine thanks to an extra pullout bed. Bathrooms in the two-bedroom villas are laid out a bit better than those in the one-bedrooms, \r\nwith more room to move about. Two-Bedroom Villas are 1,083 square feet.

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\r\nKitchen area in a Beach Club Villas.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort Room Layout\r\n

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\r\nBeach Club's bathrooms aren't big, but they also aren't as \r\n\r\nsmall as the ones you'll find in Disney's moderate or value resort rooms. \r\n\r\nLuckily you won't feel claustrophobic in your room's bathroom. Water pressure \r\n\r\nin the shower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still \r\n\r\nenough to get your hair clean. Eventually.

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A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, and \r\n\r\nenough counter space to fit most of the toiletries you would need. There are \r\n\r\nalso two shelves under the sink that provide a small amount of storage. A \r\n\r\n1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; \r\n\r\nbring your own if you've got lots of hair. The dressing area includes a \r\n\r\nsliding door that separates it from the sleeping area. Combined with the \r\n\r\nbathroom, this means that 3 people can get dressed at the same time.

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A typical Beach Club Studio bathroom.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort Villas have around 20 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Beach Club Resort Villas Pools

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The Dunes Cove Pool is 55,350-gallon pool exclusively for use by guests of Disney’s Beach Club Villas. While it is a nice pool, you'll probably want to spend most of your time at Yacht & Beach Club's Stormalong Bay.

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Yacht & Beach Club has three pools. The largest, Stormalong Bay, sits along Crescent \r\n\r\nLake and is arguably the best pool in all of Walt Disney World. The main \r\n\r\nfeature of the pool is the large shipwreck along the outside the houses a \r\n\r\nwaterslide. A must-experience feature of this pool is the sand that covers the \r\n\r\nbottom of most of the pool. There is also a hot tub, kiddie pool and water \r\n\r\nplay area.\r\n

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Beach Club's Stormalong Bay Pool\r\n

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Two other smaller pools are located on the far right and left of the resort. These pools \r\n\r\nare basic concrete pools and are considered \"quiet pools,\" meaning that \r\n\r\nloud play and splashing around are discouraged.

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Yacht & Beach Club's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 \r\n\r\nfeet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82F/28C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40F/4C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock.

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Stormalong Bay has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests \r\n\r\ncan find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, extending to as much \r\n\r\nas 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n Stormalong Bay Pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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Stormalong Bay's shipwreck\r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Restaurants and Dining

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Beach Club Villas has no restaurants of its own, but there are plenty of excellent dining options located at Yacht & Beach Club.

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Cape May Cafe

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\r\nCape May Cafe Goofy's Beach Club Character Breakfast - Cape May Cafe Dinner Menu

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Cape May has been a favorite for years because of its consistently good food and efficient service. While the restaurant is large and tables turn over rapidly, Advance Reservations are recommended. Because Cape May is within easy walking distance of the World Showcase entrance to Epcot, it's a convenient and affordable place to dine before IllumiNations. The natural-finish wood furniture and padded booths are in a clean, nautical New England style.

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The buffet features peel-and-eat shrimp, tasty (albeit chewy) clams, mussels, snow-crab legs, fish of the day, hand-carved flank steak, barbecued ribs, chicken, corn on the cob, Caesar salad, and a good dessert bar. The kids' bar includes chicken nuggets and mac-and-cheese.

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Beaches & Cream Soda Shop

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\r\nBeaches & Cream Lunch/Dinner Menu - Beaches & Cream Kid's Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Casual eats with a retro soda-fountain decor. There's often a line as guests in bathing suits and flip-flops queue up for the hearty burgers (veggie burgers, too) and piles of hot fries.

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Signature items include burgers (singles and doubles) and fries; giant hot dogs; hand-scooped ice cream including the gargantuan Kitchen Sink dessert, with five flavors of ice cream smothered in topping.

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Beaches & Cream also has a quick service counter with a smaller menu.

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The legendary Kitchen Sink ice cream sundae.

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Hurricane Hanna's Grill

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\r\nHurricane Hanna's Lunch/Dinner Menu - Hurricane Hanna's Kid's Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Hurricane Hanna's Grill is a quick service restaurant located poolside at Stormalong Bay. Besides the usual assortment of Disney burgers Hanna's has a \r\n\r\nLobster, Shrimp and Scallop Roll that we've received positive feedback about. \r\n\r\nAll seating at Hurricane Hanna's is outdoors.

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Beach Club Marketplace

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\r\nBeach Club Marketplace Breakfast Menu - \r\n\r\nBeach Club Marketplace Kids' Breakfast \r\n\r\nMenu - Beach Club Marketplace Lunch/Dinner \r\n\r\nMenu - Beach Club Marketplace Kid's Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Beach Club Marketplace is small counter service restaurant with a limited \r\n\r\nmenu. Prices range from $6 to $15 for an entree so you won't break the bank. \r\n\r\nThe standout items here are the fresh made pastries.

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\r\n Beach Club Marketplace and Hurricane Hanna's Grill also participate in \r\n\r\nDisney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Beach Club participate in the Disney Dining Plan; meals cost 1 credit. Tables in Wonderland cardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Pizza delivery is available to your room from Disney's own \r\n\r\ndelivery service. Besides pizza, chicken wings, desserts, beer, wine, and \r\n\r\nsodas are also available. However,\r\ndelivery can take up to 90 minutes, and the food quality is often below \r\n\r\naverage. You're probably better off either walking to the food court or \r\n\r\ncalling Domino's. Pizza\r\ndelivery hours are 4 PM to midnight daily. A medium (16\") cheese pizza costs \r\n\r\naround $14 and a pepperoni around $16. Minimum order is $15, and Disney will tack on an 18% tip, \r\n$3 delivery charge, and 7% sales tax. Thus, a $30 pizza order will cost you $40.50 delivered.\r\n

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\r\nMartha's Vineyard Lounge is Beach \r\n\r\nClub's lounge. Martha's Vineyard has indoor seating and a full drink menu, \r\n\r\nwith several beer selections, wines, and a selection of spirits. Ale and \r\n\r\nCompass Lounge and Crew's Cup Lounge are usually open 4 PM to 12 AM daily.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Beach Club Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Beach Club Resort is just off \r\n\r\nof I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr. and you'll end up on Osceola Parkway. Turn right onto World Drive \r\n\r\nand then left on Epcot Resorts Blvd. Follow Epcot Resorts Blvd and Beach Club \r\n\r\nwill be on your right.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Beach Club Resort. If you're not renting a car, \r\n\r\nbe aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Yacht Club \r\n\r\nResort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-\r\n\r\npassenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Beach Club Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Yacht Club Resort to Magic \r\n\r\nKingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, \r\n\r\nTyphoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. No bus transportation is \r\n\r\nprovided to Epcot's main entrance. \r\nDisney's Beach Club Resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, \r\n\r\nbetween the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus \r\n\r\nstop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice. Disney's Beach Club Resort shares bus service with Yacht Club.\r\n

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Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios can also be accessed by boat from the \r\n\r\ndock near Stormalong Bay. Boat service may be suspended during thunderstorms, \r\n\r\nso if it's raining or looks like it's about to, Disney will provide buses.

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Why take a bus to Epcot or Disney's Hollywood Studios when you can take a \r\n\r\nboat?

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Disney's Beach Club Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Beach Club's bus schedule, and they'll tell you \r\n\r\nthat buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Beach Club's bus schedule \r\n\r\nvaries considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 11 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the \r\n\r\nsame early in the day, with a bus arriving every 10-13 minutes, on average. \r\n\r\nBus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less \r\n\r\nfrequent, and you could wait anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 19 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's \r\n\r\nAnimal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and \r\n\r\nDisney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. \r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Disney's Beach Club Resort \r\n\r\nIf you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to \r\n\r\ntake a Disney bus from Disney's Beach Club Resort to Disney Springs (or an \r\n\r\nopen theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. \r\n\r\nDo the reverse to get back to Disney's Yacht Club Resort. While that's free, \r\n\r\nit can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination \r\n\r\nis \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Beach Club to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels from Beach Club, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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You can also take a boat in Crescent Lake to Disney's BoardWalk Resort or \r\n\r\nthe Swan & Dolphin hotels. This option can also take some time depending on \r\n\r\nwhere you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Getting to Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach from Disney's Beach Club Resort \r\n\r\nDisney does not make it particularly easy to get to and from their water parks. For Typhoon Lagoon, guests must take a bus to Disney Springs and switch to a Typhoon Lagoon bus. For Blizzard Beach, the transfer must be made at Disney's Animal Kingdom. While the double bus trip is annoying on the way there that's nothing to returning while wet and tired. We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that or attempt to find another way.

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Shopping, recreational activities and the resort's health club are all found at the main Yacht & Beach Club building.

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Ship Shape Health Club is Beach Club's fitness center and \r\n\r\nspa. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are only available from 6:00 AM \r\n\r\nto 9:00 PM. Massage, facial, and body treatment services are available.

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Watercraft Rentals are available in Crescent Lake 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM. \r\n\r\nKayaks, sailboats, pedal boats, and Sea Raycers can be rented. Prices \r\n\r\nvary.

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Beach Club's gift shop is Beach Club Marketplace. As you'd expect from a \r\n\r\nDisney gift shop, Everything Pop has a decent collection of souvenirs ranging \r\n\r\nfrom small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and \r\n\r\nDisney princess dresses. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay in \r\n\r\nthe theme parks or Disney Springs.

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\r\nBeach Club Marketplace also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, \r\n\r\naspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the \r\n\r\nlike. And Beach Club Marketplace has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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Also located near Stormalong Bay is the Lafferty Place \r\n\r\nArcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent video and \r\n\r\narcade games. Most games\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in.\r\n

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Walkers, joggers, and runners can find a jogging trail at Disney's Beach Club Resort. It is a scenic 0.8-mile course around around Crescent Lake. Thanks to bridges over Crescent Lake guests are able to make a full circle while passing by the Yacht & Beach Club, BoardWalk Resort, and the Swan & Dolphin Resorts.\r\n

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Disney's Beach Club Resort Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Beach Club

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.\r\n

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Beach Club \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 934-3090.\r\n

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","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's Disney's Yacht Club Villas

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Although the studios and\r\nvillas are attractive and livable, the location of the Beach Club Villas—\r\nbetween parking lots, roads, and canals—leaves much to be desired.\r\nRooms facing the pool offer a limited view of a small canal but are\r\nsubject to traffic noise. Ditto for the rooms on the northeast side, but\r\nthey don’t face the pool. Only southeast-facing rooms provide both\r\na scenic landscape (woods) and relative relief from traffic noise. The\r\nnearby road is two lanes only, and traffic noise probably won’t bother\r\nyou if you’re indoors with the balcony door closed, but for the bucks\r\nyou shell out to stay at the villas, you can easily find nicer, quieter\r\naccommodations elsewhere on Disney property. If you elect to stay at\r\nthe Beach Club Villas, go for odd-numbered rooms 225–251, 325–351,\r\n425–451, and 525–551.\r\n\r\n Click here for the Disney's Beach Club Villas map and to choose a room to see the view.

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\r\n\r\n\"172\"\r\n
Room 172: Looking out on to the resort's not-so-glorious canal.
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\r\n\r\n\"102\"\r\n
Room 102: Landscaping. This is a typical view at Beach Club Villas.
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Room 166: First floor room facing the Dunes Cove Pool.
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\r\n\"145\"\r\n
Room 145: The view from a 1-bedroom villa at the rear of the resort.
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Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Walking distance to Epcot’s\r\nInternational GatewayLack of good quick-service dining
Best pool complex of any WDW resortViews and balcony size are hit-or-miss
Walk, boat, or Skyliner to Disney’s Hollywood StudiosBus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Spacious villas with kitchens or kitchenettesNo 3 BR Grand Villas
Close to many BoardWalk and\r\nEpcot dining optionsFewer baths\r\nper bedroom than newer DVC properties
","recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":282,"theme":"New England Beach Club of the 1870s","cost_range":"$613 - $2,598","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"e70bf0d14f3e8b89f04226d71620daf5","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079343850","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":356,"blog_slug":"beach-club-villas","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys beach club villas","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010407,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/beach-club-villas","opened_on":"2002-07-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"bcv","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2015,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":226,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Beach Club Villas have the same beach-centric decor as the Beach Club Resort, plus an extra quiet pool when you're ready to relax after Stormalong Bay.","dining_overview":"The Villas share dining with the Beach Club Resort. You'll find plenty of variety a short walk away at either EPCOT or the EPCOT-area resorts.","good_for":"Pool time and room size","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":219,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's BoardWalk Villas","code":"ORL006","address":"2101 Epcot Resort Boulevard","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079395100","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/board-walk-villas/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-boardwalk-villas","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:29.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-18T20:40:59.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

Disney's BoardWalk Villas Overview

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On Crescent Lake across from the Yacht & Beach Club, the Board-\r\nWalk Inn is another of Disney’s Deluxe resorts. The complex is a detailed\r\nreplica of an early-20th-century East Coast beach boardwalk. Facades of\r\nhotels, diners, and shops create an inviting and exciting waterfront skyline.\r\nThink HBO’s Boardwalk Empire minus the icky criminal element.

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In reality, the BoardWalk Inn & Villas comprise a single integrated\r\nstructure behind the facades. Restaurants and shops occupy the boardwalk\r\nlevel, while accommodations rise to six stories above. The inn and\r\nvillas share a pool featuring an old-fashioned amusement park theme;\r\nthere are also two quiet pools for adults.

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The BoardWalk Inn’s 378 Deluxe rooms measure 371 square feet\r\neach. Most contain two queen-size beds with hardwood headboards,\r\nan upholstered daybed, a cherry desk and chair, a minifridge, a coffee\r\nmaker, and ceiling fan. Decor includes yellow-and-white-striped wallpaper,\r\ngreen carpet, and blue-and-gray curtains. Closet space exceeds\r\nthat of rooms in other Deluxe resorts. Most rooms have balconies.

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Readers give the inn high marks for room quality and check-in efficiency.\r\nService is excellent. The complex is within walking distance of\r\nEPCOT and is connected to other destinations by bus and boat. Walking\r\ntime to transportation loading areas from the most remote rooms is\r\n5–6 minutes. It’s about a 5-minute walk to the Skyliner’s International\r\nGateway station at EPCOT, if you’d rather use that to get to the Studios.

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\r\nDisney's BoardWalk Villas Map\r\n

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The inn and villas are well staffed and offer excellent service. They’re also home to some of Disney World’s better restaurants and shops, including the BoardWalk Bakery, serving lunch sandwiches and salads along with morning pastries and coffee. The complex is within walking distance of Epcot and is connected to other destinations by bus and boat. Walking time to transportation loading areas from the most remote rooms is 5–6 minutes.

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Reader comments about the BoardWalk Inn & Villas include the following. From an Iowa City, Iowa, family:

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We were surprised that so relatively few rooms at the BoardWalk Inn have interesting views. We were in a group staying there before a Disney cruise, and the one couple who actually had a view of the BoardWalk said it was noisy.
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A number of readers have complained about the bus service at the BoardWalk Inn. This comment is typical:

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The transportation by bus (to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom) was the worst. We waited at least 40 minutes every time and almost missed a dinner reservation (for which we had left 1½ hours early).
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How Disney's BoardWalk Villas compares to other Disney Vacation Club \r\n\r\nresorts

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The unique feature that separates BoardWalk from other resorts is the \r\n\r\nattached BoardWalk shopping and dining district. It contains a number of \r\n\r\nunique restaurants and lounges. Also, being able to walk or ride a boat to \r\n\r\nEpcot is a huge advantage.

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\r\nBoardWalk Inn's Exterior.\r\n

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Where to Check-in, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining Reservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to BoardWalk's grounds. If you arrive \r\nby car, you'll need to provide photo id at the gate; it's not necessary to \r\n\r\nprovide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

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\r\nCheck-in time at BoardWalk Villas is 4:00 pm, and check-out time is 11:00 am. \r\n\r\nBoardWalk participates in Disney's \r\nonline check-in program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nBoardwalks's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nregistration/check-in area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nid and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nDisney's BoardWalk's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, \r\n\r\nif you don't already have them. Get theme park tickets and dining reservations \r\n\r\nat the concierge desk, to the \r\nright of the registration desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The concierge desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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Disney's BoardWalk Villas rooms

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The 532 BoardWalk Villas are decorated in similar pastels—lots of\r\nlight green, pink, and blue—with bright tiles in the kitchens and bathrooms.\r\nVillas range from 412 to 2,491 square feet (studio through\r\nthree-bedroom) and sleep 4–12 people. Many villas have full kitchens,\r\nlaundry rooms, and whirlpool tubs. the villas tend to be more expensive\r\nthan similar accommodations at other Disney resorts—you pay\r\nfor the address.

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\r\nA BoardWalk 1-Bedroom Villa.\r\n

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BoardWalk Studios: Studios sleep up to five people and \r\n\r\ninclude one queen-size bed, one double sleeper sofa, and one small fold-down bed suitable for a child or small adult. BoardWalk studios are \r\n\r\n412 square feet.

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BoardWalk One-Bedroom Villa: The 1-bedroom villa sleeps 4 \r\n\r\nand provides a formal kitchen, a second bathroom and a living room in addition \r\n\r\nto the studio bedroom. The living room's sofa folds out to provide \r\n\r\nbeds for 2 more people. BoardWalk one-bedroom villas are 814 square feet.

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BoardWalk Two-Bedroom Villas: Two-bedroom villas sleep \r\nnine and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, plus an \r\nextra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with two \r\nqueen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one-bedrooms, a sofa bed and sleeper chair in the living room provide extra places to snooze, though they're best suited to small children. Bathrooms in the two-bedroom villas are laid out a bit better than those in the one-bedrooms, with more room to move about. BoardWalk two-bedroom villas are 1,236 square feet.

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BoardWalk Grand Villas: The two-story grand villas sleep \r\n\r\n12 and include four bathrooms, the same master-bedroom layout, and two \r\n\r\nbedrooms with two queen beds apiece. An upstairs seating area overlooking the \r\n\r\nmain floor provides a sleeper sofa and chair. BoardWalk grand \r\n\r\nvillas are 2,491 square feet.

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Disney's BoardWalk Inn Resort room layout\r\n

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\r\nA BoardWalk villa bathroom.\r\n

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Handicap-accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's BoardWalk Inn resort has around 27 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more. Use our Hotel Room \r\n\r\nFinder to see which rooms have which feature.

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Garden Views, Standard Views and BoardWalk Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people want \r\n\r\nsomething\r\npretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney \r\n\r\ncategorizes all of BoardWalk Inn's hotel rooms based on what you see from \r\n\r\ninside the room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:

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BoardWalk Inn Pools

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BoardWalk Inn has three pools. The largest, Luna Park pool, sits in the \r\n\r\nBoardWalk Villas section of the resort near the the lobby. There is also a hot tub, kiddie pool and water player area.\r\n

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The other smaller pool is located at the far east side of the resort wing \r\n\r\nof the resort. This pool is also a basic concrete pool and is considered a \r\n\r\n\"quiet pool,\" meaning that loud play and splashing around are discouraged. the final quiet pool is located near the southern tip of the BoardWalk Villas building.

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BoardWalk's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 \r\n\r\nfeet 9 inches/1.4m. Pools are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. BoardWalk also has a hot \r\n\r\ntub located near Luna Park pool.

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Luna Park pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests \r\n\r\ncan find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, extending to as much \r\n\r\nas 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n\r\n

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Luna Park Pool

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Playgrounds at Disney's BoardWalk Villas

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\r\nA small playground set is located near Luna Park pool. The set has a small \r\n\r\nplastic slide and a couple of sections with a few steps for toddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Disney's concern here - there are no \r\n\r\nswings, and the entire area is covered in a springy, poured rubber surface.\r\n

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Restaurants and dining

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The BoardWalk area of the BoardWalk resort has a large variety of \r\n\r\nrestaurants and lounges. BoardWalk bakery, BoardWalk joe's, BoardWalk Pizza \r\n\r\nwindow, and BoardWalk To Go are all counter service \r\n\r\nrestaurants for those looking for something quick. If you're looking to sit \r\n\r\ndown and have a meal there's Big River Grille & Brewing Works, ESPN Club, \r\n\r\nand Flying Fish Cafe.

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Flying Fish Cafe

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\r\nFlying Fish Cafe dinner menu -\r\nFlying Fish Cafe kids dinner menu -\r\nFlying Fish Cafe Dine with an Imagineer Dinner Menu

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Flying Fish has a contemporary setting inspired by a 1930s Coney Island \r\n\r\nroller coaster (The coaster was actually called The Flying Turns, and one of \r\n\r\nthe cars on the ride was dubbed the Flying Fish). Booth backs resemble the \r\n\r\nclimbs and swoops of a coaster. On the far wall is a stylized depiction of \r\n\r\nferris wheel, and whimsical fish fly overhead on a parachute ride. Diners may \r\n\r\nchoose to sit at the counter that overlooks the bar or the open kitchen.

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Locals love the Flying Fish Cafe, and for good reason. Though this is food for \r\n\r\ngrown-ups, you'll often see children in the noisy dining room because of the \r\n\r\nBoardWalk location (their menu includes fish of the day and a grilled steak). \r\n\r\nIf you can't get a table, check on seating availability at the counter - Chef \r\n\r\nKeating also has a special menu at the \"chef's counter,\" but you have to book \r\n\r\nthat in advance.

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Chef Tim Keating, a repeat James Beard Foundation finalist, is a big \r\n\r\nproponent of Florida products, from seafood to meats, fruits, and vegetables. \r\n\r\nThe fare here changes frequently, but you'll always find the potato-wrapped \r\n\r\nsnapper, the restaurant's signature dish, served with creamy leek fondue and a \r\n\r\nred wine-butter sauce; char-crusted New York strip steak; and the lump crab \r\n\r\ncakes. Desserts are seasonal, but the house-made sorbets and caramelized-\r\n\r\nbanana napoleon are divine.

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For a special experience, you can book the chef's tasting wine dinner. \r\n\r\nSitting at the chef's counter, you can watch the chef create the six courses \r\n\r\nfor your meal. Each course is paired with a wine that is selected by the \r\n\r\nmanager. This experience is designed for ages 14 and up, and you must make \r\n\r\nreservations at least one day in advance.

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Trattoria al Forno

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\r\nTrattoria al Forno Dinner Menu - Trattoria al Forno Kids Dinner Menu - Trattoria al Forno Breakfast Menu - Trattoria al Forno Kids Breakfast Menu

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The big dining room feels a little more personal, with three different “dining areas” and a private room at the back and an open kitchen for watching the action, including a wood-burning oven. Our favorite spot is the “formal dining room” right in front of the kitchen, where it’s a little less noisy (and carpeted), or one of the booths at the back. Servers tend to be a little overattentive. There’s also a quickservice window streetside to soothe the urgent pizza craving.

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The kitchen is doing things right—making mozzarella and ciabatta daily, rolling out fresh pasta (cavatelli), slicing cured meats with a beautiful Italian flywheel. The wine list is carefully curated, with labels from all of Italy’s major regions and more than 30 available by the glass or quartino. Breakfast is one of the best on Disney property.

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Beginning in spring 2017, Trattoria Al Forno will offer a character breakfast featuring \"royal couples\" such as Rapunzel & Flynn Rider and Ariel & Prince Eric.

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ESPN Club

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\r\nESPN Club Lunch/Dinner Menu - \r\nESPN Club Lunch/Dinner Menu -\r\nESPN Club Kids Complete Meals\r\n

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A sports bar to the nth degree, with basketball-court flooring, sports \r\n\r\nmemorabilia, and more television monitors than a network affiliate. The bar \r\n\r\narea has satellite sports-trivia video games. A large octagonal room with a \r\n\r\nwall of TVs serves as the main dining room.

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ESPN Club is family-friendly and one of the cheapest dining spots on the \r\n\r\nBoardWalk. Service is a little more brusque than at other Disney restaurants. \r\n\r\nPortions are large, and the quality is in line with the price. A good choice \r\n\r\nfor late-night dining or when you have to choose between going out for a bite \r\n\r\nand staying in the room to catch the big game.

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Big River Grille & Brewing Works

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\r\nBig River Grille Lunch/Dinner Menu - \r\nBig River Grille Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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Run by a Tennessee company, Big River Grille seems like an afterthought along the \r\n\r\nBoardWalk and competes with nearby ESPN Club for the burger-and-brew crowd. \r\n\r\nBut if you're looking for handcrafted beers, this is the place - they serve \r\n\r\nfive beers, including a light lager, a robust ale, and seasonal choices. A \r\n\r\ngood late-night dining choice.

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Industrial cubist murals of factories, machinist-metal and wood chairs and \r\n\r\ntables, and a midnight-blue neon river that flows along the ceiling of the \r\n\r\nrestaurant set a working-class atmosphere. The place is small - it seems like \r\n\r\nthe huge copper brewing tanks take up more room than that allotted to the \r\n\r\ndiners. Outside seating and service is available, weather permitting.

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BoardWalk Bakery

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\r\nBoardWalk Bakery Lunch/Dinner Menu - BoardWalk Bakery Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu - \r\n\r\nBoardWalk Bakery Breakfast Menu

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BoardWalk Bakery is small counter service restaurant with a limited \r\n\r\nmenu. The menu is made up of sandwiches, salads, and a selection of pastries. \r\n\r\nDuring breakfast hours BoardWalk Bakery sells a popular bread bowl filled with \r\n\r\nscrambled eggs and potatoes.

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BoardWalk Joe's

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\r\nBoardWalk Joe's menu

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BoardWalk Joe's is a counter with a small selection of margaritas. You can \r\nalso grab a pretzel or a bag of roasted almonds for a snack.

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BoardWalk Pizza window

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\r\nBoardWalk Pizza window Lunch/Dinner Menu

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BoardWalk Pizza window sells whole pizzas or by the slice.

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BoardWalk To Go

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\r\nBoardWalk To Go menu

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BoardWalk To Go sells hot dogs, corn dogs, ravioli, mozzarella sticks, \r\n\r\nchicken, meatball sub, nachos, fries, onion rings, beverages. Grab a footlong \r\n\r\ncorn dog, you won't be sorry... actually your stomach may be sorry.

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\r\nBoardWalk Bakery, BoardWalk Joe’s, and BoardWalk Pizza Window \r\nparticipate in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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\r\nThe break-even point for the refillable mug program seems to \r\n\r\nbe around 3 visits on the 1-day plan; 4 visits on the 2-day plan; 5 on the 3-\r\n\r\nday plan; and 6 visits for stays of 4\r\n or more days. Keep in mind that if you buy a regular $3 fountain soda at any \r\n\r\nmeal, you get unlimited refills during that meal. So for the refillable mug \r\n\r\nprogram to make sense,\r\n you'll need to drink soda with at least 3 separate meals on the 1-day plan, \r\n\r\nor 5 separate meals on the 2-day plan. In those cases, it would be hard to get \r\n\r\ntoo far from a bathroom,\r\n let alone all the way to the parks.\r\n

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Restaurants at BoardWalk participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 2 credits at Flying Fish and 1 credit other \r\n\r\nrestaurants. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Pizza delivery is available to your room from Disney's own \r\n\r\ndelivery service. Besides pizza, chicken wings, desserts, beer, wine, and \r\n\r\nsodas are also available. However,\r\ndelivery can take up to 90 minutes, and the food quality is often below \r\n\r\naverage. You're probably better off either walking to the food court or \r\n\r\ncalling Domino's. Pizza\r\ndelivery hours are 4 pm to midnight daily. A medium (16\") cheese pizza costs \r\n\r\naround $14 and a pepperoni around $16. Minimum order is $15, and Disney will \r\n\r\ntack on an 18% tip, \r\n$3 delivery charge, and 7% sales tax. Thus, a $30 pizza order will cost you \r\n\r\n$40.50 delivered.\r\n

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BoardWalk has one lounge and two pool bars to consume adult beverages \r\n\r\nat. \r\nBelle Vue Lounge is BoardWalk \r\n\r\nInn's main lounge. Belle Vue Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu \r\n\r\nwith several beer selections, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is \r\n\r\nusually open 4 pm to 12 am daily.

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Leaping Horse Libations is located \r\n\r\nadjacent to the Luna Park pool. Leaping Horse Libations has a small selection \r\n\r\nof specialty drinks, beer and wine, as well as limited grab-and-go dining \r\n\r\noptions.\r\n
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Transportation to and from Disney's BoardWalk Villas

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\r\nDriving your own car Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort is just \r\n\r\noff of i-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take i-4 exit 67 - Epcot Center \r\n\r\nDr.. Take Buena Vista Dr for about 1.2 miles to Epcot Resorts Blvd. \r\n\r\nTurn right on Epcot Resorts Blvd and BoardWalk Inn will be on your left.\r\n

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Disney's BoardWalk Villas GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport it's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort. If you're not renting a \r\n\r\ncar, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's BoardWalk Inn resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's BoardWalk \r\n\r\nInn resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-\r\n\r\npassenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort to Magic \r\n\r\nKingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard \r\n\r\nBeach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Disney's BoardWalk \r\n\r\nInn resort's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the \r\n\r\nlobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere \r\n\r\nalong\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while \r\n\r\nDisney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and \r\n\r\nservice.\r\n

\r\n

Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios can also be accessed by boat from the \r\n\r\ndock near on the BoardWalk. Boat service may be suspended during \r\n\r\nthunderstorms, so if it's raining or looks like it's about to, Disney will \r\n\r\nprovide buses.

\r\n\r\n

Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort's bus schedule

\r\n

\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about BoardWalk Inn's bus schedule, and they'll tell \r\n\r\nyou that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, BoardWalk Inn's bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 am and 11 am, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 12 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 10-15 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little \r\n\r\nless frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 20 to 40 minutes for a ride.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 am to around 4 pm, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks, and Disney Springs. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios. We evaluate Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort's bus service \r\n\r\nannually, and the latest transportation times can be found below.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Disney's BoardWalk Inn \r\n\r\nResort If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the \r\n\r\ncheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's BoardWalk Inn resort to \r\n\r\nDisney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there to \r\n\r\nyour destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's BoardWalk Inn \r\n\r\nresort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours \r\n\r\neach way. If your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, the Polynesian, and the Grand \r\n\r\nFloridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from BoardWalk Inn to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels from BoardWalk Inn, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

\r\n

You can also take a boat in Crescent Lake to Disney's BoardWalk Resort or \r\n\r\nthe Swan & Dolphin hotels. This option can also take some time depending on \r\n\r\nwhere you are going and how frequent the boats are running.

\r\n

To Universal Orlando if you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

Muscles & Bustles Health Club is BoardWalk's fitness \r\n\r\ncenter. It is open 24 hours a day but attendants are only available from 6:00 \r\n\r\nam to 9:00 pm.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

BoardWalk's main gift shop is Screen Door General Store. It is located \r\n\r\non the BoardWalk near the boat dock. As you'd expect from a Disney gift shop, \r\n\r\nit has a decent collection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such \r\n\r\nas keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. \r\n\r\nPrices for these items are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nScreen Door General Store also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, \r\n\r\naspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the \r\n\r\nlike. Screen Door General Store has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Located next to Muscles & Bustles Health Club is the Slide Show \r\n\r\nGames Arcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent \r\n\r\nvideo and arcade games. Most games\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail at \r\n\r\nDisney's BoardWalk Inn Resort. Tt is a scenic 0.8-mile course around around \r\n\r\nCrescent Lake. Thanks to bridges over Cresent Lake guests are able to make a \r\n\r\nfull circle while passing by the Yacht & Beach Club and the Swan & Dolphin \r\n\r\nresorts.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Every Monday and Wednesday, Yoga is available 8:15 to 8:45 AM at Village Green. Participation is free but limited to the first 20 Guests. Mats and towels are provided.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's BoardWalk Resort Babysitting and In-room Child Care

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous BoardWalk Villas

\r\n

There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's BoardWalk Resort's \r\nLost and Found department by calling (407) 939-6200.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n

Guests over 21 can enjoy Jellyrolls, a bar with dueling \r\n\r\npianos and audience sing-alongs. The stage is raised and has large mirrors \r\n\r\nbehind the performers and a lightshow happens as the pianists take turns \r\n\r\nplaying and engaging the audience. This location is very popular so it is \r\n\r\nrecommended that you show up early if you want a table.

\r\n

Guests 21 and over who enjoy dancing should check out the Atlantic \r\n\r\nDance Hall, which is nightclub that plays songs from the '80s, '90s \r\nand today. Atlantic Dance Hall's hours depend on the season but they are \r\nusually open 9:00 pm to 1:45 am.

","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's Disney's BoardWalk Villas

\r\n

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on \r\n\r\nproperty. Click here for the Disney's BoardWalk Villas map and to choose a room \r\n\r\nto see the view.

\r\n\r\n

Most\r\nvillas overlook a canal to the west, with the Swan resort and its access\r\nroad and parking lots on the far side. Worse are the rooms that front\r\nBoardWalk’s entrance and car lots. As at the inn, the villas offer only a\r\nhandful of rooms with good views. Odd-numbered rooms 3001–3047,\r\n4001–4047, and 5001–5047 afford dynamic views of the promenade\r\nand Crescent Lake, with EPCOT in the background. Rooms X05, X07,\r\nX13, X15, X29, and X31 are studios. They’re a little noisy if you open\r\nyour balcony door but otherwise offer a glimpse of one of Walt Disney\r\nWorld’s more happening places.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"1121\"\r\n
Room 1121: A villa facing southeast overlooking a canal.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n
Room 1127: A standard view room facing a parking lot.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Most Villas overlook a canal to the west\r\nwith the Swan resort and its access road and parking lots on the far\r\nside. Worse are the rooms that front BoardWalk’s entrance and car\r\nlots. As at the inn, the villas offer only a handful of rooms with good\r\nviews. Odd-numbered rooms 3001–3047, 4001–4047, and 5001–\r\n5047 afford dynamic views of the Promenade and Crescent Lake,\r\nwith Epcot in the background. Rooms X05, X07, X13, X15, X29,\r\nand X31 are studios. They’re a little noisy if you open your balcony\r\ndoor but otherwise offer a glimpse of one of Disney World’s more happening places. Unless you bag one of these rooms, however, you’ll\r\nspend a bundle for a very average (or worse) view.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"1001\"\r\n
Room 1001: Great view of the Boardwalk, Beach Club, and Epcot's Spaceship Earth.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"1004\"\r\n
Room 1004: Garden View room with the Swan resort in the background.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Promenade-facing villa rooms have noise issues identical to those\r\nof their inn counterparts. The midsection of the canal-facing villas looks out onto the Luna Park Pool, which gets extremely noisy during\r\nthe day. Some quieter villas located away from the promenade have\r\nviews of the canal and a partially enclosed quiet pool. Rooms on the\r\nopposite side of this wing are almost as quiet; their downside is that\r\nthey face the BoardWalk’s parking lot.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"1046\"\r\n
Room 1046: Looking out on to the Luna Park Pool.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\"1026\"\r\n
Room 1026: This is the room for you if you want a view of Luna Park Pool's giant scary clown.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Walking distance to Epcot’s International\r\nGateway and Disney’s Hollywood StudiosLong, confusing hallways
Vast selection of dining options for adultsSome may find room theming overly fussy
Fitness center is larger than Yacht & Beach\r\nClub’sLimited quick-service dining options\r\nsuitable for children
Clown pool may freak you out
Bus service to Magic Kingdom, Animal\r\nKingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs\r\nis shared with other Epcot resorts
Boardwalk-facing rooms can be noisy
","recommend_to_friends":80,"recommend_annual_change":30,"stay_again":96,"stay_again_annual_change":-4,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":532,"theme":"East Coast Beach Cottage of the Early 1900s","cost_range":"$665 - $1,531","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"12f96aaf6ebe1746d2620433bee852da","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079395150","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":412,"blog_slug":"boardwalk-villas","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys boardwalk villas","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010391,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/boardwalk-villas","opened_on":"1996-07-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"bwv","refresh_year":2016,"renovation_year":2016,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":220,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The BoardWalk Villas are decorated in green and pink pastels, with lots of bright tile in the kitchens and baths. Most rooms have balconies, too.","dining_overview":"The Villas share the BoardWalk Inn's dining options, including stores selling cakes and sweets, fast-food pizza, sit-down Italian, and bars. Room service is available.","good_for":"Walk to 2 parks, lots of room","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":95,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Old Key West Resort","code":"ORL011","address":"1510 North Cove Road","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078277700","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/old-key-west-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-old-key-west-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:19.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:56.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Disney's Old Key West Resort Overview

\r\n\r\n

Although the resort is a\r\ntime-share property, units not being used by owners are rented on a\r\nnightly basis. Old Key West Resort is a large aggregation of two- to\r\nthree-story buildings modeled after Caribbean-style residences and\r\nguesthouses of the Florida Keys. Set subdivision-style around a golf\r\ncourse and along Bonnet Creek, the buildings are arranged in small,\r\nneighborhood-like clusters. They feature pastel facades, white trim, and\r\nshuttered windows.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nOld Key West has centralized many of its services and amenities into two adjacent\r\nareas. The Hospitality Area includes Hospitality House for resort registration; Olivia's Cafe restaurant and Gurgling Suitcase bar; and Conch Flats General Store for gifts and sundries. \r\n

\r\n

The Recreation Area sits next to the Hospitality Area, and includes Community Hall for socializing, a modest fitness center, and a marina.

\r\n

\r\nEach cluster of resort buildings has a quiet pool; the resort's main pool - The Sandcastle Pool - is at the Hospitality Area. (A waterslide in the shape of a giant\r\nsand castle highlights the pool.)

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nDisney's Old Key West Resort map\r\n

\r\n
\t\r\n\r\n

Old Key West boasts some of the roomiest accommodations at\r\nWalt Disney World, with all rooms having been refurbished in 2018.\r\nStudios are 376 square feet; one-bedroom villas, 942; and two-bedroom\r\nvillas, 1,333. Studios contain two queen-size beds, a table and two\r\nchairs, and an extra vanity outside the bathroom. One-bedroom villas have a king-size bed in the master bedroom, a queen-size sleeper\r\nsofa in the living room, a laundry room, and a full kitchen with coffee\r\nmaker. Two-bedroom villas feature a king-size bed in the master bedroom, a queen-size sleeper sofa and fold-out chair in the living room,\r\nand two queen beds in the second bedroom. Closets are large enough\r\nto hold your entire wardrobe\r\n

\r\n \r\n

\r\n Studios and villas are tastefully decorated. The latest refurbishment\r\ntoned down the Key West beach theme while adding subtle Disney\r\ncharacters—we like it. Kitchen cabinets and TVs, along with the living\r\nroom and bedroom furniture, were also upgraded. One-bedroom and\r\nlarger villas have wood flooring instead of carpet.

\r\n\r\n

Transportation to other Disney World destinations is by bus. Walking\r\ntime to transportation loading areas from the most remote rooms\r\nis about 6 minutes.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

An Erie, Pennsylvania, reader thinks it’s Walt\r\nDisney World’s best-kept secret:

\r\n
Old Key West has the most spacious rooms and the easiest access\r\nto your car—right outside your door! There are a number of small,\r\nalmost private pools, so you don’t have to go to the main pool to swim.
\r\n\r\n

How Disney's Old Key West Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

\r\n

Old Key West is different because of its location. The resort is located \r\n\r\ndownstream from Disney Springs, and can be \r\n\r\naccessed via a short boat ride. If you like larger rooms, you’ll probably be a \r\n\r\nfan of Old Key West. Likely due to it being the first Disney Vacation Club \r\n\r\nresort, rooms here are larger than at all other Disney Vacation Club \r\n\r\nresorts.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Transportation and lack of on-site dining options are Old Key West’s\r\nmain weaknesses with readers. This family from Basingstoke, England,\r\nalso found that the groundskeepers often get started early in summer:\t

\r\n
We enjoyed our stay at Old Key West, but we would not return as\r\nwe found it a bit noisy. Crews were leaf-blowing at 6:40 one morning, and the rooms are not soundproofed well at all. We also found\r\nthe quick-service breakfast offerings very limited.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nOld Key West building exteriors.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

\r\n

A security gate guards the entrance to Old Key West's grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

\r\n

Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.

\r\n

\r\nCheck-in time at Old Key West is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. Old \r\n\r\nKey West participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n\r\nOld Key West's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nOld Key West' lobby.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n

\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nGet theme park tickets and dining \r\n\r\nreservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets while another adult is wrapping up the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Old Key West Resort's Rooms

\r\n\r\n

Old Key West Studios: Studios sleep up to four people and \r\n\r\ninclude two queen-size beds. The total Studio room \r\n\r\nsize is 376 square feet.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nOld Key West One Bedroom.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Old Key West one-Bedroom Villa: The one-bedroom villa \r\n\r\nsleeps 5 and provides a formal kitchen and a living room in \r\n\r\naddition to the studio bedroom. The living room's sofa and chair both fold out to provide \r\n\r\nbeds for up to 3 more people. One-Bedrooms Villas are 942 square feet.

\r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Old Key West Two-bedroom villas: Two-bedroom villas sleep \r\n\r\neight and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, plus an \r\n\r\nextra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with two \r\n\r\nqueen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one-bedrooms, \r\n\r\na sofa bed in the living room provide extra places to snooze. Two-Bedroom \r\n\r\nVillas are 1,333 square feet.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Old Key West Grand Villas: The two-story Grand Villas \r\n\r\nsleep 12 and include four bathrooms and the same master-bedroom layout. One bedroom has 2 queen beds, while the other has 2 double beds. An upstairs seating area overlooking the \r\n\r\nmain floor provides a sleeper sofa and chair. Grand Villas are 2,202 square \r\n\r\nfeet.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Disney's Old Key West Resort Room Layout\r\n

\r\n
\r\n \r\n

Handicap-Accessible Room Options

\r\n

\r\nDisney's Old Key West Resort has around 64 handicap-accessible rooms. Some \r\n\r\nfeature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A \r\n\r\nsubset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from \r\n\r\nbed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, \r\n\r\nand more. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which \r\n\r\nfeature

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBecause it's a Disney Vacation Club property, some room locations are available only to Members. There are only elevators in 3 buildings and most buildings go up to 3 stories. Specifying room requests for medical reasons is highly recommended.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

\r\nA bathroom in an Old Key West villa.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Old Key West Pools

\r\n\r\n

Old Key West has four pools. The largest sits sits near the outside of the \r\n\r\nresort's lobby, Hospitality House. There is also a hot tub and kiddie pool.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Old Key West's sandcastle-themed water slide.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n

The other smaller pools are located in near buildings 19 and 20, buildings \r\n\r\n39, 40 and 41, and another one near building 55.. These pools are basic \r\n\r\nconcrete pools and are considered \"quiet pools,\" meaning that loud play and \r\n\r\nsplashing around are discouraged.

\r\n\t\r\n

Old Key West's pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 \r\n\r\nfeet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Old Key West also has a hot \r\n\r\ntubs located near the main pool.

\r\n\r\n

The main pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. Guests \r\n\r\ncan find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 10AM to 10 PM, extending to as much \r\n\r\nas 8 AM to 12 AM during busy times.\r\n The main pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

\r\n\r\n

Playgrounds at Disney's Old Key West Resort

\r\n

\r\nSmall playground sets are located near the Sandcastle Pool at the Hospitality Area, the Old Turtle Pond Pool near buildings 41 and 42, and the Southpointe Pool near buildings 55 and 56. Each set has a small plastic slide and a couple of sections with a few steps for \r\n\r\ntoddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Disney's concern here - there are no \r\n\r\nswings, and the entire area is covered in sand.\r\n

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\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n

Old Key West's playground.\r\n

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Restaurants and Dining

\r\n

Old Key West has one table service and two counter service restaurants. If \r\n\r\nthese don't fit your needs you can hop on a DVC Ferry boat near the Hospitality House \r\n\r\nand ride over to Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

Olivia's Cafe

\r\n

\r\nOlivia's Breakfast Menu - Olivia's Kids Breakfast Menu - Olivia's Cafe Lunch Menu - Olivia's Cafe Dinner Menu - Olivia's Cafe Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu

\r\n\r\n

Olivia's is a fun out-of-the-way dining spot if you have a little extra \r\n\r\ntime to navigate out to Old Key West Resort. Service is excellent and the \r\n\r\ntheme is a Disneyfied Key West: lots of pastels, tile floors, and tropical trees in the center of the room. There is some outside \r\n\r\nseating, which looks out over the waterway. Tile, wood siding, and no \r\n\r\ntablecloths add up to a very noisy dining room that's getting a little worn \r\n\r\naround the edges. Disney Vacation Club member photos decorate the walls - \r\n\r\nDisney's Old Key West Resort was one of the first DVC resorts, so members \r\n\r\nconsider Olivia's their home kitchen.

\r\n\r\n

At breakfast, try the eggs with shrimp and conch cakes; banana-bread French \r\n\r\ntoast; and Cuban sandwich with scrambled eggs, ham, Swiss cheese, and pork \r\n\r\nloin. At lunch, try the Key West burger topped with grilled shrimp and \r\n\r\npepper-jack cheese. At dinner, prime rib, sustainable fish with black beans \r\n\r\nand rice, and coconut-encrusted mahimahi.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Turtle Shack Poolside Snacks

\r\n

\r\nTurtle Shack Lunch/Dinner Menu - Turtle Shack Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Turtle Shack has a small menu made up of hot dogs, pizza, salads, and sandwiches. \r\n\r\nThere is also a small selection of beers and cocktails. This is also a great\r\nplace to use your refillable mug (see below).

\r\n\r\n

Good's Food to Go

\r\n

\r\nGood's Food to Go Breakfast Menu - Good's Food to Go Kids Breakfast Menu - Good's Food to Go Lunch/Dinner Menu - Good's Food to Go Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Good's Food to Go offers a selection of burgers, sandwiches, salads, and \r\n\r\nsides like french fries and onion rings. For breakfast Good's sells a \r\n\r\nbreakfast platter and a selection of pastries.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nGood's Food to Go participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Restaurants at Old Key West participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 1 credit. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Pizza delivery is available to your room from Disney's own \r\n\r\ndelivery service. Besides pizza, chicken wings, desserts, beer, wine, and \r\n\r\nsodas are also available. However,\r\ndelivery can take up to 90 minutes, and the food quality is often below \r\n\r\naverage. You're probably better off either walking to the food court or \r\n\r\ncalling Domino's. Pizza\r\ndelivery hours are 4 PM to midnight daily. A medium (16\") cheese pizza costs \r\n\r\naround $14 and a pepperoni around $16. Minimum order is $15, and Disney will \r\n\r\ntack on an 18% tip, \r\n$3 delivery charge, and 7% sales tax. Thus, a $30 pizza order will cost you \r\n\r\n$40.50 delivered.\r\n

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Transportation to and from Disney's Old Key West Resort

\r\n

\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Old Key West Resort is just off \r\n\r\nof I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 Epcot Center Dr. \r\n\r\nTake the exit toward Downtown Disney Resort Area. Keep left at the fork, \r\n\r\nfollow signs for Port Orleans/Eagle Pines and merge onto Disney \r\n\r\nVacation Club Way. Old Key West will be on your right.\r\n

\r\n

Disney's Old Key West Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

\r\n

\r\n

From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

\r\n\r\n

From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Old Key West Resort. If you're not renting a \r\n\r\ncar, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Old Key West Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Old Key \r\n\r\nWest Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10\r\n\r\n-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Old Key West Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

\r\n

Getting to the theme parks, water parks and \r\n\r\nDisney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Old Key West Resort to Magic \r\n\r\nKingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard \r\n\r\nBeach and Typhoon Lagoon. Disney's Old Key West Resort's bus stops sit along \r\n\r\nthe front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each \r\n\r\ntheme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach. Disney Springs is accessed via a boat that can be loaded near the \r\n\r\nCarriage House.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Disney's Old Key West Resort's Bus Schedule

\r\n

\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Old Key West's bus schedule, and they'll tell \r\n\r\nyou that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Old Key West's bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 15 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 15-20 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks are a little less frequent, and you \r\n\r\ncould wait anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios. \r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Disney's Old Key West Resort \r\n\r\nIf you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to \r\n\r\ntake a Disney bus from Disney's Old Key West Resort an open theme park (or \r\n\r\nride the boat to Disney Springs), then take another bus from there to your \r\n\r\ndestination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Disney's Old Key West Resort. \r\n\r\nWhile that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. \r\n\r\nIf your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still \r\n\r\nopen, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the \r\n\r\nContemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat \r\n\r\n(to Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, or the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Old Key West to \r\n\r\nwherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride \r\n\r\nto get to most Disney hotels from Old Key West, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

\r\n

To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

Old Key West's gift shop is Conch Flats General Store. It is located in the \r\n\r\nHospitality House near the lobby. As you'd expect from a Disney gift shop, \r\n\r\nConch Flats has a decent collection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets \r\n\r\nsuch as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess \r\n\r\ndresses. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nConch Flats also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, \r\n\r\nallergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. \r\n\r\nAnd Conch Flats has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Located near the lobby is the Electric Eel Gameroom, which \r\n\r\nhas a decent collection of relatively recent video and arcade games. Most \r\n\r\ngames\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in. There's a similar Flying Fish Gameroom adjacent to the Old Turtle Pond Pool (buildings 41/42).\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 1.37-mile path along the golf greens and water canals.\r\n

\r\n

Old Key West features several sports courts, including shuffleboard, tennis, volleyball, and basketball. Equipment is available for free at Hank's Rent and Return.\r\n

\r\n

Besides socializing, Community Hall offers crafts, a pool table and for-rent movies and board games.\r\n

\r\n

The resort also offers a complimentary walking tour of the history and storyline for Disney's Old Key West Resort. The tour is every Wednesday and Saturday morning at 10 am and is called \"The Legend of Conch Flats.\" No advanced registration is required and begins in Papa's Den, adjacent to the Lobby.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Old Key West Resort Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

\r\n\r\n

Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous Old Key West

\r\n\r\n

There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nThere is a non-advertised walkway to Disney Springs inside Old Key West. The walkway is paved along the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course and is only open from dusk to dawn. The path begins by buildings 54 & 55 in Southpointe.\r\n

\r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Old Key West \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 827-7700.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Old Key West is huge,\r\nwith 49 three-story villa buildings spread over about 100 acres. Views\r\nare nice from almost all villas; all multiroom villas and some studios\r\nhave a large balcony furnished with a table and chairs.

\r\n\r\n

Because the resort is bordered by busy Bonnet Creek Parkway and\r\neven busier Buena Vista Drive, the best villas are those located as far\r\nfrom the road noise as possible. For quiet isolation and a lovely river\r\nview, ask for building 46 or 45, in that order. For nice lake and golfcourse views away from roads and close to restaurants, recreation, the\r\nmarina, the main swimming complex, and shopping, ask for building\r\n13. Nearby, buildings 12 and 11 are likewise quiet and convenient; they\r\noffer primarily golf-course views. The next-best choices are buildings\r\n32 and 34; the former looks onto a lake, with the golf course in the\r\nbackground, while the latter faces the golf course, with tennis courts to\r\nthe left and a lake to the right. Avoid buildings 19–22, 38, 39, 41, 42, and\r\n49–54, which border Bonnet Creek Parkway and Buena Vista Drive\r\nand get their attendant noise.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Finally, if you want to use your balcony without the sun in your\r\nface, use the map on page 167 to check out the position of your building relative to sunrise and sunset. If you want to use your balcony in\r\nthe afternoon, ask for an east-facing building. Conversely, request a\r\nwest-facing building if you primarily want to use your balcony in the\r\nmorning. We like to enjoy a drink on the balcony in the afternoon or\r\nevening, so we ensure shade by asking for an east-facing villa.

\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Largest villas of the DVC resortsSeveral bus stops means longer travel times
Full kitchens in villasNo elevators in many buildings
Quiet, lushly landscaped settingHighway noise
Often available at discounted rates or\r\nas DVC rentalFewer baths per bedroom than newer\r\nDVC properties
Boat service to Disney SpringsExtreme distance of many guest rooms to dining and services
Several pool optionsMediocre on-site dining
Close to Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
","recommend_to_friends":66,"recommend_annual_change":-14,"stay_again":86,"stay_again_annual_change":-4,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":761,"theme":"Key West, Florida","cost_range":"$486 - $3,285","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ds","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"8c5d64670a4f77e7410d7e0f93e41a74","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078271192","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":376,"blog_slug":"old-key-west","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys old key west resort","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010387,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resortsold-key-west-resort","opened_on":"1991-12-20","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"okw","refresh_year":2019,"renovation_year":2019,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Disney's first timeshare resort, Old Key West has two- and three-story buildings themed to the Caribbean and Florida Keys. The buildings sit around a golf course and lake in small, charming neighborhoods.","dining_overview":"Olivia's is the one on-site restaurant, and it's good. But you'll want to venture over to Disney Springs or the parks for variety.","good_for":"Relaxing with an island vibe","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":249,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows","code":"ORL245","address":"1600 Seven Seas Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078242000","url":null,"off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-polynesian-villas-bungalows","created_at":"2015-02-15T19:29:10.000-08:00","updated_at":"2024-11-21T20:41:08.000-08:00","overview":"

Disney's Polynesian Villas & Bungalows is a Disney Vacation Club addition at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort, which is on the Seven Seas Lagoon opposite Magic Kingdom.

\r\n\r\n

It offers 360 Deluxe Studio Villas and 20 on-the-water, two-bedroom Bora Bora Bungalows with private plunge pools.\r\n

\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":380,"theme":"Hawaii-South Seas Islands","cost_range":"$837 - $6,519","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"8dca6b8302554802cba1664a0b993481","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243174","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":null,"blog_slug":"polynesian-villas-bungalows","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys polynesian villas bungalows","club_name":null,"operator_id":17797842,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/polynesian-villas-bungalows","opened_on":"2015-04-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"pvb","refresh_year":2015,"renovation_year":2015,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":true,"parent_hotel_id":86,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Villas and Bungalows keep the Polynesian's tropical theme and offer larger rooms with more amenities, plus a private pool. The 2-bedroom bungalows have excellent views of the nightly fireworks and water pageant.","dining_overview":"Lots of good dining options are found in the Polynesian's main building. If staying longer, more great options are a short walk away at the Grand Floridian.","good_for":"Tropical theme and larger rooms","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":260,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Riviera Resort","code":"ORL252","address":"1080 Esplanade Ave","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078287030","url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/riviera-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-riviera-resort","created_at":"2018-04-18T08:59:29.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-11T20:40:59.000-08:00","overview":"

Overview

\r\n\r\n

\r\nThe Riviera is the newest DVC resort at Walt Disney World.\r\nThemed to evoke glamorous beach resorts in the South of France, it has\r\n300 guest rooms, including studios and one-, two-, and three-bedroom\r\nvillas, spread over nine floors. Though it’s on land that used to belong\r\nto Caribbean Beach, a Moderate resort, Disney has positioned the Riviera\r\nto be as upscale as the Grand Floridian—with service, amenities,\r\nand prices to match.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Rooms at the Riviera are some of our favorite at Disney World, with\r\nwhite walls and off-white accents, beige carpets, and furniture in neutral\r\ntones. Faux-wood vinyl laminate covers the floors, except in the\r\nbedrooms, which have carpet. As with other DVC resorts, deluxe studio\r\naccommodations have kitchenettes, while the one-, two-, and threebedroom\r\nvillas have full kitchens. We like the villas quite a bit—they’re\r\nbright, comfortable, and modern, even if the theme is understated.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\"Rivera\r\n\r\n

\r\nRiviera Resort's lobby entrance.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n

The Riviera has a unique room type among DVC resorts that we like\r\nconsiderably less: the tower studio, which accommodates two guests.\r\nThese rooms measure about 225 square feet—the smallest on Disney\r\nproperty, and small enough that they require the room’s single bed to\r\nfold into the wall when not in use. Disney may have found a lower\r\nlimit on how small it can make hotel rooms, and these are too small.\r\nIn fact, when Len visited two friends staying in one of these rooms, one\r\nof them stood in the bathroom to maintain what felt like normal social\r\ndistance—there’s just not a lot of space here.

\r\n\r\n

Beyond the size, the tower studio rooms are dim during the day and\r\ndismal at night. The most cheerful space in the studio is the bathroom because of the better lighting. There’s little doubt that these are the\r\nworst rooms for the money in Walt Disney World.

\r\n\r\n

In addition to otherwise-posh rooms and amenities and high-end\r\nrestaurants, the Riviera boasts easy access to EPCOT and Disney’s\r\nHollywood\r\nStudios. The resort sits about 1,500 feet from World Showcase,\r\naffording park-facing rooms on high floors excellent views of\r\nboth EPCOT’s and the Studios’ evening entertainment. The Riviera’s\r\nrestaurants have similar views.

\r\n\r\n

Of course, Disney charges a premium for these views: Rack rates run\r\n$429–$738 per night for tower studios; $642–$1,025 for deluxe studios,\r\ndepending on the date and the view; $911–$1,415 for one-bedroom\r\nvillas; $1,443–$2,541 for two-bedroom units; and $2,892–$4,677 for\r\nthree-bedroom villas.

\r\n\r\n

The Riviera’s restaurants include Primo Piatto, an excellent counterservice\r\neatery with grab-and-go options; Le Petit Café, a morningcoffee-\r\nand-pastry bar that serves wine in the evening; and Bar Riva, a\r\npool bar. Topolino’s Terrace, the sit-down restaurant, is a Disney Signature\r\nvenue that serves fixed-price character breakfasts for kids and\r\nupscale dinners for grown-ups.

\r\n\r\n

Other amenities include two pools and a fitness center. The main\r\nRiviera Pool offers play areas for children, while the Beau Soleil Pool\r\nis the quiet pool. The Riviera Resort is connected to EPCOT and Disney’s\r\nHollywood Studios by Skyliner and to the rest of Walt Disney\r\nWorld by bus.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Where to Check In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining Reservations

\r\n\r\n

A security gate guards the entrance to Riviera's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. A dedicated lot near the front of the hotel serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day.

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Check-in time at Riviera is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. Disneys Riviera Resort participates in Disney's Online Check-In program, which allows you to you provide name, address, and credit card information up to 60 days before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.

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The resorts's gift shop sells MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Note: The free MagicBand program was discontinued in early 2021.

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If you have not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the Registration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo ID and credit/debit card when you register.

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If you do not already have theme park tickets, theme park reservation, or dining reservations, you can make them at the lobby Concierge Desk. (We strongly recommend that you make all these arrangements online in advance.) If you need to both check in and obtain theme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line for tickets just after another adult starts the registration process.

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Rooms

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Riviera is a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort, with apartment-like accommodations rather than traditional hotel rooms. It features a mix of Tower Studio, Deluxe Studio, 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedroom, and 3-Bedroom \"villas.\" Deluxe Studio villas look much like regular hotel rooms, but with one Queen bed and a fold-down Murphy bed and the addition of a small kitchenette featuring an extra sink, microwave oven, and toaster. The 1, 2, and 3 bedroom villas all include a full size kitchen with a larger refrigerator, microwave oven, standard oven, cooktop, a laundry washer and dryer, dishwasher, and a supply of cookware and dishware. Making real meals is certainly possible in a DVC full kitchen.

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The Tower Studio rooms are a new type of accommodation, introduced at Riviera. These smaller rooms are designed for two, which is how many they sleep. They still include balconies but they are more compact and intimate (meaning smaller).

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One-bedroom and 2-bedroom DVC units have a living-room area with pull-down sleeping surfaces and a bedroom or bedrooms with regular beds. There is at least full bathroom for every bedroom with a shower and a soaking tub. The 3-bedroom Grand Villa units include all of the above, plus an additional bedroom and bathroom, as well as other amenities like an expanded living room or a dining room. The Grand Villa can sleep up to 12.

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\r\n\r\n\t\"Rivera\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\"Rivera\r\n

\r\nTop: Riviera Resort Tower Studio Room
\r\nBottom: Riviera Resort [non-Tower] Studio Bed\r\n

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Transportation

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Disney's Riviera Resort has easy access to Walt Disney World's Skyliner gondola transportation system, which takes guests to and from the Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios theme parks. With its own Skyliner station, the Riviera also has easy access to Caribbean Beach, Pop Century, and Art of Animation. Walt Disney World bus transportation to the remaining theme parks, two water parks, and Disney Springs is also available.

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\r\n\r\n\t\"Art\r\n\r\n

\r\nBeautiful artwork can be found on the Riviera Resort's grounds.\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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Dining

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The showpiece restaurant is Topolino's Terrace - Flavors of the Riviera perched on the roof of the Riviera tower with amazing views of both Epcot and Hollywood Studios. Other dining options include the Primo Piatto quick service, Le Petit Cafe coffee and wine bar, and Bar Riva at the pool.

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Other Amenities

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Riviera contains three pool areas. The feature pool sits between the building and the lagoon, with S'il Vous Play, the child play area, adjacent to it. Nearby is the quiet pool, called Beau Soleil. \r\n\r\n

For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ. There is also a fitness center available for resort guests.

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Skyliner connection to Hollywood Studios and EpcotTower rooms are small and dark
Easy walk through Caribbean Beach for its viewsExpensive
Good dining and bar options
Elaborate Child Play area near main pool
","recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":300,"theme":"Luxury Resort of the European Coast","cost_range":"$479 - $5,616","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":true,"meta_description":"Disney World's newest hotel opened December 16, 2019. Check here for all the details. ","survey_update_hash":"d7c6bbc8b924301f7455dc793e4af006","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":255,"blog_slug":"disneys-riviera-resort","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":null,"sort_name":"disneys riviera resort","club_name":null,"operator_id":18995875,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/riviera-resort","opened_on":"2019-12-16","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"riv","refresh_year":2019,"renovation_year":2019,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":true,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Some of the best rooms on property, the Riviera villas are bright, cheerful, and spacious. The pools are good, on-site dining is very good, and you've got Skyliner access to EPCOT and the Studios. ","dining_overview":"Primo Piatto might be our favorite resort quick-service, and Topolino's is one of Disney's highest-rated sit-downs. Hard to go wrong here.","good_for":"On-site dining, Skyliner access","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":46,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa","code":"ORL016","address":"1901 East Buena Vista Drive","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078271100","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-saratoga-springs-resort-spa","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:18.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-21T20:41:07.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort Overview

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Saratoga Springs, a Disney Deluxe Villa resort, is described by Disney as recalling\r\na Victorian-era retreat in upstate New York. A DDV resort, its 1,260\r\nstudio and one-, two-, and three-bedroom villas are located across the\r\nlake from Disney Springs. Most buildings were constructed around\r\n2004, while the fitness center and check-in building are older. An\r\nadjacent 60-unit DDV complex, Treehouse Villas at Disney’s Saratoga\r\nSprings Resort & Spa, opened in 2009.

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\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort map\r\n

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The color scheme of the villas’ newly renovated rooms tends toward\r\nneutral earth tones, with faux-teak vinyl floors in the living rooms and\r\ndark-brown patterned carpets in the bedrooms. Kitchen cabinets are\r\nwhite, while appliances are stainless steel. New furnishings and soft\r\ngoods are more refined than the last iteration. Chairs, sofas, and tables\r\nare likewise more modern and less bulky, though you’d be hard-pressed\r\nto identify even the slightest bit of theming; this decor could be at any\r\none of a dozen Disney hotels. A fold-down child’s bed sits beneath the\r\nwall-mounted TV in the living room. Bathrooms, with color accent\r\nwalls, are spacious in all but the studios, where they compare with those\r\nin any other hotel room.

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Readers tend to be more critical of Saratoga Springs than other Disney\r\nresorts. The positive comments frequently mention the quiet rooms,\r\nproximity to Disney Springs, and quality of the spa and fitness center.\r\nThose were enough for this reader:

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We loved Saratoga Springs! It was comfortable, beautiful, and quiet,\r\nwith a quick walk to the dock for the boat to Disney Springs.
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This reader from Mount Holly, New Jersey, agrees:

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We were absolutely floored at how much we loved our stay at Saratoga\r\nSprings. Our first couple of days were in Congress Park, which was perfectly\r\nlovely. Then we moved (because we had two reservations) to a\r\nPaddock building immediately next to the pool, the bus stop, and the\r\nwalkway to the main building. We truly enjoyed the time we spent there.
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How Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort Compares to Other Disney Deluxe \r\n\r\nResorts

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Saratoga Springs is different because of its location. The resort is \r\n\r\nlocated across the lake from Disney Springs, and \r\n\r\ncan be accessed via a short boat ride. Golfers rejoice, Saratoga Springs is \r\n\r\nalso the home to Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. \r\n\r\nSaratoga Springs offers a salon, spa, and the largest fitness center at a Disney World resort hotel.

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\r\nSaratoga Springs' exterior.\r\n

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The revamped Disney Springs has markedly increased Saratoga Springs’ appeal to readers and to us. Within a short walk of this resort are a week’s worth of good dining options, plus enough people-watching and entertainment for everyone. We wouldn’t be surprised if Disney started raising Saratoga’s prices because of this. If you’ve got a car to help avoid SSR’s sometimes slow bus service to the theme parks, we recommend giving this resort a try.

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Saratoga Springs' grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

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\r\nCheck-in time at Saratoga Springs is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nSaratoga Springs participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows you to you provide name, address, and credit card information in advance of your arrival. If you have checked-in online the resort will send you a text or email with your room number when it is ready. Then you can go straight to the room and use your SmartPhone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether. Saratoga Springs's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. Beginning January 1, 2021, guests will no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.

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\r\nSaratoga Springs' lobby.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the Registration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo ID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind in a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television showing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\n Get theme park tickets and dining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the right of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain theme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line for tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also make Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them online prior to arrival.\r\n

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Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's Rooms

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Saratoga Springs Studios: Studios sleep up to four people \r\n\r\nand include one queen-size bed and one murphy beds with double mattresses. The total Studio \r\n\r\nroom size is 355 square feet, with about half of that being dedicated to the \r\n\r\nkitchen and bathroom area

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\r\nSaratoga Springs Studio.\r\n

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\r\nA Standard Saratoga Springs Studio Bathroom.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs one-Bedroom Villa: The one-bedroom villa \r\n\r\nsleeps 5 and provides a formal kitchen, a second bathroom and a living room in \r\n\r\naddition to the studio bedroom. The living room's chair and sofa fold out to \r\n\r\nprovide beds for 3 more people. One-Bedrooms Villas are 714 square feet.

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\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nSaratoga Springs 1-Bedroom Villa.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs Two-bedroom villas: Two-bedroom villas \r\n\r\nsleep eight and include all of the kitchen amenities found in a one-bedroom, \r\n\r\nplus an extra bathroom. One of the baths is attached to a second bedroom with \r\n\r\ntwo queen beds or a queen bed plus a sleeper-sized sofa. As with the one-\r\n\r\nbedrooms, a sofa bed and sleeper chair in the living room provide extra places \r\n\r\nto snooze, though they're best suited to small children. Two-Bedroom Villas \r\n\r\nare 1,075 square feet.

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\r\nSaratoga Springs Two-Bedroom Villa.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs Grand Villas: The two-story Grand Villas \r\n\r\nsleep 12 and include four bathrooms, the same master-bedroom layout, and two \r\n\r\nbedrooms with two queen beds apiece. An upstairs seating area overlooking the \r\n\r\nmain floor provides a sleeper sofa and chair. Grand Villas are 2,113 square feet.

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Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort Room Layout\r\n

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\r\nSaratoga Springs Grand Villa.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort has around 100 handicap-accessible rooms. \r\n\r\nSome feature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. \r\n\r\nA subset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature

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Saratoga Springs Pools

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Saratoga Springs has four pools. The largest, High Rock Spring Pool, sits sits near the outside of the resort's lobby, Carriage House. There is also a hot tub and kiddie pool.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs' High Rock Spring Pool and The Grandstand's water play area.\r\n

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The other smaller pools are located in The Grandstand (with child-friendly water play area), The Paddock, and \r\n\r\nCongress Park sections sections of the resort. These pools are basic concrete pools and are considered \"quiet pools,\" meaning that loud play and splashing around are discouraged.

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Saratoga Springs' pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The pools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout the year. Saratoga Springs also has a hot tubs located near each pool.

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High Rock Spring Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. \r\n\r\nGuests can find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, extending to as much \r\n\r\nas 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n The main pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Playgrounds at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

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\r\nA small playground set is located near the pool in the Congress Park section \r\n\r\nof the resort. The set has a small plastic slide and a couple of sections with \r\n\r\na few steps for toddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Disney's concern here - there are no \r\n\r\nswings, and the entire area is covered in sand.\r\n

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Restaurants and Dining

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Saratoga Springs has one table service and one counter service restaurants. \r\n\r\nIf these don't fit your needs you can hop on a boat near the Carriage House \r\n\r\nand ride over to Disney Springs.

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The Turf Club Bar & Grill

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\r\nThe Turf Club Dinner Menu - The Turf Club Kids Dinner Menu

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There's rarely a crowd at this out-of-the-way spot, so it's nice to request \r\n\r\nan outdoor table on a sunny day and enjoy a drink and appetizers on the shady \r\n\r\nterrace. The grilled Caesar salad is the best salad at Disney World.

\r\n\r\n

When the weather's nice, ask for an outdoor table; you can spot golfers on \r\n\r\nthe adjacent Lake Buena Vista golf course and look across the way to Downtown \r\n\r\nDisney. Tucked off the lobby of the Saratoga Springs Resort, the dining room \r\n\r\nis equestrian-themed.

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\r\n\r\n

The Artist's Palette

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\r\nArtist's Palette Breakfast Menu - Artist's Palette Kids Breakfast Menu - Artist's Palette Lunch/Dinner Menu - Artist's Palette Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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The Artist's Palette is small counter service restaurant with a limited menu of sandwiches, salads and wraps. Prices range from $8 to $15 for an entree, so you won't break the bank.

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\r\nArtist's Palette participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Saratoga Springs participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 1 credit at Artist's Palette and The Turf Club Bar \r\n\r\n& Grill. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Pizza delivery is available to your room from Disney's own delivery service. Besides pizza, chicken wings, desserts, beer, wine, and sodas are also available. However,\r\ndelivery can take up to 90 minutes, and the food quality is often below average. You're probably better off either walking to the food court or calling Domino's. Pizza\r\ndelivery hours are 4 PM to midnight daily. A medium (16\") cheese pizza costs around $14 and a pepperoni around $16. Minimum order is $15, and Disney will tack on an 18% tip, $3 delivery charge, and 7% sales tax. Thus, a $30 pizza order will cost you $40.50 delivered.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs has one lounge and three pool bars for guests to consume adult beverages at. \r\nThe Turf Club Lounge is Saratoga Springs' main \r\nlounge. The Turf Club Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu with several beers, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is usually open 4 PM to 12 AM daily.

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The Paddock Grill is located adjacent to the quiet pool in The Paddock. Paddock Grill has a small selection of specialty drinks, beer and wine.

\r\n\r\n

Backstretch Pool Bar is located near the pool at The Grandstand. It also offers a selection of specialty drinks, beer and wine. This bar is seasonal and operates a limited amount of hours.\r\n
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Transportation to and from Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort is just \r\n\r\noff of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 68 toward Apopka Vineland \r\n\r\nRd/Kissimmee Vineland Rd N. Turn left on Hotel Plaza Blvd. Turn right \r\n\r\nonto Buena Vista Dr and Saratoga Springs will be on your left.\r\n

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Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. If you're not renting \r\n\r\na car, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Saratoga \r\n\r\nSprings Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or \r\n\r\n10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort to \r\n\r\nMagic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, \r\n\r\nBlizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's bus \r\n\r\nstops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in \r\n\r\nparking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach. Disney Springs is accessed via a boat that can be loaded near the \r\n\r\nCarriage House.\r\n

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The top reader complaints about Saratoga Springs have to do with\r\ntransportation. These comments from an Arlington Heights, Illinois,\r\nfamily are typical:

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Buses started running just 45 minutes before park opening. We had\r\nto make multiple stops inside the resort, and because of Saratoga’s size and distance to the parks, we arrived at the park only about\r\n15 minutes before opening. We faced instant 60-plus-minute waits\r\nfor the top attractions despite our best efforts.
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A couple from Peru, Indiana, had a variety of complaints:

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Saratoga Springs is our least favorite resort. We didn’t enjoy the theming,\r\nand unless you have a car, getting around by bus is a real hassle.\r\nThe food court is very small and the food expensive. Also, checkout\r\nwas very slow, and our room seemed smaller than comparable rooms\r\nat BoardWalk Villas and Old Key West.
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Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Saratoga Springs' bus schedule, and they'll \r\n\r\ntell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Saratoga Springs' \r\n\r\nbus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 15 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 15-20 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks are a little less frequent, and you \r\n\r\ncould wait anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

\r\n

If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios. We evaluate Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's bus service \r\n\r\nannually, and the latest transportation times can be found below.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Getting to another hotel from Disney's Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nResort If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the \r\n\r\ncheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort \r\n\r\nan open theme park (or ride the boat to Disney Springs), then take another \r\n\r\nbus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to \r\n\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from \r\n\r\n90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, or the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

\r\n

The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Saratoga Springs to wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride to get to most Disney hotels from Saratoga Springs, and often less. Taxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

\r\n

To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

\r\n\r\n

Saratoga Springs is home to Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf \r\n\r\nCourse. This 18-hole course has hosted PGA Tour, the LPGA Tour and \r\n\r\nUSGA events in the past and one of it trademark features is its 7th hole with \r\n\r\nan island green. Prices range from $39.00 to $165.00. Call (407) WDW-GOLF to \r\n\r\nreserve a tee time.

\r\n\r\n

Senses Spa is Saratoga Springs' spa. Senses Spa is open \r\n\r\n8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Massage, facial, and body treatment services are \r\n\r\navailable. A 24-Hour fitness center is also available at Senses Spa.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Saratoga Springs' gift shop is Artist's Palette. It is located in the \r\n\r\nCarriage House near the lobby. As you'd expect from a Disney gift shop, Artist's Palette \r\n\r\nhas a decent collection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as \r\n\r\nkeychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices \r\n\r\nfor these items are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Disney Springs.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nArtist's Palette also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, \r\n\r\nallergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. \r\n\r\nAnd Artist's Palette has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Located near spa and fitness center is the Win, Place Or Show \r\n\r\nArcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent video and \r\n\r\narcade games. Most games\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 0.8 or 1.44-mile loop along the greens of Disney’s Lake Buena Vista \r\n\r\nGolf Course.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

Miscellaneous Saratoga Springs

\r\n\r\n

There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 827-1100.\r\n

\r\n
","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and worst room views at Disney's Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nresort

\r\n

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on \r\n\r\nproperty. click here for the Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort map \r\n\r\nand to choose a room to see the view.

\r\n\r\n

This resort’s sprawling\r\nsize puts some of its best rooms very far away from the main lobby,\r\nrestaurants, and shops. If you don’t have a car, the best rooms are those\r\nin The Springs, numbered 3101–3436 and 3501–3836. Ask for a room\r\ntoward the northeast side of these buildings (away from the lobby), as\r\nthe southwest rooms border a well-traveled road. Avoid rooms 4101–\r\n4436—a pedestrian walkway running behind the patios gets a lot of use\r\nin the early morning from guests who are heading to breakfast.

\r\n\r\n\r\n

Good rooms in buildings 1, 2, 3 and 4 of Congress Park

\r\n

Congress Park sits on the edge of the lake that Separates Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nand Disney Springs. Rooms facing south, southeast, and southwest face \r\n\r\nDisney Springs but most direct views are partially blocked by trees. rooms \r\n\r\n1101 - 1436 and 2501 - 2836 in Congress Park offer quietness, a view of \r\n\r\nDisney Springs, and a relatively short walk to the bus stop. rooms 1101 - \r\n\r\n1436 have the closest walks to Disney Springs shops, restaurants, and \r\n\r\nentertainment.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"2132\"\r\n
Room 2132: You can see Disney Springs in the background.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"2114\"\r\n
Room 2114: Disney did a good job at hiding parking lots in \r\n\r\nSaratoga, but you can see them from some rooms.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 2101: Looking out on to a path that connects buildings in \r\n\r\nCongress Park.
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Good rooms in buildings 5, 6 and 7 of the Springs

\r\n

The Springs is located directly next to the resorts lobby and pool complex, \r\n\r\nCarriage House. This is convenient if you want to be near dining and other \r\n\r\namenities but it may cause higher than usual noise levels.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"3125\"\r\n
Room 3125: The view from a one-bedroom villa in the \r\n\r\nSprings.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"3507\"\r\n
Room 3507: Bodies of water and fountains! What's not to like about \r\n\r\nthis view?
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 4130: Rooms 4x30 (replace x with the floor number), 4x32, \r\n\r\n4x34 and 4x36 in building 7 face a parking lot.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n\r\n

Good rooms in buildings 8, 9, 10, 11, and 12 of the Paddock

\r\n

Buildings 9 and 10 are located next to the Paddock pool and transportation. \r\n\r\nthis may cause higher than usual noise levels. building 12 is also located \r\n\r\nnear a bus stop. in addition to being quiet, rooms 6101 - 6436 and 6501 - 6836 \r\n\r\nof the paddock afford the closest walks to Disney Springs shops, restaurants, \r\n\r\nand entertainment. avoid rooms on the northeast side of the 5101 - 5435 \r\n\r\nbuilding of the paddock, as well as the northwest side of the 5501 - 5836 \r\n\r\nbuilding; these border a swimming pool and bus stop.

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 6545: Some room views are partially blocked by \r\n\r\nfoliage.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 6114: This one-bedroom villa faces another \r\n\r\nbuilding.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"6123\"\r\n
Room 6123: A view of the courtyard in the middle of building \r\n\r\n11.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Good rooms in buildings 13 and 14 of the Carousel

\r\n

Buildings 13 and 14 are located near a bus stop, but are a bit far from the \r\n\r\nresort's lobby. A walk to the lobby will take around 7 minutes, while a walk \r\n\r\nto the nearest pool will be around 5 minutes.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 7510: Rooms 7x10, 7x12, 7x14, 7x30, 7x32 and 7x36 in building \r\n\r\n14 have a partial view of a parking lot.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 7501: Saratoga Springs has some of the best landscaping in \r\n\r\nWalt Disney World.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 7110: Rooms 7x10, 7x12 and 7x14 in building 13 face a \r\n\r\nroad.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n

Good rooms in buildings 15, 16, 17 and 18 of the Grandstand

\r\n

The Grandstand is positioned next to the Lake Buena Vista golf course. \r\n\r\nbuildings 15 and 16 are located next to a pool. Buildings 17 and 18 are most \r\n\r\nremote from from the resort's lobby and require about a 7 minute walk.

\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"8123\"\r\n
Room 8123: Looking out on to Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf Course.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\"8536\"\r\n
Room 8536: Rooms 8x30, 8x32, 8x34 and 8x36 in building 16 face a \r\n\r\nparking lot.
\r\n
\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n
Room 9523: The view will make you forget you're in central Florida (but the heat probably won't).
\r\n
\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Often available at discounted rates or as\r\na DVC rentalOn-site dining is limited for a resort\r\nof this size
Closest resort to Disney Springs and\r\nTyphoon LagoonTheme is dull compared with those of\r\nother Disney resorts
Only WDW-owned resort with dedicated\r\ngolf (Lake Buena Vista Golf Course)Fewer baths per bedroom than newer\r\nDVC properties
Attractive main pool; multiple well-themed\r\nquiet pools with snack barsLong distance from some rooms to dining and services
Very nice spa and fitness centerBus service can take some time to get out\r\nof the (huge) resort
Hiking, jogging, water recreation
","recommend_to_friends":76,"recommend_annual_change":7,"stay_again":90,"stay_again_annual_change":13,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":1260,"theme":"1880s Upstate New York Equestrian Town","cost_range":"$480 - $3,708","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ds","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"fa81036ec2f436e49b7ca3720e58b55e","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078274444","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":255,"blog_slug":"saratoga-springs","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys saratoga springs resort spa","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010383,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa","opened_on":"2004-05-17","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"ssr","refresh_year":2020,"renovation_year":2020,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Saratoga Springs is themed to a Victorian-era retreat in upstate New York, and roomy and well-priced for villas, plus close to Disney Springs. It's best to have your own car here.","dining_overview":"The on-site food court is find for quick meals. You'll find far better choices at Disney Springs.","good_for":"Easy access to Disney Springs","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":261,"property_id":1,"name":"Reflections - A Disney Lakeside Lodge","code":"ORL253","address":null,"city":null,"state_code":null,"zip_code":null,"phone_number":null,"url":null,"off_site":false,"permalink":"disney-reflections","created_at":"2018-11-21T08:02:53.000-08:00","updated_at":"2023-10-09T20:01:31.000-07:00","overview":"

Reflections was a planned Disney Vacation Club property located near Fort Wilderness on the shores of Bay Lake. It is unknown when or if construction will resume.

\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":null,"strengths_weaknesses":null,"recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":false,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":false,"num_rooms":900,"theme":null,"cost_range":null,"shuttle_to_parks":false,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"wdw","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":false,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":null,"author_user_id":null,"fax_number":null,"hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":null,"blog_slug":"disney-reflections","property_owned":false,"extra_hours":false,"early_fastpass":false,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":null,"sort_name":"reflections a disney lakeside lodge","club_name":null,"operator_id":null,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":null,"opened_on":"1900-01-01","extinct_on":"1900-01-01","opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":"Postponed Indefinitely","abbreviation":null,"refresh_year":null,"renovation_year":null,"pool_slide":false,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":null,"max_guests_std":null,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"You'll find starry skies and all that nature has to offer at Reflections, because there are no rooms and you'll be sleeping on the ground.","dining_overview":"Enjoy al fresco dining under the stars, with fresh, local ingredients such as: fish you catch yourself in the lake, and roots and berries you forage from the woods, because there's no restaurant here.","good_for":"People who want to sleep on dirt","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":248,"property_id":1,"name":"The Villas at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa","code":"ORL244","address":"4401 Floridian Way","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078243000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/villas-at-grand-floridian-resort-and-spa/","off_site":false,"permalink":"the-villas-at-disneys-grand-floridian-resort-and-spa","created_at":"2014-02-11T11:13:29.000-08:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:01.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

This Disney Deluxe Villa property opened in the fall of 2013.\r\nReaders have rated it the best Disney World resort for seven years in a row.\r\nIf the Average designation for the Villas’ “would stay again” and “would\r\nrecommend to\r\na friend” survey results seems to contradict the high percentages,\r\nthat’s because we receive relatively few surveys about this resort\r\ncompared with others. Thus, the margin of error for the Villas’ survey\r\nresults is slightly higher than for other properties. Put another way: We’re\r\npretty sure that readers think the Villas are fantastic—we just don’t have\r\nenough surveys to prove it with math.\r\n

\r\n\r\n

The Grand Floridian Villas share the amenities such as restaurants, transportation, recreation, pools, and shopping with the main Grand Floridian hotel next door. Check our Grand Floridian Resort and Spa page for more information.

\r\n\r\n

\r\nDecorated in neutral tones, with mostly green and red accent colors,\r\nthe rooms are the nicest at any DDV property. Most have vaulted\r\nliving-room ceilings and faux-wood balconies or porches. Those balconies\r\nstretch the entire length of the room, giving everyone enough\r\nspace for a good view.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n

\r\nGrand Floridian Villa details.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n

\r\nStudios have a kitchenette with minifridge, sink, and drip coffee maker,\r\nwhile the larger rooms have full kitchens. Those feature a stainless-steel\r\noven range, with the dishwasher and refrigerator tucked behind white\r\nwood panels that match the glass-door cabinets. Other amenities in the\r\nfull kitchens include a full-size drip coffee maker, a toaster, frying pans,\r\nand the usual set of plates, glasses, cups, and cutlery. Also in the kitchen\r\nare a banquette seat and a table with room for six.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n

Grand Floridian Villa kitchen.

\r\n
\r\n

\r\nThe living room has a sofa that seats three comfortably; an upholstered\r\nchair and ottoman; a coffee table; and a large, flat-panel TV. The\r\nsofa converts into a bed that sleeps two; a cabinet below the TV hides a\r\nsmall pull-down bed. We’d use these beds for kids, not adults.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n
\r\n

\r\nStudio rooms have a queen bed in addition to the folding options\r\nlisted above. One-bedroom villas have a king bed along with the folding\r\noptions; two-bedroom villas have a king bed in one room and two\r\nqueen beds in the other, plus the folding options; the Grand Villa’s third\r\nbedroom has an additional two queen beds.\r\n

\r\n

\r\nThe one- and two-bedroom units and the Grand Villa bedrooms are\r\noutfitted with a large writing desk, a flat-panel TV with DVD player,\r\ntwo nightstands with convenient electric plugs, and a side chair. They\r\nalso have large walk-in closets.\r\n

\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t \r\n\r\n
\r\n

\r\nBathrooms are large, with marble tile and flat-panel TVs built into\r\nthe mirrors. Studio bathrooms have a separate toilet and shower area;\r\nin the one-bedroom configuration, a tub and dressing area sit adjacent\r\nto the bedroom. The bathroom and shower are connected by a pocket\r\ndoor, allowing two groups of people to get dressed at the same time.\r\nThe tiled shower looks as if it could comfortably hold eight people\r\nshould the need arise. It also has a rain showerhead mounted in the\r\nceiling in addition to a wall-mounted faucet.\r\n

\r\n\r\n\r\n
\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n\r\n\t\r\n\r\n
\r\n

\r\nThe villas have their own parking lot next to the building but no\r\non-site dining. Within walking distance, however, are the restaurants\r\nof both the main Grand Floridian and the Polynesian Village, giving\r\nyou a bit more variety than at other Magic Kingdom resorts. Room\r\nservice is available from the Grand Floridian’s in-room dining menu.\r\nRates are high, as you might expect, but renting DVC points helps in\r\nthat regard.\r\n

\r\n

Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

\r\n\r\n

\r\nThanks to Anthony Caselnova for Grand Floridan Villa room images.\r\n

","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Rooms 1X14, 1X16, and 1X18\r\nface the Magic Kingdom and have views of Space Mountain and the\r\ncastle; 1X14 has probably the best views of any room in all of the Villas.\r\n(X indicates a floor number.)

\r\n\r\n

Even-numbered rooms 1X02–1X12 face west, toward the Polynesian\r\nVillage and Seven Seas Lagoon, and afford a good view of the nightly\r\nwater pageant as it floats by.

\r\n\r\n

Rooms 1X15, 1X17, 1X19–1X22, 1X24, 1X26, and 1X28 face Disney’s\r\nWedding Pavilion, the parking lot, the monorail, and landscaping. Oddnumbered\r\nrooms 1X03–1X13 and 1X25, 1X27, and 1X29 look out onto the\r\npool facilities and landscaping.

\r\n\r\n

South-facing rooms in Big Pine Key look out over the Seven Seas\r\nLagoon, although mature trees and landscaping partially block those\r\nviews from many upper-floor rooms. Rooms 9X41–9X47 may have\r\nviews of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.

","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
High staff-to-guest ratioMost expensive WDW resort
Can walk, boat, or monorail to the Magic KingdomPublic areas often blocked by wedding parties
Excellent dining options for adultsNoise from Magic Kingdom, boat horns, and whistles
Very good on-site spaBus transportation to DHS, Animal Kingdom, water parks, and Disney Springs is shared by the other monorail resorts
Large rooms with daybeds
Fantastic kids’ Alice in Wonderland-themed splash area
Diverse recreational options
Close to Palm, Magnolia, and Oak Trail Golf Courses
","recommend_to_friends":null,"recommend_annual_change":null,"stay_again":null,"stay_again_annual_change":null,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":false,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":147,"theme":"Turn-of-the-20th-century Luxury Hotel","cost_range":"$816 - $6,415","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"mk","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":30,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"383c5a03aa9ebfcb7d7c5473b884fb3e","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078243186","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":374,"blog_slug":"villas-at-grand-floridian","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"villas at disneys grand floridian resort spa","club_name":null,"operator_id":16491822,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/villas-at-grand-floridian-resort-and-spa","opened_on":"2013-10-23","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"vgf","refresh_year":2017,"renovation_year":2013,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":164,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Consistently rated as one of Disney World's top 3 properties, the Grand Floridian villas combine the architectural charm of the main resort with much larger and very comfortable rooms.","dining_overview":"There's no on-site restaurant at the Villas, and excellent dining options are a short walk away in the main building. Room service is available.","good_for":"Arguably the nicest rooms on site","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":243,"property_id":1,"name":"Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort","code":"ORL240","address":"1960 Broadway","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4078271100","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/saratoga-springs-resort-and-spa/","off_site":false,"permalink":"treehouse-villas-at-disneys-saratoga-springs-resort","created_at":"2011-03-18T12:12:17.000-07:00","updated_at":"2023-05-02T11:38:38.000-07:00","overview":"

Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort Overview

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This complex of 60 three-bedroom villas lies between Old Key West\r\nResort and the Grandstand section of Saratoga Springs proper, with a\r\nseparate entrance off Disney Vacation Club Way. The treehouses are\r\nbordered by Lake Buena Vista Golf Course to the northeast and a waterway to the southwest that feeds into Village Lake.

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The villas stand on stilts 10 feet off the ground, with ramps providing wheelchair access. Surrounded by a densely wooded landscape,\r\neach villa is an eight-sided structure with three bedrooms and two full\r\nbathrooms covering about 1,074 square feet.

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Villas hold nine people, about the same number as comparably sized\r\nrooms at other DDV resorts. The master and second bedrooms have\r\nqueen beds; the third bedroom has bunks; and the living room has a\r\nsofa bed and sleeper chair, both more appropriate for kids than adults.

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\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort map\r\n

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The interior of each villa is decorated with natural materials: stone\r\nfloors in the kitchen, granite countertops, and stained-wood furniture.\r\nEnd tables, picture frames, and bunk beds are made from rustic logs.\r\nBathrooms, outfitted in modern tile, have showers and tubs, along\r\nwith a decent amount of counter space.

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The three-bedroom Treehouses usually cost about $50–$300 more\r\nper night than a comparable two-bedroom villa and $700–$800 less\r\nthan a standard three-bedroom villa elsewhere at Saratoga Springs. The\r\ntrade-off for that third Treehouse bedroom is giving up some space elsewhere. In particular, beware the master-bath shower, next to the tub in\r\nan enclosed glass wall: Tilt down to shave your legs or grab a bottle of\r\nshampoo, and you could bang your head on the side of the tub.

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Because of its location, Treehouse Villas has few amenities of its own: \r\n\r\neach villa has a large wooden deck with charcoal grill, and all villas share a \r\n\r\nsmall central pool with spa. A walking path connects the complex to the main \r\n\r\nSaratoga Springs grounds, and Treehouse Villas guests can use all of the \r\n\r\nfacilities at Saratoga Springs.

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A Columbus, New Jersey, family thinks a stay at Treehouse Villas\r\nis money well spent:

We give Treehouse Villas five stars for value. With nine people in our\r\nparty, our villa saved us about $700–$1,000 per night. The three bedrooms and pullout couch comfortably slept our group, plus having a\r\ngreat eat-in kitchen helped us save money on breakfast.
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A walking path connects the complex to the rest of Saratoga Springs;\r\nTreehouse guests can use all of the main resort’s facilities. Two dedicated bus stops serve the Treehouses, but transportation is nevertheless\r\na weakness. This West Warwick, Rhode Island, reader felt stranded:

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Transportation is abhorrent—and I actually had some idea what to\r\nexpect (i.e., taking one bus at the villas to another bus at the main\r\nresort). The Treehouses are nice in and of themselves, but I would\r\nsuggest not staying here if going to the parks is your main objective.
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How Treehouse Villas Compare to Other Disney Resorts

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Even though the treehouses aren't really, you know, treehouses, they still \r\n\r\nare some of the most unique hotel accommodations in Walt Disney World. The \r\n\r\nbenefit of Saratoga Springs is its location. The resort is located across the \r\n\r\nlake from Disney Springs, and can be accessed via \r\n\r\na short boat ride. Golfers rejoice, Saratoga Springs is also the home to \r\n\r\nDisney's Lake Buena Vista Golf Course.

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\r\nTreehouse exterior.\r\n

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining \r\n\r\nReservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Saratoga Springs' grounds. If you \r\n\r\narrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary \r\n\r\nto provide your reservation\r\nnumber or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as \r\n\r\ntemporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $25 per day. (This fee is waived for DVC members staying on points.)

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\r\nCheck-in time at Treehouse Villas is 4:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. \r\n\r\nSaratoga Springs participates in Disney's \r\nOnline Check-In program, which allows \r\n\r\nyou to you provide name, address, and credit card information\r\nup to 60 days before your arrival. If you've done this, look for an Online \r\n\r\nCheck-In sign near the Registration Desk. You'll be routed to one of the \r\n\r\nOnline Check-in staff and should\r\nbe on the way to your room in a few minutes.\r\n

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If you have checked-in online and already have a MagicBand, the resort will simply send you a text with your room number when it is ready. Then you can go straight to the room and use your MagicBand or your smartphone to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the \r\n\r\nRegistration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo \r\n\r\nID and credit/debit card\r\nwhen you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind \r\n\r\nin a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television \r\n\r\nshowing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort's registration staff can provide MagicBands \r\n\r\nfor your stay (for a fee, free MagicBands were discontinued in January 2021), if you don't already have them. Get theme park tickets and \r\n\r\ndining reservations at the Concierge Desk, to the \r\nright of the Registration Desk. If you need to check in and obtain \r\n\r\ntheme park tickets, you can save some time in line if one adult gets in line \r\n\r\nfor tickets just after\r\nanother adult starts the registration process. The Concierge Desk can also \r\n\r\nmake Disney dining reservations, and you can avoid a wait there by making them \r\n\r\nonline prior to arrival.\r\n

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Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's Rooms

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Each Treehouse Villa is made up of three bedrooms and a living room area \r\n\r\nwith attached kitchen and dining room. The Treehouses are 1,074 square feet \r\n\r\nand sleep up to nine people.

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\r\nTreehouse Villa interior.\r\n

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Each Treehouse Villa room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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The full sized fridge is good enough to hold all the food and drinks you \r\n\r\nneed. It's also cold enough to make sure that raw meats and other perishables \r\n\r\nwill keep for your trip. The kitchen inside each cabin is small but most of \r\n\r\nthe tools to make and serve meals are there if you need them. \r\n

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\r\nThe Treehouse Villa's bathrooms.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort has 4 handicap-accessible rooms. Some feature \r\nroll-in showers or bathtubs with rails. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which feature.

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Saratoga Springs Pools

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The Treehouse Villas have their own pool located near Treehouses 7035, \r\n\r\n7036, 7037, 7055, 7056 and 7060. The Treehouse Villas pool is very small so it \r\n\r\ncan quickly become overwhelmed with guests. Luckily Treehouse Villa guests may \r\n\r\nuse Saratoga Springs' other pools

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Saratoga Springs has four pools. The largest, High Rock Spring Pool, sits \r\n\r\nsits near the outside of the resort's lobby, Carriage House. There is also a \r\n\r\nhot tub and kiddie pool.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs' High Rock Spring Pool and The Grandstand's water play area.\r\n

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The other smaller pools are located in The Grandstand (with child-friendly water play area), The Paddock and \r\n\r\nCongress Park sections of the resort. These pools are basic concrete \r\n\r\npools and are considered \"quiet pools,\" meaning that loud play and splashing \r\n\r\naround are discouraged.

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Saratoga Springs' pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to \r\n\r\n4 feet 9 inches/1.4m. Pool are open every day, including during winter. The \r\n\r\npools are heated to 82°F/28°C throughout\r\nthe year. We've swum in temperatures as cold as 40°F/4°C; the water \r\n\r\nwas fine, but getting out was a shock. Saratoga Springs also has a hot \r\n\r\ntubs located near each pool.

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High Rock Spring Pool has one water slide that all ages are free to use. \r\n\r\nGuests can find showers, storage lockers,\r\n restrooms, and laundry facilities. \r\n\r\nPool hours are at least 9 AM to 8 PM, extending to as much \r\n\r\nas 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times.\r\n The main pool will have lifeguards during the pools' operating hours. \r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ.

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Playgrounds at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

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\r\nA small playground set is located near the pool in the Congress Park section \r\n\r\nof the resort. The set has a small plastic slide and a couple of sections with \r\n\r\na few steps for toddlers\r\nto go up and down. Safety seems to be Disney's concern here - there are no \r\n\r\nswings, and the entire area is covered in sand.\r\n

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Restaurants and Dining

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Treehouse Villas do not have their own dedicated restaurants, but there are \r\n\r\nplenty to be found at Saratoga Springs and Disney Springs. Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nhas one table service and one counter service restaurants. If these don't fit \r\n\r\nyour needs you can hop on a boat near the Carriage House and ride over to \r\n\r\nDisney Springs.

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The Turf Club Bar & Grill

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\r\nThe Turf Club Dinner Menu - The Turf Club Kids Dinner Menu

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There's rarely a crowd at this out-of-the-way spot, so it's nice to request \r\n\r\nan outdoor table on a sunny day and enjoy a drink and appetizers on the shady \r\n\r\nterrace. The grilled Caesar salad is the best salad at Disney World.

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When the weather's nice, ask for an outdoor table; you can spot golfers on \r\n\r\nthe adjacent Lake Buena Vista golf course and look across the way to Downtown \r\n\r\nDisney. Tucked off the lobby of the Saratoga Springs Resort, the dining room \r\n\r\nis equestrian-themed.

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The Artist's Palette

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\r\nArtist's Palette Breakfast Menu\r\n- Artist's Palette Kids Breakfast Menu\r\n- Artist's Palette Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n- Artist's Palette Kids Lunch/Dinner Menu\r\n

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The Artist's Palette is small counter service restaurant with a limited \r\n\r\nmenu of sandwiches, salads and wraps. Prices range from $8 to $15 for an \r\n\r\nentree so you won't break the bank.

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\r\nArtist's Palette participates in Disney's \r\n Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Restaurants at Saratoga Springs participate in the Disney \r\n\r\nDining Plan; meals cost 1 credit at Artist's Palette and The Turf Club Bar \r\n\r\n& Grill. Tables in Wonderland\r\ncardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at most resort restaurants.\r\n

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Pizza delivery is available to your room from Disney's own \r\n\r\ndelivery service. Besides pizza, chicken wings, desserts, beer, wine, and \r\n\r\nsodas are also available. However,\r\ndelivery can take up to 90 minutes, and the food quality is often below \r\n\r\naverage. You're probably better off either walking to the food court or \r\n\r\ncalling Domino's. Pizza\r\ndelivery hours are 4 PM to midnight daily. A medium (16\") cheese pizza costs \r\n\r\naround $14 and a pepperoni around $16. Minimum order is $15, and Disney will \r\n\r\ntack on an 18% tip, \r\n$3 delivery charge, and 7% sales tax. Thus, a $30 pizza order will cost you \r\n\r\n$40.50 delivered.\r\n

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Saratoga Springs has one lounge and three pool bars for guests to consume \r\n\r\nadult beverages at. \r\nThe Turf Club Lounge is Saratoga Springs' main \r\n\r\nlounge. The Turf Club Lounge has indoor seating and a full drink menu with \r\n\r\nseveral beers, wines, and a selection of spirits. The lounge is usually open 4 \r\n\r\nPM to 12 AM daily.

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The Paddock Grill is located adjacent \r\n\r\nto the quiet pool in The Paddock. Paddock Grill has a small selection of \r\n\r\nspecialty drinks, beer and wine.

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Backstretch Pool Bar is located near the pool at The Grandstand. It also \r\n\r\noffers a selection of specialty drinks, beer and wine. This bar is seasonal \r\n\r\nand operates a limited amount of hours.\r\n
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Transportation to and from Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort is just \r\n\r\noff of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 68 toward Apopka Vineland \r\n\r\nRd/Kissimmee Vineland Rd N. Turn left on Hotel Plaza Blvd. Turn right \r\n\r\nonto Buena Vista Dr and Saratoga Springs will be on your left.\r\n

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Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute \r\n\r\ndrive from Sanford to Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. If you're not renting \r\n\r\na car, be aware that Sanford's airport\r\noffers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are \r\n\r\ngenerally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to \r\n\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort will cost between $120 and $150, depending on \r\n\r\ntraffic. Mears\r\n Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Disney's Saratoga \r\n\r\nSprings Resort for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or \r\n\r\n10-passenger van is around $190 each way.\r\n That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and \r\n\r\n$380, plus tip, between Sanford and Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort. At those \r\n\r\nprices, it may be less expensive to\r\n rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort and the Treehouse Villas to \r\n\r\nMagic Kingdom, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, \r\n\r\nBlizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's bus \r\n\r\nstops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in \r\n\r\nparking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere along\r\nthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach. Disney Springs is accessed via a boat that can be loaded near the Carriage House in Saratoga Springs or the dock near treehouses 7020 and 7021 in the Treehouse Villa section of the resort. The Treehouse Villas have their own two bus stops located at the east and west of the treehouse area of the resort.\r\n

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Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort's Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Treehouse Villas' bus schedule, and they'll tell \r\n\r\nyou that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, Treehouse Villas' bus \r\n\r\nschedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're \r\n\r\nheaded.\r\n

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\r\nFor example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, \r\n\r\nyou'll wait around 15 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus \r\n\r\nschedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about \r\n\r\nthe same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 15-20 minutes, on \r\n\r\naverage. Bus schedules to the water parks are a little less frequent, and you \r\n\r\ncould wait anywhere from 15 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people \r\n\r\nare already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme \r\n\r\nparks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back \r\n\r\nto their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should \r\n\r\naverage out to around 30 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Typhoon Lagoon \r\n\r\nand Blizzard Beach water parks. Disney's bus service\r\nis faster to the Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Animal Kingdom, and Disney's \r\n\r\nHollywood Studios. \r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Treehouse Villas and Disney's Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nResort If you've got dining plans at another Disney hotel, the \r\n\r\ncheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort \r\n\r\nan open theme park (or ride the boat to Disney Springs), then take another \r\n\r\nbus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to \r\n\r\nDisney's Saratoga Springs Resort. While that's free, it can take anywhere from \r\n\r\n90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is \r\none of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower),\r\nhop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, or the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least\r\nan hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nto wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab \r\n\r\nride to get to most Disney hotels from Saratoga Springs, and often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out \r\n\r\nfront, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call \r\n\r\none for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney \r\n\r\nWorld and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your \r\n\r\nhotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at \r\n\r\nyour convenience. \r\nA one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have \r\n\r\nthree to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation and Things to Do

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Saratoga Springs is home to Disney's Lake Buena Vista Golf \r\n\r\nCourse. This 18-hole course has hosted PGA Tour, the LPGA Tour and \r\n\r\nUSGA events in the past and one of it trademark features is its 7th hole with \r\n\r\na island green. Prices range from $39.00 to $165.00. Call (407) WDW-GOLF to \r\n\r\nreserve a tee time.

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Senses Spa is Saratoga Springs' spa. Senses Spa is open \r\n\r\n8:00 AM to 8:00 PM daily. Massage, facial, and body treatment services are \r\n\r\navailable. A 24-Hour fitness center is also available at Senses Spa.

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Saratoga Springs' gift shop is Artist's Palette. It is located in the \r\n\r\nCarriage House near the lobby. As you'd expect from a Disney gift shop, Artist's Palette \r\n\r\nhas a decent collection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as \r\n\r\nkeychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices \r\n\r\nfor these items are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Downtown \r\n\r\nDisney.

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\r\nArtist's Palette also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, \r\n\r\nallergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. \r\n\r\nAnd Artist's Palette has\r\nDisney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's \r\n\r\nwhat you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - \r\n\r\nabout double - than what you'd probably pay\r\nat home.\r\n

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Located near spa and fitness center is the Win, Place Or Show \r\n\r\nArcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent video and \r\n\r\narcade games. Most games\r\ncost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, which can add up quickly. It's helpful to set a \r\n\r\nbudget with your kids before they go in.\r\n

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Walkers, joggers and runners can find a jogging trail. The \r\n\r\ntrail is a 0.8 or 1.44-mile loop along the greens of Disney’s Lake Buena Vista \r\n\r\nGolf Course.\r\n

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Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Saratoga Springs

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Saratoga Springs \r\n\r\nResort's Lost and Found department by calling (407) 827-1100.\r\n

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","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Treehouse Villas at Disney's Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort

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TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on \r\n\r\nproperty. Click here for the Treehouse Villas at Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort map \r\n\r\nand to choose a room to see the view.

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\r\n\"7034\"\r\n
Room 7034: The view from each treehouse is made up of mostly trees, landscaping, and other treehouses.
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\r\n\"7052\"\r\n
Room 7052: You'll feel like you're in the middle of the woods.
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Treehouses 7024–7034 and 7058–7060 are closest to one of the villas’ two\r\ndedicated bus stops and the walkway to Saratoga Springs; 7026–7033\r\nalso have water views. Treehouses 7001–7011 and 7045–7054 are closest\r\nto the other bus stop; 7020–7023 are closest to the boat docks. Finally,\r\nTreehouses 7035–7037, 7055, 7056, and 7060 surround the pool.

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\r\n\"7020\"\r\n
Room 7020: This treehouse is located near the resort's boat dock.
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Room 7035: A treehouse located across the street from the resort's pool.
\r\n
\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Spacious stand-alone 3-bedroom villasComplicated bus system shared with Saratoga Springs that makes bus travel lengthy
Lushly landscaped setting, quiet secluded villasLong distance from Saratoga Springs\r\nservices such as check-in and dining
Innovative round design feels more\r\nspacious than other villas with the same\r\nsquare footageKids may find all that quiet boring
Boat transportation to Disney SpringsLackluster pool
Kids love bunk bedsOnly 2 baths per villa
Historical connection to the Treehouses\r\nfrom the 1970s
\r\n\r\n","recommend_to_friends":50,"recommend_annual_change":-19,"stay_again":100,"stay_again_annual_change":23,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":false,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":60,"theme":"Rustic Vacation Homes with Modern Amenities","cost_range":"$1,043-1,942","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ds","category_code":"deluxe_villa","check_rates":null,"percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":null,"author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4078274444","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":1074,"blog_slug":"treehouse-villas-at-saratoga-springs","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"treehouse villas at disneys saratoga springs resort","club_name":null,"operator_id":null,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":null,"opened_on":"2004-05-17","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"thv","refresh_year":2016,"renovation_year":2010,"pool_slide":false,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":9,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":46,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Unique among Disney villas are these eight-sided, two-bedroom villas on stilts. Well-decorated and comfortable, they're great if you plan to spend a lot of time relaxing, not great if you're mostly in the parks. ","dining_overview":"There's no on-site dining at the Treehouse Villas, and Saratoga Springs is a long outdoor walk away. Have a car if you stay here.","good_for":"Lots of space far from the parks","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":4,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null}]],["Moderate",[{"id":216,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort","code":"ORL007","address":"900 Cayman Way","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079343400","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/caribbean-beach-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-caribbean-beach-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:29.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Overview

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\r\nCaribbean Beach hotel map\r\n

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\r\nCaribbean Beach was Disney's first Moderate resort when it\r\nopened in 1998. It consists of two dozen colorful, two-story motel-style\r\nbuildings, separated into five areas named for Caribbean islands: Aruba,\r\nBarbados, Jamaica, Martinique, and Trinidad.\r\n

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Most of the 1,536 guest rooms measure 314 square feet and are\r\noutfitted with two queen beds; a fold-down Murphy bed is also available\r\nin select rooms. Except as noted below, decor is distinguished by\r\nneutral beach tones, bright tropical accent colors, and furnishings of\r\ndark wood and rattan. Sliding doors separate the grooming area from\r\nthe main room. Together with the bathroom, this allows three people\r\nto get ready at once. All rooms have a dresser, small table with chairs,\r\nminifridge, coffee maker, TV, and plenty of storage. Rooms don’t have\r\nbalconies, but the access passageways are external and have railings.

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The refurbished Old Port Royale building houses the check-in desk,\r\nrestaurants, and shops. A food court has counter-service and graband-\r\ngo options; Sebastian’s Bistro is a sit-down restaurant with waterfront\r\ntables.\r\n

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Old Port Royale Check-in Area

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Caribbean Beach’s on-site dining remains a weakness with readers.\r\nThis Bismarck, North Dakota, reader, for example, thinks the counterservice\r\ndining logistics need work:

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Not a fan of the queue area in the food court—who thought that was\r\na good idea? Two checkout lanes for a resort that big? The grab-andgo\r\narea is way too small.
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South and east of EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, Caribbean Beach\r\noffers transportation to all Disney World destinations by bus and to\r\nEPCOT and the Studios by Skyliner. Caribbean Beach has access to two Skyliner stations: one south of Jamaica and one north of Aruba at\r\nthe Riviera Resort; bus service runs between the Skyliner stations and\r\nthe resort villages.

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Walking time to the transportation-loading area from Caribbean\r\nBeach’s most remote rooms is 7–9 minutes, and readers rate Disney bus\r\nservice here as below average. Seriously consider bringing a car—this\r\n20-something couple from Kansas City, Missouri, wished they had:

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Caribbean Beach’s bus service is horrendous. It often felt like there was\r\nonly one bus running at a time, and we experienced several 30-plusminute\r\nwaits. The bus circled the entire resort—which is huge—before\r\nit headed out, so if you were unlucky enough to be at one of the last\r\nstops during a rush to the parks, the bus would pass right by if it was\r\nfull. On multiple occasions, we arrived at the bus stop an hour or more\r\nbefore our dining reservations, but we still found ourselves running\r\npast the park gates to make it to the restaurant on time!
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A mom from Fenton, Michigan, likewise found bus service lacking:

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We recommend renting a car and/or paying for a preferred room\r\nlocation, especially during the hotter months. The buses just take way\r\ntoo long with all the stops, and it was a long hike to the food court\r\nand pools in the heat.
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How Caribbean Beach Compares to Other Disney Moderate Resorts

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We think Caribbean Beach is one of the prettiest resorts on property and it tends to run a little bit cheaper and has better scenery than Coronado Springs Resort. The many bus stops and lack of an indoor bar are the knocks against it. Caribbean Beach does not offer a fitness center; for that you'll have to go to any of the Deluxe resorts or the only Moderate to offer a fitness center, Coronado Springs.

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Caribbean Beach is similarly priced to Port Orleans – French Quarter and Port Orleans – Riverside, both also Moderate Resorts. Fellow Moderate Resort Coronado Springs is a touch more expensive. The Cabins at Fort Wilderness are also considered a Moderate Resort by Disney, but they are quite different and more expensive than the other four traditional-style resorts.\r\n

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If you are deciding between a Moderate-level resort and a Value Resort such as Disney's Pop Century, be aware that the resort layout varies considerably between the Moderate Resorts. The Value resorts have similar footprints, but the Moderates have vast size differences.

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Get to Know Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

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The gorgeous scenery of Barefoot Bay.

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Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Rooms

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Most of the 1,536 guest rooms are 314 square feet. Most rooms have two queen-size beds; many rooms also have a slightly-smaller-than-a-twin-sized fold-down bed to many rooms. Rooms are decorated with neutral beach tones accented by bright tropical colors. All are outfitted with the same light-oak furniture. Rooms don’t have balconies, but the access passageways are external and have railings.

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A standard Caribbean Beach room.

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Room with the small fold-down bed closed and open.

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Each Caribbean Beach room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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Caribbean Beach bathrooms are modestly-sized, but larger than bathrooms found in Disney's value resorts. Almost all feature a tiled tub with shower, while some wheelchair-accessible rooms have a roll-in shower without tub. Water pressure in the shower is adequate, but probably less than what you're used to at home. The shower and toilet are located in a room with door. A dressing area, which includes two sinks and a small amount of counter space, is separated from the sleeping area by a sliding door. Combined with the shower/toilet room, this means that three people can have private dressing space at the same time. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided. Guests with long or thick hair may find that the dryer is underpowered for their needs.

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Dressing area and sink in Caribbean Beach’s rooms.

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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Caribbean Beach has approximately 200 handicap-accessible rooms in a variety of configurations to accommodate guests with hearing or mobility issues. Mobility access rooms comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more. Some of Riverside's accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms with roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower rooms have both 1 king bed and 1 queen bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which features.

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Caribbean Beach Room Layout

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Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort Room Classifications

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\r\nCaribbean Beach Resort rooms are priced depending on the room view and locations:\r\n

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Dining Options at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

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The Banana Cabana Pool Bar is directly adjacent to the pool.

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Caribbean Beach Resort Pools, Recreation, and Amenities

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One of Caribbean Beach's Quiet Pools.\r\n

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Caribbean Beach’s Main Pool

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Children’s Splash Area

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Left: Part of the main playground on Caribbean Cay. Right: One of the ancillary playgrounds.\r\n

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Practical Matters

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Calypso Trading Post sells the standard Disney merchandise.

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Transportation to and from Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

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Driving to Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

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Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is near I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 65 - Animal Kingdom / Wide World of Sports and you'll end up on Osceola Parkway. Stay on Osceola for 0.9 miles/1.5 km, then turn right on Victory Way. You'll see Caribbean Beach's sign well before you need to turn.\r\n

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If you have a GPS, here's Caribbean Beach's address and location:\r\n

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A security gate guards the entrance to Caribbean Beach's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. Caribbean Beach’s check-in area is in the main Old Port Royale building. A dedicated parking lot across from Old Port Royale serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in. If you arrive by public transportation, the Caribbean Beach Resort will shuttle you and your bags from the lobby to your room.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at Caribbean Beach Resort overnight will be charged $20 per day.

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from Sanford to Caribbean Beach. If you're not renting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport offers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are generally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to Caribbean Beach will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Caribbean Beach for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way. That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and $380, plus tip, between Sanford and Caribbean Beach. You may also want to consult ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft for their pricing options.

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs

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The Disney Skyliner gondola system has its main hub at Caribbean Beach, which makes the resort a good base for visiting Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, the two theme parks connected by the Skyliner. The station is located near the Jamaica section of Caribbean Beach, which makes that section more desirable, although guests in the northernmost Aruba buildings can also walk to the station at the Riviera hotel quite easily. For other guests there is an internal bus that will shuttle you to the Skyliner. From the station, the ride to EPCOT's International Gateway entrance is about 15 minutes while the ride to Hollywood Studios is about 7 minutes and although the Epcot line goes through the Riviera station there is no need to exit the Skyliner to get to either park from Caribbean Beach.

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Disney provides free bus service from Caribbean Beach to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Caribbean Beach has a bus stop in each of the six villages and one at Old Port Royale. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and service. Caribbean Beach does not share bus service with any other resort, but the large size and seven bus stops make the trip somewhat long compared to some other resorts.

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Caribbean Beach's bus schedule, and they'll tell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, the Caribbean Beach bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed. For example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, you'll wait around 12 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus schedules for EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios average about 15 minutes early in the day. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 18 to 30 minutes for a ride. While these are the average times you will wait for a bus at Caribbean Beach, the six bus stops at the resort mean a longer ride on the bus without leaving the resort. This is the reason Caribbean Beach has some of the highest total bus transportation times despite its central location.

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\r\nAt Caribbean Beach, Disney buses pick up and drop off in this order:\r\n

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people are already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme parks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back to their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should average out to around 20 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to Disney's Animal Kingdom, the Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach water parks, and Downtown Disney. Disney's bus service is faster to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, and Disney's Hollywood Studios. We evaluate Caribbean Beach’s bus service annually, and the latest transportation times can be found below.\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Caribbean Beach

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If you have dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Caribbean Beach to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Caribbean Beach. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower), hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi or ride sharing service such as Uber of Lyft. Taxi rates are generally in the $15-20 range, depending on your destination, and Uber and Lyft are sigificantly cheaper. A taxi can typically get to most points in DisneyWorld within 20 minutes (often much less), versus the one to two hours it might take using Disney's free transportation system. Taxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando

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If you're staying at Walt Disney World and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your hotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at your convenience. A one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have three to five people.\r\n

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Touring Plans Videos About Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort

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Below is a video, shot in November 2017, that shows what the construction looks like at the Caribbean Beach Resort.

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\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on property. Click here for the Caribbean Beach Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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The five “islands,” or groups\r\nof buildings clustered around Barefoot Bay, are identical. The two-story\r\nmotel-style structures comprising each island are arranged in various\r\nways to face courtyards, pools, the bay, and so forth. Except for the\r\ntheme, the setup is very similar to the one at Coronado Springs Resort. The verdant landscaping features lots of ferns and palm\r\ntrees, especially in the courtyards.

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In general, corner rooms are preferable because they have more windows.\r\nStandard-view rooms face either parking lots or courtyards, and\r\nthe usual broad interpretation of water views is in play here. Beyond\r\nthat, your main choices will revolve around your preference for proximity\r\nto (or distance from) Old Port Royale’s check-in desk and restaurants,\r\npools, parking lots, or beaches on Barefoot Bay. Each\r\nisland has direct access to at least one beach, playground, bus stop, and\r\nparking lot.

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Aruba Room 5428: The building configuration gives you a lovely view of a concrete walkway and another room’s window.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 24, 25, and 26 in Martinique

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All rooms in these buildings are considered preferred, so they are a little bit more expensive. The upside is that they are very close to Old Port Royale. Good views include the water views in building 24, rooms 2445-2448, building 25, rooms 2522, 2523, 2525-27, 2554, 2555, 2557-59.

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Bad views in Buildings 24, 25, and 26 include:\r\n

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Martinique Room 2520: Possibly the worst “water view” room ever.
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Martinique Room 2554: Two doors down and one floor up, possibly the best “water view” room.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 31, 32, and 33 in Barbados

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This group of buildings also contains preferred rooms and therefore are close to Old Port Royale. Good views include the water view rooms in building 32, rooms 3221-3228 and 3253-3260, and standard view rooms in building 33, rooms 3317-3320, 3226-3228, 3358-3360, and 3349-3352.

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Bad views in Buildings 31, 32, and 33 include:\r\n

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Trinidad North Room 3228: A very lovely water view.
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Trinidad North Room 3349: One of the best standard view rooms.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 34, 35, and 36 of Trinidad

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There are several good water views in building 34, rooms 3438-3440 and building 35, rooms 3501-3504, 3513-3516, 3533-3536, and 3545-3548. There are also good standard view rooms in building 36, rooms 3633-3636.

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Bad views in Buildings 34, 35, and 36 include:\r\n

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Trinidad North Room 3401: Shrubs, walkway, building supports, another building…this bad view has everything!
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Trinidad North Room 3516: The view from this water view room is basically a park, which seems nice..
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Good Rooms in Buildings 37, 38, and 39 in Trinidad

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Good views include the water view rooms in building 37, rooms 3749-3752, and some standard view rooms in building 39, rooms 3926-3928 and 3958-3960. Almost half of building 38 has good views as well, most of them water views. Specifically rooms 3818, 3819, 3821-3832, 3850, 3851, and 3853-3864.

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Bad views in Buildings 31, 32, and 33 include:\r\n

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Trinidad North Room 3719: Well, you’re paying for a water view room and there does seem to be water back there somewhere.
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Trinidad North Room 3832: A great standard view.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 41, 42, and 43 in Jamaica

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These buildings are the further of the two Jamaica groups and can be a long walk to Old Port Royale, even cutting across the footbridge over the island. On top of that there are few good views although there aren’t too many bad ones either. Many rooms in this area look upon large amounts of foliage although the water view rooms in building 42, rooms 4217-4223 and 4249-4255, are excellent.

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Bad views in Buildings 41, 42, and 43 include:\r\n

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Jamaica Room 4249: Once again, if you’re going to pay for a water view, ask for something like this…
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Jamaica Room 4215: …rather than get stuck with something like this, just one floor down and a few doors away.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 44, 45, and 46 in Jamaica

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If you’re not ready to pitch in the extra money for a preferred room, this group of buildings in Jamaica is a decent spot. While still a few minutes away from Old Port Royale, the close proximity to the footbridge across the lagoon makes it an easy and pleasant walk. There are no standout views from any of these buildings, but there are some pleasant garden views available, especially in building 45.

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Bad views in Buildings 44, 45, and 46 include:\r\n

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Jamaica Room 4559: Pop quiz hot shot: Would you rather pay extra for this water view…
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Jamaica Room 4556: …or have this standard view in the same building?
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Good Rooms in Buildings 51, 52, and 53 of Aruba

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Much like Jamaica buildings 44-46 above, this group of Aruba buildings are very close to the footbridge spanning the lagoon, which makes the walk to Old Port Royale pleasant if not necessarily shorter. There are several very nice views available here as well, namely the water views from building 52, rooms 5224-5226.

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Bad views in Buildings 54, 55, and 56 include:\r\n

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Aruba Room 5336: One of many terrible hallway views found at Caribbean Beach
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Aruba Room 5224: One of the several beautiful, calming water views found at Caribbean Beach.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 54, 55, and 56 of Aruba

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This building group is closer to the Aruba bus stop, but that’s about it. It is quite far from Old Port Royale and contains few great views. Building 54 is unremarkable, with no very good nor very bad views. Half of building 56 faces the parking lot and much of the other half faces the other buildings. Building 55 is the only one of these three with great views, specifically the water view rooms 5509-5512, 5514-5516, 5541-5544, and 5546-5548.

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Bad views in Buildings 54, 55, and 56 include:\r\n

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Aruba Room 5513: This “water view” is almost spectacular.
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Aruba Room 5512: Alternatively, you could have this view from the room literally right next door the one above.
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\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Colorful Caribbean theme and beutiful viewsSome “villages” are a good distance\r\nfrom restaurants and shops
Skyliner connection to DHS and EpcotSix bus stops means longer ride times
Child-size Murphy beds in select rooms\r\nincrease capacity to 5 peopleNo elevators
Rooms with\r\nFinding Nemo\r\nthemes
Elaborate Child Play area near main pool
Several quiet pools available
","recommend_to_friends":70,"recommend_annual_change":7,"stay_again":89,"stay_again_annual_change":3,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":true,"tennis":false,"biking":true,"suites":false,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":1536,"theme":"Caribbean Islands","cost_range":"$268 - $612","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ep","category_code":"moderate","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":"Everything you need to know about Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort: update on resort construction and improvements, map, room descriptions with photos (including pool information, restaurants and dining options, and guest reviews. ","survey_update_hash":"c429b040b0402420839a7ddfef6ad549","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079343667","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":314,"blog_slug":"caribbean-beach","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys caribbean beach resort","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010399,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/caribbean-beach-resort","opened_on":"1988-10-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"cb","refresh_year":2018,"renovation_year":2018,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":5,"child_bed_std":true,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Caribbean Beach has two dozen colorful, two-story model-style buildings separated into areas named for Caribbean Islands. It's got great landscaping and theming, with access to Disney's Skyliner.","dining_overview":"Caribbean Beach's restaurants and food court are not well regarded by guests. It's fine for a quick bite before or after the parks, but better food is abundant elsewhere.","good_for":"Skyliner access","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":2,"hotel_category_recommended":false,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":198,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Coronado Springs Resort","code":"ORL009","address":"1000 West Buena Vista Drive","city":"Orlando","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079391000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/coronado-springs-resort/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-coronado-springs-resort","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:27.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n

Disney's Coronado Springs Resort Overview

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Coronado Springs Resort is Disney’s only\r\nmidpriced convention property. Inspired by northern Mexico and the\r\nAmerican Southwest, the resort is divided into four separately themed\r\nareas. The two- and three-story Ranchos call to mind Southwestern\r\ncattle ranches, while the two-story Cabanas are modeled after Mexican beach resorts. The multistoried Casitas embody elements of Spanish architecture found in Mexico’s great cities.\r\n

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The Gran Destino Tower serves as the lobby for all of Coronado\r\nSprings, and the rooms in this 15-floor building are nicer than those\r\nin the rest of the resort. (The idea, we hear, is to appeal to companies\r\nreluctant to put their executives in Moderate hotel rooms.)

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The vast resort surrounds a 22-acre lake, and there are three small pools as well as one large swimming complex. The main pool features a reproduction of a Mayan step pyramid with a waterfall cascading down its side.

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\r\nCoronado Springs hotel map\r\n

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Casitas, Ranchos, Cabanas

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Check-In and Services at the Gran Destino Tower

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Adjacent to Gran Destino is El Centro, where you can find a gift shop, food court, and Rix Lounge. A separate area called The Dig Site, between the Ranchos and Cabanas, is where the main pool, play area, and arcade can be found. The walk between these two sites is only a few minutes, but the distance means that most rooms are reasonably close to one or the other.\r\n

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Coronado Springs has some amazing vistas, especially in the wee hours of the morning.

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Where To Check-In, Get Theme Park Tickets, and Make Dining Reservations

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A security gate guards the entrance to Coronado Springs’ grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservation number or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot near Gran Destino serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in. If you arrive by Disney bus transportation, there is a bus stop outside of Gran Destino.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at the hotel overnight will be charged $20 per day.

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Check-in time at Coronado Springs is 3:00 PM, and check-out time is 11:00 AM. Coronado Springs participates in Disney's Online Check-In program, which allows you to you provide name, address, and credit card information before your arrival. If you've checked-in online and provided a mobile phone number or email address, you will receive your room number electronically. Then you can go straight to the room and use your smart phone or MagicBand to open the door, skipping the lobby altogether.\r\n

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\r\nIf you've not registered online, look for signs pointing you to the Registration/Check-In area. You'll need to provide a government-issued photo ID and credit/debit card when you register. While parents are completing the paperwork, kids can unwind in a nearby play area decorated with child-sized furniture, and a television showing classic Disney animated films.\r\n

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Coronado's registration staff can provide MagicBands for your stay, if you don't already have them. As of January 1, 2021, guests no longer receive complimentary MagicBands but will still have the option to purchase them.

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Coronado Springs lobby and registration area in the Gran Destino Tower.\r\n

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Coronado Springs’ Rooms

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Most of the 1,839 rooms in the Ranchos, Cabanas, and Casitas measure 314 square feet and contain two queen beds, a desk with an excellent working area, a chair, a minifridge, a coffee maker, and a vanity\r\noutside the bathroom. Sliding doors divide the main living area from the\r\nsinks, allowing three people to get ready at the same time. Bathrooms\r\nhave plenty of storage. Rooms are decorated with a subtle Southwestern theme, in a desert-landscape palette. No rooms have balconies.\r\n

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The 545 rooms in Gran Destino Tower range from standard issue to\r\ndeluxe, one-bedroom, and presidential suites. The public areas showcase a vibrant mix of Spanish and Moorish design, with bold colors and\r\nlarge, open spaces.

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Perhaps because Coronado Springs is geared to conventions, getting actual work done here is easier than at any other Disney Moderate\r\nresort. Lighting above the desk provides excellent illumination of the\r\nwork area. Wi-Fi is available throughout the resort.\r\n

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A standard room at Coronado Springs.

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Each Coronado Springs room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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The mini-fridge is a dorm-style unit that sits within the large door on the dresser. It's more like a beverage chiller than a refrigerator in that it'll keep drinks cool, but you're not going to freeze popsicles or make ice cubes in it. Every room in Coronado Springs has a coffee maker.\r\n

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Coronado Springs Room Layout

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Disney's Coronado Springs Resort - Spherical Image - RICOH THETA
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\r\nCoronado Springs bathrooms are smaller than what most people are used to at home but they are at least larger than bathrooms found in Disney's value resorts. Almost all feature a tiled tub with shower, while some wheelchair-accessible rooms have a roll-in shower without tub. One nice feature in the standard bathrooms is a shower curtain rod that curves outward, so you're not always elbowing the shower curtain while shampooing.\r\n

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Water pressure in the shower is average - probably less than what you get at home, but still enough to get your hair clean. Eventually.\r\n

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A separate dressing area next to the bathroom includes two sinks, decent counter space, and under-sink storage so an entire family can find places to keep their toiletries. A hair dryer is provided, but it's not very powerful; bring your own if you've got lots of hair. The dressing area includes a set of sliding barn doors that separate it from the sleeping area which are useful but loud to close. Combined with the bathroom, this means that 2 people can get dressed at the same time. \r\n

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Dressing area, sink, and bathroom in a Coronado Springs rooms.

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Gran Destino Tower Rooms

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Gran Destino’s standard rooms are almost 20% larger than those\r\nin the rest of the resort. They have vinyl “hardwood” floors, large windows, good lighting, and lots of desk and storage space; rooms are\r\nalso equipped with a minifridge and a Keurig coffee maker. Bathrooms\r\nhave plentiful lighting and shelf space, two sinks, a huge shower, and\r\nseparate areas for grooming and the toilet, allowing three people to get\r\nready at the same time. Our one criticism is that there’s little theming:\r\nThe rooms barely differ from those at other Disney resorts.

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A standard room in Gran Destino tower.

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Bathroom of a Gran Destino tower room.

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Our favorite thing about Gran Destino is the relatively low cost of\r\nClub Level rooms, which get you access to the Chronos Club lounge.\r\nStandard rates for these rooms run $200–$300 per night less than the\r\nnext-cheapest Club Level room on-property, and limited-time discounts\r\nmade the price even better. The Chronos Club has fantastic views, good\r\nfood throughout the day, and a friendly staff. If you’re looking for\r\na little pampering on vacation, Gran Destino’s Club Level rooms are\r\nprobably the best value in Walt Disney World.

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nCoronado Springs has around 90 handicap-accessible rooms. Some feature roll-in showers, while others include assistive hearing devices. A subset of these rooms have been converted to comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more.

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\r\nSome of Coronado Springs’ accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms with roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower rooms have both 1 king bed and 1 double bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which features.\r\n

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Standard Rooms and Preferred Rooms, Standard Views and Pool Views

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\r\nDisney knows that some hotel rooms are better than others. Most people prefer to be close to the lobby and dining, and want something pretty to look at from their hotel room window. To capitalize on this, Disney categorizes all of Coronado Springs’ hotel rooms based on how long it takes you to walk to the lobby, and what you see from inside the room.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the system Disney uses:\r\n

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Pools and Playgrounds at Coronado Springs Resort

\r\np>Note: Guests are not required to wear a mask in their resort pool since that would be counterintuitive in\r\n ensuring safety. But keep in mind that guests are required to wear a mask when walking to and from the pool\r\n area or pool bar.

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Coronado Springs has 4 pools. The largest is found at the area called The Dig Site, which also contains the playground and arcade. The area is dominated by a 46 foot tall Mayan stepped pyramid that looks as if it’s been sitting on that spot for centuries and houses the 128 foot water slide.\r\n

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The Mayan Pyramid

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What the water slide empties into is one of the largest pools at Walt Disney World. The Coronado Springs pool, officially called the Lost City of Cibola Feature Pool, sits directly in the shadow of the pyramid. \r\n

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Coronado Springs’ Main Pool

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Adjacent to the main pool is a water play area, where small children can play in a very shallow pool containing several water spouts. The pool area is also where you will find the Jacuzzi as well as a beach volleyball court.\r\n

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In addition to the large main pool, each of the three areas has its own “quiet” pool. Quiet pools are Disney’s name for their smaller pools, the noise level varies depending on the pool’s users. Each of these pools is smaller than the main pool and has no extras such as a child play area or slide.\r\n

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the quiet pools of the Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas.

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Coronado Springs’ pools range in depth from around 3 feet 6 inches/1.1m to 4 feet 9 inches/1.4m and are open every day, including winter. Pools are heated to 82F/28C throughout the year. Guests can find showers, storage lockers, restrooms, and laundry facilities at each of the pools. Pool hours are at least 9 AM to 9 PM, extending to as much as 7 AM to 11 PM during busy times. The main pool will have lifeguards whenever they are open, but the quiet pools will not have lifeguards at any time.\r\n

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For more information on the pools at WDW resorts, including towels, entertainment programming, handicap access, kiddie pools, life vests, and much more, see our Walt Disney World Resort Pool Fact Sheet FAQ. \r\n

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Playgrounds at Coronado Springs

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An inventive playground area is found at The Dig Site, tucked off to the side of the pyramid. Also themed with statues and “stone,” the play area contains a large sandbox, a slide, and a climbing structure. Like all Disney playgrounds, the ground is made of a spongy material for safety although the entire area is pervaded by sand. \r\n

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Restaurants and Dining

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Coronado Springs has four full-service restaurants and a food court,\r\nplus two bars. One of those full-service restaurants, Toledo—Tapas, Steak\r\n& Seafood, is in Gran Destino Tower. An over-water bar called Three\r\nBridges Bar & Grill sits in the middle of Coronado Springs’ 22-acre lake,\r\nconnected to the resort by—drum roll—three bridges. Even with these\r\nadditions, though, dining capacity and choices may be just adequate for\r\na resort this big. We suggest having a car to expand your options.\r\n

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Maya Grill is Coronado Springs’ full-service restaurant. Run by the same company that operates the restaurants at EPCOT’s Mexico pavilion, Maya Grill specializes in southwestern cuisine. Unfortunately, like too many Disney restaurants, Maya Grill doesn’t fully commit to the style and the results are a slightly bland version of authentic favorites. The restaurant mostly caters to convention customers who are both stuck at Coronado Springs and on an expense account. \r\n

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The dining room was designed to evoke the ancient world of the Maya, achieving \"a harmony of fire, sun, and water.\" But the idea falls short, with the fire taking the form of \"flames\" made of fan-blown fabric at the top of two large columns. The kitchen is open to view, but so is the barren and starkly lit walkway outside.\r\n

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Notables on the menu include Chilorio Pork Sliders appetizer and the Arrachera, although much of the menu is under-flavored Tex-Mex at double and triple the prices of your local Mexican restaurant. Our experiences at Maya Grill and those of our readers are mediocre at best. On the bright side, Tables in Wonderland cardholders are eligible for a 20% discount at Maya Grill.\r\n

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In our annual reader surveys, Maya Grill ranks towards the bottom of table-service restaurants in Walt Disney World with a “thumbs up” rating of 71%, well below the average of 87%. This puts it in the same class as often maligned restaurants such as EPCOT’s Nine Dragons, Downtown Disney’s Rainforest Café, and the now demolished Cap’n Jack’s. As you may imagine, we recommend heading elsewhere for that sit-down dinner.\r\n

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Maya Grill Hours\r\n

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If you are looking for breakfast, lunch, or a quicker meal, Coronado Springs also has the El Mercado de Coronado food court that's also in the same large building as Maya Grill. The food court area is fun and festive and contained in a large space that vaguely resembles and outdoor market. \r\n

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The overall setup is much like a food court at a mall. There are several different stations, each selling one set of meals. For example, one station sells pizza and pasta; another sells burgers; another is dedicated to sandwiches, and so on. If your kids each want something different, you'll have to line up several times. The good news is that some of the food is prepared on demand, so you'll at least be getting your burger cooked to order.\r\n

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Prices range from $6 to $18 for an entree so you won't break the bank. Breakfast is the standard fare of egg and meat platters, omelets, and Mickey-shaped waffles. Some standout entrees from the Lunch and Dinner menu include the Crabcake Sandwich and Aztec Burger, both between $12 and $15. None of the desserts are particularly interesting but there is a nice assortment of ice cream sundaes and shakes. \r\n

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El Mercado is set up like a mall food court. Different stations each serve a different type of food.

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El Mercado Food Court Hours\r\n

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El Mercado participates in the Disney Dining Plan (when it's offered); meals cost 1 Quick Service credit, and there are a wide variety of snacks to use as Snack credits on the Dining Plan. El Mercado is unique among the moderate resorts in that it is a Quick Service venue where waiters bring and refill your beverages; as a result, guests are expected to provide a gratuity.\r\n

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For grab-and-go items or even quicker meals than El Mercado can offer, you will find Café Rix, also in El Centro. Meals here use 1 Quick Service credit on the Disney Dining Plan (when it's offered), and there are a wide variety of snacks to use as Snack credits on the Dining Plan. Café Rix offers simple things such as breakfast sandwiches, muffins, and doughnuts for breakfast and a small selection of hot or cold sandwiches for lunch and dinner. While the selection is minimal, it is fast and Café Rix opens at 6am, earlier than El Mercado, making it a good choice for a quick pre-park breakfast. There is no seating for Café Rix, but Rix Lounge has quite a bit of seating that is open for Café patrons. \r\n

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Free refills are available for coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and fountain drinks (including juice and milk) during your meal. Both El Mercado and Cafe Rix will refill mugs purchased thorugh Disney's Rapid Fill refillable mug program, where you purchase a souvenir plastic mug once, and get free\r\n refills for the remainder of your stay. The cost is a flat $19.99 for your length of stay.\r\n

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Rix Sports Bar & Grill is an unusual spot, well for a Disney resort at least. \r\n It is the only bar or lounge at a Walt Disney World resort that could be considered a nightclub with DJs spinning the tunes most nights. \r\n The décor is upscale and reminiscent of a more urban club although it is decidedly not in line with the Southwestern motif of Coronado Springs. \r\n There are many interesting elements to Rix Lounge and a menu full of equally interesting drinks, but Rix Lounge is mostly a hive for the busy bees in \r\n town for a convention. When there are large meetings at Coronado Springs, Rix can be quite busy. Otherwise it is often uncrowded.\r\n

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\r\n Rix serves breakfast from 7 AM to 12:30 PM\r\n

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Rix Lounge Menu

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Siestas Pool Bar Directly abutting the main pool is Siestas Pool Bar. The pool bar has poolside seating with a breakfast and lunch menu, and drink menu, with several beer selections, a couple of wines, and a small selection of spirits. It's fine if you want a domestic light beer or a fruity cocktail to relax with by the pool, or to get a nightcap on the way back to your room for the night. Siestas Pool Bar is usually open 9 AM to 10 PM daily, weather permitting.\r\n\r\n

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Siestas Pool Bar is directly adjacent to the pool.

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The lagoon-side Laguna Bar is one of our favorite places to unwind at Coronado Springs. It would be considered a pool bar except that it’s not near a pool. Rather, it is alongside the gorgeous vista supplied by Lago Dorado. Laguna Bar has a similar menu to Siestas Pool Bar, but the view is much, much better. If a casual drink or a snack is what you are seeking, choose Laguna Bar over any other Coronado Springs option.\r\n

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The selection is no better than the pool bar. The view however…

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\r\nBarcelona Lounge offers breakfast and coffee by day and cocktails by night. Dahlia Lounge is a rooftop lounge at top of Gran Destino Tower with beautiful views of the entire resort. Three Bridges Bar & Grill is a unique floating bar and grill that unites traditional bar fare with Spanish flair. \r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n

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Transportation to and from Coronado Springs Resort

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\r\nDriving Your Own Car Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is near I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 – Epcot Center Drive and you'll end up on Epcot Center Drive. Take the first exit onto Buena Vista Drive and make a left. Go about 2.3 miles/3.7 km down Buena Vista Drive, then turn right on to Coronado Springs’ entrance road. You'll see Coronado Springs’ sign well before you need to turn.\r\n

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If you have a GPS, here's Coronado Springs’ address and location:\r\n

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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From Sanford International Airport It's about a 40-minute drive from Sanford to Coronado Springs. If you're not renting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport offers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are generally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to Coronado Springs will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Coronado Springs for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way. That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and $380, plus tip, between Sanford and Coronado Springs. At those prices, it may be less expensive to rent a car and park it at the hotel.\r\n

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Coronado Springs to the Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Coronado Springs has a bus stop in each of the three room areas and one at El Centro. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and service. Coronado Springs does not share bus service with any other resort, but the large size and four bus stops make the trip somewhat long compared to some other resorts.

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If you've got your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to everywhere except the Magic Kingdom. Blizzard Beach is actually right across the street and could be walked to if not for the heavily-trafficked and pedestrian-unfriendly road in between. \r\n

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Coronado Springs’ Bus Schedule

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\r\nAsk a Disney Cast Member about Coronado Springs’ bus schedule, and they'll tell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, the Coronado Springs bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed.\r\n

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For example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, you'll wait around 12 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus schedules for EPCOT, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios average about 13 minutes early in the day. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 18 to 30 minutes for a ride.\r\n

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While these are the average times you will wait for a bus at Coronado Springs, the four bus stops at the resort mean a slightly longer ride on the bus without leaving the resort. This is the reason Coronado Springs has some of the highest total bus transportation times despite its central location.

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\r\nBuses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people are already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme parks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back to their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should average out to around 20 minutes under most circumstances.\r\n

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\r\nHere's the current order in which Disney buses pick up and drop off at Coronado Springs:\r\n

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Getting to another hotel from Coronado Springs If you've got dining plans (when they're offered) at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Coronado Springs to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Coronado Springs. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower), hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi from Coronado Springs to wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride to get to most Disney hotels from Coronado Springs, and often less. Taxis are available outside of El Centro; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando If you're staying at Walt Disney World and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your hotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at your convenience. A one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have three to five people.\r\n

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Shopping, Recreation, and Things To Do at Coronado Springs

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\r\nCoronado Springs’ gift shop is Panchito’s Gifts and Sundries, and sits within El Centro, just off the main rotunda. As you'd expect from Disney, Panchito’s has a decent collection of souvenirs ranging from small trinkets such as keychains and pens, to embroidered jackets and Disney princess dresses. Prices for these items are about what you'd pay in the theme parks or Downtown Disney.\r\n

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Panchito’s also sells basic pharmacy items such as sunscreen, aspirin, allergy and cold medicine, baby diapers and formula, shampoo, and the like. And the shop also has Disney-branded cookies, chocolate, coffee tins, and similar items, if that's what you're looking for. Prices for these items are considerably higher - about double - than what you'd probably pay at home.\r\n

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Another advantage of staying at a conference hotel is that Coronado Springs has a fitness center, unlike the other Moderate Resorts. The center is located near the quiet pool in the Casitas section, between buildings 3 and 4. It is a small center containing standard equipment such as treadmills, but it is handy if walking around the parks all day isn’t enough exercise for you. There is also a Beauty Salon in the same location for especially bad hair days.\r\n

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Coronado Springs has a small fitness center.

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In the Dig Site area, near the main pool, is the Iguana Arcade, which has a decent collection of relatively recent video and arcade games. Most games cost $0.50 to $2.00 per play, although it’s tough to tell exactly how much because of Disney’s arcade points system. Rather than put money directly into the games, you purchase an arcade card that can be loaded with any number of points. The points are 50 per every $1.00 spent and the games requires various amounts of points. The points system allows you to easily set limits for children, but makes it a little hard to calculate exactly how much you’re spending on any given game.\r\n

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Walkers, joggers and runners will find that one lap around the main part of Lago Dorado is a scenic 0.75-mile/1.2 km course. If you don’t take the bridge near the main pool and instead add the path around the smaller section of the lagoon the path extends to 1 mile/1.6 km. You won't find an indoor pool at Coronado Springs.\r\n

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What you will find are other activities, many of which fit the Coronado Springs theme either on purpose or coincidentally. Bikes are available to rent at the marina, which is found near El Centro. If a little more activity is to your liking, there is a beach volleyball court in the Dig Site. Unfortunately swimming in Lago Dorado is not allowed.\r\n

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Coronado Springs’ free Movies Under the Stars program shows a different Disney film every night of the week on a small outdoor screen set up at the Dig Site near the pool. Folding chairs are provided. The movie schedule varies based on when it gets dark, and may start as early as 7 PM during winter, or as late as 9 PM during summer. A sign near the pool will have the schedule for the week. \r\n

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Coronado Springs Babysitting and In-Room Child Care

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Disney contracts with a third party company, Kids Nite Out, to provide babysitting services at the resort hotels. See our Disney resort childcare page for more information.

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Miscellaneous Coronado Springs

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There are on site washers and dryers available for guest use. For more information on guest laundry services at Walt Disney World hotels, see our WDW Laundry Information page.

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If you lose something during your stay, contact Disney's Lost and Found department by calling (407)824-4245.

","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

Best and Worst Room Views at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort

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TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on property. Click here for the Coronado Springs Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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As convention hotels go,\r\nCoronado Springs is kind of an odd duck. Whereas at comparable\r\nhotels everything is centrally located and the guest rooms are in close\r\nproximity to each other, the rooms here are spread around a huge lake\r\ncalled Lago Dorado. If you’re assigned a room on the opposite side\r\nof the lake from the meeting area and restaurants, plan on an 11- to\r\n15-minute hike every time you leave your room.

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Coronado Springs’ main lobby is inside Gran Destino Tower. To its\r\nwest is El Centro, which contains shops, restaurants, and a conference\r\ncenter. There are three accommodation “communities.”

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Cabanas Room 8127: The building configuration gives you a lovely view of a concrete walkway.
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Good Rooms in Casitas Building 1

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This building is by far the closest to El Centro as well as the Convention Center, which means that all rooms are considered Preferred. If you are staying here with a family be prepared to be surrounded by business people, especially when a convention is in town. The nicest views are on the third and fourth floors facing the courtyard and the lagoon beyond, rooms 1372-1390 and 1470-1490.

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Bad views in Building 1 include:\r\n

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Casitas Room 1477: Gorgeous view of the fountain, courtyard, and lagoon with some palm trees sprinkled in.
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Casitas Room 1191: The good news is that you’re close to the staircase into El Centro. The bad news is…you’re staring at it.
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Good Rooms in Casitas Building 2

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Building 2 is still all Preferred rooms, but is further away from El Centro than either Building 1 or much of Building 3. The location also means not many good views, almost all of which face other buildings or the parking lot. The second and third floor rooms 2261-2263 and 2361-2363 have an off-center view of the quiet pool, and are about as good a view as you can get in this building.

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Bad views in Building 2 include:\r\n

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Casitas Room 2362: About as good as it gets in Building 2.


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Casitas Room 2160: Although you may prefer this claustrophobic view just two floors down and two doors away from the above.
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Good Rooms in Casitas Building 3

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If you want a great view and are willing to pay for a Preferred room, building 3 is your best bet. About half of the building faces the lagoon and the East side of it is very close to El Centro. The best lagoon views are rooms on the second and third floors numbered 3X20-3X23, 3X25, and 3X27 and rooms on floors 2-4 numbered 3X66-3X69. There really aren’t many bad views in building 3 as the rooms that don’t face the lagoon simply face other buildings, although there are a handful that look over hallways.

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Bad views in Building 3 include:\r\n

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Casitas Room 3324: Let’s play a game, would you rather have this room…
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Casitas Room 3323: Or this one literally right next door?
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Good Rooms in Casitas Building 4

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If ponying up extra money for a Preferred room doesn’t sound appealing to you, Casitas building 4 is one of the closes buildings to El Centro that isn’t Preferred. This building contains just about every type of view from the parking lot to a pool to the lagoon. The best lagoon view rooms are on floors 2-4, rooms 4X61-4X65.

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Bad views in Building 4 include:\r\n

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Casitas Room 4360: More examples of the importance of location if you pay for a view. This is a “water view” room.
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Casitas Room 4361: This room is right next door to the one above.
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Good Rooms in Casitas Building 5

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By building 5 you start getting a little far away from El Centro and you are still a bit of a walk to the main pool area as well. The good news is that there are a few excellent views from the rooms of building 5. The water view rooms on floors 2-4, room numbers 5X10-5X13 and 5X60-5X63, are the best. If you would rather not pay for a water view room, about half of building 5 faces a pleasant, fountain-centric courtyard.

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Bad views in Building 5 include:\r\n

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Casitas Room 5136: A view of building 5’s pleasant courtyard.
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Casitas Room 5311: A wonderful lagoon view.
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Good Rooms in Ranchos Building 6A

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Next come the Ranchos, set back from the lake. The desert theme translates to lots of cactus and gravel, not much water or shade, and almost no good views. The Ranchos are a hike from everything but the main swimming area. Rooms 6X00–6X04 afford the best views.

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A quick note on room numbers: The rooms are listed as 6X21, where you can insert the floor number for X. Because building 6 is split into A and B however, building A contains floors 1, 2, and 3 while building B’s floors are listed as 5, 6, and 7. It is unclear why on Earth they didn’t just add extra building numbers.

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Bad views in Building 6A include:\r\n

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Ranchos Room 6124: One of the better standard view rooms at Coronado Springs, especially if you like cacti.
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Room 6100: Not a terrible view, but not great either. We’re just surprised Disney doesn’t consider this a water view..
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Good Rooms in Ranchos Building 6B

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Building 6B is a very unremarkable building, although that may not be a bad thing. It contains no official “water view” rooms, although rooms 6X72 and 6X73 have views of the quiet pool. Building 6B also contains no parking lot views, with most of the views either of woods or desert landscaping. If you prefer the woods pick rooms on the South side, numbers 6X00-6X03, 6X30-6X36, and 6X50-6X63. If you would rather the desert choose rooms 6X10-6X13, 6X20-6X27, or 6X40-6X47.

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A quick note on room numbers: The rooms are listed as 6X21, where you can insert the floor number for X. Because building 6 is split into A and B however, building A contains floors 1, 2, and 3 while building B’s floors are listed as 5, 6, and 7. It is unclear why on Earth they didn’t just add extra building numbers.

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Bad views in Building 6B include:\r\n

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Ranchos Room 6773: A great room if you want a pool view without paying for a “water view.”
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Ranchos Room 6647: More lovely desert landscaping.
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Good Rooms in Ranchos 7A

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This building is as far away as you can get from El Centro and still be at Coronado Springs. On the bright side, it is close to the Ranchos quiet pool as well as the bus stop.

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A quick note on room numbers: The rooms are listed as 7X21, where you can insert the floor number for X. Because building 7 is split into A and B however, building A contains floors 1, 2, and 3 while building B’s floors are listed as 5, 6, and 7. It is unclear why on Earth they didn’t just add extra building numbers.

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Bad views in Building 7A include:\r\n

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Ranchos Room 7111: See, there’s the bus stop.
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Ranchos Room 7270: This may be the worst room view at all of Walt Disney World.
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Good Rooms in Ranchos 7B

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Although far from El Centro, building 7B is not a bad spot if you like to swim. The building wraps around the Ranchos quiet pool and is reasonably close to the Dig Site and its massive themed pool. There are several water view rooms in this building, but they are all of the quiet pool and several of them are heavily obstructed by trees and plants. Most of the non-water view rooms face a parking lot, although the rooms facing away from the pool in the South wing face nice greenery, specifically rooms 7X90-7X92 and 7X94-7X97.

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A quick note on room numbers: The rooms are listed as 7X21, where you can insert the floor number for X. Because building 7 is split into A and B however, building A contains floors 1, 2, and 3 while building B’s floors are listed as 5, 6, and 7. It is unclear why on Earth they didn’t just add extra building numbers.

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Bad views in Building 7B include:\r\n

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Ranchos Room 7754: A pleasant “water view” room.
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Ranchos Room 7596: A pleasant “standard view” room.
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Good Rooms in Cabanas Building 8A

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This building, along with building 8B, are good choices of location if you are going to be taking the bus to the parks, want to use the main pool, and don’t want to pay Preferred room prices. They are reasonably close to the bus stop, fairly close to the Dig Site, and, while still a few minute away, not as far from El Centro as the Ranchos buildings. The Cabanas buildings are only two stories tall and while building 8A faces the water, the first floor rooms are often obstructed views. The second floor water view rooms have some of the nicest views at Coronado Springs, specifically rooms 8224-8226, 8228-8231, 8241-8243, and 8245-8247. If you really want a bargain, rooms 8220-8222 have lovely views of the lagoon, but are not technically considered “water view” for some reason.

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A quick note on room numbers: The rooms are listed as 8X21, where you can insert the floor number for X. Because building 8 is split into A and B however, building A contains floors 1 and 2 while building B’s floors are listed as 5 and 6. It is unclear why on Earth they didn’t just add extra building numbers.

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Bad views in Building 8A include:\r\n

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Cabanas Room 8231: One of, if not the best view at Coronado Springs
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Cabanas Room 8222: For some reason, this is not listed as a “water view” room.
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Good Rooms in Cabanas Building 8B

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Much like building 8A above, 8B is close to the bus stop although 8A is a little closer to the pool and 8B is a little closer to El Centro. About half of the rooms in building 8B are water view and the other half look at a parking lot. There are several good water view rooms, namely the second floor rooms 8650-8653.

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A quick note on room numbers: The rooms are listed as 8X21, where you can insert the floor number for X. Because building 8 is split into A and B however, building A contains floors 1 and 2 while building B’s floors are listed as 5 and 6. It is unclear why on Earth they didn’t just add extra building numbers.

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Bad views in Building 8B include:\r\n

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Cabanas Room 8560: The view may not be much, but it is close to the bus stop.
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Cabanas Room 8652: Another very nice lagoon view.
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Reader Comments

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Reader opinions concerning Coronado Springs are split. A family\r\nfrom Cumming, Georgia, was disappointed:

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The convention center really interferes with a family vacation—everyone\r\nwe met there was working and wanted to talk about work while\r\nwe were trying to get away from work!
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A Chester, Virginia, mother had a very different experience:

Coronado Springs was absolutely fabulous. The staff was friendly, the\r\nkids loved the pool, and we all loved Pepper Market. It was nice and\r\nquiet at night. There were many convention guests, but they did not\r\ninterfere with our trip.
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For a family from Kansas City, Kansas, Coronado Springs was\r\ntheir first accommodations in a Disney Moderate resort:

This was the first time we stayed at Coronado Springs. On our previous\r\nthree trips, we stayed at Pop Century, and I was curious if the\r\nModerate resorts were worth the extra money. At first, the size of the resort was daunting, and having the main building so far away from\r\nthe rooms was a challenge at first. But we quickly settled into a routine\r\nand figured out the bus routes—for some of the buses, the main\r\nbuilding was the last stop, and for other routes, the first. Maybe it\r\nwas our bad luck, but finding the internal shuttle was like spotting\r\na unicorn! The bus service was really the only major drawback. The\r\nroom at Coronado was more spacious and came with a ceiling fan.\r\nThe door separating the living area from the bath vanity was very\r\nuseful because I was able to get ready in the morning without waking\r\nthe kids. The kids really enjoyed the pool area, and I thought it\r\nwas better themed than Pop Century. The size of the resort meant\r\nthat we had more walking to and from the pool and main areas, but\r\nthat also meant it felt less crowded. Overall, I thought the resort was\r\nworth the price difference.
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A family from Indianapolis liked the swimming pools:

The pool at Coronado Springs was excellent—the kids loved the\r\nslide! Also utilized smaller pool close to our room—was good for\r\nkids to relax before bedtime.
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Finally, a Canvey Island, England, reader was fair and balanced:

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We stayed at Coronado Springs and were very satisfied overall. The\r\nPepper Market food court was overly complicated (stamping tickets\r\nto pay at the end, multiple tickets per party), but the quality was\r\ngood. The Maya Grill was a disappointment, overpriced for the quality\r\nof the food. The walk around the lake on a nice day is a delight.
\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Most sophisticated room decor of the\r\nModerate resortsConventioneers may be off-putting to\r\nvacationing families
Beautiful vistas day and nightSome rooms are a long distance from\r\ncheck-in, lobby, and restaurants
Far more sit down dining and bar options than other ModeratesFour bus stops means longer ride times
Especially fun pool area with large feature pool
Only Moderate Resort with a Fitness Center and a Business Center
Only Moderate Resort with Club Level rooms
Best public Wi-Fi at any Disney resort
","recommend_to_friends":56,"recommend_annual_change":-12,"stay_again":97,"stay_again_annual_change":7,"fitness_center":true,"water_sports":false,"marina":false,"beach":true,"tennis":true,"biking":true,"suites":true,"concierge_floor":true,"room_service":true,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":2384,"theme":"Northern Mexico and the American Southwest","cost_range":"$260 - $3,923","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ak","category_code":"moderate","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":null,"survey_update_hash":"1738a31062d8415e758a8ba34e513ace","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079391001","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":314,"blog_slug":"coronado-springs","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys coronado springs resort","club_name":"Chronos Club","operator_id":80010396,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/coronado-springs-resort","opened_on":"1997-08-01","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"cs","refresh_year":2019,"renovation_year":2019,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":false,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"The Coronado Springs resort is inspired by northern Mexico and the American Southwest, with styles that would fit on a Mexican beach or high desert plains. The Gran Destino Tower looms nearby, too.","dining_overview":"Coronado Springas has four full-service restaurants, a food court, and two bars, so there's plenty to choose from. Still, having a car will expand your options.","good_for":"Southwestern theme","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":2,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":84,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Port Orleans Resort - French Quarter","code":"ORL014","address":"2201 Orleans Drive","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079345000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/port-orleans-resort-french-quarter/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-port-orleans-resort-french-quarter","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:19.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-20T20:40:55.000-08:00","overview":"

Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort Overview and Review

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\r\nPort Orleans French Quarter hotel map\r\n

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Port Orleans French Quarter is a moderately priced hotel at Walt Disney World with 1,008 guest rooms. The resort is themed to resemble New Orleans’s Vieux Carré, but sanitized. Consisting of seven three-story guest-room buildings next to the Sassagoula River, prim pink-and-blue structures are festooned with wrought-iron filigree, shuttered windows, and old-fashioned iron lampposts. In keeping with the Crescent City theme, French Quarter is landscaped with magnolia trees and overgrown vines.

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The centrally located Mint contains the registration area and food\r\ncourt. The registration desk features a vibrant Mardi Gras mural and\r\nold-fashioned bank-teller windows. Doubloon Lagoon surrounds a colorful fiberglass creation depicting Neptune riding a sea serpent.

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In terms of architecture and facilities, Port Orleans French Quarter is similar to Disney's other Moderate resorts: 3-story, motel-style buildings with a central pool, food court, and registration area. French Quarter is smaller and more compact than the other Moderates.

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\r\nNew Orleans-style decorations can be found throughout Port Orleans French Quarter.\r\n

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Left: The hotel's lobby. Right: Kids can watch classic Disney cartoons in a waiting area while parents check in.\r\n

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We think Port Orleans French Quarter is one of the best moderate-level resorts at Walt Disney World. The resort is a manageable size, with beautiful landscaping, and a fun pool. The food court serves one of our favorite desserts at WDW, fresh made beingets. Port Orleans French Quarter is an easy walk to its sister resort, Port Orleans Riverside, expanding the nearby dining options, and the many restaurants at Disney Springs are a pleasant boat ride away. Port Orleans French Quarter is a little more expensive - and a little bit better - than the Caribbean Beach Resort. We also enjoy that both Port Orleans French Quarter and Port Orleans Riverside resorts offer better scenery than Coronado Springs Resort. French Quarter does not offer a fitness center, for that you'll have to go to any of the Deluxe resorts. The only Moderate to offer a fitness center is Coronado Springs.

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Get to Know Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort

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Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter's Rooms

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French Quarter rooms measure 314 square feet. Most contain two queen beds, a table and two chairs, a dresser–credenza, a mini-fridge, a coffeemaker, and a vanity outside the bathroom. No rooms have balconies, but ornamental iron-railed accessways on each floor provide a good (though less private) substitute.

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\r\nA standard Port Orleans French Quarter room.\r\n

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Each Port Orleans French Quarter room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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Port Orleans French Quarter Room Layout\r\n

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\r\nPort Orleans French Quarter bathrooms are modestly-sized, but larger than bathrooms found in Disney's value resorts. Almost all feature a tiled tub with shower, while some wheelchair-accessible rooms have a roll-in shower without tub. Water pressure in the shower is adequate, but probably less than what you're used to at home. The shower and toilet are located in a room with door. A dressing area, which includes two sinks and a small amount of counter space, is separated from the sleeping area by a sturdy curtain. Combined with the shower/toilet room, this means that three people can have private dressing space at the same time. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided. Guests with long or thick hair may find that the dryer is underpowered for their needs. \r\n

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\r\nPort Orleans French Quarter bathroom and sink/dressing area.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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\r\nPort Orleans French Quarter has approximately 200 handicap-accessible rooms in a variety of configurations to accommodate guests with hearing or mobility issues. Mobility access rooms comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more.\r\n

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\r\nSome of French Quarter's accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen-sized beds; all rooms with roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower rooms have both 1 king bed and 1 queen bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which features.\r\n

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Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort Room Classifications

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\r\nPort Orleans French Quarter rooms are priced depending on the room view and location:\r\n

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\r\nMouseSavers.com has a list of discounts and deals available at Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort.\r\n

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Dining Options at Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort

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Onsite dining options at Port Orleans Riverside include a counter service food court, two bars, and in-room pizza delivery. The closest table-service eatery is in the adjacent Riverside section of the resort.

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Depending on your location within Port Orleans French Quarter the dining options at Port Orleans Riverside are also a quick walk away.

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Sassagoula Floatworks is set up like a mall food court. Different stations each serve a different type of food.\r\n

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Port Orleans French Quarter Pools, Recreation, and Amenities

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French Quarter's Doubloon Pool\r\n

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Playground area for children ages 2-12

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Practical Matters

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Transportation to and from Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort

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Driving to Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter

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Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort is just off of I-4 in Lake Buena Vista. Take I-4 Exit 67 toward Epcot and you'll end up on Epcot Center Drive. Stay on Epcot Center Drive for 0.8 miles, then Take the exit toward Disney Springs Resort Area. Go about 0.3 miles and keep left at the fork, making the left turn onto Bonnet Creek Pkwy. Port Orleans French Quarter will be on your right.\r\n

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Port Orleans French Quarter's GPS address and location are:\r\n

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A security gate guards the entrance to Port Orleans French Quarter's grounds. If you arrive by car, you'll need to provide photo ID at the gate; it's not necessary to provide your reservatios number or paperwork. A dedicated parking lot across from the lobby serves as temporary parking for those who need it while checking in.\r\n

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Guests keeping a car at Port Orleans French Quarter overnight will be charged $20 per day.

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From Orlando International Airport See our Walt Disney World Transportation Options page for information about how to get to and from Orlando International Airport and Walt Disney World. \r\n\r\n

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Sanford International Airport is about a 40-minute drive from Sanford to Port Orleans French Quarter. If you're not renting a car, be aware that Sanford's airport offers fewer transportation options than Orlando's, and Sanford's options are generally much more expensive. A taxi from Sanford International Airport to Port Orleans French Quarter will cost between $120 and $150, depending on traffic. Mears Transportation offers 3-passenger towncar service to Port Orleans French Quarter for around $140 each way, plus tip; 5-passenger SUV service or 10-passenger van is around $190 each way. That means round-trip transportation will run you somewhere between $240 and $380, plus tip, between Sanford and Port Orleans French Quarter. You may also want to consult ride-sharing services such as Uber or Lyft for their pricing options.

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Getting to the theme parks, water parks and Disney Springs

\r\n\r\nDisney provides free bus service from Port Orleans French Quarter to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney's Hollywood Studios, Disney's Animal Kingdom, Blizzard Beach, Typhoon Lagoon, and Disney Springs. Port Orleans French Quarter's bus stops sit along the front wall of the lobby, between the lobby and check-in parking lot. Each theme park has its own bus stop somewhere alonthe wall. Animal Kingdom's bus service is shared with Blizzard Beach, while Disney Springs and Typhoon Lagoon also share a stop and service. Port Orleans French Quarter does not share bus service with any other resort.\r\n

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Ask a Disney Cast Member about French Quarter's bus schedule, and she'll tell you that buses run about every 20 minutes. In reality, French Quarter's bus schedule varies considerably depending on the time of day and where you're headed. For example, if you're headed to the Magic Kingdom between 8 AM and 11 AM, you'll wait around 8 minutes, on average, for a bus to arrive. The bus schedules for Epcot, Animal Kingdom, and Disney's Hollywood Studios are about the same early in the day, with a bus arriving every 8-14 minutes, on average. Bus schedules to the water parks and Disney Springs are a little less frequent, and you could wait anywhere from 14 to 30 minutes for a ride.

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Buses run a little slower from around 11 AM to around 4 PM, when most people are already in a park. Disney's evening buses are scheduled around the theme parks' closing times, where most of the fleet is deployed to get guests back to their hotels. Your waits to return to your hotel from a theme park should average out to around 20 minutes under most circumstances.

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If you have your own car, it's faster to drive yourself to everywhere except the Magic Kingdom, where Disney's bus service can get you closer to the park.

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Getting to another hotel from Port Orleans French Quarter

\r\n\r\nIf you have dining plans at another Disney hotel, the cheapest option is to take a Disney bus from Port Orleans French Quarter to Disney Springs (or an open theme park), then take another bus from there to your destination hotel. Do the reverse to get back to Port Orleans French Quarter. While that's free, it can take anywhere from 90 minutes to 2 hours each way. If your destination is one of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts, and the Magic Kingdom is still open, you could take a bus to the Magic Kingdom, then either walk (to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower), hop on the monorail (to the Polynesian and Grand Floridian), or take a boat (to Fort Wilderness, the Wilderness Lodge, the Polynesian, and the Grand Floridian). We suggest you still allow at least an hour for that.

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The fastest option, however, is almost always a taxi or ride-share service from French Quarter to wherever you're going; it's generally not more than a $20, 15-minute cab ride to get to most Disney hotels from French Quarter, and Uber and Lyft are often less.\r\nTaxis are available outside the lobby; if a taxi is not already sitting out front, the bell services desk also serves as a taxi stand, and they'll call one for you.\r\n

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To Universal Orlando

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If you're staying at Walt Disney World and don't have a car, Mears Transportation will shuttle you from your hotel to Universal and back for $18 per person. Pickup and return times are at your convenience. A one-way taxi ride is around $36, and may be the cheapest option if you have three to five people.\r\n

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Reader Review Comments

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Most readers really like Port Orleans French Quarter. This comment from a Wynnewood, Pennsylvania, father of two is typical:

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I highly recommend Port Orleans French Quarter. We stayed at All-Star Movies on our last trip and didn’t think it made sense to stay anywhere else. Well, we were wrong. The price difference wasn’t that big, and what we got for the difference was well worth it: uncrowded pool, bellhop service, front-door greeters with great tips for touring, and\r\na bigger, more comfortable room. Totally worth the extra money.
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One Philadelphia Gen Xer wasn’t flush with joy about his stay:

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The in-room toilets seem to be powered by jet thrusters. We were woken up far too many times in the night when someone in a neighboring room would flush.
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An unidentified e-mailer backs him up:

The reader comment about the toilets is 100% correct. They're air-pressure-forced rather than water-flow-and-gravity-operated—like an airplane toilet, only MUCH louder. Every morning I was woken up at 7:30 a.m. with an hour’s worth of whoooshing.
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Touring Plans Videos About Port Orleans French Quarter

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Special thanks to our friends at PortOrleans.org for help validating information about rooms at this resort!

\r\n","good_not_so_good_rooms":"

TouringPlans offers pictures of the view from any Disney resort room on property. Click here for the Port Orleans French Quarter Resort map and to choose a room to see the view.

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Seven\r\nguest-room buildings flank the pool, Guest Relations building, and\r\nbus stop. The best views are from rooms facing the river and pine\r\nforest on the opposite bank. Wings of buildings 1, 2, 5, 6, and 7 flank\r\nthe river and provide the best river views in all of Port Orleans. Riverview rooms in buildings 1, 6, and 7 are a long walk from French\r\nQuarter public facilities, but they’re the most tranquil. Families with\r\nchildren should request river-view rooms in buildings 2 and 5, nearest\r\nthe swimming complex. Make sure the reservationist understands that\r\nyou’re requesting a room with a river view, not just a water view. All\r\nriver-view rooms are also water-view rooms but not vice versa. Note\r\nthat standard-view rooms look onto a courtyard or a parking lot.

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Good Rooms in Building 1 of the French Quarter

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Building 1 is a bit of a long walk from the lobby, but some rooms do offer nice views of the Sassagoula River. Good views in Building 1 include rooms 1X27-1X32, which face a river. Other good views include 1X24-1X26, 1X34-1X40 and 1X42-1X48.

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\r\n\r\n\"1230\"\r\n
Room 1230: Trees and The Sassagoula River.
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Bad views in Building 1 include:\r\n

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\r\n\"1110\"\r\n
Room 1110: The dreaded parking lot view.
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Good Rooms in Building 2 of the French Quarter

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Most rooms in Building 2 look on to landscaping and other buildings. This building does have the advantage of being right next to the pool. Good views in Building 2 include rooms 2X01-2X15, 2X18-2X26 and 2X42-2X48 which face landscaping. 2X27-2X32 face the Sassagoula River. Rooms 2X34-2X40 face a pool but the view is mostly blocked by large trees.

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Bad views in Building 2 include:\r\n

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Room 2208: Most rooms in Building 2 face landscaping.
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\r\n\r\n\"2238\"\r\n
Room 2238: Some rooms in Building 2 face the pool but are blocked by large trees.
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Good Rooms in Building 3 of the French Quarter

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Building 3 is located directly next to French Quarter's lobby. Rooms either face a parking lot or landscaping. Good views in building 16 include rooms 3X03-3X07, 3X16-3X23 and 3X26-3X32.

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Bad views in Building 3 include:\r\n

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\r\n\r\n\"3116\"\r\n
Room 3116: A \"Garden View\" of one of French Quarter's \r\ncourtyards.
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\r\n\r\n\"3133\"\r\n
Room 3133: Some rooms face the backside of the hotel lobby.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 4 in French Quarter

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Building 4 is also located next door to the hotel lobby. Rooms either face a parking lot or landscaping. Good views in building 4 include rooms 4X05-4X09 and 4X30-4X39.\r\n \r\n

Bad views in building 4 are 4X23-4X26, which face a maintenance building. Rooms 4X01-4X04 face a parking lot

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\r\n\r\n\"4205\"\r\n
Room 4205: A nice view of a court yard.
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\r\n\r\n\"4126\"\r\n
Room 4126: You probably don't want your view to be of a hallway.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 5 in French Quarter

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Most rooms in Building 5 look on to landscaping and other buildings. This building does have the advantage of being right next to the pool. Good views include rooms 5X02-5X07, 5X27-5X31 and 5X34-5X48. Rooms 5X10-5X16 face a pool but the view is mostly blocked by large trees. Rooms 5X17-5X26 face the Sassagoula River.

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Bad views in Building 5 include:\r\n

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\r\n\r\n\"5101\"\r\n
Room 5101: You probably won't want to look at stairs every morning.
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\r\n\r\n\"5316\"\r\n
Room 5316: One of the rare \"Pool View\" rooms not blocked a tree.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 6 of French Quarter

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About half of the rooms in building 6 face the Sassagoula River. The other half look on to landscaping and other buildings. Good views in building 6 include rooms 6X01-6X14 and 6X18-6X22. Rooms 6X24-6X48 have a view of Sassagoula River.

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Bad views in building 6 are 6X17.

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\r\n\r\n\"6108\"\r\n
Room 6108: If you squint you can see a fountain.
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\r\n\r\n\"6125\"\r\n
Room 6125: Another view of Sassagoula River.
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Good Rooms in Buildings 7 of French Quarter

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Most of Building 7 faces a parking lot, but a handful also look on to Sassagoula River. Good views include rooms 7X25-7X31 and 7X33-7X40. Rooms 7X42-7X48 face the Sassagoula River.

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Bad views in building 7 are 7X01-7X24.

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\r\n\r\n\"7115\"\r\n
Room 7115: About half the rooms in Building 7 face a parking lot.
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\r\n\r\n\"7141\"\r\n
Room 7141: This room is listed as \"River View\" but you'll have to \r\ncrane your neck to see the river.
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\r\n","strengths_weaknesses":"\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n\r\n
Strengths and Weaknesses
StrengthsWeaknesses
Attractively themed lobby and peaceful courtyardsNo full-service dining
Boat service to Disney SpringsDoes not have discounted rooms as often as other Moderate Resorts
One bus stop
Most compact of the WDW\r\nModerate resorts
Live entertainment in Scat Cat’s Club
Beignets in food court!
Short walk to Port Orleans Riverside’s\r\nrestaurants and bars
Good place to walk or run for fitness
Elaborate Child Play area near main pool
","recommend_to_friends":88,"recommend_annual_change":1,"stay_again":97,"stay_again_annual_change":-1,"fitness_center":false,"water_sports":true,"marina":true,"beach":false,"tennis":false,"biking":true,"suites":false,"concierge_floor":false,"room_service":false,"wired_internet":false,"wireless_internet":true,"num_rooms":1008,"theme":"Turn-of-the-19th-Century New Orleans","cost_range":"$289 - $569","shuttle_to_parks":true,"cost_estimate":null,"lodging_area_code":"ds","category_code":"moderate","check_rates":"» Hotels.com","percent_random_ads":100,"show_map":true,"meta_description":"Everything you need to know about Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter resort. Maps. Room descriptions, photos, and video tours. Pricing information. Dining options. Pools and recreation. Reader reviews. ","survey_update_hash":"255179c65c9be0d1f44076e182a4d6e4","author_user_id":null,"fax_number":"4079345777","hidden":false,"smallest_room_size":314,"blog_slug":"port-orleans-french-quarter","property_owned":true,"extra_hours":true,"early_fastpass":true,"express_queue":false,"airport_transportation":false,"parking_fee":null,"resort_fee":"0.0","sort_name":"disneys port orleans resort french quarter","club_name":null,"operator_id":80010398,"operator_type":null,"operator_url":"https://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/port-orleans-resort-french-quarter","opened_on":"1991-05-17","extinct_on":null,"opened_on_uncertain":null,"extinct_on_uncertain":null,"abbreviation":"pofq","refresh_year":2018,"renovation_year":2018,"pool_slide":true,"pool_play":true,"typical_bed_code":"queen","max_guests_std":4,"child_bed_std":false,"parent_hotel_id":null,"travel_request_quote_image":null,"travel_request_quote_overview":null,"travel_request_quote_image_tab":null,"overview_short":"Disney's French Quarter section is a sanitized version of New Orleans’s Vieux Carré. With shuttered windows, and old-fashioned iron lampposts, it's one of Disney's smallest and most charming resorts.","dining_overview":"The on-site food court is fine for a few quick meals. It's a short walk to Port Orleans Riverside's food court, but mostly the same food there too.","good_for":"Romantic strolls at night","recommendation":null,"hotel_category_id":2,"hotel_category_recommended":true,"pet_friendly":null},{"id":83,"property_id":1,"name":"Disney's Port Orleans Resort - Riverside","code":"ORL015","address":"1251 Riverside Drive","city":"Lake Buena Vista","state_code":"FL","zip_code":"32830","phone_number":"4079346000","url":"http://disneyworld.disney.go.com/resorts/port-orleans-resort-riverside/","off_site":false,"permalink":"disneys-port-orleans-resort-riverside","created_at":"2010-07-16T12:02:19.000-07:00","updated_at":"2024-11-22T20:41:00.000-08:00","overview":"\r\n\r\n

Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort Overview

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Port Orleans Riverside is a moderately priced hotel at Walt Disney World, with most rooms sleeping up to four or five guests. The resort is themed to resemble the old South - Mississippi River communities in antebellum Louisiana. Port Orleans Riverside is subdivided into two sections: the mansion area, which features plantation-style architecture, and the bayou area, with tin-roofed rustic (imitation) wooden buildings. Mansions are three stories tall, while bayou guesthouses are a story shorter. Port Orleans Riverside is adjacent to Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter hotel. French Quarter is smaller with a New Orleans specific theme.

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Riverside has six pools. One, Ol' Man Island, is highly themed with a water slide and afternoon entertainment. The other five pools are smaller \"quiet\" pools designed for relaxation.

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There are table service, quick service, lounge, and room service options at Port Orleans. The food court at Port Orleans Riverside houses a working cotton press powered by a 32-foot waterwheel. The food options at Riverside's sister hotel, Port Orleans French Quarter, are also easily accessible.

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\r\nPort Orleans Riverside hotel map\r\n

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The Oak and Parterre buildings in the Magnolia Bend area of Disney's Port Orleans Riverside resort contain princess–themed Royal Rooms, with illuminated headboards, a \"magic carpet\" inlay on the floor, and Disney princess imagery on the walls. The Royal Room pricing is higher than other rooms.

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Get to Know Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort

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Left: The Port Orleans hotel lobby features decorative period rugs, furniture. Right: Children can watch classic Disney cartoons in a waiting area while parents check in.\r\n

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\r\nLouisiana-style decor can be found throughout Port Orleans Riverside.\r\n

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Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Rooms

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Each of Riverside’s 2,048 rooms is 314 square feet. All rooms provide two queen-size beds, a table and two chairs, a mini-fridge and coffeemaker, and two sinks. Many rooms also include a child-sized single Murphy bed. Rooms in the Alligator Bayou section of Riverside feature brass bathroom fixtures, hickory-branch bedposts, and quilted bedspreads. Rooms in the plantation-themed Magnolia Bend section of Riverside are more conventional, with light walls and chestnut-colored wood furnishings.\r\n

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Disney refurbished rooms in Alligator Bayou in 2019. These rooms,\r\nalong with those at Caribbean Beach, are unique among Disney Moderates in that they sleep five people; the fifth bed is a Murphy-style\r\nfold-down, more suitable for kids than adults. Rooms feature hickory branch tables, and all have vinyl “hardwood” floors. Bathrooms have\r\nincreased shelf space and a curtain separator that allows three people\r\nto get ready at once.

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Rooms in Magnolia Bend are more conventional, with light-green\r\nwalls, chestnut-colored wood furnishings, and olive carpets. Bathroom\r\nlighting seems to have been improved, and a small shelf above the\r\ndual-sink countertop provides additional storage space.

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Each Port Orleans Riverside room is furnished with the following:\r\n

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Port Orleans Riverside bathrooms are modestly-sized, but larger than bathrooms found in Disney's value resorts. Almost all feature a tiled tub with shower, while some wheelchair-accessible rooms have a roll-in shower without tub. Water pressure in the shower is adequate, but probably less than what you're used to at home. The shower and toilet are located in a room with door. A dressing area, which includes two sinks and a small amount of counter space, is separated from the sleeping area by a sturdy curtain. Combined with the shower/toilet room, this means that three people can have private dressing space at the same time. A 1500-watt, wall-mounted hair dryer is provided. Guests with long or thick hair may find that the dryer is underpowered for their needs.

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Port Orleans Riverside Room\r\n

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Port Orleans Riverside Bathroom\r\n

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Port Orleans Riverside Room Layout\r\n

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Royal Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort

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\"Royal Rooms\" are themed for Princess Tiana (from The Princess and the Frog film) and feature ornate beds with a fiber optic light show in the headboard and unique in-room artwork featuring Disney Princesses. There are decorative elements that allude to many of the other Disney princesses. For example, the bathrooms taps are in the shape of Aladdin's lamp. All of the Royal Rooms come equipped with two queen size beds. \r\n

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You may think these princess rooms appeal only to young children but our reviewer had positive things to say:

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\r\nWhat I found when I stepped through the door was an extremely pleasant surprise. Rather than a room covered with glitter and lace, I found a very lavish yet classy room that was much more delicately decorated than I had assumed possible. Using a color palette of primarily gold and blue (royal blue, obviously) and an abundance of woods makes the space feel rich. Although, much like Walt Disney World itself, what makes the room special and different is the details.
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Disney uses the enhanced themeing of the Royal Rooms to justify the $50-100 increase in price over the same size non-Princess room at Port Orleans Riverside. However, if you don't feel the need to live the Disney princess life, then choosing a traditional room is an easy way to save money.

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A Royal Room at Port Orleans Riverside.\r\n

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Handicap-Accessible Room Options

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Port Orleans Riverside has approximately 200 handicap-accessible rooms in a variety of configurations to accommodate guests with hearing or mobility issues. Mobility access rooms comply with Florida's Accessibility Code, with changes to everything from bed, counter-top, and dresser drawer height, to door widths, wheelchair ramps, and more.\r\n

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\r\nSome of Riverside's accessible rooms have the standard setup of 2 queen beds; all rooms with roll-in showers have 1 king bed, and a small number of roll-in shower rooms have both 1 king bed and 1 queen bed. Use our hotel room finder to see which rooms have which features.\r\n

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Dog Friendly Room Options

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For a nightly surcharge of $50, up to 2 dogs are allowed in some of the rooms at Port Orleans Riverside. A check-in package of dog-friendly items comes with the extra fee, but so do several special rules. Housekeeping will only enter the room while the human guests are present. Special Do Not Disturb tags are mandatory and guests may be called to come to their room if the dog is being too noisy. \r\n

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Port Orleans Riverside Resort Room Classifications

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Port Orleans Riverside Rooms are priced depending on the room view and location:\r\n

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MouseSavers.com has a list of discounts and deals available at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort.\r\n

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Dining Options at Disney's Port Orleans Riverside Resort

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Onsite dining options at Port Orleans Riverside include a table service restaurant, a counter service food court, two bars, and in-room pizza delivery.\r\n

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Depending on your location within Port Orleans Riverside, the dining options at Port Orleans French Quarter may also be a quick walk away.

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Port Orleans Riverside Pools, Recreation, and Amenities

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Riverside's Ol' Man Island Pool\r\n

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Some of Port Orleans Riverside's Quiet Pools.\r\n

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Port Orleans Riverside's playground area.\r\n

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Riverside Mill food court.\r\n

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Practical Matters

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