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Typically when I think of a weekend at Disney World, the word “relax” doesn’t necessarily come to mind. After all, there’s so much to do, see, ride, eat, and buy! But there’s something about Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resorts that give a whole different, laid-back vibe. I combined them in the same post because they are close together and share several amenities. If you’re a Disney fan, you can’t miss out on a stay at one of these resorts.
We stayed at Beach Club Resort for the first time right after we got married to celebrate our “mini-moon”. I fell so in love with the casual and charming vibes that made me feel like I was in a luxurious beach home. The rooms were already updated, filled with the soft and calming tones of the ocean. I wasn’t blogging back when we went so I have very little photos, but it instantly became our favorite Disney World Resort.
Now, 18 months later we wanted to spoil ourselves to another weekend at a Deluxe Disney Resort. This time, we chose the elegant older sister of the Beach Club Resort and booked the Yacht Club. For our April weekend getaway, it was quite a bit cheaper than the Beach Club. Like all Disney resorts, the cast members welcomed us “home” and checking into our room was a breeze because we already had our Magic Bands and room number. We skipped the front desk altogether and made it to the third floor where we were surprised with a nice little view off our balcony.
Planning a trip ? Don’t forget to see the best & worst times to visit Disney World!
Beautiful & updated rooms.
The Yacht Club wrapped up it’s remodeling in 2017 and they did an amazing job. The wood-style flooring, nautical décor, and contemporary furnishings make this New England style resort feel relaxing and luxurious. I had previously read other Disney fans complain about the lack of “Disney magic” in the room, but I appreciated the subtle touches with gorgeous framed prints and stylish curtains with hidden characters. As a Deluxe resort, I never expect it to scream Disney. The Yacht Club has always seemed like a more sophisticated resort, so I think it’s a perfect balance. But don’t worry, in true Disney fashion, families feel just as welcome as couples. Disney’s favorite guest is whoever walks through the door and that’s a perk of staying at a Disney resort.
The beds in Deluxe resorts are always so comfortable to us! The Yacht Club’s new beds have space underneath to store suitcases which is such a space saver ( why don’t more hotels do this?! ). We don’t mind getting a room with two queens because we’ll usually spread out and take advantage of the extra bed. The room has plenty of storage, a coffee maker, and a small fridge.
Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resorts share the same pools and they are, quite possibly, the best pools at any Disney resort! Stormalong Bay is an incredible 795,000-gallon pool with sandy bottoms and a (smaller) lazy river. With areas dedicated to relaxation and others for playing, there’s plenty of space for families to spread out. Towels are provided for the guests and they have a ton of chairs around the pool. Hannah’s Hurricane Bar is a great option for drinks and lunch. Cast members will walk around to take food and drink orders, which is all the luxury I need by the pool!
Stormalong Bay is also home to a 230-foot-long water slide that is perfect for cooling off on a hot Florida day. It’s one thing you can’t miss out on doing if you stay at these resorts.
Disney World Resort sits on 27,000 acres (about the size of San Francisco), and while much of it is still not developed ( believe it or not ), it’s big. Transportation on buses, boats, and monorails is free, but there’s nothing better than being able to walk to a park from your room. Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resorts are about a 5 – 10 minute walk from the World Showcase entrance to Epcot. Staying at the Yacht Club during the Flower and Garden Festival was so much fun because we walked right into the excitement. Each day, we headed to the park for a couple of hours and then went back to the pool. We didn’t have to deal with the fuss of parking, transportation, or waiting in long lines to enter the park.
Related : 10 Items You Need to Pack for a Day at Disney World!
Like all deluxe resorts, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resorts have plenty of fun activities right on site, and they go beyond the pool and restaurants. From roasting s’mores by a campfire to watching a movie under the stars, they have a list of daily activities for every day of the week.
I believe Disney goes out of their way to make sure there’s something extra special at each resort and Beaches & Cream Soda Shop is one of them. Recommended by every cast member I spoke to, we had lunch at the bar and enjoyed the old-fashioned American grille, complete with a jukebox. The burgers and fries were delicious, but it’s really all about the dessert here. It was probably the best sundae I’ve ever had in my life. And Instagram friends seemed to like it, too!
If you don’t want to stick around for an entire meal, pop in for a sundae “to-go” before watching the fireworks on the boardwalk! Are you brave enough to try the infamous “Kitchen Sink”?!
Yachtsman Steakhouse is one of the best steakhouses on Disney property (and I love my steak, ya’ll). It’s an upscale, but family-friendly, New England-style restaurant. Leave your flip-flops and cut-offs in the room and treat yourself to fresh seafood, tender steaks, and truffle mac n’ cheese! You don’t have to be staying at the Yacht Club to get a reservation, but make one in advance, if possible. I highly recommend this Signature dining selection if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
Don’t miss out on character dining! The character breakfast buffet at Cape May Café is said to be one of the best ones with Miss Minnie herself. In the evenings, the restaurant transitions into a seafood dinner buffet. Minnie Mouse and her friends are popular, as you can imagine, so make a reservation before showing up.
I saved the Boardwalk for last because I think it’s one of the best perks of staying at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resorts . The boardwalk makes one big loop you can walk around (or rent a Surrey bicycle from the Boardwalk Inn). It’s a beautiful setting and the boardwalk restaurants, shops, and entertainment make up about a 1/4 mile of the loop.
Are you sold on these resorts yet?! Anytime I have friends or readers asking for a recommendation, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resorts are my number one answer. I haven’t stayed at all of the Deluxe resorts, just yet, but I can confidently say that you can’t go wrong with these two. Whether you’re staying for a short weekend or an entire week, you’ll be so happy you chose to stay here.
Related : Where to Stay at Disney World: A Weekend at Wilderness Lodge
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I'm a Florida based blogger and content creator with a big love for all kinds of travel. I've been married, divorced, and I've gone through countless hours of therapy. I've learned that vulnerability can be one of my greatest assets, so I love sharing a little bit of everything.
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Things have certainly changed since Walt Disney World opened more than 50 years ago . There used to be just a handful of hotels and one theme park. Now, you have the magic — and the challenge — of choice. There are more than 25 hotels to choose from and multiple parks to visit when you embark on a Disney vacation.
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Choosing the best Disney hotel is a fun challenge, but a challenge nonetheless. The resorts at Walt Disney World range from those with views of live zebras and giraffes to treehouse villas and even log cabins in the woods.
When you choose a Disney World hotel, you not only stay in the "Disney bubble" but also gain access to the parks 30 minutes early each morning. Additionally, you can purchase Lightning Lane passes for newer rides — like Guardians of the Galaxy: Cosmic Rewind and Tron / Lightcycle Run — before non-resort guests, starting up to seven days before you check in. This means you'll have a better chance of snagging those coveted ride passes.
Related: 14 reasons to stay at a Walt Disney World Resort property
Still, not all Disney resorts are created equal. Fortunately, TPG is here to help sort through the best hotel options at Walt Disney World. We've tried dozens of Disney-area hotels and carefully considered the best (and less-than-stellar) features of nearly every on-property resort to bring you this list.
Whether you're looking to be treated like a fairy tale princess or a grown-up who happens to be staying near a theme park, Disney World has you covered.
Here are our top picks:
FOR NO-COST ASSISTANCE WITH PLANNING AND BOOKING YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION, CHECK OUT TPG'S DISNEY BOOKING PARTNER, MOUSE COUNSELORS .
The cream of the crop among Disney World hotels in terms of amenities, quality and price are the Deluxe resorts. These resorts have multiple on-site full-service restaurants and extensive pool areas with waterslides. Some are within walking or monorail distance of the theme parks.
All of this comes at a cost, though. Deluxe Disney resorts can range from $400 to $800 per night for a standard room. Renting Disney Vacation Club points can help bring this cost down at times, but a Deluxe resort stay will be an investment compared to the other tiers of Disney hotels.
As mentioned, Deluxe resorts are the most expensive of Disney's hotels.
While some offer luxury amenities like spas and fine dining venues, others emphasize great themes and proximity to the parks. You also get access to select parks two hours later than everyone else when staying in a Deluxe resort on eligible nights.
A true safari involves incredibly long flights and the possibility of malaria pills. For a safari-style vacation closer to home, there's Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge .
Offering an unforgettable wildlife experience within U.S. borders, Animal Kingdom Lodge is its own ecosystem away from the hustle and bustle of most of the Disney World complex.
The soaring ceilings at Jambo House are adorned with traditional decor. If you want to see giraffes, zebras, ostriches and a host of other animals, all you have to do is merely walk past the lobby's expansive windows.
Dining at this Deluxe resort is another highlight of a stay here. Boma and Jiko are excellent choices if you want to experience an authentic African meal at the resort.
Look into the nighttime Starlight Safari , which comes with loaner night vision devices, for a unique experience.
The property is an example of an excellent time to rent DVC points, especially if your family wants more space while saving money. During low seasons, rooms start at just 7 points per night, with DVC points typically available to rent from David's Vacation Club for $20 to $25 per point.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge average around $485 per night.
Disney's Contemporary Resort is another original Disney World resort from the 1971 opening. It's about as close as you can get to The Magic Kingdom without pitching a tent inside the gates (and subsequently getting kicked out by security).
It may have been built over five decades ago, but its amenities have recently been updated and the rooms now sport an "incredible" new look. While the theme and renovations are a big step up, the main draw of this property is undoubtedly its monorail design and Magic Kingdom-adjacent location.
We prefer tower rooms over garden-wing options as they are more centrally located to the amenities and monorail, and many offer superb views of The Magic Kingdom's nightly fireworks.
When you've worked up an appetite, you'll find a few of our favorite Disney World restaurants on-site, including Chef Mickey's. At this popular eatery, you can dine with characters like Mickey, Minnie, Donald, Goofy and Pluto. For something more upscale, there's California Grill. If you time it right, it has some of the best views of The Magic Kingdom fireworks around.
Related: The 5 best Disney World character meals you've never heard of — and how to book them
If you're ready for a splurge-level stay at the Contemporary, there is also a club level where bites and beverages from the aforementioned restaurants are included.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Contemporary Resort average around $575 per night.
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is arguably the most traditional and iconic of Disney World's high-end hotels. You won't find many bright, in-your-face character themes here, but you will have access to some of Disney's most upscale amenities, including a spa and the fanciest (and priciest) restaurant at Disney.
It's one of Disney World's most expensive resorts thanks to its proximity to The Magic Kingdom, top-notch facilities, and over-the-top Christmas displays, including a gingerbread house in the lobby.
Fortunately, the Grand Floridian is undergoing a resort-wide renovation involving converting one of the hotel buildings into beautiful DVC studios. So, there's now one more reason to visit.
Dining is another highlight here. The acclaimed Victoria & Albert's experience is unparalleled, with a dress code and a no-little-kids policy to match. For an equally excellent but more affordable option, grab a cocktail or mocktail at the "Beauty and the Beast"-inspired Enchanted Rose bar on the second floor of the Grand Floridian's lobby.
Related: More rides and fewer crowds: What to expect at Disney After Hours
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa average around $750 per night.
A short drive or boat ride away from The Magic Kingdom, Disney's Wilderness Lodge is equal parts Great Wolf Lodge , Yellowstone National Park and Disney magic. There are great attractions and restaurants on-site, including a water feature that starts in the lobby and becomes a creek that feeds into one of two outdoor pools.
For a fun, reasonably priced family dining experience, try Whispering Canyon Cafe — and be aware that if you ask for ketchup, you may get a lot of ketchup. If rare Disney characters are more your jam, enjoy dinner with the Evil Queen at Story Book Dining at Artist Point .
Those who want more space and ambience than a standard hotel room should reserve one of the Copper Creek Cabins in the woods adjacent to the Wilderness Lodge or the truly spectacular two-bedroom Yosemite Suite . Both are pricey, but we promise you'll love staying in either option.
If you do opt for standard rooms (or even club-level rooms ), the good news is that Disney's Wilderness Lodge is generally one of the more affordable of the Deluxe Disney resorts. So, you can rest easy knowing you're paying a little less than average for Disney's high-end properties.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Wilderness Lodge average around $500 per night.
If you want a balance of price and amenities, the Moderate category of Disney resorts can be a sweet spot. At Moderate Disney resorts, there are some full-service restaurants, more on-site amenities, waterslides at the pools, and a great variety of themes and locations to choose from.
Expect rates at these hotels to range from $250 to $400 on most nights for a standard room.
One of the best Moderate resorts at Disney World is Port Orleans. We're especially partial to the French Quarter side, with its charming wrought-iron railings, bubbling fountains and an eatery serving tasty Mickey-shaped beignets.
This property is much more compact than other Moderate resorts like Disney's Coronado Springs Resort and Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. This makes everything from parking and catching a Disney bus to grabbing dinner that much easier.
It isn't the newest or fanciest option in Disney's resort portfolio, but it is a calm and lovely balance of theming and easily accessible amenities. Although you'll need a bus or car to get from this resort to any of the Disney World theme parks, you can catch the free boat to Disney Springs for shopping and dining.
In addition to the property's relaxing vibe and manageable size, the greatest asset of Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter is the price.
Rooms here are often more affordable than what you'll find at other Moderate properties, most likely because it's not connected to the theme parks by anything other than ground transportation (and Minnie Vans ).
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter average around $300 per night.
One of Disney World's lesser-known Moderate resorts is also one of its most entertaining.
Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort has plenty of campsites for tents and spots for recreational vehicles .
However, if you're not interested in either, The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort are an excellent choice. It gives you the best of many worlds regarding space, price and resort activities — especially if you're not planning to spend all your time at the theme parks. The cabins sleep up to six and offer a queen-size bed, a set of bunk beds and a relatively comfortable pullout sofa bed. And soon, Disney will replace the current cabins with 350 all-new cabins .
Trust us, there is one essential Fort Wilderness expense you'll want to budget for — golf carts .
It costs $65 to $84 per day to rent one. However, it makes it much easier to travel to the Meadow Trading Post for snacks, the docks for transportation to The Magic Kingdom, and other parts of the 700-acre property. Lock in your golf cart reservation as far in advance as possible since they're known to sell out.
Fort Wilderness has a nonstop list of activities you probably didn't know you could do at Disney World, including pony rides, archery, fishing, and rides in wagons and horse-drawn carriages.
When the day winds down, you can also check out the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue , a lively performance full of dancing, singing and comedic moments.
Rates for standard cabins at The Cabins at Disney's Fort Wilderness Lodge average around $460 per night.
Disney's Coronado Springs Resort is the poster child of a Moderate Disney property. It's an older resort with two-story buildings spread across a large area.
Complimentary theme park transportation is limited to buses, and on-site dining venues are mostly quick-service options, given the resort's large convention clientele. Additionally, the rooms are on the smaller side, though they were recently renovated.
But one thing changed a couple of years ago that catapulted part of this property onto our favorites list: the new Gran Destino Tower .
This "hotel within a hotel" has a stunning lobby and an equally snazzy lobby bar. If you're looking for a completely different perspective, let an elevator whisk you up to the 16th floor, where the rooftop Dahlia Lounge awaits — along with an award-winning wine list. Gran Destino Tower is light on a Disney theme, but otherwise, its accommodations are on par with many Deluxe resorts.
Gran Destino is also the only Moderate option at Disney World that has a club lounge, should you prefer an exclusive space to visit and grab refreshments throughout your stay.
Rates for standard rooms at the Gran Destino Tower at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort average around $400 per night.
Value Disney resorts are the most affordable Disney World hotels.
Nightly rates start around $125 and increase to about $300 on peak dates. None of these hotels are walkable from the theme parks, but some are close to the Skyliner. Others require bus transportation.
Value Disney hotels don't have full-service restaurants or fun extras like waterslides, but they do offer grab-and-go food outlets, lively pools and colorful themes.
Disney's Art of Animation Resort is the king of Value resorts at Disney World.
The resort features bright colors and memorable Disney cartoon characters. It's also accessible from both Epcot and Disney's Hollywood Studios thanks to the Disney Skyliner gondola system .
Art of Animation really shines with its family suites, which provide a lot more room and have three beds in each suite (one traditional bed, one Murphy bed and a pullout sofa bed). The family suites have your choice of "The Lion King," "Cars" and "Finding Nemo" themes, while standard rooms feature decor inspired by "The Little Mermaid."
When it comes to pools, the Big Blue Pool at Art of Animation is actually the largest option available at any Disney World resort.
While the food here won't blow you away, Landscape of Flavors is a reliable cafeteria-style venue that can be a nice, easy option for families.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Art of Animation Resort average around $240 per night.
Disney's Pop Century Resort is across from Art of Animation. While it doesn't have our favorite theme (it's themed to bygone decades), it is usually the lowest-priced Disney resort that isn't one of the All-Star properties.
We generally prefer it to the All-Star resorts, as Pop Century is a stand-alone property that doesn't have to share a bus service. It's less likely to be packed with thousands of cheerleaders and children's sports groups. In addition to the included bus service to the parks, it also sits on the Skyliner route, so you can soar in a gondola to various parks and resorts.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Pop Century Resort average around $200 per night.
Nothing beats an afternoon dip in your hotel's pool, so if you want to know which Disney resort hotels have the best pools, here are our top picks.
Disney's Beach Club Resort and its sister property, Disney's Yacht Club Resort , share access to Stormalong Bay, which offers top-notch poolside fun for the whole family.
Both resorts have the distinct feel of a beach in an otherwise landlocked resort thanks to sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, a pirate ship and a wicked waterslide, among other amenities that will keep young swimmers entertained for hours.
Related: The best pools at Walt Disney World
The Yacht Club is marginally more convenient to the large pool complex, but the Beach Club is a little closer to Epcot. Choose accordingly. No matter which property you pick, don't miss the huge sundaes at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, steps from the pool.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Yacht and Beach Clubs average around $540 per night.
Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort is one of Disney's Moderate resorts and one of the largest. Because the resort is so spread out, there are multiple pools across the property — six in total. The main Fuentes del Morro Pool is themed to resemble a Spanish fortress, with two waterslides, a zero-entry area, a 12-person hot tub and a pirate-themed splash area for kids.
The resort has a colorful island style, and some guest rooms recently received a Little Mermaid makeover. Despite the resort's size, it does offer convenient transportation options, including bus service and a Disney Skyliner station that can take you to Epcot and Hollywood Studios.
Rates at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort average around $300 per night.
One of the original Disney World resort hotels inspired by Walt Disney himself, Disney's Polynesian Village Resort sits on the monorail only a few minutes from The Magic Kingdom. Yet, it transports you to a lush Pacific island the moment you enter. It's such a great property we almost warn against staying at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort because it will set the bar pretty high for future Disney resort stays.
At "the Poly," you'll find a couple of our favorite Disney restaurants. Notably, there's Ohana — a Polynesian-inspired dining venue within the resort's main building that serves delectable noodles and a mouthwatering bread pudding — among other options on the family-style, all-you-care-to-enjoy menu.
There are plenty of activities and amenities on the grounds, such as free outdoor movies at night and a 142-foot waterslide that drops riders into the main Lava Pool (there is a secondary quiet pool, as well). There's also a large splash area with several smaller waterslides for younger guests, a zero-entry section, a separate quiet pool and a nearby stand to grab Dole Whip. The icing on the on-site Dole Whip is being able to watch The Magic Kingdom fireworks from the pool in the evenings as the perfectly timed music pipes in.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Polynesian Village Resort average around $640 per night.
Large families and groups can really rack up a bill when visiting Disney World since most on-property rooms are designed for no more than four or five people. As a result, your choices tend to be limited if you have at least five or six people in your group. Fortunately, a few resorts offer plenty of space for larger families.
Related: The best Orlando hotels for large families
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is another DVC property, with room sizes ranging from studio suites to one-, two- and three-bedroom villas. Deluxe studio rooms have a kitchenette and a balcony or patio, and villas have separate bedrooms, a full kitchen, in-room laundry and a balcony or patio.
The resort also has multiple pools, bike rentals, tennis and basketball courts, and a Community Hall with movies, video games and daily activities like crafts and games.
In the woods behind Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa are several Treehouse Villas that sleep up to nine people. Offering three bedrooms, two bathrooms and a kitchen, these spacious accommodations can easily fit an extended family.
Rates for Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa average around $500 per night, while the Treehouse Villas average around $1,300 per night.
We love Disney, but we're not afraid to admit that having a brief break from its intensity is sometimes nice. Luckily, a couple of options are ideal for those who want to stay near the magic without living with Mickey and his friends 24 hours a day.
Disney World's newest stand-alone hotel is easily one of the larger resort's best options for adults who want to balance a Disney trip with some less in-your-face Disney elements.
On the Disney Skyliner route, Disney's Riviera Resort offers easy access to Disney's Hollywood Studios and Epcot without placing you right in the heart of all the theme park action.
The real highlight of this easygoing property, though, is its Mediterranean vibe. The blue-and-white decor, music and cuisine will transport you to the Mediterranean coast.
You'll find all the usual Disney amenities at this Deluxe resort, but it's just a touch more refined and grown-up without being stuffy.
We're serious Riviera fans thanks in part to its design, which includes everything from "Tangled"- and "Peter Pan"-inspired mosaics to marble bathrooms that may be the nicest in all of Disney.
Don't worry if you want to bring the kids, though. There's plenty for them to enjoy, including poolside gelato, a waterslide and our favorite toddler splash area at Disney World.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's Riviera Resort average around $500 per night.
Disney's BoardWalk Inn is a DVC resort along Disney's BoardWalk in the Epcot resort area. That means you can easily walk to Epcot to eat and drink global cuisine around the World Showcase or to Disney's Hollywood Studios to fly the Millennium Falcon at Galaxy's Edge. The resort also offers water taxi and bus service around Disney World.
Related: Is a Disney annual pass worth it?
Guest rooms range from standard rooms to multi-bedroom villas, and the resort has three pools. You can splash and slide at the Luna Park Pool (or soak in the hot tub) or head for one of the quieter leisure pools.
This resort is all about location. In addition to being close to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, Disney's BoardWalk Inn is close to the dining, shopping and nightlife that line Disney's BoardWalk area. When you are done visiting the parks, you can visit Abracadabar, a magic-themed cocktail lounge, or Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar.
Rates for standard rooms at Disney's BoardWalk Inn average around $600 per night.
Choosing the best resort hotel at Disney World gets easier once you identify your budget and priorities.
Do you want a great pool, more space, proximity to the parks or perhaps an immersive theme? No matter what is most important to you, you'll find a Disney property that will likely satisfy your needs.
Whether you're itching to splash around in the Stormalong Bay pool complex at Disney's Yacht Club and Beach Club resorts, stretch your budget at Disney's Pop Century Resort, retreat to a cabin at Disney's Fort Wilderness Resort or get an iconic eyeful of the monorail coming through Disney's Contemporary Resort, there's a Disney resort that will have every member of your family excited to be on vacation at Walt Disney World.
Although Disney World's theme parks have plenty of incredible restaurants, there are even more amazing restaurants located at the various Disney World resorts . Even if you are not a guest of a Disney World resort hotel, you are able to dine and enjoy any of their restaurants during your vacation. Each Disney World resort has at least one quick service restaurant option, and some resorts have sit-down table service restaurants, including several with character meet and greets.
I am a Disney World annual passholder, Florida resident, and visit Disney World several times each month. There are so many resort restaurants to choose from and it can be difficult to pick which reservation to make for your next trip to Disney World.
I will list our favorite Disney World resort hotel restaurants and explain why we enjoy them so much. We rank our favorite resort hotel restaurants in several categories including the best quick service and table restaurants, best resort hotel restaurants with character meet and greets, best “upscale” dining experiences, and more!
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In this planning guide:
This article will rank the top three of our favorite Disney World resort hotel restaurants within several different categories. These categories include:
The following three restaurants are our favorite table service restaurants located at the Disney World resorts. As mentioned, we highly recommend reservations for table service restaurants due to their popularity. Most of the table service restaurants fit the overall theme of the resort and offer food that would make sense for the theme (i.e. African-inspired food at the Animal Kingdom Lodge resorts). All of the table service restaurants offer great food, however, these are our favorites!
Olivia's Café, located at Disney's Old Key West Resort, is open daily for brunch between 7:30 AM to 2:00 PM and dinner between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM. We feel Olivia's is an extremely underrated table service restaurant that has both great food and a laid back but unique atmosphere. Olivia's is described as “hearty home cooking with a taste of the Florida Keys at this hidden gem.” If you look around the restaurant, you will see hundreds of framed photos of guests visiting Disney World throughout the past decades, which is a cool detail and definitely makes this restaurant feel homey.
At my most recent dinner experience at Olivia's, a friend ordered the Southernmost Buttermilk Chicken entrée and described it as one of the best fried chicken dishes she'd ever had. I personally enjoyed the West Indian Tofu and Coconut Curry entrée which had a lot flavor but wasn't too spicy.
Olivia's also has a variety of food allowing everyone in your group to find something they'd enjoy, including prime rib, shrimp scampi, and a cheese and charcuterie entrée. The great service, laid back atmosphere, and delicious food makes Olivia's one of our top 3 Disney resort table service restaurants.
Ale & Compass is located inside Disney's Yacht Club Resort which is located steps away from Disney's BoardWalk area , a quarter-mile promenade of unique nightlife, restaurants, and bars. Ale & Compass is a more upscale dining experience but offers a variety of delicious food and drinks at a relatively low cost.
Ale & Compass is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner between 7:30 AM and 11:00 AM, 11:45 AM to 2:00 PM, and between 5:00 PM and 9:00 PM. Although it may look fancy on the inside, Ale & Compass actually has a lot of different food options that don't break the bank. The most expensive item on the dinner menu is a $36 New York Strip steak dinner which comes with delicious truffle fries, house-made steak sauce, and a Watercress salad. Our server highly recommended the Cabernet-braised short ribs which were also a big hit with our group. We also love the chicken pot pie which has a flakey crust and the rolls.
As previously mentioned, the location of Ale & Compass is another reason why we love this restaurant besides the delicious food and atmosphere. If you're looking to continue the fun after dinner, you can simply walk outside to the BoardWalk to enjoy ice cream, additional drinks at one of several bars, or simply a nice stroll around the BoardWalk. You can read more about the BoardWalk and the various restaurants and lounges in our Disney Boardwalk restaurants guide .
Our favorite table service restaurant has to be Sanaa, located at Disney's Animal Kingdom Resort . This resort has amazing and unique African and Indian foods and is located within a beautiful location right outside the Sunset Savanna. That's right, you can spot giraffes, zebras, birds, and other animals roaming around right outside the windows as you dine. Sanaa offers lunch between 11:30 AM and 3:00 PM and dinner between 5:00 PM and 9:30 PM. There is also a Kuamsha Breakfast which does not require reservations, however, we specifically chose Sanaa as our favorite table service restaurant due to the lunch and dinner options.
If you make the wise choice to dine at Sanaa, the Indian-style Bread Service appetizer is a MUST do. This service comes with your choice of five breads or Naan (as well as gluten-free and vegan bread upon request) with nine accompanying dipping sauces ranging in various flavors. This bread service alone is worth dining at Sanaa, but their entrees are also delicious.
Overall, the location and animal viewing, beautiful atmosphere, and unique foods made Sanaa an easy choice for our favorite table service restaurant at a Disney World resort.
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Find discount Walt Disney World tickets here!
Buying tickets from Get Away Today is easy and convenient since all their tickets are sent electronically. You can take their vouchers and head straight to the gate without needing to wait in any ticket booth lines. They also offer layaway plans so you can pay off your vacation over time.
Next up are our favorite Disney World resort restaurants that offer character dining experiences. Please note that not all resort restaurants have character meet and greets at each meal, and some are only open during specific meals. However, reserving at least one character meal is a great idea, especially with children, as it is a very convenient way to meet characters without having to spend time in line at the parks to meet various characters.
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is one of my favorite resorts for so many reasons, one of which is their ‘Ohana restaurant located on the second floor of the main lobby, known as the Great Ceremonial House. ‘Ohana is open for breakfast between 7:30 AM and 12:15 PM and dinner between 3:30 PM and 10:00 PM. Although character dining only occurs during breakfast, it is such a fun experience for the whole family. Guests get to meet Stitch, Lilo, Mickey, and Pluto while taking photos and receiving autographs. There is also a very cute “conga line” that periodically goes through the restaurant where children can play instruments and dance along with Mickey and friends.
In addition to the character experiences, the food is also delicious! It is “family style” where you can order as much food as you'd like, so definitely come hungry. Their pineapple-coconut bread is one of our favorites, along with the delicious POG juice, which combines orange, passion fruit, and guava juice.
If you're lucky enough to get a table by the window, you can get some great views of the Polynesian's resort pool, along with Cinderella's castle in the background. Overall, this is definitely a great character dining experience we recommend for guests of all ages.
Although you can usually meet Snow White at EPCOT, a fairly rare character greeting is with any of the Seven Dwarves and the Evil Queen. You can meet Grumpy, Dopey, Snow White, and the Evil Queen while dining on delicious food at the Artist Point restaurant at the beautiful Wilderness Lodge Resort.
Artist Point is open for dinner between 4:00 PM and 9:00 PM and offers a three course prix fixe menu with shared appetizers for the table, an entrée of each guest's choice, and shared desserts. There is also a very cool presentation of “The Hunter's Gift to the Queen” dessert, which is a box of chocolate hearts that when opened, leaks out smoke.
During dinner, besides getting to meet and greet with the various characters, there are also a few fun shows that incorporate the beautifully lit trees within the restaurant which give a more modern enchanted woods feel. We really enjoyed the characters, food presentation, and overall atmosphere of Artist Point which makes it another great character dining option at a Disney World resort.
Located on the top of the beautiful Riviera Resort, Topolino's (which translates to Mickey Mouse's Italian name) comes in at number one for our favorite character dining experience at a Disney World resort restaurant. This restaurant has it all amazing food, adorable character meet and greets with your favorite classic Disney characters, as well as breathtaking views from the top of the Riviera Resort. Topolino's is also conveniently located on the Skyliner, which makes it a perfect breakfast option to fuel up before you head to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios for the day.
Similar to ‘Ohana, Topolino's Terrace has family-style character dining during breakfast hours only between 7:30 AM and 12:15 PM. However, they also have an eloquent and French and Italian-inspired dinner served between 5:00 PM and 9:30 PM. After your meal, be sure to step out onto the terrace to enjoy the views of the Riviera Resort's pool and outdoor areas as well as views of the Skyliner and EPCOT.
You can see our full Topolino's Terrace review for everything you need to know about our experience dining here!
This section details our top three favorite quick service restaurants located at Disney World Resorts. Most quick service resort restaurants offer the general same types of foods, however, some have interesting theming, convenient locations, or specialty dishes that we will include below.
Of all of the value-priced resorts, our favorite quick service restaurant is the Everything POP quick service restaurant at POP Century Resort. This resort appears to have the widest variety and best tasting foods of the value resorts which makes it our favorite.
Everything POP is open daily between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM and has something for everyone in the family to enjoy. Our favorite breakfast options include the Loaded Totcho Bowl or Vanilla Pancakes. For lunch and dinner, they serve a variety of burgers, sandwiches, pizza, pasta, and more. For a quick meal at a low cost, POP Century's Everything POP quick service restaurant is our go to option.
Our number two ranked quick service resort restaurant is the Centertown Market located at Disney's Caribbean Beach Resort. This quick service restaurant offers a Latin and Caribbean inspired menu which is unique and tasty. They are open between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM offering guests breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. A couple of our favorite entrée options include the Arroz Mamposteao and the Caribbean Plant-Based sausage, black beans, and rice bowl.
We're headed back to the Polynesian Village Resort for our favorite quick service restaurant – Capt. Cook's, located on the first floor of the Great Ceremonial House. This is one of the smaller quick service restaurants, however there is indoor and outdoor seating near the pool area which we tend to enjoy. More importantly, they arguably have the best food out of all the resort quick service restaurants.
Capt. Cook's is open from 7:00 AM to 11:00 PM daily and has amazing offerings for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Our absolute favorite breakfast is the Tonga Toast, which is banana-stuffed sourdough bread, battered, deep-fried, and dusted with cinnamon sugar. For lunch or dinner, the Pan-Asian Noodles and Vegetables dish is also highly recommended, but anything off their menu you will be sure to enjoy. Additionally, if you are looking for a delicious dessert, you can walk around the corner to visit the Pineapple Lanai stand, which offers various types of DOLE whip.
Lastly, we will list our top three upscale dining experiences you can find at the Disney World resort restaurants. Although these are typically not as unique or interesting as some of the themes and overall atmosphere as the other restaurants, the food is typically top notch and can be a fun date night or special occasion during your trip. Our top three favorites are included below!
Not too surprisingly, the Grand Floridan Resort and Spa has one of our favorite upscale restaurants, Victoria & Albert's. It's always a treat to even walk around the Grand Floridian, yet alone dine there at such a beautiful restaurant. Victoria & Albert's has won numerous awards and accolades including the AAA Five Diamond Award since 2000, Forbes Travel Guide Five Star since 2018, Wine Spectator Best of Award of Excellence, and Florida Trend Golden Spoon Hall of Fame – American Regional award.
The one downside of Victoria & Albert's is the availability to get a reservation as it is only open from about 5:00 PM to 8:00 PM daily, and is a long prix fixe menu dining experience. However, it is easily one of the best and more beautiful Disney World restaurants throughout all of Disney World property.
Another upscale yet rustic resort restaurant is the Yachtsman Steakhouse, located at Disney's Yacht Club Resort. This restaurant is only open for dinner between 5:00 PM and 9:30 PM daily. Similar to the theme of the resort, the New England-style Yachtsman Steakhouse offers fine American dining including steaks, fresh seafood, and more.
Yachtmans Steakhouse's high-quality beef is prepared on an oak-fired grill in their open kitchen, and guests can watch their butchers cut the steaks in the dry-aging room. It truly feels like an upscale dining experience from the moment you walk through the front door.
The California Grill at the Contemporary Resort is our favorite restaurant for special occasions, celebrations, and a truly unique Disney World resort dining experience. The best part about California Grill is the amazing views of the Magic Kingdom. If you time your reservations correctly, you can even watch the fireworks from the restaurant. When the fireworks start, the lights dim as the music is piped into the restaurant, immersing guests into the magic of the night in the comfort of the restaurant.
California Grill is open for dinner each night between 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM and offers an award-winning prix fixe three-course menu with one appetizer, entrée, and dessert. Guests over 21 can also choose from a wide assortment of hand-picked wines, most of which are of course from California. The views are a meal in themselves. Watching sunset and then the fireworks from here is perhaps the most upscale experience you can have at Walt Disney World.
Dining at the California Grill is the quintessential example of fine dining at Disney World which is why it takes the number one spot as our favorite upscale Disney World resort restaurant.
If you haven't explored or stayed at the Port Orleans Resort, I highly recommend it. You truly feel as if you've stepped into the streets of New Orleans, and you can even often spot horse-drawn carriages giving guests rides throughout the property.
More importantly, you can find delicious beignets and other treats at the Scat Cat's Club Café, located inside the main lobby of the Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter.
The Scat Cat's Club Cafe is open daily between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM and is always a standby queue with no reservations or mobile orders. Currently, this restaurant is the only place you can purchase beignets on all of Disney World property (but we're hoping that changes when Tiana's Bayou Adventure opens at Magic Kingdom). They always offer classic Mickey-shaped beignets with various dipping sauces as well as various specialty beignets, which mostly recently were hot cocoa flavored. For those 21 and over, you can also enjoy Baton Rouge Beignets which are made with your choice of Baileys Irish Cream Liqueur, Kahlua Liqueur, or RumChata Liqueur. Scat Cat's Club also serves coffee and other beverages to enjoy.
Another honorable mention and favorite table service restaurant is Whispering Canyon Café, located inside the Wilderness Lodge Resort. This restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner between 7:30 AM and 11:25 AM, 11:30 AM and 2:00 PM, and between 5:00 PM and 10:00 PM. Whispering Canyon offers hearty Western fare including all you can eat skillets and “shenanigans.”
The shenanigans is definitely true, as the restaurant can get pretty rowdy with the servers picking on their guests. During our last visit, our waitress named “Anita Margarita” told us if we needed any ketchup, we had to scream for it!
Once we did, a nearby table brought us every single bottle of ketchup in the restaurant. When the next table needed ketchup, the parade continued and we were responsible for carrying every bottle to the next table. If you are into similar shenanigans as well as hearty western food, this is a great option.
If you haven't heard the good news, Disney World's Disney Dining Plan recently returned on January 9, 2024. If you plan on dining at any of the Disney World restaurants either in the theme parks or at the various resorts, I highly recommend considering the dining plan. We list all of the restaurants included in the 2024 Disney Dining Plans in our Disney Dining Plan guide .
There are two different plans Disney World offers:
The Disney Dining Plan can not only be a great option for groups interested in dining at the various restaurants throughout Disney World but can bring much peace of mind financially while taking on the large task of planning a Disney World vacation.
For more dining recommendations and other ways to save money and help plan your next Disney World vacation, be sure to subscribe to our FREE Mickey Visit newsletter for the most up-to-date Disney World information. This also includes exclusive deals and the lowest ticket prices anywhere. Additionally, make sure to check out our other guides related to dining at Disney World below:
Yes, all Disney World resorts have restaurants. However, the value resorts only have quick service restaurants, or cafeteria-style. These restaurants have a variety of food and drink options at breakfast, lunch, and dinner and are typically open from 7 AM to 11 PM. All Disney World quick service restaurants also sell refillable mugs that can be used for unlimited refills at most Disney resorts including soda, coffee, tea, and hot chocolate. Quick service restaurants do not require reservations and also allow mobile ordering using the My Disney Experience mobile app.
No, you do not have to stay at a Disney resort to eat at the restaurants. No matter where you are staying, you can make a reservation or walk into any Disney World resort restaurant. However, we highly recommend making a reservation at any of the table service or character dining restaurants as they are typically very busy. Additionally, when the parking lots for Disney World resorts are busy and near capacity, security will sometimes require guests to either have a resort or restaurant reservation in order to park at the resort.
No, you cannot eat breakfast at ANY Disney hotel, because some are not open for breakfast. All quick service resort restaurants are open for breakfast, however, some character dining and table service dining restaurants are only open for lunch and dinner. However, you are allowed to dine any Disney hotel, as long as it's open. You are not required to be a Disney resort guest in order to dine at their restaurants. However, reservations to Disney World restaurants are highly recommended due to their popularity.
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I loved Topolino’s amd California Grill! I definitely want to try them all.
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While Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours, most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.
This gondola system offers a bird's eye view as it whisks you and your family away to EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios.
Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland. Read More
Discover a life-size shipwreck, pools, lagoons and more at Stormalong Bay—a 3-acre water wonderland.
Climb the mast and zip down one of the highest hotel waterslides at Walt Disney World Resort. Catch currents on an inner tube in the lazy river, unwind in one of 3 whirlpool spas and relax on the elevated tanning deck. Children can wade into the main pool from a gentle slope and splash about in 2 kiddie pools—including one with a miniature waterslide.
Prefer a more tranquil experience? Explore 3 all-ages quiet pools—each with a whirlpool spa—located throughout Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.
Learn more about recreation at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Savor mouthwatering steaks, seafood and more at this sophisticated, family-friendly restaurant.
Enjoy a workout or indulge in a massage at this full-service fitness center.
Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Read More
Bring your pampered pooch to stay with you at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Here at Walt Disney World Resort, we know that dogs aren’t simply pets—they’re members of your family. And since family is at the heart of everything we do, for a limited time, your furry friends are welcome to join you at select Disney Resort hotels. Let the tail wagging commence!
Note: Limit 2 dogs per room. Restrictions and fees apply.
How to Book Bring your dog along on your upcoming visit by calling 00 800 2006 0809. Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Services for Guests with Dogs During your stay, Best Friends Pet Care can provide assistance with day care and other pet services (fees apply). For details, please call (877) 4-WDW-PETS or (877) 493-9738, or visit bestfriendspetcare.com . Guests under 18 years of age must have parent or guardian permission to call.
Some restrictions on certain pets may apply. Before you arrive, be sure to download the official dog policy PDF .
Consider booking a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and private bedrooms. Read More
Consider booking a Disney Deluxe Villa with just-like-home amenities like a kitchen, washer, dryer and private bedrooms.
When you stay at Disney’s Beach Club Villas , you’ll enjoy the same benefits offered at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort—along with spacious Disney Deluxe Villa accommodations. It’s an outstanding home base for your Walt Disney World vacation.
Discover the Villa Difference Disney’s Beach Club Villas and other Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts offer accommodations with just-like-home touches that go beyond the traditional hotel room.
Choose from 1-, 2- and 3-Bedroom Villas—as well as Cabins and Bungalows at select Resort hotels—with the following features:
A little more than you need? Disney Deluxe Villa Resorts also feature Deluxe Studios, which feature a kitchenette and sleeper sofa—a great option for smaller travel parties and shorter stays.
Reservations and Rates Check availability and nightly rates at Disney’s Beach Club Villas.
The "Hey Disney!" voice assistant experience features tons of character fun plus a helpful host, who can order you extra towels and answer lots of your park questions.
Guests staying in Club-level rooms and suites are eligible for personalized vacation-planning support.
Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app. Read More
Simplify your arrival, access your room and discover a world of fun with this helpful app.
Be sure you have the latest version of the My Disney Experience app to enjoy these handy features during your stay.
Check In and Check Out with Ease
Enjoy a simplified arrival at your Disney Resort hotel! Use the app to begin the check-in process , view your room number and even unlock your door .
At the end of your stay, there’s no need to stop by the Front Desk if you have a valid payment card on file or a zero-dollar balance on your account. Instead, check out of your room via the app by visiting My Reservations or your Hotel Account.
Plan, Play, Dine and Unwind
There are many more ways to enhance your stay! With the app, you can:
And that’s only the beginning!
Learn more about the My Disney Experience app .
Available for iPhone®, iPad® and smartphones for Android™. Message, data and roaming rates may apply. Availability subject to handset limitations and features may vary by handset or service provider. Coverage and app stores not available everywhere. If you’re under 18, get your parents’ permission first. Apple, the Apple logo, iPhone, and iPad are trademarks of Apple Inc., registered in the U.S. and other countries. App Store is a service mark of Apple Inc. Android and Google Play are trademarks of Google Inc .
Plan ahead and save time in line for select attractions and experiences! Guests staying at Disney Resort hotels or other select hotels can purchase Lightning Lane passes—and choose experiences—up to 7 days in advance of their stay.
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W hen visiting Walt Disney World, you’ll face many different hotel options. Choosing the best Disney resort hotel for your family can be difficult, because there are so many themes, amenities, restaurants, and activities to consider. All of the resorts are convenient to any of the theme parks, but you may want to stay in one particular area of the resort.
Here are the EPCOT resorts within Walt Disney World to consider. Have you stayed at any of these hotels? Which is your favorite?
See information about the Magic Kingdom hotels here.
I am a former member of the Disney Parks Moms Panel and have been on some complimentary press trips at Walt Disney World, but all opinions are my own. This post contains affiliate links and a purchase/click through one of these links may result in a commission paid to us at no cost.
When booking your Walt Disney World vacation, consider purchasing through our affiliate Get Away Today . They offer great prices on tickets and can book many hotels.
Why stay at an epcot resort.
Because all guests to any Disney resort hotel have access to Disney transportation, all of the parks are easily accessible from any resort. However, I especially love to stay in the EPCOT Resort area because we love dining in EPCOT’s World Showcase in the evenings. Staying in that area lets us quickly return to our hotel room when we are done for the night.
When staying at Disney’s Boardwalk, the Yacht and Beach Club, and the Swan and Dolphin, you’ll also be able to walk to the Boardwalk restaurants and entertainment area easily. Between that and EPCOT, as well as the resort restaurants, your family will have lots of easy dining options.
With the addition of the Skyliner, the EPCOT resorts can easily access Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation, and Disney’s Pop Century. This is especially helpful if you want to dine in these areas.
The Boardwalk Inn is a deluxe Disney resort and DVC property offering several room types. You’ll find standard views, water views, garden views, and club-level rooms. Rooms at the Boardwalk provide comfortable beds, a coffee maker, a refrigerator, a hairdryer, and complimentary WiFi. Many also have a pull-out bed that can be used for a fifth person in the room.
At the Boardwalk Inn, you’ll be able to take advantage of similar amenities that you’ll find at the other deluxe resorts, including a pool with waterslide, surrey bike rentals, tennis courts, an arcade, a self-service laundry room, valet parking, and a fitness center. Disney’s Fantasia Gardens mini golf course is within walking distance.
At the Boardwalk Inn, you’ll find several restaurants. These include the following:
The Flying Fish: A recently-renovated restaurant that offers seafood and steak. It’s within the signature restaurant category, so there is a minimum dress code.
AbracadaBar: a magic-themed lounge with a fun cocktail menu.
Trattoria al Forno: Offering authentic Italian cuisine.
Big River Grille & Brewing Works: a kid-friendly microbrewery and restaurant.
The Cake Bake Shop is coming soon.
There are also several different Boardwalk quick service locations. These include the Boardwalk Bakery, Boardwalk Joe’s Magnificent Margaritas, Ample Hills Creamery, a Funnel Cake cart, and a pizza window. These are great for a quick snack or drink while exploring the Boardwalk area.
When staying at the Boardwalk Inn, you’ll be within walking distance of both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Friendship boats are also available to take you to both parks. To get to the Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom, you can take one of the resort buses.
Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club are adjacent to each other and share amenities. Rooms at the resorts have different decor but are similar in terms of layout. Of all of the EPCOT Resorts, we prefer to stay at the Beach Club because we love the amenities and the proximity to EPCOT’s World Showcase (through the International Gateway entrance).
Of all of the resort’s amenities, our favorite is the shared 3-acre pool area – Stormalong Bay Water Park. It offers a sandy-bottom pool, a regular pool, a lazy river, three jacuzzis, and a 230-foot water slide. There are activities and games run by the pool each day – you can get a daily schedule from the resort.
Other amenities include the Ship Shape Health Club, offering fitness equipment, spa services, and salon services, merchandise shops (in each resort), a concierge, a business center (in the Yacht Club), complimentary WiFi, tennis courts, volleyball, jogging trails, campfire activities, movies under the stars, and more.
Restaurants at the Yacht Club include:
The Ale & Compress Restaurant and Lounge: Offering traditional New England Cuisine
The Crew’s Cup Lounge: offering appetizers, entrees, and drinks
The Market at Ale & Compass: quick service grab and-go food and counter service
The Yachtsman Steakhouse: a signature steakhouse
Restaurants at the Beach Club include:
Cafe May Cafe: Offers a character breakfast each morning featuring Minnie and Friends, and a seafood buffet each evening (no characters attend the dinner)
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop: an old-fashioned ice cream and soda shop offering burgers, grilled cheese, soup, sandwiches, and ice cream.
Beach Club Marketplace: located at the back of the Beach Club gift shop with grab-and-go food and prepared foods.
Hurricane Hanna’s Waterside Bar and Grill: A poolside bar and grill at Stormalong Bay with light lunch, drinks, and cocktails.
Martha’s Vineyard: A small bar offering light bites, appetizers, and drinks.
Guests at the Disney Yacht and Beach Club Resorts can walk to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you’d prefer not to walk, Friendship Boats travel between Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. Bus transportation is available to Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom.
Disney’s Swan and Dolphin properties (and the Swan Reserve) are a bit different from the other Disney resorts. They aren’t owned and operated by Disney, but do offer some benefits. You may also find that you can get or use hotel rewards points when staying at one of these two resorts.
Here are some of the benefits that guests of the Swan and Dolphin can take advantage of:
Other amenities at the resort include a huge grotto pool area with waterfalls and a water slide, two lap pools, a kiddie pool, a spring pool, four whirlpools, a white sand beach, watercraft rentals, water volleyball, sand volleyball courts, an arcade, basketball, ping pong, tennis courts, a Mandara spa, two health clubs, and a playground.
The resort also offers Camp Dolphin. Reservations are required, and they accept kids 5-12.
There are 23 restaurants and lounges between the Swan and Dolphin.
The signature restaurants on the property are:
Casual restaurants are:
The resort also offers three quick serve spots:
These two resorts are extremely comfortable, with nice rooms and good views. However, they are a bit more “corporate” than the other Disney hotels. So you may prefer a more “magical” theme for younger kids.
The Caribbean Beach Resort is the lone Disney moderate resort on this list. It’s not in the Boardwalk area, and you’ll need to take a bus to the four theme parks and Disney Springs. As a moderate resort, however, it’s usually less expensive so it can be a great way to save money.
When booking a room at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, you’ll have several different room options. Standard rooms, water/pool view rooms, preferred rooms, and rooms accommodate a fifth guest. Pirate-themed rooms are also available. These rooms have two double beds. The resort offers five different villages based on Caribbean islands – Jamaica, Aruba, Trinidad, Barbados, and Martinique.
Amenities at the resort include free WiFi, the pirate-themed Fuentes del Morro Pool, and five leisure pools. There’s also a self-laundry facility.
There are a few restaurants located on the property. These include the following:
Sebastian’s Bistro: This table service restaurant offers casual Caribbean-themed food.
Centertown Market: Looking for a quick bite? Stop in for a casual quick service entree. Grab-and-go items are also available.
Banana Cabana Pool Bar: Get drinks (including signature cocktails) and light meals at this pool bar.
Spyglass Grill: Located in the Trinidad village, this grill offers casual food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
The post EPCOT Resorts For Your Disney Family Vacation appeared first on Family Travel Magazine .
by Morgan Flaherty | Jun 25, 2024 | Walt Disney World , Walt Disney World Resorts
A complete guide to where you can find each Disney World gingerbread house for the holiday season, along with what to expect at each.
It’s hard to find a better word to describe the holidays at Walt Disney World than simply “magical.” The festive season brings beautiful decorations to each of the four parks and all the hotels, along with exciting entertainment and special treats. At Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can enjoy Disney Jollywood Nights, while Magic Kingdom brings back Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party . And, of course, the EPCOT International Festival of the Holidays kicks off at the park in late November.
One of the most memorable annual events that happens in Disney World year after year for the holidays is the gingerbread houses. These magnificent displays can be found in several of Disney World’s Resort hotels, with the most famous located in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. We’re sharing your complete guide to this exciting part of the holidays, including where you can find each of the gingerbread displays for 2024,
Each year, several of the Disney World Resort hotels celebrate the holiday season with a massive gingerbread house or display. These beautiful structures take months of planning and preparation, with the culinary team at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa even beginning to mix the dough for their life-size gingerbread house in the spring.
The gingerbread displays are not all the same. The largest, and most well-known, is at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. Here you can find a life-size gingerbread house where you can purchase assorted holiday treats, including gingerbread shingles. Other hotels form their own themes and designs for their gingerbread display. For example, in years past , we’ve seen a gingerbread giraffe at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, along with a gingerbread BoardWalk Deli at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.
While the 2024 locations have not been confirmed, in 2024, you could find gingerbread displays for the holiday season at these locations:
At Disney World, the Gingerbread House at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be returning for a 25th year. In 2023, the life-size house featured white chocolate candy canes, edible snowflakes, sugar poinsettias, and over 10,000 pieces of gingerbread. You’ll also find an 85-pound chocolate Santa!
Over at Disney’s Yacht Club, the 2023 gingerbread display was the first for the resort! Pastry Chef de Cuisine Michael Craig used the blueprints from the real lighthouse located outside, right on Crescent Lake to create the display. And at the Holiday Pop-Up Shop, you can grab new offerings such as Lighthouse Fudge.
Next door at Disney’s Beach Club Resort, the life-size Holiday Carousel gingerbread display also returned in 2023, inspired by Ducktales.
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge – Jambo House featured gingerbread displays of giraffes and zebra in 2023. The displays were created by Pastry Chef Lexy Ross, who created the baby “ginger-affe,” Ginger, and gingerbread zebra, Debra, with gingerbread, sugar dough, and modeling chocolate. Y
Over at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, the gingerbread display returned for its 12th year from in 2023 . The display’s creation was led by Pastry Chef Jeff Barnes and can be found on the fourth floor of the resort.
There’s also a pretty impressive gingerbread display you could find at EPCOT during the EPCOT Festival of the Holidays in 2023 at the American Adventure.
The display recreated classic American monuments like the Lincoln Memorial and Martin Luther King, Jr. Memorial. Plus, it will have gingerbread versions of EPCOT favorites like The American Adventure building with Regal Eagle Smokehouse: Craft Drafts & Barbecue, and a Festival Marketplace. You’ll be able to find six hidden Mickeys as well!
These are some of the most frequently asked questions about the gingerbread displays at Walt Disney World Resort.
Typically the gingerbread displays will go up at the beginning of Disney World’s holiday season. For 2023, that was November 11th. However, we have seen some structures go up a bit earlier or a bit later in years past. Typically the displays will last through December of the year, and get taken down in early January.
You don’t! You’ll find plenty of people visiting these displays who aren’t staying at the respective hotel — especially for Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
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What Disney+ Resort is Closest to Epcot?
When planning a vacation to the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, one of the essential questions to answer is which resort is closest to Epcot. As one of the four theme parks operated by Disney, Epcot is a must-visit destination for any Disney fan. In this article, we will explore the Disney resorts that are nearest to Epcot, so you can make an informed decision for your next Disney vacation.
Top 5 Disney Resorts Closest to Epcot
After analyzing the distance between Epcot and each of the Disney resorts, we have compiled a list of the top 5 resorts that are closest to Epcot. Here are the results:
Resort | Distance to Epcot |
---|---|
0.4 miles (6-minute walk) | |
Disney’s Beach Club Resort | 0.7 miles (12-minute walk or 3-minute boat ride) |
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort | 0.7 miles (12-minute walk or 3-minute boat ride) |
Disney’s Swan Resort | 0.8 miles (10-minute walk or 5-minute bus ride) |
Disney’s Dolphin Resort | 0.8 miles (10-minute walk or 5-minute bus ride) |
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: The Closest Resort to Epcot
According to our research, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is the closest Disney resort to Epcot, with a distance of 0.4 miles. This deluxe resort is located on the BoardWalk, a waterfront promenade that offers stunning views of Epcot’s iconic Spaceship Earth. Guests of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn can take a leisurely 6-minute walk to Epcot’s main entrance.
Other Resorts within Walking Distance
While Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is the closest resort to Epcot, there are three other resorts that are within walking distance:
• Disney’s Beach Club Resort : Located on the shores of Crescent Lake, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is a 0.7-mile walk or a 3-minute boat ride to Epcot’s main entrance. • Disney’s Yacht Club Resort : This luxurious resort is also located on the shores of Crescent Lake and offers a 0.7-mile walk or a 3-minute boat ride to Epcot. • Disney’s Swan Resort : As part of the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel complex, Disney’s Swan Resort is a 0.8-mile walk or a 5-minute bus ride to Epcot. • Disney’s Dolphin Resort : This resort is also part of the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel complex and offers a 0.8-mile walk or a 5-minute bus ride to Epcot.
Convenience and Amenities
When choosing a resort based on its proximity to Epcot, consider the convenience and amenities offered. Here are some key factors to keep in mind:
• Transportation : While walking is always an option, some resorts may offer shuttle buses or boat transportation to and from Epcot. • Parking : If you plan to drive, consider the parking options and fees at each resort. • Dining and Shopping : Resorts with on-site restaurants and shops may offer convenient dining and shopping options for those visiting Epcot. • Recreational Activities : Some resorts may offer recreational activities, such as pools, fitness centers, or arcades, that can provide entertainment for guests.
In conclusion, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is the closest Disney resort to Epcot, with a distance of 0.4 miles. However, four other resorts – Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Swan Resort, and Disney’s Dolphin Resort – are also within walking distance or offer convenient shuttle bus or boat transportation to and from Epcot. When planning your next Disney vacation, consider these factors to choose the resort that best suits your needs and preferences.
Key Takeaways
• Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is the closest resort to Epcot, with a distance of 0.4 miles. • Four other resorts – Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Swan Resort, and Disney’s Dolphin Resort – are within walking distance or offer convenient transportation to Epcot. • When choosing a resort, consider factors such as transportation, parking, dining, and recreational activities.
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Delight that special person in your life with a personalized in-room surprise—such as vibrant flowers and fun gifts! Read More
Delight that special person in your life with a personalized in-room surprise—such as vibrant flowers and fun gifts!
Whether celebrating a birthday, anniversary, first visit or romantic occasion, In-Room Floral & Gifts are sure to bring joy.
Choose from beautiful gift baskets, snack baskets, themed balloon bouquets and enchanting floral arrangements—all designed to celebrate your special moments while visiting Walt Disney World Resort.
Explore great gifts and surprises —or call (888) 814-8718 to learn more!
Order In-Room Floral & Gifts Order online anytime for delivery to any Disney Resort hotel and other select locations.
Deliveries are available 7 days a week. For same-day delivery, please order by noon.
Get around Walt Disney World Resort with ease using these convenient, complimentary transportation options. Read More
Get around Walt Disney World Resort with ease using these convenient, complimentary transportation options.
Disney Skyliner Transportation This new gondola system offers a bird’s-eye view while connecting Guests to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios from select Disney Resort hotels. A Disney Skyliner station is conveniently located at the International Gateway to EPCOT—just a quick stroll away from Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.
Learn more about Disney Skyliner transportation.
Disney Bus Transportation Most areas throughout Walt Disney World Resort—including theme parks, water parks, Disney Resort hotels and the Disney Springs area—are accessible by complimentary bus transportation. The bus stop at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort is located a short walk from the lobby.
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The "Hey Disney!" voice assistant experience features tons of character fun plus a helpful host, who can order you extra towels and answer lots of your park questions.
Dash about in Disney style with Minnie Van service Connected by Lyft for travel within Walt Disney World Resort. Please note: this service is separate from your vacation package and subject to additional charges.
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Explore parking options at this Disney Resort hotel. Read More
Explore parking options at this Disney Resort hotel.
Services and fees are subject to change without notice.
Learn more about parking at Walt Disney World Resort.
A 24-hour ATM is located near the Front Desk.
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Visit the Front Desk to exchange foreign currencies.
Fax, copy, print, ship and more at the Business Center, located just inside the Convention Center.
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Planning a meeting? Read More
Planning a meeting? The Convention Center at Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts offers 73,000 square feet of flexible meeting and function space for events large and small. Between meetings, your team can rent motor boats, relax on white-sand shores and enjoy mouthwatering cuisine.
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When you stay at a Disney Resort hotel, enjoy peace of mind knowing that your room will be thoroughly cleaned prior to your arrival and will receive full housekeeping service daily for the duration of your stay.
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Enjoy 24-hour self-service laundry rooms near Admiral Pool, plus dry cleaning and valet laundry services.
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Send pre-stamped postcards and letters from the Front Desk, as well as pre-packed, pre-labeled packages. Read More
Send pre-stamped postcards and letters from the Front Desk, as well as pre-packed, pre-labeled packages. Stamps are available for purchase at Beach Club Marketplace.
Learn more about mail services at Walt Disney World Resort.
Visit the Club Level Concierge to purchase tickets, make dining reservations and more. Read More
Visit the Club Level Concierge to purchase tickets, make dining reservations and more.
Learn more about Resort Concierge services at Walt Disney World Resort.
Guests staying in Club-level rooms and suites are eligible for personalized vacation-planning support.
Get toned at Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness —a full-service facility featuring equipment, massages and more.
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Delight in nautical touches and sophisticated amenities at Disney's Yacht Club Resort—a grand, Martha's Vineyard-themed hotel at Walt Disney World Resort.
Sleeps up to 5 Adults. Check Availability. Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service. Secured key access to the club-level lounge, serving refreshments 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Access to Disney Signature Services—for personal assistance with your vacation. Call: 407-939-7777.
Delight in the formal grace of a grand New England-style yacht club at this lakeside hotel. Relax in the inviting elegance of a plush lobby replete with nautical touches, explore the whimsical Stormalong Bay and rent a variety of watercraft from Bayside Marina. Sharing many amenities with its pastel-toned sister, Disney's Beach Club Resort, Disney's Yacht Club Resort is walking distance to ...
Now £341 on Tripadvisor: Disney's Yacht Club Resort, Orlando, Florida. See 3,081 traveller reviews, 2,515 candid photos, and great deals for Disney's Yacht Club Resort, ranked #103 of 373 hotels in Orlando, Florida and rated 4 of 5 at Tripadvisor. Prices are calculated as of 25/08/2024 based on a check-in date of 01/09/2024.
Disney's Yacht Club Resort is a New England nautical -themed resort at Walt Disney World. [ 1] First opened on November 5, 1990, it is one of the several Epcot Area Resorts. Disney's Yacht Club is located next to a sister resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort, and across Crescent Lake from Disney's BoardWalk Resort.
Disney's Yacht Club Resort Overview When Walt Disney World was looking for an architect to design the Yacht Club, they found the perfect candidate in noted architect, Robert A. M. Stern. Stern was known for his designs of East Coast seaside homes and he brought his expertise of the New England seashore hotels of the late 1800's to the Yacht Club.
This review of Disney's Yacht Club Resort includes great tips and info. for your visit, including the best things to do at the hotel!
Disney's Yacht Club Resort and Disney's Beach Club Resort are inspired by historic seaside hotels; their nautical theme and beach imagery is everywhere. Joined together and within walking distance to Epcot, they share many amenities, including Disney's most beloved resort pool, Stormalong Bay.
The Beach Club Resort and its sister, Disney's Yacht Club, are two of my family's favorite hotels at Disney World. You really can't beat the ideal location, family friendly restaurants, and deluxe amenities at these Walt Disney World resort hotels. But, you may be wondering which of the two deluxe resorts you should book for your upcoming vacation.
We've compared Disney's Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts to help you decide which is the best choice.
From January through May 2025, some Guest rooms at Disney's Yacht Club Resort will be under refurbishment. While Guests may see or hear construction work during daytime hours, most Resort hotel amenities will remain available.
Disney's Yacht Club Resort is an excellent choice if you want to stay in a luxury hotel which is close to all of the Walt Disney World parks and within easy walking distance of Epcot. The Yacht Club is located on the shores of Crescent Lake next to it's sister resort Disney Beach Club. Both resorts have a very upscale feel and look.
The resort shares Stormalong Bay, Disney's fantasyland of a pool complex, and all recreational areas and facilities with its sister property, Disney's Beach Club Resort.
Book the Disney's Yacht Club Resort or your next hotel stay with AAA. Members can plan their trip, search for travel deals, and discounts online.
As you browse the Disney resort options, Disney's Yacht Club Resort needs to be on your list. This magnificent resort is in a great location with fantastic dining options, transportation to and from the parks, and plenty of entertainment choices.
Rooms and Suites with Club-Level Service. Secured key access to the club-level lounge, serving refreshments 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Access to Disney Signature Services—for personal assistance with your vacation. Call: 407-939-7777.
Disney's Yacht Club Resort. Costco Member Reviews. 4.6/5 (56 Reviews) Costco Star Rating. 4.0 Star Hotel. 1700 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Orlando, FL, 32830, United States. Delight in the formal grace of a grand New England-style yacht club at this lakeside hotel. Check Price & Availability.
Disney Yacht Club Resort, Deluxe Rooms, New England style on Crescent Lake, 3-acre Water Park style area and 230 foot water slide, lazy river.
Disney's Yacht and Beach Club resorts share the same pools and they are, quite possibly, the best pools at any Disney resort! Stormalong Bay is an incredible 795,000-gallon pool with sandy bottoms and a (smaller) lazy river.
Hotels near Disney's Yacht Club Resort, Orlando on Tripadvisor: Find 844,572 traveler reviews, 428,731 candid photos, and prices for 779 hotels near Disney's Yacht Club Resort in Orlando, FL.
Disney's Beach Club Resort and its sister property, Disney's Yacht Club Resort, share access to Stormalong Bay, which offers top-notch poolside fun for the whole family. Both resorts have the distinct feel of a beach in an otherwise landlocked resort thanks to sand-bottomed pools, a lazy river, a pirate ship and a wicked waterslide, among other ...
Disney's Yacht and Beach Club Resort. My favorite of the Disney resorts is the Beach Club Resort, which is the sister resort to the Yacht Club Resort. While the themes of these hotels are ...
Another upscale yet rustic resort restaurant is the Yachtsman Steakhouse, located at Disney's Yacht Club Resort. This restaurant is only open for dinner between 5:00 PM and 9:30 PM daily. Similar to the theme of the resort, the New England-style Yachtsman Steakhouse offers fine American dining including steaks, fresh seafood, and more.
4. Disney's Beach Club Resort. Located right next to Disney's Yacht Club Resort, Disney's Beach Club Resort is a playful seaside escape reminiscent of a New England beach town. Many of the ...
Delight in nautical touches and sophisticated amenities at Disney's Yacht Club Resort—a grand, Martha's Vineyard-themed hotel at Walt Disney World Resort.
Walt Disney World Beach and Yacht Club Disney's Beach Club and Yacht Club are adjacent to each other and share amenities. Rooms at the resorts have different decor but are similar in terms of ...
Guests at Disney's Yacht Club Resort enjoy such amenities as concierge services and complimentary transportation around Walt Disney World Resort.
At Disney World, the Gingerbread House at Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa will be returning for a 25th year. In 2023, the life-size house featured white chocolate candy canes, edible snowflakes, sugar poinsettias, and over 10,000 pieces of gingerbread. You'll also find an 85-pound chocolate Santa! Disney's Yacht and Beach Club ...
Resort. Distance to Epcot. Disney's BoardWalk Inn: 0.4 miles (6-minute walk) Disney's Beach Club Resort: 0.7 miles (12-minute walk or 3-minute boat ride)
For assistance with your Walt Disney World vacation, including resort/package bookings and tickets, please call (407) 939-5277. For Walt Disney World dining, please book your reservation online. Guests at Disney's Yacht Club Resort enjoy such amenities as concierge services and complimentary transportation around Walt Disney World Resort.