Disney's Boardwalk Inn
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas is an elegant, turn-of-the-century resort located directly on the BoardWalk entertainment district. This comprehensive guide covers the standard hotel rooms, spacious DVC Villas, and the recently refurbished Luna Park Pool. Discover the unparalleled convenience of walking to both EPCOT and the Disney Skyliner station for quick access to Hollywood Studios, plus all the dining and nightlife just steps from your room.
Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
I find Disney’s Boardwalk to be a whimsical waterfront resort with the added perk of being within walking distance to Epcot. It’s an elegant, saltwater taffy-colored hotel offering standard hotel rooms and vacation villas. It comes with all the Disney World Deluxe Resort perks but has limited casual dining options.
What makes it great
Within walking distance to Epcot and Disney Skyliner
A dining and entertainment district is just steps away
Recently refurbished pool
Rooms
Standard Rooms have 2 queen-size beds & 1 single day bed or 1 king-size bed & 1 single day bed or 1 king-size bed or 2 queen-size beds.
Most rooms sleep up to 5 guests plus 1 child up to age 3 ina crib.
Room Categories
Resort View
Standard View
Water View
Resort View Club Level
Deluxe Room Club Level
Garden Room Club Level Access
2 Bedroom Suite Club Level
Sonora VP Suite - Club Level
Deluxe Studio - Standard View
Deluxe Studio - Garden or Pool View
Deluxe Studio - Boardwalk View
1 Bedroom Villa - Standard View
1 Bedroom Villa - Garden or Pool View
1 Bedroom Villa - Boardwalk View
2 Bedroom Villa - Standard View
2 Bedroom Villa - Pool View
2 Bedroom Villa - Boardwalk View
3 Bedroom Grand Villa
Room Rates
Standard Room and Studio Amenities
Hairdryer
Complimentary high-speed WiFi Internet access
Coffee maker
Toaster (studios only)
Microwave (studios only)
In-Room Safe
Flat-Panel Television
Beverage Cooler
Handheld steamer
Patio or Balcony
1, 2 and 3 Bedroom Villa Amenities
Complimentary high-speed WiFi Internet access
Hair Dryer
DVD Player
Flat-Panel Televisions
Coffee and tea set up
Toaster
Iron & Ironing Board
Patio or Balcony
Washer & Dryer
Full-Size Refrigerator
Dishwasher
Microwave
Dishes, glasses, and utensils
Stove and oven
Pots and pans
Whirlpool Tub
Club Level
Guests choosing Club Level accommodations at the Innkeeper’s Club receive personalized concierge service and lounge with continental breakfast, midday snacks and evening wine, hors d’oeuvres, cordials and desserts.
Hotel Services
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Bell Services
Meeting Space
Business Center
Online Check-in
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme park parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Pool and recreation
Luna Park Pool
2 Leisure Pools
Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf
BoardWalk Campfire Activities
Movie Under the Stars
Surrey Bike Rentals
Dining Options
There are several table service restaurants nearby on the Boardwalk. Quick-service dining options are limited at this resort.
Theme Park Transportation
Walk to Epcot in about 10 minutes.
Disney Bus Service Approximate Travel Times
Magic Kingdom 16 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom 18 minutes
Disney Skyliner Approximate Travel Time
Disney’s Hollywood Studios 23 minutes
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Disney's Beach Club Resort
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is one of the best-located Deluxe resorts, offering a charming New England theme and the incredible Stormalong Bay, a 3-acre water playground. This complete guide details the rooms that sleep up to five, the popular character dining at Cape May Cafe, and the convenience of being just a short walk to EPCOT’s World Showcase entrance, the Disney Skyliner, and a boat ride from Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is a charming, New England-style hotel located just outside of Epcot. The pools, lagoons and spas of Stormalong Bay make this property unique. Sharing many amenities with its more formal sister, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort is within walking distance to Epcot, Disney Skyliner and a convenient boat ride to Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort
What makes Beach Club Great
Walk to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Walk to Disney’s Boardwalk
Walk to Skyliner station
Water-park style pool
Popular dining options like Beaches and Cream, Yachtsman Steakhouse, Cape May Cafe
1, 2, and 3-bedoom villas available
Club Level Concierge available at additional cost
Onsite character breakfast daily
Most rooms sleep 5
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Most standard hotel rooms are 380 square feet and come with 2 queen beds and a sofa bed.
There are a handful of rooms that do not have the sofa bed.
If you need the sofa bed, let me know so I can enter a request for you. Requests are not guaranteed but Disney does try hard to honor this one in particular.
If you have a party of 5, you will almost certainly get a room with a sofa bed automatically, but I would still note it on the reservation.
Rooms have full size balconies, patios (ground level) or what I call mini-balconies. These are balconies that have just enough room for one person to stand on. If you prefer a full-size balcony or a patio, this should be entered as a request. (Requests cannot be guaranteed).
Standard View - Views of Disney's Beach Club Resort Rooftop or Parking Area, 1 King Bed Or 1 King Bed And 1 Day Bed Or 2 Queen Bed Or 2 Queen Bed And 1 Day Bed. Sleeps up to 5 Adults
Garden or Woods View - Views of Disney's Beach Club Resort Gardens. 1 King Bed Or 1 King Bed and 1 Day Bed Or 2 Queen Bed Or 1 Queen Bed and 1 Day Bed Or 2 Queen Bed and 1 Day Bed. Sleeps up to 5 Adults
Water View - Views of Stormalong Bay, Crescent Lake or Quiet Pool. 1 King Bed Or 1 King Bed and 1 Day Bed Or 2 Queen Bed Or 1 Queen Bed and 1 Day Bed Or 2 Queen Bed and 1 Day Bed Sleeps up to 5 Adults
Deluxe Room - Views of Stormalong Bay, Crescent Lake, Quiet Pool or Parking Area. Deluxe Room is larger than a Standard Room. 2 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa. Sleeps up to 6 Adults
Standard View Club Level - Views of Disney's Beach Club Resort Rooftop or Parking Area. 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa Or 1 King Bed Or 2 Queen Bed. Sleeps up to 4 Adults
Garden View Club Level - Views of Disney's Beach Club Resort Gardens or Parking Area. 2 Queen Bed. Sleeps up to 4 Adults.
Water View Club Level - Views of Stormalong Bay, Crescent Lake or Quiet Pool . 1 King Bed Or 2 Queen Bed Or 1 Queen Bed And 1 Day Bed Or 2 Queen Bed and 1 Day Bed Sleeps up to 4 Adults.
1 Bedroom Suite with Club Level Access - Views of Disney's Beach Club Resort Gardens, Woods or Crescent Lake. 1 King Bed and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa. Sleeps up to 4 Adults
2 Bedroom Suite - Club Level Access. Views of Disney's Beach Club Resort Gardens, Woods or Crescent Lake. 1 King Bed And 2 Queen Bed and 1 Day Bed. Sleeps up to 7 Adults
Nantucket Junior Suite Club Level - Views of Crescent Lake, Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Stormalong Bay. 1 King Bed. Sleeps up to 2 Adults
Newport Presidential Suite - Club Level. Views of Crescent Lake, Epcot, Disney's BoardWalk Inn and Stormalong Bay. 1 King Bed And 2 Double Bed And 1 Day Bed. Sleeps up to 7 Adults
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Check-In – 4:00 PM
Check-Out – 11:00 AM
Overnight self parking (fees apply)
Valet parking (fees apply)
Bell services
Complimentary theme park transportation
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Self-service laundry rooms
Spa services
Fitness Center
Salon Services
Poolside Cabanas Rentals
Hotel gift shop
Arcade
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Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers a number of dining selections for breakfast, lunch and dinner. You can also enjoy the dining options at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Boardwalk, and Epcot.
Disney’s Beach Club Resort has the most dining option available nearby than any other Disney World hotel, including two that are very popular even with locals: Beaches and Cream and Cape May Cafe.
Restaurants at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop -
Satisfy your sweet tooth with old-fashioned ice-cream favorites or savor delicious hot-off-the-grill items at this 50s-themed eatery.Cape May Cafe - Start your day with a hearty buffet breakfast or visit later for signature seafood and turf dishes.
Beach Club Marketplace - Enjoy a hot, made-to-order meal, grab a quick bite or stock up on snacks before heading out for a day of fun in the parks.
Ale & Compass Restaurant - Set your sights on Yankee comfort food and seafood classics at this cozy gastropub-inspired eatery.
Ale & Compass Lounge - Navigate your way to a cozy lounge with a great wine list, light snacks and overstuffed chairs
Martha’s Vineyard - Gather for a glass—or bottle—of wine at this casual lounge reminiscent of a New England beach house.
Yachtsman Steakhouse - Premium dry-aged beef, fresh seafood and signature drinks at this New England-style steakhouse.
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Complimentary Disney World buses operate between Disney’s Beach Club and the Walt Disney World Theme Parks.
Buses arrive approximately every 20 minutes
Complimentary Boat service to, Disney’s Boardwalk, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Travel times:
Magic Kingdom: 12 minutes
Epcot: 8 minutes (limited service)
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 9 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park: 12
Disney Springs: 12 minutes
Disney Minnie Van service is also available.
Club Level guests can book Disney Minnie Van service to/from Orlando International Airport.
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Stormalong Bay, located at Disney's Beach Club Resort, offers a unique and expansive water park experience that stands out among hotel pools. This three-acre aquatic playground features a sandy-bottom lagoon, a lazy river, and a thrilling pirate ship water slide that towers at 230 feet, providing endless fun for all ages. Guests can relax on the beach-inspired surroundings or take a refreshing dip in the large pool. With its charming design, shaded cabanas, and proximity to the attractions of Epcot, Stormalong Bay serves as a perfect retreat after a day of adventure, making it a highlight of any stay at the Beach Club.
Best Rooms at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
In this video I show you my recommended rooms to request here at Beach Club. I also show you where to find the Standard, Resort and Water Views at this hotel. Check out the video here:
Room Rates
Room rates at Disney’s Beach Club Resort vary by season, weekday vs. weekend, overall availability, and the number of adults staying in the room. Contact me for an exact price.
Additional fees:
An additional fee applies if you park a vehicle overnight at the hotel. Parking at the theme parks is complimentary.
Disney charges a fee for having additional adults (ages 18+) staying in the room. This fee does not apply to the first two adults.
Room Amenities
Rooms & Suites
AMENITIES
Coffee Maker
In-room safe
Hairdryer
Iron & ironing board
Telephone with voicemail
Mini fridge
Free WiFi
Pool Towels
Television
Coffee & Tea Set Up
Patio or Balcony
Rooms & Suites with Club-Level Service
AMENITIES
Includes all the amenities above, plus:
Access to Concierge service at the Stone Harbor Club
Complementary health club access
Complimentary newspapers in Club Level lounge Personalized Front Desk and Guest Services
Secured key access to the club-level lounge, serving refreshments 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily
Club Level
Club Level service at Disney’s Beach Club Resort provides access to concierge services at the Stone Harbor Club, located top floor of the hotel. When you stay in a Club Level room, you’ll receive personalized front desk and concierge services and secured key access to the club-level lounge. The Stone Harbor Club Lounge offers complimentary refreshments and beverages (including beer and wine) 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily.
Stone Harbor Club
See my Easy Guide to Club Level at Walt Disney World for full details about this experience.
Hotel Services
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Want to plan your vacation to Disney’s Beach Club Reosrt? I can help! Contact me today!
Disney's Yacht Club Resort
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort offers 19th-century New England elegance and is perfectly situated in the Epcot Resort Area. This guide covers the resort's sophisticated rooms and dining, including the signature Yachtsman Steakhouse. Learn about the unrivaled convenience of walking to Epcot and Hollywood Studios and get all the details on Stormalong Bay, the massive 3-acre pool complex shared with Beach Club Resort.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
This upscale lakeside hotel is within walking distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Its theme is inspired by the 19th-century yacht clubs found on the New England coastline. Disney’s Yacht Club shares a pool with Disney’s Beach Club Resort, one of the most kid-friendly resort pools on Disney World property.
How does Disney’s Yacht Club compare to Disney’s Beach Club? They are actually the same resort. One wing is Beach Club, and the other is Yacht Club. While they do have separate check-in areas, they share the same restaurants and pools.
Beach Club is a little closer to Epcot and Skyliner while Yacht Club is closer to the walking path to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the boat dock.
What makes it great
Walk or boat ride to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
Some of the best suites on Disney property
Stormalong Bay Pool Complex is a mini-water park complete with a sand-bottom pool, 50 ft. water slide, whirlpools, and a pool bar.
Often participates in offers and discounts.
Rooms
Most rooms sleep 5 guests plus 1 child up to age 3 in a crib. Standard Rooms have 2 Queen-Sized Beds or 1 King-Sized Bed or 1 Queen-Sized Bed
Room Categories
Standard View - sleeps 5
Resort View - sleeps 5
Water View - sleeps 5
Resort View Guaranteed King - sleeps 2
2 Bedroom Suites
Club Level standard rooms (see below)
Room Amenities
Hairdryer
Mini-fridge
In-Room Safe
Free WiFi Service
Coffee maker
Suites – Mini Refrigerator
Iron & Ironing Board
Telephone with voicemail
Club Level
Guests choosing Club Level accommodations at the Regatta and Stone Harbor Clubs receive personalized concierge service and lounge with continental breakfast, midday snacks and evening wine, hors d’oeuvres, cordials and desserts.
Hotel Services
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Bell Services
Meeting Space
Business Center
Online Check-in
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme park parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Stormalong Bay - Sand-bottom pool at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
Pool and recreation
Disney Movies Under the Stars
Health Club
Tennis
Jogging Trail
Stormalong Bay – Aquatic playground with themed waterslide, leisure pools, whirlpools, children’s pools, and pool bar.
Dining Options
SIGNATURE DINING
Yachtsman Steakhouse - Specializing in oak-grilled steaks, poultry, seafood, vegetarian entrées and more for dinner.
CASUAL TABLE-SERVICE DINING
Ale & Compass Restaurant – Breakfast, lunch and dinner offering Yankee comfort food and seafood classics
Beaches & Cream Soda Shop – Lunch and dinner featuring snacks and a classic American soda fountain.
DISNEY CHARACTER DINING
Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast at Cape May Cafe – All-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast
buffet.
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
The Market at Ale & Compass - Hot and cold offerings with grab and go convenience.
OTHER DINING OPTIONS
Lounges - serving appetizers
Room service
Nearby Disney’s BoardWalk Entertainment District offers additional dining
options.
Theme Park Transportation
Boat service to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and other select Disney Resort hotels.
Disney’s Yacht Club is within walking distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The walk is approximately 1 mile.
Bus service to Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs.
Skyliner is also available to Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
Boat Service Approximate Travel Times
Epcot - 14 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 49 minutes
Skyliner Service Approximate Travel Times
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 48 minutes
Disney’s Riviera Resort - 17 minutes
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - 39 minutes
Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort - 48 minutes
Bus Service Approximate Travel Times
Disney’s Magic Kingdom Park - 51 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park - 53 minutes
Travel times include waiting for transportation to arrive, travel time, additional stops, and walking to your destination’s entrance.
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Address
1700 Epcot Resorts Blvd, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Animal Kingdom Lodge Guide: Savanna View, Jambo House vs. Kidani & Dining
Experience the magic of Africa at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge! This comprehensive guide covers both the main resort, Jambo House, and the Disney Vacation Club section, Kidani Village. Learn which Savanna View rooms offer the best chance to see giraffe and zebra at dawn, and explore the resort's award-winning dining—from buffets at Boma to signature dishes at Jiko – The Cooking Place and Sanaa.
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge is one of my favorite resort hotels at Walt Disney World, offering guests an experience like no other. Prepare to be captivated by the immersive atmosphere, incredible wildlife encounters, and award-winning dining experiences.
Welcome to Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge, starting with the lobby you’ll notice it’s filled with authentic museum pieces, artwork, and wood carvings.
This one-of-a-kind hotel offers a unique experience that will transport you to Africa. You will absolutely forget that you’re in Central Florida. Yes, Animal Kingdom Lodge is in a remote location on Disney World property. It is sometimes criticized in guidebooks for being far away from the parks. But that’s the point!
It needs to be relaxing and tranquil, away from Disney theming, traffic, park noise, and fireworks. Being able to escape the theme park atmosphere while on vacation is a good thing, and only Animal Kingdom Lodge does that.
What makes Animal Kingdom Lodge great
One-of-a-kind hotel experience
Close to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park
Some of the best restaurants at Walt Disney World
Jiko: The Cooking Place has earned state and national awards for culinary excellence
11,000 Square foot pool surrounded by a wildlife savanna
One of the most beautiful hotels at Disney World with incredible attention to detail
Wildlife savanna is home to over 200 animals and birds
Spacious rooms ranging from standard hotel rooms to deluxe villas
Club Level Concierge is considered one of the best on Disney property by Disney experts
1, 2, and 3-bedroom villas have kitchens, living rooms and washer/dryers
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There are 3 main room categories
Resort View - the most economical. Offering standard views of parking areas, rooftops, and/or landscaping.
Water View - overlooks the pool area. While the pool is pretty at night especially, these rooms can be noisy. Early morning power washing of the pool furniture starts around 6 am.
Savanna View - views of the wildlife safaris.
All rooms have a private balcony with 2 chairs.
If you book a Savanna View room, I recommend waking up at dawn for at least one day on your vacation, grabbing coffee, and sitting on your balcony.
The animals are very active at dawn. You’ll see the animals playing with each other and some even calling out to other animals.
Once the sun comes up, the animals begin to chill out.
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Valet parking
Bell desk
Concierge
Wildlife tours
Room service
Laundry (self-service)
Free Wi-Fi
ATM
Dry cleaning
Conference rooms
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Jiko – The Cooking Place: Vibrant spices, crackling wood-burning ovens and boutique South African wines transport you to the heart of Africa.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Dinner
Menu Type: A la carte
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Casual Attire | Footwear Required | No Swimsuits | No Beachwear | No Flip-Flops | No Sandals | No Shorts | Shirt Required
Boma – Flavors of Africa: Resembling a lively African marketplace, this restaurant features all-you-care-to-enjoy buffets at breakfast and dinner.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Breakfast | Dinner
Menu Type: Buffet
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Casual Attire | Footwear Required | No Swimsuits | No Beachwear | Shirt Required
Sanaa: Located at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village, experience the art of African cooking with Indian flavors as exotic animals roam the Sunset Savanna before you.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner
Menu Type: A la carte
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Recommended
Dress Code: Casual Attire | Footwear Required | No Swimsuits | No Beachwear | Shirt Required
The Mara: Named for a river flowing through Kenya and Tanzania, this savanna-like space serves classic entrees and grab n' go favorites. Catch breakfast, lunch or dinner — not to mention a glimpse of the monorail gliding by overhead!
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Snacks
Menu Type: A la carte
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Not Required
Dress Code: Casual Attire | Footwear Required | Shirt Required
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Complimentary Disney World buses operate between Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge and the Disney World Theme Parks.
Buses arrive approximately every 20 minutes.
Travel Times:
Magic Kingdom: 12 minutes
Epcot: 11 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 9 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Park: 3
Disney Springs: 16 minutes
Disney Minnie Van service is also available.
Club Level guests can book Disney Minnie Van service to/from Orlando International Airport.
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has one of the best pools on Disney property. By design, you’re surrounded by the hotel where you can see the thatched roof of the lobby, foliage and the animal savana is right there too. You can literally hoop out of the pool and see what the animals are doing.
Also nearby is a pool bar, whirlpool, and a play area for little ones.
Scenic overlook at Jambo House
Standard hotel room
Pool at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Boma at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Victoria Falls Lounge - Animal Kingdom Lodge
Scenic walkways at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
1 Bedroom Villa - Jambo House
1 Bedroom Villa - Jambo House
Jiko at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Quick service restaurant at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Good to know
A common misconception is that you need to get to Animal Kingdom Park early in the morning to see the animals.
But by the time Animal Kingdom Park opens, the animals are already done playing.
The best time to view the animals in the theme park is late afternoon, as the sun begins to set. But if you’re staying at the Lodge, pre-dawn is the absolute best time.
Standard rooms at Animal Kingdom Lodge have 2 queen beds and sleep up to 4 people.
Most other Deluxe Resorts at Disney World can sleep up to 5 guests so Animal Kingdom is unique in that way (Disney’s Wilderness Lodge too).
Room Layouts
Club Level at Animal Kingdom Lodge
When you stay Club Level at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, you'll be greeted by a personalized check-in and luggage assistance.
But the best perk is having access to the Kilimanjaro Club Lounge. Here, you’ll enjoy continental breakfast each morning, refreshing snacks and evening hors d'oeuvres and desserts.
You can also enjoy complimentary beer, wine, water and soft drinks. Club Level guests receive an array of unparalleled benefits to enhance their stay. The dedicated Club Level concierge service is at your disposal, ensuring that every moment of your vacation is seamless and magical.
As a Club Level guest, you can also arrange Disney Minnie Van Service from Orlando International Airport (for a fee.) This service is available exclusively to Club Level guests.
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Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge Address
2901 Osceola Pkwy, Kissimmee, FL 34747
Phone: (407) 939-1936
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Disney's Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a Deluxe Resort and Villa property celebrating the grandeur of America's Great Northwest. This guide covers the rustic elegance of the main lodge, the waterfront Copper Creek Cabins, and the spacious Boulder Ridge Villas. Get details on the boat transportation to Magic Kingdom, the themed Copper Creek Springs Pool, and signature dining like the character meal, Storybook Dining at Artist Point, and the rowdy Whispering Canyon Cafe.
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort and Villas
This Disney Deluxe Resort and Disney Deluxe Villa Resort celebrates the grandeur of the glorious national parks of America’s Great Northwest. Located in the Magic Kingdom Resort Area, Wilderness Lodge is one of the most themed resorts on Disney property. Enjoy the harmony of natural elements while you sample the beauty and majesty of the great outdoors.
What makes it great
Close to Magic Kingdom by bus or boat
Excellent theme and attention to detail
Kid-friendly pools
One of the more economical hotels in the Deluxe category
Rooms
Standard rooms at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge sleep 4 with 2 queen beds. Studios, villas, and cabins are also available. Boulder Ridge Villas sits right next to the main lodge and is made up of studios and villas. Copper Creek is a wing within the main lodge that houses studios and villas. Copper Creek rooms cost slightly more than Boulder Ridge and feel a little more updated than Boulder Ridge.
Room Categories
Resort View - sleeps 4
Water View - sleeps 4
Fireworks View - sleeps 4
Standard View - sleeps 4
Resort View Club Level - sleeps 4
Deluxe Room - Club Level - sleeps 6
Deluxe Studios Boulder Ridge - sleeps 5
Deluxe Studios Copper Creek - sleeps 4
1 Bedroom Villa - sleeps 4
2 Bedroom Villa - sleeps 8
2 Bedroom Villa Lockoff - sleeps 9
3 Bedroom Grand Villa - sleeps 12
Cascade Cabin - sleeps 8
Room Rates
Standard Room and Studio Amenities
DVD Player
Coffee Maker
Complimentary High-Speed WiFi Internet Access
Coffee & Tea Set Up
Mini-Refrigerator
Bathrobes
Hair Dryer
Iron & ironing board
Flat-Panel Television
Patio or Balcony
Paper plates and bowls, plastic utensils (studios only)
Toaster (studios only)
Microwave (studios only)
Villa Amenities
Toaster
Mirror TVs in all Bathrooms
Coffee Maker
Washer & Dryer
Complimentary High-Speed WiFi Internet Access
Hair Dryer
Coffee & Tea Set Up
Pots & Pans
Microwave
Patio or Balcony
Dishes
Glasses and utensils
Pool Towels
Flat-Panel Television
Stove and oven
Iron & ironing board
Full-size refrigerator
Dishwasher
Club Level
Guests choosing Club Level accommodations at the Old Faithful Club receive personalized concierge service and lounge with continental breakfast, midday snacks and evening wine, hors d’oeuvres, cordials and desserts.
Hotel Services
Laundry and Dry Cleaning
Bell Services
Meeting Space
Business Center
Online Check-in
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme park parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Pool and recreation
Movie Under the Stars
Jogging Trail
Wilderness Lodge Campfire Activities
Copper Creek Springs Pool – Heated pool surrounded by nature with a themed 67-foot waterslide.
Boulder Ridge Cove Pool – Heated pool surrounded by nature near Boulder Ridge
Dining Options
TABLE-SERVICE DINING
Storybook Dining at Artist Point with Snow White – Meet Disney Characters from the beloved Disney film Snow White and the Seven Dwarfs while enjoying a delicious, fanciful dinner the whole family will love.
Whispering Canyon Café – For a rowdy, rootin’ tootin’ good time, round up the whole family for hearty western skillets and shenanigans aplenty.
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
Geyser Point Bar & Grill - Poolside eatery featuring explorer-worthy bites, trails-end spirits and stunning views of Bay Lake.
Roaring Fork - Start your day with popular breakfast dishes, like eggs, Mickey waffles, sausage, donuts and more. At lunch and dinner, stop by for savory burgers, sandwiches and flatbreads.
Theme Park Transportation
Although Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a Magic Kingdom Area resort, it’s not on the monorail. To make up for this, Disney gives this hotel priority bus service, meaning that buses arrive and depart here more frequently than other hotels. Boat service to Magic Kingdom is also an option.
Bus Service Approximate Travel Times
Magic Kingdom - 34 minutes
Epcot - 43 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 41 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom - 47 minutes
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (Settlement) - 26 minutes
Boat Service Approximate Travel Times
Magic Kingdom 38 minutes
Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort (Settlement) - 36 minutes (Check the operating schedule at the resort)
Approximate travel time includes waiting for the bus to arrive at the resort and travel time.
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Recent Articles
Best Rooms at Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter Resort
Want a Port Orleans French Quarter room that's quiet, convenient, or has a perfect river view? We’ve analyzed every one of POFQ's 1,000 rooms to find the best of the best. We'll show you how to book a room that feels like a 'Preferred View' (without paying for one!), plus the specific buildings to request if you need to be closest to the single bus stop, pool, and dining. Read on to find out the secret to maximizing your stay at this beloved Moderate Resort.
In this guide to the best rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort French Quarter I’ll cover the various room categories that are offered, where you can find them, plus answer some frequently asked questions that I get as a Disney travel advisor.
At just 1,000 guest rooms, Port Orleans French Quarter is the smallest resort at Walt Disney World. To put this into perspective:
Port Orleans Riverside has 3,000 rooms
Coronado Springs has nearly 2,000 rooms
Caribbean Beach has just over 1,500 rooms
Smaller means less crowds and shorter walks to hotel amenities like the pool and dining.
Port Orleans French Quarter is one of the best kept secrets at Walt Disney World because:
it’s centrally located on Disney World property
dining, pool, lobby and bus depot are all a short walk
Transportation to and from the theme parks doesn’t get any easier. This is the only Moderate hotel to have just one bus stop.
Port Orleans French Quarter is technically in the Disney Springs Resort Area but it’s located right behind Epcot. Magic Kingdom is less than 10 minutes away by bus.
Complimentary boat service is provided to and from Disney Springs along the scenic Sassagoula River.
Best Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter
There are 7 buildings at Port Orleans French Quarter, each with 3 stories. All have exterior corridors.
Rooms are about 315 square feet and include 2 queen beds, a small table with 2 chairs, a split bath, and a mini-fridge.
POFQ rooms sleep a maximum of 4 guests, rollaway beds are not offered. If you have a 5 guests, look into Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside or Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort as these resorts offer a 5th sleeper option.
What are the room categories at Port Orleans French Quarter?
Garden View
King Bed Room
Pool View (Buildings 2 and 5)
River View (Buildings 1, 2, 5, 6, 7)
Standard View (Buildings 1, 3, 4, 7)
Standard View is the most economical room followed by Garden View. The difference between Standard View and Garden View is minimal and they are often used interchangeably and most guests wouldn’t be able to tell the difference.
Where are the Standard View Rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort?
Standard View rooms are in buildings 1, 3, 4 and 7.
Garden View rooms can be found throughout the resort, in all buildings. The same is true for King Bed rooms.
River View Rooms are located in the buildings along the Sassagoula River in Buildings 1, 2, 5, 6, 7. Boats going to Port Orleans Riverside and Disney Springs pass by frequently. River View rooms in Building 2 might have noise intrusion from the boat horns.
Where You’ll Find Peace and Quiet
If you’re looking for a for a quiet room location, book a Standard View or Garden View room and request buildings 1 and 7. These buildings will have less people walking by and you’re far enough from the DJ playing music at the pool.
I will often request a 2nd or 3rd floor room for my clients when they are looking for quiet and/or privacy. Rooms on the upper floors won’t have as many people passing by.
Most Convenient Rooms at Port Orleans French Quarter
If you wish to be close to the lobby, dining and bus stop, book a Standard or Garden room and request Buildings 3 and 4.
Are there Preferred rooms at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter?
Preferred Rooms are not offered at POFQ. Pool View would be comparable to Preferred View because your room will be right behind the lobby and transportation depot.
Does Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter have elevators?
Yes. Elevators are available in each building.
How to Make a Room Request at POFQ
Disney will not guarantee room requests but Cast Members at the hotel do try hard to honor them.
If you want help making room your requests, start planning with me today, because I have a few strategies that I have learned over the years that may increase your chances of having your request honored. My client’s requests are honored about 80% of the time.
TIP: The best way to increase your chances is to make your request practical and within the category you booked. For example, don’t book a Standard View room and make a request for a room overlooking the river. River View rooms are a bookable category and they cost more than Standard View. Disney probably won’t won’t honor a complimentary upgrade request.
Contact me now so you can get the most out of your stay at Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter Resort! I have plenty of great advice, recommendations and even exclusive offers!
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Recent Updates
Disney's All-Star Sports Resort Guide: Rooms, Bus Times & Review
Score a win for your budget at the affordable Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort! This guide covers everything you need to know about the newly refurbished rooms (including the handy pull-down bed), dining at the End Zone Food Court, and swimming in the two themed pools. Most importantly, learn about the bus system advantage: All-Star Sports is typically the first pick-up and first drop-off on the shared route, saving you valuable time going to and from the parks!
Disney’s All-Star Sports is located near Disney’s Animal Kingdom Theme Park. This Disney World Value Resort celebrates the world of competitive sports, including baseball, basketball, football, surfing, and tennis with giant icons throughout the resort. Let your inner fan loose and enjoy the sporty décor featuring some of your favorite Disney characters.
All-Star Sports Resort Vacation Package
What makes it great
The most economical Disney-owned hotel.
First bus stop in the All-Star Resort complex
Onsite food court
Great choice for youth groups
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Rooms sleep up to 4 guests + 1 child up to age 3 in a crib.
Standard Rooms: Views of the Courtyard, Pool or Parking Area
1 King Bed Or 1 Queen Bed And 1 Queen-Size Table Bed.
Preferred Rooms: Views of the Courtyard, Pool or Parking Area
Close to Cinema Hall, Dining, Shopping and Transportation
1 Queen Bed And 1 Queen-Size Table Bed Or 1 King Bed
Included with each room:
Online check-in
Separate shower/bathtub
TV and cable
Free Wifi
USB Ports
Coffee maker and Disney-branded coffee
Mini-Fridge
Disney-branded soap and shampoo
Ironing amenities
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Luggage delivery service (hourly)
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme parking parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Daily housekeeping upon request
Elevator
ATM on site
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QUICK-SERVICE DINING
End Zone Food Court – burgers, hot dogs, pizza and pasta, as well as smoothies and gelato.
OTHER DINING OPTIONS
Grandstand Spirits Pool Bar – Next to Surfboard Bay Pool.
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Complimentary Disney Bus Service to Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs.
Magic Kingdom - 16 minutes
Epcot - 13 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 13 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom - 5 minutes
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Jogging Trail
Playground
Game Point Arcade
Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort has three pools.
Surfboard Bay is the feature pool at this resort. It has poolside entertainment, a pool bar and a lifeguard on duty.
Grand Slam Pool – Shaped like a baseball diamond, this pool features Goofy on a pitcher’s mound lobbing a stream of water at swimmers.
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Disney’s All Star Music Resort
Harmony and savings strike a chord at Disney's All-Star Music Resort, the most economical way to book a Family Suite that sleeps up to six guests! This guide provides a detailed look at the newly refurbished standard rooms and spacious suites, including prices and amenities like the kitchenette and two bathrooms. Plus, get a tour of the themed sections, the guitar-shaped pool, and the approximate bus travel times to Magic Kingdom and Epcot.
All-Star Music Resort
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort is a Value Category hotel near Disney’s Animal Kingdom theme park. It offers refurbished standard hotel rooms and family suites.
The theme pays homage to some of the world’s most popular music genres, including country, jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, calypso, and Broadway-style show tunes. Large-sized, music-inspired icons outside and subtle song-and-dance surprises inside provide a harmonious setting for music lovers of all ages.
What makes it great
The most economical Disney-owned family suite hotel.
Has both standard hotel rooms and family suites
Newly refurbished rooms and family suites
Some things to consider
It’s in a remote location, far from the theme parks. See Transportation.
Some third-party hotels operating on Disney property have larger rooms, free breakfast, and similar nightly rates. See Drury Plaza Hotel.
This resort is often used by youth groups who are participating in competitions at Walt Disney World.
Room Categories
Disney’s All-Star Music Resort rooms are about 260 square feet. Standard and PReferred rooms have identical floor plans however they vary by location and view. Family Suites are about 525 square feet.
Rooms
Standard Rooms: Views of the Courtyard, Pool or Parking Area 1 Queen Bed And 1 Queen-Size Table Bed.
Preferred Rooms: Views of the Courtyard, Pool or Parking Area
Close to Melody Hall, Dining, Shopping, and Transportation. 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen-Size Table Bed
Family Suite: Views of the Pool, Courtyard, or Parking Area. 1 Queen Bed and 2 Queen-Size Pull-Down Beds, 2 Bathrooms, and a Kitchenette.
Standard and Preferred rooms sleep up to 4 guests + 1 child up to age 3 in a crib. Family suite can sleep up to 6 + 1 child up to age 3 in a crib.
Room Rates for Disney’s All-Star Music
The average nightly rate for All-Star Music is $220 for a Standard Room. Preferred Rooms cost slightly more. Family suites average $390 per night.
Standard Room Amenities
Online check-in
Separate shower/bathtub
TV and cable
Free Wifi
USB Ports
Coffee maker and Disney-branded coffee
Mini-Fridge
Disney-branded soap and shampoo
Ironing amenities
Family Suite Amenities
Microwave
Free Wifi
Hairdryer
Kitchenette
Iron & Ironing Board
Full-size refrigerator
2 Full bathrooms
Coffee maker
Hotel Services
Luggage delivery service (hourly)
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme parking parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Daily housekeeping upon request
Elevator
ATM on site
Pool and recreation
Movie Under the Stars
Jogging Trail
Playground
Note’able Games Arcade
Calypso Pool – The main pool at All-Star Music. It’s guitar-shaped and home to a colorful fountain of the Three Caballeros, a nearby pool bar, and a lifeguard on duty.
Piano Pool – Strike a chord at the Piano Pool, a grand piano-shaped swimming hole featuring black and white keys.
Dining Options
Intermission Food Court – A menu of options from grab-and-go items to hot entrees and desserts.
Singing Spirits Pool Bar – Poolside specialty cocktails, beers, and wines by the Calypso Pool.
Theme Park Transportation
Complimentary Disney Bus Service to Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs.
Magic Kingdom - 47 minutes
Epcot - 43 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 42 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom - 38 minutes
Approximate travel time includes waiting for the bus to arrive at the resort and travel time.
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Disney's Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is the premier Value resort for large families, famous for its spacious, themed Family Suites that sleep up to six guests. This full guide provides a tour of the Finding Nemo, Lion King, and Cars sections, including a look at the Big Blue Pool (the largest at WDW) and dining at Landscape of Flavors. Learn how to use the convenient Disney Skyliner gondola system for quick access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is located near Disney’s Hollywood Studios and ESPN Wide World of Sports. You’ll be surrounded by the artistry, enchantment, and magic of Walt Disney and Pixar movies at this Walt Disney World Resort Value category hotel. From delightfully themed family suites to wondrously detailed courtyards, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort “draws” you and your family in to become a part of some of your animated favorites.
Disney Cars section at Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort - lobby and check-in desk
What makes it great
Most spacious value rooms on Disney World property.
On the Disney Skyliner Transportation System.
Heavily themed to Disney movies and characters
The flagship Value category hotel at Walt Disney World
Family suites have interior hallway access to rooms
Rooms
There are 2 categories of rooms here: standard rooms and family suites. Family Suites come in 3 themes: Lion King, Disney Cars, and Finding Nemo. Standard rooms are themed to the Disney classic, The Little Mermaid. The majority of rooms at this hotel are family suites.
Room Categories
Little Mermaid Standard Rooms - about 270 square feet and come with 2 queen beds or 1 king bed. Rooms have views of the courtyard, pool or parking area. There’s no way to reserve a king bed room specifically but I can enter a request for one. Sleep 4 adults + 1 child up to age 3 in a crib.
Family Suites - about 560 square feet with views of the courtyard, pool, or parking area. Finding Nemo-themed family suites cost more than other suites because they are closest to the feature pool, lobby, and dining. You have the option of booking an unassigned family suite where Disney will choose a room for you, based on availability. You’ll save money by going with this option, however, odds are you will get a room in Lion King. Each section of Art of Animation has its own pool, plus there’s a main pool for the entire resort. However, Lion King does not have a pool, it has a playground instead. You can, of course, use any pool at the resort no matter which section you’re staying in. Family suites sleep up to 6 guests. Family suites at Art of Animation Resort have 1 Queen Bed 1 Double-Size Sleeper Sofa and 1 Double-Size Table Bed.
Room Rates
Room Amenities
Little Mermaid Standard Room
Coffee maker
Iron & Ironing Board
Beverage Cooler
Hairdryer
Internet - Free WiFi Service
In-Room Safe
Telephone with voicemail
Suites Amenities
Hairdryer
Internet - Free WiFi Service
Microwave
Kitchenette
Iron & Ironing Board
2 Bathrooms
Beverage Cooler
Coffee maker
In-Room Safe
Club Level
Not offered at Art of Animation Resort
Hotel Services
Luggage delivery service (hourly)
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme parking parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
The Cars section has its own pool complete with traffic cone cabanas.
The Big Blue pool, the main pool at Art of Animation, is the largest pool at Walt Disney World.
Pool and recreation
The Big Blue Pool – Just keep swimming in the largest hotel pool in all of Walt Disney World Resort.
Cozy Cone Pool – Check in and chill in cone-shaped cabanas around the Cozy Cone Motel swimming pool!
Flippin’ Fins Pool – Make a splash in the Flippin’ Fins Pool - or let your cares drift away as you lounge poolside.
Movie Under the Stars
Jogging Trail
Righteous Reef Playground
Pixel Play Arcade
Dining Options
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
Landscape of Flavors – 4 Disney themed dining areas and 5 quick service counters.
OTHER DINING OPTIONS
The Drop Off Pool Bar – Pool bar located at the Big Blue Pool
Theme Park Transportation
Modes of transportation and approximate travel times
Disney Bus Service Approximate Travel Times
Magic Kingdom - 46 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Animal Kingdom - 42 minutes off-peak
Disney Skyliner Approximate Travel Times
Epcot - 24 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 20 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - 14 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Riviera Resort - 18 minutes off-peak
Approximate travel time includes waiting for the bus to arrive at the resort and travel time.
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort Address: 1850 Animation Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort Vacation Package and Disney World Tickets
Easy vacation packages for Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort at Walt Disney World
Disney’s Caribbean Beach is a moderate-category hotel that offers gondola service to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This is one of the most popular hotels at Disney World because many of the rooms can sleep up to 5 and it’s close to 2 theme parks. Caribbean Beach is often the first hotel to sell out when a room discount or offer becomes available. This resort is made up of 5 individual, 2-story buildings. Each of the buildings surrounds a lake known as Barefoot Bay.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Club Resort Vacation Package
What’s included
Accommodations at Caribbean Beach Resort
Disney World theme park tickets
Early park admission
Lightning Lane advance purchase
Disney Water Theme Park admission on check-in day
Expert planning tips from me so you have more fun
Price-monitoring (you’ll always get the best offer)
Disney Resort transportation
Standard parking at Walt Disney World Theme Parks and Disney Springs
Overnight self-parking at hotel
Taxes
What makes Disney’s Caribbean Beach great
Closest Moderate Category hotel to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
Home to the Skyliner hub
Some rooms can sleep 5 guests with a child-size fold-down bed
The resort recently underwent major refurbishment
Multiple dining options on site
An overhead gondola system called Disney Skyliner provides transportation to both theme parks. Skyliner is not only is it efficient, but it’s also fun!
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Rooms at Caribbean Beach are accessed via exterior corridors.
Rooms at the end of most corridors have an additional side window that allows for more natural light, these are known as, “corner rooms.
There are no elevators at Caribbean Beach Resort, so if stairs are an issue, you should make a request for a ground-floor room above all else.
Heat and air conditioning come from a built-in unit under the window.
Rooms can accommodate up to 4-5 people. Those that can sleep 5 are known as 5th sleeper rooms. They come with a child-size fold-down bed that is ideal for a child up to age 9.
Room Categories at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Standard View - views of parking areas or landscaping. 2 queen beds.
Standard View 5th Sleeper - views of parking areas or landscaping. 2 queen beds + 1 child-size pull-down bed.
Water or Pool View - views of the lake or a pool. 2 queen beds
Water or Pool View 5th Sleeper- views of the lake or pool. 2 queen beds + 1 child-size pull-down bed.
Preferred Rooms - close to Old Port Royale. Views of lake, pool, landscaping, or parking area. 2 queen beds or 2 queen beds + 1 child-size pull-down bed.
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ATM
Bell services
Self-service laundry
Gift shop
24 hour security
Free internet
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CASUAL TABLE-SERVICE DINING
Sebastian’s Bistro – salads, sandwiches, burgers steak, and seafood entrées.
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
Spyglass Grill – featuring American fare with a Caribbean twist for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Centertown Market – Fast-casual restaurant with an indoor street market vibe and flavorful Latin- and Caribbean-inspired breakfast and dinner menus.
Centertown Market Grab & Go – A convenient market for fast meals on the go—from salads, sandwiches, and snacks to bakery items, specialty coffee, smoothies, and a variety of bottled beverages.
OTHER DINING OPTIONS
Banana Cabana – Walk-up bar that offers tropical sips and quick bites. Island Markets – Snack stations in select villages throughout the resort.
Pizza delivery service
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Caribbean Beach has multiple bus stops around the resort to minimize walking, but stopping at each takes time.
Disney Skyliner will take you to Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and Disney’s Riviera Resort.
If you’re afraid of heights, I wouldn’t recommend Caribbean Beach.
Approximate travel times to Disney World theme parks once underway:
Magic Kingdom 10 minutes
Epcot: 20 minutes
Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 5 minutes
Disney’s Animal Kingdom: 9 minutes
Disney Springs: 8 minutes
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Fuentes del Morro Pool – Spanish fortress-themed pool with two waterslides and whirlpools
5 Leisure Pools
Caribbean Beach Campfire Activities
Disney Movies Under the Stars
Volleyball Jogging Trail Playground
Each village has a smaller pool nearby for convenience. They each have their own bus depot as well so it’s not necessary to walk to Old Port Royale.
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort address:
1114 Cayman Way, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
If you have any questions about this resort or about Disney Skyliner, use the comments section below, or contact me here.
For over 12 years Darren Wittko has been helping people save money at Walt Disney World as both, a travel writer and a travel advisor with Magical Vacations Travel. He’s featured in the Unofficial Guide to Walt Disney World as a Best of the Best Disney Travel Agent. Darren resides in Celebration, FL.
Coronado Springs Resort Guide: Gran Destino Tower, Club Level & Rooms
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is a Spanish-themed Moderate resort packed with Deluxe amenities. This full guide covers the entire resort, from the convention center villas to the modern Gran Destino Tower. Find details on the upgraded, central air-conditioned rooms, the Club Level lounge, and dining options like the upscale Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood rooftop restaurant. Plus, get a tour of the feature pool, The Lost City of Cibola, and bus transportation times.
With over 2,000 guest rooms and 64 suites, Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is one of the larger hotels at Walt Disney World.
But this moderately priced, Spanish-themed resort is also one of the best-kept secrets at Disney World: it’s a terrific value for your money! There are two sections of the resort: The Village and Gran Destino Tower
What makes Coronado Springs great
Upgraded softgoods (bed linens, towels, pillows)
Central air conditioning (other moderates have window units)
Only moderate resort that has fitness centers
Multiple dining options from casual to fine dining, including an upscale rooftop restaurant and several bars/lounges
Only moderate resort to offer Club Level and suites
Tower rooms are accessed via interior hallways
Tower rooms have bath upgrades like rain showers
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Gran Destino Tower
Standard View - views of the parking area
Water View - views of the lake and campus
Club Level - high floor, water, and standard views
Suites and deluxe rooms - high floor, water, and standard views.
Gran Destino Tower - Standard View Rooms -Views of the parking area
Gran Destino Tower- Water View Rooms - views of the lake and campus
Most rooms in Gran Destino Tower sleep 4, but there are also a number of suites.
Village Section
Standard View - views of courtyard or parking area. 2 queen beds. Sleeps 4
Water View - views of pool or lake. 2 queen beds. Sleeps 4.
Preferred Room - views of pool, lake, courtyard, or parking area. Close to the convention center and lobby. 2 Queen beds. Sleeps 4.
King Bed - Views of courtyard, or parking area. Sleeps 2.
King Bed Water View - Views of pool or lake. Sleeps 2.
Suites - Executive Suites, 1 Bedroom Suites, courtyard, parking area, or water view. Located near the lobby and convention center.
Club Level at Coronado Springs
Guests choosing Club Level accommodations at the Chronos Club receive personalized concierge service and lounge with continental breakfast, midday snacks and evening wine, hors d’oeuvres, cordials and desserts.
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ATM
Bar(s)
Business Center
Children's Playground
Concierge Desk
Conference Room(s)
Gift Shop/Boutique
Health/Fitness Facility
Free Internet Access
Laundry Facilities (self-service)
Mini Market
Parking (self)
Parking (valet)
Restaurant(s)
Room Service
Shopping
Wedding Services
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Maya Grill: Dine on traditional Mexican fare at this majestic dining spot accented by the welcoming Mayan motifs of fire, sun and water.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Dinner | Snacks
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Recommended
Cuisine Type: Mexican
Toledo - Tapas, Steak & Seafood: Dine on tapas, seafood and steak in style at this Spanish haven inspired by surrealist art and the 1930's avant-garde.
Meals Served: Dinner
Reservations: Recommended
Cuisine Type: Steak and Seafood
Three Bridges Bar & Grill: Delight in sandwiches, shared plates, salads and more at this relaxing lakefront restaurant.
Meals Served: Dinner | Snacks
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Not Required
Cuisine Type: American
Café Rix: Grab a smoothie or specialty coffee and take your pick from a selection of pastries, yogurts, fruits and salads, along with gelato.
Air-Conditioned
Meals Served: Snacks
Reservations: Not Required
Cuisine Type: American
El Mercado de Coronado: Savor an array of American and international dishes, including pancakes, pizza and rice bowls. Salads, sandwiches and desserts are available to go.
Meals Served: Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner | Snacks
Children's Menu Available
Reservations: Not Required
Cuisine Type: American | International
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Bus Service to Walt Disney World Resort Theme Parks, Water Parks, and Disney Springs. There are multiple bus stops around the resort to minimize walking.
Approximate travel times from Coronado Springs
Magic Kingdom: 6 minutes
Epcot: 6 minutes
Hollywood Studios: 8 minutes
Animal Kingdom: 5 minutes
Disney Springs: 10 minutes
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The Lost City of Cibola Pool — Sun worshipers of all ages will dig the Dig Site, a sprawling pool complex with a Mayan ruins theme.
3 Leisure Pools — For the less adventurous, 3 leisure pools
are located at each village – the Casitas, Ranchos, and Cabanas.Coronado Springs Campfire Activities Movie Under the Stars
Volleyball
Jogging Trail
Playground
Gran Destino Tower
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort - Gran Destino Tower
Coronado Springs - Typical Standard Room in the Village.
Club Level at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort - Village Section
Typical Standard Room in Gran Destino Tower
Club Level at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Disney's Pop Century Resort Guide: Skyliner, Refurbished Rooms & Cost
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is the best-value hotel at WDW, thanks to its direct access to the Disney Skyliner gondola system. This full guide provides a tour of the resort, including the themed pools and Everything POP Dining court. Get an in-depth look at the fully refurbished rooms, which feature the convenient pull-down table bed and modern amenities to see if this retro-themed hotel is the right choice for your next vacation.
Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is located is Disney’s Hollywood Studios and ESPN Wide World of Sports. It’s themed to the fads of the 1950s through the 1990s with catchphrases, toys, and dances that captivated the world through the decades. From 30 ft. tall yo-yos and Play-Doh to Rubik's Cube and rollerblades, Pop Century Resort is a fun hotel with convenient transportation options and is close to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and the ESPN Wide World of Sports complex.
What Makes it Great
Excellent transportation options
Onsite foodcourt
3 pools
Refundable rate
Kids up to age 17 stay free
Room Categories
Rooms at Disney’s Pop Century Resort come in 2 categories: 1 king bed or 1 queen bed and 1 table bed. The table bed is similar to a murphy bed that folds up and down.
Standard Room
Pool View
Preferred Room
Preferred Pool View
Rooms sleep up to 4 guests plus 1 child up to age 3 in a crib.
Room Rates
The average nightly rate for Pop Century is $223 for a Standard Room. Preferred and Preferred Pool Views are typically not much more per night.
Room Amenities
Online check in
Separate shower/bathtub
TV and cable
Free Wifi
USB Ports
Coffee maker and Disney-branded coffee
Refrigerator
Disney-branded soap and shampoo
Ironing amenities
Club Level
Not offered at Disney’s Pop Century
Hotel Services
Luggage delivery service (hourly)
24-hour front desk
Vacation planning services
Free overnight parking
Free theme parking parking
Disney Giftshop
Grab-and-go pantry
Daily housekeeping
Airport shuttle (additional cost)
Non-smoking hotel
Pool and recreation
Movie Under the Stars
Jogging Trail
Playground
Arcade
Pop Century has 3 pools:
The Hippy Dippy Pool is centrally located, has a nearby pool bar, close to the food court, and has lifeguards on duty.
There are 2 additional pools located at both ends of the resort. These are smaller pools, conveniently located in the outer-most buildings.
Dining Options
QUICK-SERVICE DINING
Everything POP Dining – Food court style set up with made-to-order meals. The menu ranges from hearty comfort food and healthy fare to grab-n-go options.
Theme Park Transportation
Disney Bus Service Approximate Travel Times
Magic Kingdom - 46 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Animal Kingdom - 42 minutes off-peak
Disney Skyliner Approximate Travel Times
Epcot - 24 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Hollywood Studios - 20 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - 14 minutes off-peak
Disney’s Riviera Resort - 18 minutes off-peak
Approximate travel time includes waiting for the bus to arrive at the resort and travel time.
Pop Century Address: 1050 Century Dr, Lake Buena Vista, FL 32830
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Haunted Mansion Hotel Room at Walt Disney World?
The Haunted Mansion - Walt Disney World
Glowing footprints appearing on the ceiling, “Floating” Doom Buggy beds, A sliding bookcase / hidden passage to the bathroom, ghostly apparitions appearing in the mirrors to “follow you home” and of course the infamous Haunted Mansion wallpaper on the bed linens. These were all part of an idea that was being kicked around at Walt Disney World Imagineering back in 2010 but the idea never came to be.
Haunted Mansion Room Concept for Walt Disney World Resort 2010
Haunted Mansion Room Concept for Walt Disney World 2010
The idea was brilliant: take the rooms furthest away from the lobby (the least desirable rooms) at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and give them a magical makeover with a special Disney theme. Port Orleans. Riverside would be the perfect hotel, given that Disneyland’s Haunted Mansion is located in New Orleans Square. And of course, Caribbean Beach would be perfect for Pirates of the Caribbean, which of course did come to fruition.
A survey had been sent out to some guests asking about what type of themed rooms they would like to see at Walt Disney World. Options included a Pirates of the Caribbean room, a Disney Princess room, a health and wellness room, and one based on The Haunted Mansion.
Concept drawing of the proposed Pirates of the Caribbean themed room at Walt Disney World
Actual pirate themed room at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort - Walt Disney World
Too bad the Haunted Mansion concept didn’t win out because there were so many creative ideas in the works. I think the Imagineers would have really had fun designing these rooms, more so than the Royal Rooms that we have now. They’re pretty neat too, though. Another nail in the coffin to the Haunted Mansion rooms is that they might not have appealed to all audiences. Can you imagine trying to get a toddler to go to sleep with ghosts waving at him in the mirror?
But they say no good idea ever goes away at Disney, so maybe we will see a version of these rooms return in the future.
What do you think? Would you want to stay in a room themed to The Haunted Mansion?
Easy Guide to Disney Skyliner
The Disney Skyliner is one of the fastest, most beautiful ways to travel between Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and the surrounding resorts. This comprehensive guide breaks down the full route map, including the central hub at Caribbean Beach, and lists the exact travel times between stations. Find out the hours of operation, how to board with a stroller or scooter, and whether those un-air-conditioned cabins are truly comfortable on a hot Florida day!
Disney Skyliner opened on Sept. 29, 2019 at the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Here you’ll find information on Disney Skyliner times, hours of operation, and the route map.
Disney Skyliner
Disney Skyliner Map
Disney Skyliner conveniently transports guests between Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Epcot to four resort hotels:
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (hub)
Disney’s Pop Century Resort
Disney’s Riviera Resort
The hub for Skyliner is located at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. All routes lead to Caribbean Beach. At the hub, you can transfer to other Skyliner routes.
What are Disney Skyliner hours of operation?
Disney Skyliner hours vary. On a typical day gondolas begin flying approximately 1-hour prior to park opening and up to two hours after park closing. Disney does not post Skyliner hours on its website. Instead, there are signs at each Skyliner station that display operating hours. You can also ask at your hotel for daily Skyliner hours of operation.
See more Disney World transportation tips in this YouTube video:
What are the Disney Skyliner times along each route?
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort to Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 5 minutes
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort to Epcot: 15 minutes
Disney’s Pop Century / Disney’s Art of Animation to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: 5 min
Disney’s Riviera Resort to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: 5 minutes
Disney’s Riviera Resort to Epcot: 10 minutes
Epcot to Disney’s Hollywood Studios: 20 minutes
I have an early morning dining reservation, can I use Disney Skyliner to get there?
This is a tricky one. Disney doesn’t post Skyliner hours online and there are no set hours of operation. Ask at your hotel to be sure. You might have to plan on driving or taking Uber or Lyft.
Are there long lines to board Skyliner?
During the morning and evening rush lines can be as long as 15 to 20 minutes at the Caribbean Beach station. Transportation at Walt Disney World whether you’re waiting for a bus, monorail, boat or gondola, will usually be about 20 minutes when the parks are opening and closing.
The real advantage to Skyliner, however, is that during off-peak times, there’s no wait at all.
Can I use Skyliner for rope drop?
Rope drop is an unofficial term that means, “arriving at the parks slightly before they open.” This allows you to get a head start on crowds and I do highly recommend it.
Often Skyliner will start running 30-60 minutes prior to park opening. Ask at your hotel what time it will start running.
Don’t forget to allow time to board Skyliner during rush hour, wait times can be 15-20 minutes during this period. Yes, another reason to get an early start on your day at Walt Disney World!
Disney Skyliner station
Can I Ride Skyliner if I’m not staying at one of the hotels?
Yes! It’s perfectly ok to board Skyliner at one of the theme park stations to go for a ride. The best time to do this would be late afternoon to early evening. One of the more scenic routes is between Epcot and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
I’m afraid of heights, can I take a bus instead of Skyliner?
Sure, buses still run between the Skyliner hotels and the theme parks, however, they are on reduced schedules and may arrive only once per hour.
Inside a Disney Skyliner gondola
Can I take a stroller in the gondola? Do strollers need to be folded on Skyliner
Most strollers will fit without the need to fold them up, even the double-wide strollers fit in the Skyliner gondolas.
Can I take a wheelchair or scooter on Skyliner?
Yes. Skyliner operators will slow the speed of the gondola allowing you to roll in. You also have the option of boarding a stationary gondola. Stationary gondolas are located on a separate spur in the station. When you’re ready to go, the gondola will rejoin the main line. The gondola will be discreetly marked so the operators at the other station will know to direct it off the main line onto the spur.
Are Skyliner cabins air conditioned?
No, but they have large vents at the top. While the gondolas are moving, there’s a steady breeze that passes through the cabin. Even on the hottest day in Florida, the breeze moving through the gondola is sufficient to keep you cool.
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Disney's Polynesian Village Resort: Where You'll Find the Resort View Rooms
Resort View rooms are the most economical choice at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This guide reveals the best longhouses—like Rarotonga and Niue—for maximizing convenience and minimizing walking, as they are close to the Great Ceremonial House and Monorail. Learn which rooms to request for the best view and proximity to the pool and boat transportation.
Resort View rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are the most economical and can be found throughout the resort. Some offer more privacy while others offer a convenient location. Let’s take a look at where you’ll find the best Resort View rooms based on what’s more important to you.
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
If you’re looking to make a room request at this resort, it’s important to make your request within the category you booked. For example, if you booked a Resort View room but request a view of Cinderella Castle, chances are Disney isn’t going to honor that. Rooms that overlook the Castle cost more.
But a request for a room close to the Great Ceremonial House would have a much higher chance of being honored because there are a number of Resort View rooms in that area.
Where you'll find the Resort View Rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
The following Polynesian Resort longhouses offer Resort View rooms. Ground floor rooms have patios and third floor rooms have balconies. Second-floor rooms in these longhouses do not have balconies.
Map of DIsney's Polynesian Village Resort
Tuvalo
Great choice for privacy but limited on view. These Resort View rooms overlook the Fiji longhouse.
Fiji
Close to the Great Ceremonial House (lobby) and close to boat transportation to the Magic Kingdom. But it's far from the Epcot monorail line at the Ticket and Transportation Center. Resort View rooms in this Fiji have some of the best views at Disney’s Polynesian Resort.
Aotearoa
Ideal if you love to see the monorail pass by your room, not ideal if you want privacy on your balcony. Some Resort View rooms in Aotearoa offer a partial view of the Seven Seas Lagoon: request rooms 3223, 3225 .or similar. If you plan to walk to the Epcot monorail station at the Ticket and Transportation Center, you'll have a 10-15 minute walk.
Raratonga
This is one of the most requested longhouses because it's right in the heart of the resort. It's just steps away from the Great Ceremonial House and Disney transportation. Both pools and the laundry room are nearby too. Walking to the Epcot monorail line is reasonable - about 10 minutes. If your room is on the south side of the longhouse you might be able to see the monorail pass by through the trees.
Niue
Compared to the other longhouses Niue is tiny and has only two floors. Second floor rooms do not have balconies. Niue is right in between both pools and close to the Great Ceremonial house. This is a very popular longhouse and it’s difficult to get a room here, even with a request. When making a room request for this longhouse, have your travel agent make a backup request just in case.
Samoa
Like Niue, it's right in the middle of both pools. Ground floor rooms on the west side of the longhouse have convenient access to the pool - many guests will come and go right from their slider and patio. But it's a busy location so privacy limited here.
I help my clients with room requests all the time so feel free to contact me for your next Disney World vacation. Together we can come up with the perfect room request.
Find more helpful information
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter - Photo Tour
Step inside the magic of New Orleans right at Walt Disney World! Take a full photo tour of Disney's Port Orleans French Quarter, one of Disney's most convenient hotels. We explore the iconic beignet food court, the whimsical Doubloon Lagoon pool, and the tranquil pathways. See why this resort's single bus stop and complimentary boat ride to Disney Springs make it a favorite among guests.
Join me on a photo tour of Disney’s Port Orleans French Quarter, one of the smallest and most convenient hotels at Walt Disney World.
Check out my Hotel Guides Page for information on all Walt Disney World Resort Hotels.
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Riding the Brightline Train from Orlando: A Complete Guide for Florida Travelers
Discover what it’s like to ride Brightline from Orlando to Aventura. From Premium Lounges to high-speed comfort, this is Florida travel reimagined. Watch my full journey on YouTube!
A New Way to Travel in Florida
If you’re planning a Florida vacation, you’ve probably already thought about flights, rental cars, and even driving yourself around the state. But what if I told you there’s a high-speed train that makes travel between Orlando and South Florida not only easier—but way more enjoyable?
A northbound Brightline train arrives at Aventura for an afternoon run to Orlando.
That’s exactly what Brightline offers. This sleek, modern train service connects Orlando with cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Aventura, reaching speeds up to 125 mph. For family vacationers, Orlando travelers, and anyone who loves theme parks and cruises, Brightline is quickly becoming one of the best ways to get around Florida.
I recently took the Brightline from Orlando to Aventura, and I filmed the entire experience so you can see exactly what it’s like. Spoiler alert: it feels less like a train ride and more like flying business class on the ground. You can watch my full journey here 👇
👉 Watch the full Brightline Orlando to Aventura experience on YouTube
🏟️ Starting at the Brightline Orlando Station
My trip began at the brand-new Brightline Orlando Station, located at Orlando International Airport. If you’re flying into Orlando for a Disney World or Universal Orlando vacation, this is incredibly convenient—you can land, grab your luggage, and head straight for the train without ever stepping outside.
The station itself feels more like an airport terminal than a train station. It’s spacious, modern, and built with travelers in mind. There’s plenty of seating, a check-in process that’s smooth and easy, and if you’ve booked Premium Class, you’ll have access to the Premium Lounge, which is a game-changer.
🍷 Inside the Brightline Premium Lounge
Brightline has two ticket options: Smart Class (their standard option) and Premium Class, which offers a more elevated travel experience. Since I wanted to see what all the hype was about, I opted for Premium.
Breakfast offerings at the Premium Lounge at the Brightline Orlando Train Station
The Premium Lounge in Orlando was impressive. Comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks (yes, even wine and beer), and a quiet place to relax before boarding. If you’re traveling with kids, it’s also a lifesaver because it gives everyone space to decompress before hopping on the train.
This lounge alone already had me feeling like I was about to fly, not take a train.
🚄 All Aboard: The Brightline Train Experience
When it was time to board, the process was simple. Premium passengers board first, and the staff made everything easy. Walking into the Premium car, the first thing I noticed was how spacious and comfortable the seating was compared to what you might expect from a traditional train.
Seats: Wide, cushioned, and designed for comfort
Legroom: Plenty of space, even if you’re tall
Service: Complimentary drinks and snacks brought right to your seat
Wi-Fi and Outlets: Perfect for staying connected or charging devices
Brightline markets itself as a “different kind of train experience,” and they’re not kidding. Traveling at 125 mph while sipping a complimentary drink and stretching out in a comfy seat felt worlds away from the cramped flights and long car rides I’ve taken in Florida before.
📍 Arriving at Aventura Station
After a smooth ride, I arrived at Aventura Station, which is another beautifully designed stop along Brightline’s route. The station sits conveniently near Aventura Mall, one of the largest malls in Florida, and it’s a great jumping-off point if you’re planning to continue into Miami or Fort Lauderdale.
Aventura Station | Brightline
For my trip, I explored some of the local attractions around Aventura, including food spots and shopping. This is one of the perks of Brightline—it doesn’t just drop you off in a random spot; stations are strategically placed near major hubs.
👨👩👧 Why Brightline is Perfect for Orlando Family Vacations
If you’re visiting Orlando for Disney World, Universal Orlando, or even a cruise out of Port Canaveral, Brightline adds a new option for extending your trip. Here’s why I think it’s perfect for families and vacationers:
No Rental Cars Needed – Skip the hassle of driving on I-95.
Stress-Free Travel – No long TSA lines like the airport.
Comfort for Kids – Spacious seating, Wi-Fi, and the ability to move around.
Easy Connections – Arrive in Orlando, hop on Brightline, and head straight to South Florida.
It’s also worth mentioning that for grandparents or extended family joining you in Florida, this is a safe and easy way for them to travel, too.
🎥 See the Full Journey on YouTube
I can tell you all about Brightline, but the truth is—you really need to see it to believe it. From the station in Orlando to the Premium Lounge, to the 125-mph ride itself, I captured it all in my video.
👉 Watch the full Brightline Orlando to Aventura experience on YouTube
If you’re planning a Florida trip, whether for theme parks, a cruise, or just to explore, Brightline might be the most enjoyable way to get around. I know I’ll be taking it again.
📝 Final Thoughts
Brightline is more than just a train. It’s a new way to experience Florida travel that’s faster, more comfortable, and, honestly, a lot more fun than I expected. For Orlando travelers, family vacationers, or anyone curious about theme park getaways, Brightline is a fantastic addition to your trip.
And if you want the full behind-the-scenes look, don’t miss my video—it’s packed with footage from every step of the journey.
👉 Click here to watch on YouTube
#BrightlineTrain #OrlandoTravel #FloridaVacation #FamilyTravel #TrainLife #LuxuryTravel #VisitFlorida #BrightlinePremium
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
Search for more information on my blog.
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Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas: A First Look at the Newest Icon Class Cruise Ship
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is here, and it’s redefining cruising. Join me as I explore this next-generation Icon Class ship in a full tour and review, including CocoCay, onboard dining, and can’t-miss activities.
There’s nothing quite like stepping up to Port Canaveral and seeing Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas for the first time. Towering above the terminal, this next-generation Icon Class cruise ship feels more like a floating city than a vacation vessel. If you’ve been wondering what makes this ship such a big deal, I’ve got you covered.
I just released a full video tour and vlog of Star of the Seas over on my YouTube channel, where I take you through embarkation day, staterooms, dining, onboard activities, and our stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay. You can watch the full cinematic video here:
🎥 Watch on YouTube →
But first, let’s talk about what makes Star of the Seas such a groundbreaking ship for Royal Caribbean fans, families, and cruise lovers alike.
A New Era for Icon Class Ships
Star of the Seas is the second ship in Royal Caribbean’s Icon Class, following the debut of Icon of the Seas in 2024. She’s been designed to take cruising to the next level, with:
Eight unique neighborhoods offering everything from family splash zones to peaceful adult retreats,
The largest water park at sea,
The first-ever AquaDome, a glass-enclosed entertainment space with ocean views,
Dozens of dining options, including casual spots like the Pearl Café and upscale venues like Giovanni’s Italian Kitchen,
Thrills like the Crown’s Edge skywalk, FlowRider surf simulators, and towering waterslides.
This isn’t just a cruise ship—it’s a theme park, a resort, and a luxury getaway rolled into one.
What to Expect Onboard
When you step onto Star of the Seas, one of the first things you’ll notice is The Pearl—a massive, spherical centerpiece on the Royal Promenade that sets the tone for this futuristic ship. From there, you can explore:
Central Park, an open-air oasis lined with real trees and specialty dining.
Thrill Island, home to towering waterslides and the iconic Crown’s Edge ropes course.
Surfside, a neighborhood designed for families with kids, offering splash pads, casual dining, and fun for all ages.
The Aquadome, a multi-use venue that hosts jaw-dropping shows like Torque.
Every corner of the ship is designed to create a “choose your own adventure” vibe, whether you’re looking for non-stop action or a quiet spot to sip a cocktail.
Our Cruise Experience Highlights
During our sailing, we packed a lot into five days:
Breakfasts in Central Park Café with fresh fruit and made-to-order egg sandwiches,
Relaxing pool time and FlowRider surfing with minimal crowds,
A stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, where we spent hours at the Oasis Lagoon pool and sampled the famous Snack Shack chicken sandwiches,
An evening watching Back to the Future: The Musical in the Royal Theater—Broadway-quality entertainment at sea,
A behind-the-scenes moment when the ship briefly lost power (don’t worry, backup systems kicked in instantly),
Shopping on the Royal Promenade and exploring all the neighborhoods,
Even some pickleball on the top deck with other guests!
The best part? There was always something new to see, and even five days wasn’t enough to experience everything this ship has to offer.
Why You Should Watch the Video
Photos and blog posts can only capture so much of Star of the Seas. In my YouTube video, I take you through the entire experience—from embarkation to disembarkation—with cinematic footage that shows off every detail. If you’re planning a future sailing or just love cruise content, you won’t want to miss it.
🎥 Watch the full Star of the Seas video here →
🎬 See the Star of the Seas Playlist here ➔
Final Thoughts
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas isn’t just another cruise ship—it’s a glimpse into the future of cruising. Whether you’re traveling as a family, with friends, or looking for a romantic getaway, this ship delivers unforgettable experiences.
Have questions about Star of the Seas? Drop a comment on the YouTube video, and I’ll be happy to help!
About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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Top 10 Things for Kids to Do on Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas is like a floating theme park, packed with non-stop family fun. Here are the top 10 activities kids will love on the world’s largest cruise ship.
Royal Caribbean’s Star of the Seas isn’t just a cruise ship—it’s a theme park at sea. This massive vessel is packed with family-friendly activities, thrilling adventures, and plenty of ways to keep kids entertained from sunup to sundown.
If you’re planning a cruise on the world’s largest ship, you’ll want to know the must-dos for your family. I’ve rounded up the Top 10 Things for Kids to Do on Star of the Seas—and trust me, your kids won’t want to leave!
🎥 Watch my full YouTube video of this list here (video embed below!) for a closer look at each activity and tips for making the most of your cruise.
10. Adventure Ocean & Social020
Adventure Ocean is Star of the Seas’ supervised kids’ club, designed like a summer camp at sea. The staff is energetic and engaging, keeping kids entertained while parents enjoy some downtime.
For older kids and teens, Social020 provides a safe space to make friends and enjoy activities designed just for them, like dance parties and sports tournaments. My tip? Encourage your teen to go on the first night—it’s when icebreaker games and introductions happen.
9. Surfside
Surfside is the ultimate family neighborhood on board. This kid-focused zone has:
Playscape: A colorful climbing and play area.
Splashaway Bay: A splash pad with slides and drench buckets.
Baby Bay: A safe splash zone for toddlers.
Water’s Edge Pool: A family pool with ocean views.
Arcade: Classic games (set a spending limit in advance!).
It’s the perfect home base for families, with everything close enough to keep an eye on your kids while you relax.
8. Kid-Friendly Food
Star of the Seas is a foodie paradise—even for picky eaters. Kids will love:
Sorrento’s Pizza – My go-to spot for a quick slice.
Surfside Eatery – A buffet designed for families.
Crème de la Crêpes – Sweet and savory crepes.
Base Camp – Deck 16’s quick-serve comfort food.
Surfside Ice Cream – Scoops and soft serve all day.
Everything is easy to access, making mealtimes stress-free.
7. Thrill Island: Rock Climbing & Mini Golf
On Deck 16, Thrill Island combines action and adventure.
Adrenaline Peak: A rock climbing wall with routes for every skill level.
Lost Dunes Mini Golf: A beautifully themed course with ocean views.
Map of Perfect Day at CocoCay. Click map to enlarge.
6. Perfect Day at CocoCay
Every Star of the Seas itinerary includes a stop at Perfect Day at CocoCay, Royal Caribbean’s private Bahamian island. Families can enjoy:
Oasis Lagoon Pool: The largest freshwater pool in the Caribbean.
Harbor Beach: Calm, shallow waters for little ones.
Thrill Waterpark: Record-breaking slides (extra charge applies).
Splashaway Bay: A safe splash zone for kids.
🎥 I have a full Perfect Day at CocoCay guide in another video here.
5. Sports Courts
The full-size basketball court is perfect for one-on-one games or pickup matches, and there’s also soccer, dodgeball, and pickleball. Check the Royal app for tournament schedules and family activities.
4. The Family Pool & Category 6 Waterpark
Deck 15’s Family Pool offers in-water loungers, lifeguards, and easy access to the Lime & Coconut bar and El Loco Fresh.
For thrill-seekers, Category 6 is the largest waterpark at sea, with record-breaking slides like Frightening Bolt and Pressure Drop, plus two raft slides for the whole family.
3. AquaTheater Show – Torque
Torque is a high-energy, action-packed show in a massive aquatic theater. It’s filled with stunts, diving, and acrobatics—perfect for kids who don’t love traditional stage shows.
2. Absolute Zero: Laser Tag & Ice Skating
Absolute Zero offers two family favorites:
Laser Tag: A massive arena with futuristic themes. Book early in the Royal app—it fills up fast!
Open Ice Skating: Bring pants and arrive early for skate rentals.
1. Crown’s Edge
Crown’s Edge is the ultimate thrill: a skywalk and ropes course 154 feet above the ocean that ends with a surprise drop! This heart-pounding experience is perfect for brave kids (and parents) looking for an unforgettable story.
There’s so much to explore aboard Star of the Seas that you’ll never run out of things to do. For an even deeper dive, check out my full Star of the Seas YouTube playlist below!
📺 Watch the Video Here:
Darren spent nearly 20 years as an Orlando travel agent, helping families plan unforgettable vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando, Disney Cruise Line, and beyond. Today, he has transitioned his passion for travel into writing and video production. As a travel writer and producer, Darren shares insider tips, reviews, and in-depth guides through his blog and his travel channel on YouTube, where viewers can explore destinations, resorts, and theme parks with him. You can find his videos here on his Travel Channel.
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The Dark Side of Disney World: Exploring Abandoned Places
Disney World is filled with magic, but hidden in plain sight are abandoned attractions, forgotten rides, and shuttered experiences. From Epcot’s old airport to the Star Wars hotel, these lost corners tell a haunting story. Join me as I explore the abandoned side of Disney World in my latest video.
The Forgotten Side of Disney World: Exploring Abandoned Places
When most people think of Walt Disney World, they picture dazzling fireworks, world-class rides, and magical family memories. But Disney World also has a hidden side—one that tells a quieter, more somber story. Scattered across the parks and resorts are abandoned attractions, shuttered buildings, and forgotten experiences that once entertained millions of guests but now sit in silence.
For those interested in abandoned exploration or Disney’s complex history, these places are haunting reminders of how quickly things can change in the “Most Magical Place on Earth.”
In my latest video, I take you deep into the abandoned corners of Disney World, uncovering long-forgotten experiences that many fans never even knew existed. You can watch it here: ▶ Watch the full video.
But let’s also explore some of Disney World’s most fascinating abandoned places—why they mattered, why they disappeared, and what still remains.
Magic Kingdom’s Forgotten Corners
Tomorrowland Skyway Station
Before the Disney Skyliner soared above Epcot and the resorts, Magic Kingdom had its very own gondola ride. The Skyway connected Tomorrowland to Fantasyland, offering guests a breezy bird’s-eye view of the park.
The Fantasyland station was demolished in 2011 to make way for the Tangled restrooms, but the Tomorrowland station still lingers—transformed into an unassuming bathroom. Look closely, though, and you can still see remnants of its past. For longtime fans, it’s eerie to think of gondolas once gliding where guests now rush in and out of restrooms.
Stitch’s Great Escape
One of Magic Kingdom’s most controversial attractions, Stitch’s Great Escape opened in 2004 as a family-friendly replacement for the terrifying Alien Encounter. Instead of a menacing alien, guests were strapped into seats while Stitch escaped, wreaking havoc in the theater—including his infamous “chili dog burp.”
But the attraction never really clicked. It shifted into seasonal operation, then quietly closed in 2018, with Disney confirming its fate two years later. Today, the building sits shuttered, occasionally used for special events. It’s a rare sight in Magic Kingdom: a large, circular shell of a building, abandoned in plain view.
Epcot’s Abandoned Experiences
Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure
Long before guests wielded interactive wands in the Wizarding World at Universal, Epcot had its own scavenger hunt: Agent P’s World Showcase Adventure. Armed with a phone-like device, guests followed Phineas and Ferb’s pet platypus Perry on secret missions around the World Showcase.
For a while, it was a fun way to engage kids in Epcot’s otherwise adult-leaning atmosphere. But by 2020, it quietly closed, with plans to replace it with a DuckTales-themed version that has yet to really take off. Today, the once-busy kiosks are silent, another interactive experiment that faded into memory.
Disney’s STOLport Airport
Believe it or not, Disney World once had its very own airport. Located just off World Drive, the STOLport (short for Short Take-Off and Landing) opened in the early 1970s to fly guests directly onto Disney property.
The service never caught on—few wanted to ride in small commuter planes—and by the late ’70s, it was abandoned. The runway still exists today, fenced off and overgrown. If you ride the Epcot monorail, you can still glimpse it. It’s eerie to see such an ambitious project reduced to nothing more than cracked pavement in the Florida sun.
Disney’s BoardWalk and Lost Nightlife
Jellyrolls Piano Bar
For nearly 30 years, Jellyrolls was the heart of Disney’s nightlife. A dueling piano bar at Disney’s BoardWalk, it attracted conventioneers, Epcot fans, and night owls who weren’t ready to call it quits after the parks closed.
But in 2025, Disney shut the doors for good, with vague talk of “reimagining” the BoardWalk. As of now, no plans have been revealed. The building remains dark, a quiet monument to a time when Disney after-hours felt alive.
Hollywood Studios: Lost in the Backlot
The Backlot Tour
Once the signature attraction of Disney-MGM Studios, the Backlot Tour was a sprawling tram ride through sets, wardrobe departments, and the legendary Catastrophe Canyon. Guests experienced Hollywood “behind the scenes”—with explosions, floods, and fireballs.
But over time, the tour shrank, pieces closed, and the attraction was reduced to little more than a shadow of its former self. In 2014, it closed permanently, making room for Toy Story Land and Galaxy’s Edge.
Yet the past lingers. If you know where to look, you can still find remnants of the old tram load area tucked behind Star Wars Launch Bay. For Disney fans, it’s like walking through a ghost town hidden in plain sight.
Jedi Training: Trials of the Temple
From 2006 to 2020, Jedi Training gave kids the chance to duel Darth Vader on stage. Lightsabers clashed, robes flowed, and for many children it was the highlight of their Disney trip.
But when the parks closed in 2020, Jedi Training never returned. The stage signage was quietly removed, and today the old performance space is used for stroller parking. It’s a reminder that even beloved experiences can vanish overnight.
Resorts and Recreation That Disappeared
Polynesian Village Boat Rentals
Once, guests at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort could rent sailboats, pontoons, and sleek little speedboats that zipped across the Seven Seas Lagoon. It was pure 1970s vacation magic.
But one by one, the rentals disappeared. Disney never made an official announcement; they simply faded away. After a tragic alligator incident near the Grand Floridian in 2016, boating activities diminished further, leaving the marina little more than a docking space for service boats and fireworks cruises.
Today, the dock is picturesque but empty, the laughter of families on the water replaced by silence.
Disney’s Biggest Blunder: Galactic Starcruiser
The Star Wars: Galactic Starcruiser was perhaps Disney’s most ambitious project—a two-night fully immersive Star Wars hotel experience. Guests boarded the Halcyon starcruiser, trained with lightsabers, and lived out their own Star Wars stories.
But with costs soaring to $2,500 per person, the experience was too expensive for most families. Despite strong reviews, demand dried up. After just 18 months, the Halcyon closed in 2023.
Today, the $350 million building sits empty, hidden behind trees, with no clear future. It’s Disney’s most recent reminder that not every experiment lasts forever.
Why Abandoned Disney World Matters
To most visitors, Disney World feels timeless. But these abandoned spaces prove otherwise. Attractions disappear. Restaurants close. Even massive projects like the Starcruiser can fade into history.
For fans of abandoned exploration, these hidden corners are haunting. They’re not just empty buildings—they’re echoes of dreams, risks, and stories that once filled the parks with life.
If you want to see more of these places up close, don’t miss my latest video: ▶ Watch on YouTube.
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About Darren:
Darren is an Orlando-based travel writer and YouTuber who specializes in helping travelers make the most of their vacations to Walt Disney World, Universal Orlando Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Royal Caribbean Cruises. Through detailed travel guides, reviews, and insider tips, Darren gives families, couples, and first-time visitors everything they need to plan magical Orlando theme park trips and unforgettable cruise adventures.
🎥 Watch his latest videos and travel guides on YouTube: Orlando Parks Guy
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