5 Hotels to Visit During Your Walt Disney World Vacation
If you are looking for a little downtime from the theme parks during your Walt Disney World vacation and you enjoy exploring & taking in beautiful architecture and elaborate themes, here are 5 Walt Disney hotels to check out during your visit to Walt Disney World!
1. Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a classic Disney resort. In my opinion, the true beauty of this resort takes place in the evenings when tiki torches light the way to lush South Pacific-inspired grounds that will make you feel like you are in an exotic island paradise far away from life’s hassles! The Polynesian is actually a nod to the Magic Kingdom’s Adventureland with the same sort of tropical theming. The Great Ceremonial House is the center of the resort, and here you will find fantastic dining at Kona Grill or the ever-popular ‘Ohana. If you are looking for a tiki bar, you’ve come to the right place! Check out Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto for light island fare and uniquely-themed drinks (note after 8pm only guests 21+ are allowed to enter). However, my favorite stop at the Polynesian is the Tambu Lounge outside of ‘Ohana. Here you will find the dangerously delicious drink known as a Lapu Lapu which is a blend of liquors and fruit juices served in a freshly cut pineapple. A short walk along lush tropical vegetation is Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show which is a fun family-friendly luau. Grab a cocktail, don your lei, and take a stroll through this tropical paradise (be sure to walk out back to see the new bungalows at the resort as they are quite exotic)!
2. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is Walt Disney World’s flagship resort. It is an exquisite representation of the Victorian by-gone era and a tip of the hat to Main Street, USA. Here you will find classic elegance and beauty in every detail including the gardens, interior décor, floral arrangements, Cast Member uniforms and more. There are numerous dining options from which to choose including Narcoosies, 1900 Park Fare, Citricos, Victoria & Albert’s, and the Grand Floridian Café. Those looking for mid-day tea can spend a relaxing afternoon at the Grand View Tea Room. Be sure to visit the main lobby that hosts an impressive chandelier and staircase (you may spot the occasional bridal party here), and a beautiful Victorian birdcage. Take a stroll over to Mizner’s Lounge for a drink, and you may even catch the live orchestra that plays periodically throughout the afternoon & evening. If you have time, you can take a walk over to Disney’s Wedding Pavilion and sneak a peek inside to see the grandeur of the lovely venue.
3. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge has a safari-like ambiance that will make you feel like an adventure is just around the corner. As you walk inside the main building you will likely note the careful attention to detail that will allow you to truly experience the culture of Africa. In fact, throughout the day there are live performances with authentic music! Perhaps what is most impressive about this resort are the 30 species of African wildlife that inhabit the grounds. You will be able to view birds, giraffes, zebras and more as you walk around the grounds of this magnificent resort or you may be lucky enough to catch a glimpse of the wildlife through the grand rear window of the lobby which overlooks the savanna. There are unique dining experiences here as well that include Jiko-The Cooking Place (a personal favorite), Sanaa, and Boma. In addition, there are options for dining with an animal specialist or taking a private safari adventure (for more information check out Wanyama Safari)!
4. Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside & French Quarter Resorts
Disney’s Port Orleans Riverside and French Quarter Resorts are considered sister resorts as they are directly next-door to each other. Each represents a different Louisiana theme. Port Orleans Riverside showcases Louisiana plantations with mansion-like estates and picturesque gardens along the scenic Sassagoula River. While here, take a horse-drawn carriage ride to really observe the beautiful scenery. A short stroll away is Port Orleans French Quarter. Here you will find architecture and details unique to New Orleans’ French Quarter such as gas lamps & wrought-iron balconies. It really re-creates the charm of New Orleans (perhaps you will even catch a Mardi Gras parade). Stop by the food court for a beignet, and if visiting in the evening, check out Scat Cat’s Club for some live jazz music! Another bonus of visiting these resorts is the ability to hop onto a boat to Disney Springs for even more fun!
5. Disney’s Epcot Resort Area (Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club, Disney’s Boardwalk and Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin)
Confession: I could not just pick one here. There are too many fantastic resorts, and this is one of my favorite areas to visit, particularly in the evening. Start at the Yacht Club and walk through the New-England style lobby where nautical details abound! Continue through the lobby outdoors to the promenade and take in the view of the entire Epcot resort area. It is stunning to say the least. If you are visiting during the daytime hours, check out Bayside Marina and rent a watercraft! Stroll along the promenade and take a peek at the impressive Stormalong Bay, the shared pool area between the Yacht & Beach Club. This area is actually similar to a mini- water park rather than simply a pool. Stop into the lobby of the Beach Club to see the whimsical beach themes and floral arrangements that make this resort unique. Then continue your way around the promenade towards Disney’s Boardwalk Resort. Here you will find street performers, shops, sweets, and several restaurants should you want to grab a bite to eat. Take in the timeless scenery of this turn-of-the-century Atlantic coastal village. Continue along to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin. These grandiose hotels have so much detail, it is almost too much to absorb! Stroll through each lobby to see the swanky restaurants, picturesque fountains, and then take a walk outside to observe the pristine grounds. If you are feeling adventurous, stop by Kimonos in the Swan and sing a karaoke tune!
As you can see, these hotels are representative of the great attention to detail for which Disney is known. Each one has something special, and a visit to any or all would only add to the magic of your vacation!
Kim Hart is a Disney travel agent with MickeyTravels. For help planning a magical vacation you & your family will remember forever, contact Kim today!
Kim Hart
MickeyTravels, LLC
Authorized Disney Vacation Planner – PLATINUM LEVEL
Office: 410-529-1324
Cell: 410-925-5966
khart@mickeytravels.com
www.mickeytravels.com
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