As a Travel Specialist, I am often asked where I “like” to stay when I visit Walt Disney World? One of my most preferred locations is Disney’s Boardwalk Resort. The atmosphere is very whimsical and intended to be reminiscent of visiting Atlantic city! It opened in 1996, the year of my first Disney vacation!! It is located on Crescent Lake, directly across from Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club. Boardwalk offers entertainment, dining, and is a short walk to the world showcase in Epcot. It is a bit of a longer walk to Hollywood studios or you have the option of taking a brief boat ride to both parks. Disney Springs, Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom transportation is via bus.
The Boardwalk resort is a deluxe property and brings many additional amenities. Deluxe resorts offer larger rooms (compared to a value or moderate resort), valet parking, outdoor nighttime movies, a club level option, an onsite fitness facility that is open 24/7 for guests, and a large carnival themed pool to name a few! This resort does have both Disney Vacation Club villas as well as standard rooms. The villas are available for reservations, based on availability. The 1–3-bedroom villas all offer separate bedroom space from the living area. Each of these also offer a full kitchen and an in-room washer and dryer! The deluxe villas have a small refrigerator and after the most recent renovation, can accommodate up to 5 guests!!
As you stroll along the boardwalk, you will find endless drink, snack, dessert and dining options. From a delicious bakery that offers sweets and savory items, a pizza window, ESPN Club for the sports fan, a sit down Italian restaurant, a family friendly microbrewery, and a signature dining restaurant. Grab a snack and a drink at Joe’s margarita stand while you stroll along the boardwalk. You can even enjoy a freshly made funnel cake!! Make sure you save room for the most amazing and unique flavors of ice cream at Ample Hill. The Gooey Butter cake is a must!!
In the evenings you will find performers along the Boardwalk. From magicians to musicians, you will see groups gather around to be amazed. There is shopping to enjoy and carnival games that even the young at heart will enjoy! If you are looking for a fun way to view the resorts around crescent lake, you can rent a surrey bike. They have different bikes with up to two rows and even specialty seating in the front for the kids that includes a bell for them to ring as your ride around crescent lake!
When you are looking for some 21 and over activities, you are in the right spot! Atlantic Dance Hall plays the current hits as well as songs from the 80’s and 90’s. You will find a quiet lounge off the main lobby of the resort where you can grab an adult beverage in a library type atmosphere or take your drink out to the balcony overlooking the Boardwalk. Abracadabar is the latest addition and offers unique cocktails, beer and wine. My longstanding favorite, Jellyrolls, can be found along the Boardwalk as well! It is a fun filled evening in a dueling piano bar, where the musicians take request on napkins!!
Who is ready to stay at Disney’s Boardwalk resort?
