disney yacht club or boardwalk inn

Countdown to Magic

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club – The Best Resort?

So you’ve narrowed your Disney World Resort list down between two options: the Boardwalk Inn and the Yacht Club.  But which one is the best option for you and your family?

Well, in this article, I’m going to let you know what each resort has to offer its guests, and outline some notable pros and cons of each hotel, as well.  Hopefully, by the end of this article, you’ll walk away with a good idea of which resort won the battle of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club!

Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club

Let’s begin this by discussing resort type.

Resort Type

Both the Boardwalk Inn and Yacht Club are considered to be “ Deluxe Resorts ” by Disney’s standards. In short, this means they are considered to be in the best resort category when looking at resorts on Disney property. 

As a deluxe guest, you will have access to early park hours, as well as extended park hours. This is one reason why some people will only stay at a deluxe resort. Besides that, the deluxe class of resorts are beautiful and offer great amenities and theming.

If you’ve narrowed your choices down to either Boardwalk or Yacht Club, chances are that you’ve decided you want to be close to Epcot. 

Situated on Crescent Lake, both of these resorts are within walking distance to Epcot. You’ll also have easy access to the Skyliner that will get you to Hollywood Studios. 

This is a great mode of travel, and you will have quick access to both parks. You can even take a longer stroll by walking directly to Hollywood Studios (though I do not recommend this).

However, for Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom, you will have to rely on the bus to get you there from these resorts.

The location overall is fantastic for both options, with no real clear winner here.

Yacht Club Dining Options

As both of these resorts are walking distance to one another, I’m only going to focus on dining options that are contained within each resort. Bear in mind, though, that if you want to skip over to one of the other resorts restaurants, you can very easily do that.

We will start with the Yacht Club. Since the Yacht Club is connected to the Beach Club , I will also include some of those options here.

For casual dining with an American seafood bias, Ale & Compass is a great choice for breakfast or dinner. The prices are on the lower side of most upscale dining options, so this is a good restaurant that offers a lot of value for money.

Next door at then Beach Club, we have the beloved Beaches & Cream. This is a staple for many families that visit Disney World . This is your classic American diner food option, like cheeseburgers and French fries. They also offer many milkshake and sundae options, hence the “Cream” part of the name. 

Crews Cup Lounge is a great place to cool off with a cocktail after a long day in the parks. This laid back bar lounge also serves up quick bites to eat with their tasty drinks.

The Yachtsman Steakhouse is one of the best Steakhouses on Walt Disney property. Le Cellier barely beats it out by my vote, but this steakhouse is fantastic signature dining. And it’s located right at the heart of the Yacht Club Resort. This is a must try if you are staying at the resort.

Boardwalk Inn Dining Options

Moving on over to Boardwalk Inn, we’re going to start with one of my favorite Italian restaurants — Trattoria al Forno. Here you can enjoy a character breakfast for the kids , and at dinner you will have a host of Italian options to choose from that are sure to please.

For a great quick service lunch option, look at the Pizza Window. The name implies exactly what you are going to get—hot pizza delivered to you at a window. Don’t let that fool you though, this pizza joint serves up a great slice of pie when you are pressed for time.

For a nice cocktail to wind down after a long day, look at making a trip over to AbracadaBar. This quick service bar harkens back to the magicians and illusionists from ages before. They have some really great drinks, and you can also grab a quick bite to eat if you are in a pinch. 

For your signature dining at the Boardwalk, Big River Grille & Brewing Works offer a great entree paired with a huge beer selection. And yes, it’s actually a brewery! So you can get beer that you will not see anywhere else, and also eat a great steak in the process!

A quick tip for one of my favorite sugary treats: you can visit the Funnel Cake Cart and grab a hot, ready to eat Funnel cake. Make sure and add this to your list if you are staying at the Boardwalk!

I’m going to come right out and say it—Yacht Club (and Beach Club) have the best pool, in my humble opinion, on Disney Property. 

Stormalong Bay is a 3 acre beachside pool area that sits in the middle of Yacht & Beach Club. 

With 3 leisure pools and a sandy bottom beach pool, you will be hard pressed to find an area at Stormalong Bay where you can’t enjoy a relaxing moment to yourself. 

Surrounding the pools is also a lazy river that will let you float around the whole 3 acre area while you sip your favorite cocktail that you can pick up at the beachside cabana.

To cap it all off, there is a 230’ waterslide that races you down from Crescent Lake to Stormalong Bay. 

Though this contest is easily won by Yacht Club, we have to mention the pool over at the Boardwalk Inn.

The Luna Park Pool is a carnival themed water escape, with a 200 foot waterslide. Here, there are all sorts of statues that harken back to the 1920 amusement parks. 

They also have a nearby lounge for refreshments. 

I can’t mention the pool here and not bring up the crazy clown that looks like something directly out of a horror film. Thankfully Disney took notice, and removed the clown , so you don’t have to worry about him haunting your dreams, should you choose the Boardwalk Inn.

It’s hard to narrow down the price difference here, as the price points are ever changing throughout the year. 

What I can say, however, is although they both go up and down depending on the season, the prices are usually relatively neck and neck. 

So I don’t think it’s terribly important to put a lot of attention on this. If you are looking at these two resorts, the money you will save will be negligible, so the better option is to pick the best one for you and your family based on the other elements. 

Yacht Club has relatively newly designed and revamped rooms. Though some people complain that it reminds them of a cramped cabin on a boat (which is part of the theme, hence “Yacht Club”) they are still spacious enough that you won’t feel too tightly packed in. 

I think that feeling is generated mostly due to the low ceilings, but the room really shines everywhere else. Sporting a sleek and modern look, I suppose one could argue the rooms look too dark or modern . I find them personally to be in line with my tastes, and I enjoy the more updated designs.

Over at the Boardwalk Inn, they have some of the oldest rooms situated around Crescent Lake. With a serious lack of outlets, these rooms are not as functional as the ones you’ll find at Yacht Club.

The design is a bit old and outdated, though some people find them beautifully executed. You’ll have to be the judge here and check out the pictures for yourself. 

Final Thoughts

This is an easy choice for me. If you haven’t figured it out by now, if I had to choose between these two deluxe resorts, I’d be putting my money toward the Yacht Club .

With the bonus addition of being a double resort connected to Beach Club, you also get access to the best pool on Disney Property along with some of the best signature dining options around. 

And while I prefer Yacht Club in this Boardwalk Inn vs Yacht Club battle royale, this does’t mean that the Boardwalk Inn is the wrong choice for you and your family. 

If you enjoyed this article, please “like” our brand new Countdown to Magic Facebook page !

You Might Also Like These Articles:

• Disney’s Contemporary Resort vs Coronado Springs
• Disney’s Polynesian vs Yacht Club
• Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Grand Floridian
• Disney’s Riviera Resort vs Beach Club
• Disney’s Art of Animation vs Polynesian

Michael has been visiting Disney World since he was a kid. He's also been to Disneyland and sailed on the Disney Dream. Michael is the owner and editor of Countdown to Magic.

Similar Posts

Disney Springs Resort Hotels

While there are a lot of fun activities and great restaurants located in Disney Springs…

The 7 Best Disney Hotels for Large Families You’ll Love

Picking a resort to fit your large family can be difficult at times, but Disney…

Disney’s Polynesian vs Contemporary – The Best Resort?

Disney’s Polynesian Village and Contemporary Deluxe Resorts are two of the most iconic resorts on…

Disney’s Coronado Springs vs Port Orleans French Quarter

Planning a trip to Disney World can be stressful, especially when there are over 30…

Disney Value Resorts vs Moderate Resort Tiers – Best Choice?

Are you looking to understand the major differences between Disney value resorts vs moderate resorts? …

Coronado Springs vs Swan and Dolphin: Best Disney Resort?

If you’re planning on visiting Disney World soon, then you might just be considering a…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

the disney food blog

food IS a theme park

Read the Latest Posts

Looking for something?

Get the dfb newsletter.

STAY CONNECTED

Yacht Club vs. BoardWalk Inn Disney World Resort Guide 2023

By Kim LaPaglia Leave a Comment

Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be complicated — especially when you’re trying to choose between  25 resort hotels .  If you’ve narrowed down your choices to these hotels, how do you make your final selection?

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Well, we’re here to walk you through the differences between Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s BoardWalk Inn .

Whether room size, location, pools, and/or restaurants are most important to you, we share the information that you’ll need to make an informed decision.  After all, we want you to stay at the hotel that is best for your family!

Let’s get started and look at all the details so that you can plan your Disney trip with confidence.

Lobby at the Yacht Club

There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive , and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip . The best way to tackle such a massive decision like this is with as much logic as possible, so we broke down this comparison into five categories: Common Ground, Theme/Rooms, Pools, Food, and Transportation .

Let’s get started on your vacation research.

COMMON GROUND

Before we mention their differences, let’s take a look at what Yacht Club and BoardWalk Inn have in common. First, both offer Deluxe Resort accommodations with a similar resort layout . You’ll discover luxurious amenities and unique themeing at both hotels. Plus, both boast   many of the same perks . In addition, each offer the same convenient transportation options at an amazing Walt Disney World location. Both of these resorts feature nautical, seaside themes !

Disney’s Yacht Club Lobby

But, what about the prices? Well, this is where you’ll first see a difference. In fact, you’ll save a bit by opting for the Yacht Club . However, the most expensive rooms are large villas at BoardWalk Inn. The Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Villas can be booked by Disney Vacation Club members or cash-paying guests .

For the Yacht Club , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $537 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,877 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit.

For BoardWalk Inn , that means that for the cheapest room at the  cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $597 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $4,455 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the  most expensive time to visit.

BoardWalk Lobby

Let’s dig a little deeper to see what you can get for the money at these resorts!

Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests

Theme/rooms.

These are not your standard hotels. Get ready to enjoy beautiful lakeside accommodations.

BoardWalk Deli

But whether your stay takes you to the sophisticated Yacht Club or the vintage BoardWalk, you’ll find that both of these options provide delightful Disney amenities .

Yacht Club Resort

Ahoy maties, straighten that ascot and slip on those boat shoes, you’re about to set sail into the Disney resort themed after the grand and sleek yachting clubs of New England. And no, Disney does not require that you own a yacht to stay here (phew, that’s one expense you won’t have to factor into your Disney trip!).

Yacht Club Lobby

This resort makes “subtle” look good. It’s sleek, elegant, and streamlined — like, well, a yacht. If you’re visiting Disney World for a business conference, this hotel might just be the right speed for you as it encompasses a rather executive vibe to it. There are some very nice, and perfectly adequate furnishings, but the rooms themselves just don’t scream lavish.

Our favorite touch in these otherwise “character-less” rooms are the curtains that feature fictional constellations inspired by some of our favorite Disney pals.

The Yacht Club renovated and updated the rooms in 2017 resulting in a more sophisticated appearance with dark woods, crisp whites, and deep navy blues.  They definitely don’t have the personality that you can find at the Contemporary and Polynesian . So, if you’re looking for a room with some “character,” the Yacht Club may not be your jam. Note that standard rooms are about 381 sq. ft.

Why You Should Add Disney’s Yacht Club to Your Resort Hopping List Right NOW

Boardwalk inn.

Welcome to the charming turn-of-the-century Atlantic boardwalk themed resort, aptly named BoardWalk Inn. The BoardWalk brings in vibrant colors reminiscent of a seaside amusement park. In essence, the BoardWalk Inn balances the fun of the theme with the luxury of a deluxe resort.

Stroll the boardwalk!

The rooms last received a bit of a touch up and spruce back in 2016 and with the ongoing construction and other resort renovations may see some TLC, soon . We hope the room updates and renovations keep with the classic Disney charm we’ve come to love and aren’t watered down to look like other standard hotels. Standard rooms at 434 sq. ft. sleep five people.

Charming BoardWalk hallway!

Given the charming color palette and light fixtures in the updated hallways , we have high hopes for the new room decor!

So, this really could be down to what type of vibe you want on your vacation.

For cost, we give the edge to Yacht Club, however if a larger room is important to you, you’ll want to look closer at BoardWalk Inn. We’re giving a slight edge to Yacht Club right now due to the ongoing construction at BoardWalk Inn.

4 BIG Changes (Including New Restaurants) Announced for Disney’s BoardWalk

When the weather is HOT or you just need a break from park queues, head to your resort pool! After all, the pools have their own unique features and special theming.  Feature pools at Walt Disney World hotels usually have at least one slide and also offer poolside activities. Look at the hotel’s recreation schedule for more information. These swimming spots are family-friendly with at least one whirlpool spa.

Pool Slide at BoardWalk

Note that poolside towels are always complimentary.

The Yacht Club may be understated when it comes to its lobby and resort rooms, but it is not to be outdone in the pool category. Disney’s Yacht Club shares a pool complex with its neighboring resort, the Beach Club, Stormalong Bay.

Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay is a destination on all its own . This pool complex is almost like its own mini-water park, with sand at the bottom and even a lazy river! Whether you take advantage of the ‘shipwrecked’ themed water slide or leisurely float around the lazy river, this pool delights guests of all ages.

Stormalong Bay at Disney’s Beach Club

Stormalong Bay is also nestled in close to Beaches and Cream , an iconic ice cream shop, providing over-the-top milkshakes, sundaes, and comfort junk food essentials like burgers and grilled cheese sandwiches.

The BoardWalk Inn has three pools — the main pool called Luna Park and two “leisure” pools for folks that are looking for more chill than thrill for their watery adventure.

Luna Park Pool

The Luna Park pool used to be the home of the  clown water slide  that lit up at night and may have caused an entire generation to need therapy. Luckily for you fine folks, you get to enjoy the renovated model of the  Keister Coaster  pool slide.

BoardWalk Inn Pool

Mickey, Minnie and Friends enjoy a pool adventure with you on this 200-foot-long slide.

This fun pool is 184,217 gallons and is just steps away from the amusements on the Boardwalk where you can easily grab a quick ice cream or margarita and then jump right back in the pool.

Both have relaxing pools with pool bars, lounge chairs, and splash areas. Again, it might boil down to just what your style is. Do you want to soak in a whimsical pool area? Or something a bit more coastal with sand and a lazy river?

Stormalong Bay Shipwreck Waterslide

Our heart leans towards the Yacht Club because that pool is just epic! Toes in the sand and relaxing down a lazy river with a shipwreck-themed water slide is our idea of a wonderful poolside escape.

10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools

Because we are Disney FOOD Blog, we take food seriously. Very. Seriously. And we love it all. We love the cheap, comfort of plastic cheese , and we love the high-brow sophistication of a wine flight or a multi-course pre-fixe meal . We don’t discriminate; we are a lover of all foods. Since food is SO important, let’s see how these resorts stack up against each other in the restaurant category.

Hurricane Hanna’s is a pool bar, tucked under the Stormalong Bay waterslide, that provides fixes for your hunger without having to wander too far from the pool.

The Yacht Club is home to two lounges, one quick-service market, a table service option, and a Disney Signature dining restaurant . Not to mention its close proximity to Beach Club and all of those dining options.

The Market at Ale & Compass

For an ideal spot to relax with a nightcap while winding down in the evening, or to grab a bite or two from their substantial appetizer menu, head over to Ale & Compass Lounge . The Ale & Compass Lounge is one part of the  Ale & Compass dining concept  at the Yacht Club, which also includes  The Market at Ale & Compass  and the  Ale & Compass Restaurant .

Ale & Compass Lounge

Located right next to  Yachtsman Steakhouse  at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort , the  Crew’s Cup Lounge is a great place to get a bite and a drink in a relaxing, cozy atmosphere — and it’s a DFB favorite! In addition to  specialty cocktails and a full bar ,  a robust food menu  is served during evening hours as well, including a few full meals. During dinner hours at the Yachtsman, you’ll have a direct view through a glass window of steak being prepared for the steakhouse – so cool!

Crew’s Cup Lounge

Ale & Compass Restaurant  is the  table service  component of the Ale & Market dining concept in Disney’s Yacht Club, which also includes  The Market at Ale & Compass  along with the refreshed  Ale & Compass Lounge . The atmosphere offers a  gastropub ambiance while comfort food (New England-inspired) is featured  on the menu. A la carte options for  breakfast  include classic American breakfast fare, with a few twists like the Dark Chocolate Waffle and Salted Caramel-Apple French Toast, and a pastry buffet option may be paired with your choice of entree. Casual  lunch  options include Fish & Chips, burgers, and more.  Dinner  offerings feature specialties like the New England Seafood Pot Pie and Pappardelle pasta dishes, among others.

Ale and Compass Restaurant

The Market at Ale & Compass  is a  Counter Service  location at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort . Simple convenience is the name of the game, with a focus on grab-and-go items. However, hot sandwiches, specialty desserts — and even a coffee bar — round out the options nicely. Open for  breakfast, lunch, and dinner .

Yachtsman Steakhouse comes highly recommended by any discerning carnivore. The  steaks here are some of the best on property , and the service is often excellent.

8-oz Filet Mignon

This craftsman-inspired dining room at  Disney’s Yacht Club Resort  caters to all tastebuds with a variety of dishes, incredible sides, and amazing, cut-in-house steaks.

Is The CHEESIEST Soup in Disney World Hiding at This Forgotten Restaurant?

The BoardWalk Inn has been updating and renovating many of the common areas including some of the dining options on the actual boardwalk. We’ve seen the rebranding of the BoardWalk Deli (formerly the BoardWalk Bakery ) and look forward to the new Cake Bake Shop .  Inside the BoardWalk lobby, the fan-favorite Belle Vue Lounge reopened with new furnishings , that received some humdrum remarks from loyal guests for losing its charm and looking like it was furnished by Wayfair. And Carousel Coffee recently opened serving up pastries and Joffrey’s Coffee with a rather subdued vibe for a joint named after a bright and vivacious carnival attraction. Let’s take a look…

At  AbracadaBar , according to the story, you can still feel the magic in the air at this  former secret haunt of boardwalk magicians and entertainers … a group that  mysteriously vanished over 70 years ago. Guests can experience their lingering magic in the sights, sounds, and even tastes (through the signature “Curious Cocktails”) in this enchanted lounge!

AbracadaBar

Atlantic Dance Hall is another bar on the BoardWalk. Looking for a place to get your groove on? Boogie down to music from the 80s through today at Atlantic Dance Hall! You can request your favorite music videos, and dance along as they play on the large screens above. Shake your groove thang, and get your dance on with a group of friends! Please note that Atlantic Dance Hall is limited to guests 21 and older and typically open Thursday through Sunday nights from 8PM to 1AM.

Atlantic Dance Hall

The  Belle Vue Lounge  is what many call a “rare find” at  Disney’s BoardWalk Inn . Modeled after  a 1930s sitting room , it has nice touches like board games and working radios playing shows from eras past. Tucked right off the main lobby, this lounge is a great place to  relax and enjoy a drink after a long day at the parks. Guests can also  stop here for coffee or pastries in the morning .

Belle Vue Lounge

Head to a real brewing factory at Big River Grille & Brewing Works ! Here you can sample many different kinds of beers, along with great  burgers, steaks, nachos, and more . The  floor-to-ceiling glass walls  in the Big River Grille & Brewing Works restaurant provide a glimpse into the beer-making process. Watch while an  on-site brew master crafts the establishment’s beers. Or sit outside and enjoy the BoardWalk atmosphere and water views.

Big River Grille & Brewing Works

Step back in time to a seaside boardwalk village on Crescent Lake where turn-of-the-century charm meets savory eats and sweet treats at the BoardWalk Deli .  Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are offered, and guests enjoy items like house-baked bagels or a hand-piped cannoli.

BoardWalk Deli has pastries and sandwiches

Craving a cool treat while strolling along the Disney World BoardWalk? Then stop by   BoardWalk Ice Cream ! This ice cream to-go store scoops up simple sundaes and cones made with Edy’s brand ice cream. The treats here are said to be inspired by the beloved  Beaches & Cream Soda Shop  at the nearby Beach Club Resort.

BoardWalk Ice Cream

BoardWalk Joe’s is a stand on Disney World’s BoardWalk that is known for ONE thing: “Marvelous Margaritas!” For a relatively small kiosk, there is a surprising  variety of flavorful margaritas available — and sometimes you’ll happen upon a seasonal concoction! A  selection of snacks  such as pretzels and roasted nuts is also available. Non-alcoholic smoothies (including one made with Dole Whip!) are also on offer.

Boardwalk Joe’s

Stop by the Pizza Window on Disney World’s BoardWalk for a piping hot pizza pie! One of the most relaxing and fun things to do at Disney World is stroll along the Disney BoardWalk, taking in all the sights and smells around Crescent Lake. With 9,000 square feet of entertainment, shops, and restaurants, there are several options for a quick bite to eat. Why not grab some fresh pizza from the BoardWalk Pizza Window? They serve up whole pizza pies and pizza by the slice  (and Sangria to go with it, for of-age guests, along with fountain drinks). Grab one of the cafe tables outside or stroll while you eat.

BoardWalk PIzza

If you happen to be walking down Disney World’s BoardWalk and you’re in the mood for a quick snack, be sure to stop at the  BoardWalk To Go kiosk. At this kiosk you’ll find baskets of  deep-fried treats including fried mac and cheese bites and corn dogs. You can even grab a meal combo built around a hot dog, cheeseburger, or pulled pork sandwich. (Note: BoardWalk To Go has permanently closed.)

Boardwalk To-Go

The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is coming to Disney World’s BoardWalk in 2023! This new Table Service restaurant will serve items for  brunch, lunch,  and  dinner  featuring both  sweet and savory menus .   Afternoon tea service  will be offered as well! And guess what? Guests will also be able to pop in for a  quick treat  by grabbing something  to-go from the bakery case !

Concept art for The Cake Bake Shop

You can find   Carousel Coffee  at  Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This spot is located right off the Resort’s lobby, making it a perfectly convenient spot for your pick-me-up cup!  Coffee, tea, and pastries  (including options by Joffrey’s Coffee) are on offer. Keep an eye out for seasonal drinks and unique options like a Dark Cherry Mocha Frozen Blended Coffee. As far as the eats, you can grab classic snacks such as the Vintage Mickey & Minnie Sugar Cookie, Banana Bread, Croissants, Muffins, NJ Crumb Cake, Bagels, and a Mickey Brownie.

Carousel Coffee

Flying Fish  is a  signature restaurant  that serves  gourmet seafood  to guests on  Disney World’s BoardWalk.  Many tout both the sea and land dishes here. (The Char-Crusted New York Strip is a favorite among landlubbers.) The location — complete with a lovely glass school of fish “swimming” above the main dining room — has an emphasized focus on seasonal, sustainable fare.

Flying Fish

You’ll find a truly classic carnival treat on Disney World’s BoardWalk: Funnel Cake! The Funnel Cake Stand also serves the rather unexpected offering of Fried Ice Cream. Enjoy your “Tasty Sensations” (as the sign says) while you stroll or pull up a bench on the BoardWalk while watching the people go by! PLEASE NOTE: BoardWalk Funnel Cake is currently closed. 

Funnel Cake Stand is closed

Do you love music from the 70′s, 80′s, and 90′s? Do you love dueling piano improv? Then Jellyrolls Dueling Piano Bar is the place for you! This raucous bar on Disney’s BoardWalk brings you non-stop dueling pianos and a drink special each night (the “Jellyroll of the Day”). So be thinking of your favorite Billy Joel, Mariah Carey, or Elton John song to request! There is a  cover charge of $18.00  to enter Jellyrolls, which is typically open  nightly from 7PM to 1:45AM.  Doors open at 7PM, and entertainment starts at 8PM — it helps to be early to grab a seat!

Welcome to Leaping Horse Libations at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn! Out at the Luna Park Pool at this Deluxe Resort, you’ll find a poolside bar with all the basics you need for an afternoon in the sun — cold drinks, snacks, and even a few lunch items to get you through your Florida sun-and-pool afternoon! Look for fun carnival-themed drinks like the Tilt-A-Whirl and The Roller Coaster Meltdown served along with the standard Disney pool bar menu.

Leaping Horse Libations

You’ll find Trattoria al Forno on  Disney World’s BoardWalk . This eatery serves breakfast and dinner daily and is an  “original Italian restaurant.”  The dinner menu features  regional specialties with classic preparations . Many of the ingredients are crafted in-house including hand-crafted mozzarella and handmade cavatelli. Trattoria al Forno also features seasonal risotto and serves only Italian wines.  

Trattoria al Forno

So many amazing places to eat, how can you choose? Or you don’t have to, just systematically eat your way through the BoardWalk!

Click HERE to find our COMPLETE GUIDE TO EATING at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn!

Since both resorts are within an easy boat ride or walking distance from each other, the dining options can be enjoyed by guests of Yacht Club or BoardWalk Inn.

Disney’s BoardWalk

Still, we advise looking at the menus to see which resort has more food that appeals to your traveling party.

TRANSPORTATION

Do these resorts offer anything different when it comes to transportation? Let’s see!!

Yacht Club and BoardWalk Inn

Both hotels are considered “EPCOT-area” resort and sit on Crescent Lake, across the water from each other. These resorts are situated in between TWO Disney parks, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Yep, that’s right, you can walk or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on a Friendship Cruise boat to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

We love walking to EPCOT’s International Gateway. Not having to worry about fighting EPCOT’s post-fireworks crowds? Yes, sign us up, please.

Friendship Boat

If Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s buses to transport you over to these parks.

And as if walkways, boats, and buses weren’t enough options for you, Yacht Club and BoardWalk guests are also within walking distance of the EPCOT Skyliner station . This means you have easy access to the other Skyliner resorts if you want to go exploring other resorts or just have a relaxing cruise through the sky.

It’s a tie!

HOW in the world do I get around the WORLD ?

The winner.

So, who is the ultimate winner in the Yacht Club vs. BoardWalk Inn battle? We hate to say it, but it depends ! You’ll need to decide which theme, dining, and pools, best suits your next vacation to Walt Disney World.  Yacht Club standard rooms are smaller, however if cost is your biggest concern, staying here will save you money. If newer rooms is important, then Yacht Club has the edge in that category.

EPCOT Skyliner

The location and transportation options are awesome at both resorts!

DON'T DO IT ALONE!

Our favorite people over at Small World Vacations are ready to help you save time, headaches, and best of all, money, when you book your Disney trip or cruise.

So book that trip now, then sit back and enjoy planning your Disney World Trip with a DFB-approved expert! Click here for a no obligation price quote today, and let them know DFB sent you 🙂

GET MORE INFO

What do you think? Which Disney World hotel is the best choice for your family? Let us know in the comments!

Trending now.

These six Disney LEGO sets are on sale right now on Amazon!

We're begging you to not do this on Haunted Mansion.

We asked our readers what they wish Disney would change about the EPCOT International Food...

Disney World restaurant menus have changed!

We have a name for the new land along with the Disney movie inspiration and...

This week, another opening day ride in Magic Kingdom will be closing for its own...

This abandoned EPCOT restaurant just re-opened as a Kidcot Fun Stop!

Okay, we need to talk about EPCOT.

This week we got the 4-1-1 on a popular EPCOT Show being extended, 4 exclusive...

There are a few mistakes that we worry people may make if they're headed to...

There are some hard truths about EPCOT, but we are here to help ensure you...

We've spotted an interesting Disney trend...

Take a closer look at the third attraction coming to the Tropical Americas Land in...

We swear by this $10 Disney essential!

A popular snack is BACK in Disneyland!

We're sharing a dining reservation HACK you may not know about for Disney World!

We've been waiting FOREVER for this day!

Make sure you're aware of this Disney World rule when booking reservations.

Din Tai Fung has arrived at Disneyland -- check out our dining experience!

The pricey EPCOT dining experience that we think is worth every penny.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of followup comments via e-mail. You can also subscribe without commenting.

CHECK OUT OUR OTHER EBOOKS

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR FEED

Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club (Which to Choose)

The Beach Club Resort and its sister, Disney’s Yacht Club, are two of my family’s favorite hotels at Disney World. You really can’t beat the ideal location, family friendly restaurants, and deluxe amenities at these Walt Disney World resort hotels. But, you may be wondering which of the two deluxe resorts you should book for your upcoming vacation.

While it’s true the Beach Club and Yacht Club share almost everything, the two resorts are also very different from each other. For example, one of the resorts offers a quieter vibe and rooms with full balconies while the other hotel features closer access to Epcot and restaurants. If you are looking for a comparison of Disney’s Beach Club vs Yacht Club resort, this post provides a comprehensive guide to help you choose the best hotel for your trip!

(This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, I may receive a small compensation at no extra cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy at the bottom of this page for more details.)

Beach Club vs Yacht Club Rooms

Depending on availability for your vacation dates, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Yacht Club Resort offer several options for hotel rooms. If you’re comparing the rooms at Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club, we would crown Yacht Club the winner here .

The rooms at Disney’s Yacht Club have updated hardwood flooring rather than carpet. Also, the balconies at the Yacht Club are full balconies as opposed to the Beach Club where you will find standing only Juliet Balconies.

Standard View Rooms

Standard View rooms at the Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts offer views of the rooftop or parking area. These rooms can sleep up to 5 adults since some of the standard view rooms have 2 queen beds and 1 daybed.

Garden View Rooms

Garden View rooms offer views of the garden, woods, or lawn area at Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club. These rooms can also sleep up to 5 adults as some provide 2 queen beds and 1 daybed.

Water View Rooms

Water View rooms at the Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts offer views of one of the pools or of Crescent Lake. These rooms also sleep up to 5 adults if you have a room with 2 queen beds and 1 daybed.

Deluxe Room

Deluxe Rooms at Disney’s Beach Club offer more square footage than the regular hotel rooms. They can sleep up to 6 adults since they offer 2 queen beds and a queen sleeper sofa.

Club Level Rooms

The Club Level rooms at Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts offer standard, garden, or water views similar to the regular hotel rooms. However, you also receive special perks if you book a room in the Club Level. These are some of the benefits you will receive:

• concierge services
• Club Lounge with snacks and beverages
• complimentary health club access
• turndown service

Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers several options for suites.

• The 1 Bedroom Suite can sleep up to 4 adults with a king sized bed in the bedroom and a queen sleeper sofa in the separate sitting area. The 1 bedroom suite offers either garden or water views.
• The 2 Bedroom Suite can sleep up to 7 adults. It offers two separate bedrooms: one with a king bed and one with 2 queen beds. The 2 Bedroom Suite also has a daybed. Your views from this suite will be either of the garden or the water.
• The Nantucket VP Suite sleeps up to 2 adults with a king sized bed. It offers views of the water.
• The Newport Presidential sleeps up to 7 adults with 2 double beds, 1 king bed, and 1 daybed. It provides views of the water and Epcot.

Disney’s Yacht Club also offers a suite for guests. This 2-bedroom suite includes club level access and features two king beds and a queen pullout.

Room Requests

The rooms at Beach Club Resort come with a mini refrigerator. You can request a microwave when you check in as well. Other items you may request include bed rails, highchair, crib, and connecting rooms.

As mentioned above, it is important to note that not all of the rooms at Beach Club have FULL balconies. Many of them only offer the small Juliet type balcony. If a full-sized balcony is important to you, I HIGHLY recommend requesting this during online check in.

Beach Club vs Yacht Club Location

The Beach Club Resort at Walt Disney World sits near Epcot Theme Park and Disney’s Boardwalk entertainment district. Since this resort is located on Crescent Lake, you get amazing water views and sandy beaches where your kids can play. Beach Club’s sister resort, Disney’s Yacht Club, is located right next door.

These two resorts are connected, so you can easily walk between the two and enjoy the amenities each hotel has to offer. One of the most popular amenities at these sister resorts is their elaborate pool: Stormalong Bay. Even though the check-in time typically is not until 3:00, guests of the resorts can use the pool before their room is officially ready.

One of our top reasons for choosing to stay at Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club is their prime location. Below, I will detail how to get from the hotels to each of the Walt Disney World theme parks. Since both of these resorts sit on the same property, there really isn’t much of a difference on their location .

When comparing the Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club, the Beach Club is slightly closer to Epcot while the Yacht Club is a bit closer to Hollywood Studios. The differences in distance are so small that I wouldn’t recommend basing your decision on that factor though . On a side note, if you are looking for tips on choosing the right Disney World hotel, join our Facebook group for personalized help on finding the best resort for your family!

If you are wondering how far Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club are from Epcot, you will be pleased to know it’s a short five-minute walk. You just stroll along the walkway near Crescent Lake and follow the signs for Epcot. You will arrive at the International Gateway entrance to Epcot, which is at the back of the park near the World Showcase.

to Hollywood Studios

If you are wanting to travel to Disney’s Hollywood Studios from the Beach Club Resort or the Yacht Club, you have several options to get there. You can walk along the scenic paths to the theme park, which takes about 20 minutes.

You can also take the water shuttle from the Beach Club to Hollywood Studios. Since the boat makes some stops along the way, this also takes about 20 minutes. You can also utilize the Skyliner from the International Gateway. This gondola ride will take you straight to Hollywood Studios.

to Magic Kingdom

If you want to access Magic Kingdom from the Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts, you will need to board the Disney bus outside the lobby of one of the hotels. Depending on when you are visiting WDW, this shuttle bus may combine pickups by stopping at both the Beach Club and Disney’s Yacht Club. Magic Kingdom is about a 20-minute drive from Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

to Animal Kingdom

If you are looking to travel to Animal Kingdom Theme Park, you would need to board the Disney bus in front of the hotel. Each bus promptly displays where they are headed, so it’s super easy to catch the correct one. This ride is usually around 20 minutes long.

to Disney’s Boardwalk

Disney’s Boardwalk is super easy to access from the Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts. The Boardwalk is located right across the lake from the hotels and is a short 5-minute walk. This area of Disney World is one of our favorites, and its close proximity to the hotels is a huge perk to staying in the Beach Club/Yacht Club area.

to Disney Springs

You would also need to drive or take the Disney shuttle bus to Disney Springs. This ride typically takes 20 minutes.

Activities Comparison

Disney’s Beach Club Resort and the Yacht Club offer many fun activities for families visiting with kids. Again, since these two hotels are sister resorts, guests staying at either hotel may experience activities at both hotels . In other words, the Beach Club and Yacht Club share the guest activities listed below.

The Beach Club and Yacht Club share an arcade that is located right by Stormalong Bay Pool. The arcade is full of fun video games and sports tables. This is a great rainy day activity!

Outdoor Movies

Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club resort show nightly movies outside on the lawn or sand. You can check out the entertainment schedule for the dates of your visit to determine which movies are playing. This activity schedule is usually released at the beginning of each month.

Kids love spending their evenings roasting marshmallows and making s’mores by the campfire. Sometimes Mickey’s friends even join in the fun!

Guests of Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, and Disney’s Beach Club Villas have access to three leisure pool areas (one at each resort). In addition, these three Disney resorts share a main pool, Stormalong Bay, which I will discuss in more detail below.

Stormalong Bay is a massive pool and water play area shared by Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts. If you have set aside time to enjoy this elaborate swimming area, note that pool towels are complimentary and available in the pool gates.

Stormalong Bay

Stormalong Bay offers lots of different spaces for swimming and playing in the water. Near the site of the large shipwreck model, you will find a kiddie pool perfect for little ones. This pool is in a contained area and is separate from the larger pool area.

This kiddie pool tends to be a bit quieter than the main pool. Stormalong Bay also has a sand bottom pool that is great for babies and toddlers . The super shallow water allows them to safely splash and play in the sand. You will find deeper areas of water to swim as well. Disney’s Beach Club Resort offers complimentary safety vests that little ones can use while playing and swimming.

In addition to the many swimming areas at Stormalong Bay, guests can enjoy the lazy river. You will find complimentary inner tubes available near the lazy river to make floating even more fun!

Water Slides

You will find two water slides at Stormalong Bay Pool. The larger of the two slides is a whopping 230 feet long. It begins atop the huge shipwreck model (pictured above) at the edge of the lake. This large water slide does not have a height requirement; however, there is a limit of one person at a time on the slide. This means that parents are not permitted to slide with their toddler or small child.

If you have an adventurous toddler who enjoys thrill rides, you can usually wait in the water at the bottom of the slide. This way you are available to grab your little one after he/she lands in the water. Children are permitted to wear complimentary safety vests on the slide as well.

*Note that you have to leave the main pool gates and climb many steep stairs to get to the top of this slide. Therefore, you will not want your toddler entering the slide area alone.

The smaller of the two slides is near the entrance to the larger slide. When you arrive in the shipwreck area, you will see a small, kiddie pool with a miniature water slide perfect for toddlers. Smaller kids should have no problem climbing to the top of this slide and sliding down to the pool below. You can clearly see them the whole time.

The shallow sand bottom section is perfect for toddlers and little kids to splash and dig. The lazy river is super fun and relaxing. The main water slide is a big hit for kids and adults. The kiddie water slide and pool area are great for toddlers and those who want a calmer sliding experience.

Price Comparison

Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts are typically priced similarly. My family and I often find that one may be a bit cheaper than the other for a specific set of dates, but a different set of dates may produce different results. If you are interested in experiencing all the great amenities of Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club resorts for a fraction of the price, I recommend looking into renting Disney Vacation Club points for a stay at the Beach Club Villas.

These villas are located on the same property as the Beach Club/Yacht Club Resorts, and they have access to the same great restaurants and activities! You can check out the “cost calculator” at David’s Vacation Club Rentals to see how much you save on your vacation dates. I have personally used David’s rental services multiple times and have always had great experiences!

Things to Do Near the Resorts

Since Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts are located in such a great spot near the Boardwalk and other resorts, you will find lots of kid friendly things to do within walking distance of the hotel.

Epcot Fireworks

One of our favorite activities just outside Disney’s Beach Club/Yacht Club is to view the nightly fireworks show at Epcot. You can grab some ice cream from Beaches and Cream and choose a spot near the walkway to Epcot. This is a great way to enjoy the fireworks show without having to maneuver between the crowds of people inside the park. It’s also a nice activity to enjoy at Disney World without purchasing a park ticket!

The Skyliner is one of the newer additions to Walt Disney World. This gondola ride connects several of the resort hotels to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. If you are looking for a unique activity, take a ride on the Skyliner with your kids.

Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf is an 18-hole course themed off the movie Fantasia . Since this kid friendly activity is located near The Swan hotel, guests of Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club can easily walk to the mini golf course.

Restaurants

In addition to the easy access to the restaurants on Disney’s Boardwalk, guests at the Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts have lots of dining options right at the hotel.

Beaches and Cream Soda Shop

Beaches and Cream is my personal all time favorite restaurant at Disney World. This diner offers all kinds of delicious options, including a tomato bisque that is out of this world!

Open daily for lunch and dinner, Beaches and Cream Soda Shop is located right beside Stormalong Bay Pool. They are famous for the ice cream concoction knows as The Kitchen Sink. Note that you are able to order some ice cream and to-go items from the window without actually going inside the diner.

Beach Club Marketplace

If you are looking for a quick stop on your way to the theme parks, Beach Club Marketplace is a great option. This dining venue serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Its diverse menu offers something for everyone. Beach Club Marketplace is our go-to for a fast breakfast or a quick snack before heading out for the day.

Martha’s Vineyard

Martha’s Vineyard is a lounge that serves all kinds of adult beverages. You can also order appetizers like clam chowder, chicken wings, and calamari from this venue.

Hurricane Hanna’s

Hurricane Hanna’s is located right outside by Stormalong Bay Pool. You can order your food and beverages from the counter and dine outside at the available tables.

Ale and Compass

Ale and Compass is a sit down restaurant located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This dining venue serves family favorites for breakfast and options like seafood, chicken, and steak for dinner.

The Market at Ale and Compass

The Market at Ale and Compass is the quick service dining venue located at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Similar to The Beach Club Marketplace, this restaurant is a great stop for a quick meal.

Cape May Cafe

Cape May Cafe is located near the lobby of Disney’s Beach Club Resort. This restaurant is buffet style and serves your favorite seafood options. Cape May Cafe is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. However, the restaurant takes on a different theme for breakfast when it becomes the site for Minnie’s Beach Bash.

Yachtsman Steakhouse

Yachtsman Steakhouse is a signature dining restaurant at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. You will find steak and seafood among other options on the menu. Since this is a signature dining experience, guests must adhere to a dress code .

Crew’s Cup Lounge

Crew’s Cup Lounge is located near Yactsman Steakhouse at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. Here, you will find all kinds of adult beverages along with a few options for appetizers or snacks.

In Room Dining

Disney’s Beach Club Resort is one of the Walt Disney World hotels that offers room service. You will find an In Room Dining Menu in your hotel room with instructions on how to place an order.

The menu includes options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and late night dining. You can even pre-order your breakfast the night before, so your family can eat in the room as you get ready for the parks.

Character Dining

As mentioned above, Cape May Cafe at Disney’s Beach Club Resort becomes a character dining experience each morning for breakfast. Minnie’s Beach Bash Breakfast is a super fun way to start your day! The breakfast is buffet style and has a wide range of items to choose. You will even find a stand serving made to order omelets!

Minnie, Donald, Daisy, and Goofy each walk around the dining areas to greet you at your table. The characters are decked out in their finest beach wear to continue the theme of the dining experience.

Beach Club and Yacht Club vs Other Disney Resorts

Since Disney’s Beach Club and Yacht Club Resorts are my family’s favorite hotels at Disney World, I will try to explain WHY we love them so much! Below, I will compare the Beach Club/Yacht Club to other resorts at Disney World, so you can get an idea of why we choose to stay at these resorts. If you would like to see more comparisons between other hotels, feel free to comment below with the resorts you are considering. I know how stressful and overwhelming planning a Disney World vacation can be!

vs Beach Club Villas

Like the Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Villas have access to all the restaurants, activities, and amenities at the Beach Club resort. My recommendation is to choose the cheapest option of the three resorts . As mentioned above, renting DVC points for Beach Club Villas is often the best way to save money.

vs Boardwalk Inn

If you stay at Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, you get the perks of the awesome location near Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Boardwalk. You can also easily walk over to the Beach Club to enjoy the dining venues located there. The one big drawback to Boardwalk Inn is that you don’t get Stormalong Bay . Disney’s Boardwalk Inn has a really fun pool, but it just doesn’t compare to the elaborate swimming pool at the Beach Club.

vs Monorail Resorts

You may be wondering how the Beach Club compares to the monorail resorts: Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Polynesian . These three resorts offer really easy access to Magic Kingdom, which is a huge perk if you have little kids.

They all offer great theming and activities as well. However, Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts get our pick because they’re usually priced significantly lower than the monorail resorts .

vs Caribbean Beach Resort

It is difficult to compare Disney’s Beach Club Resort with Caribbean Beach because they really aren’t similar at all. Even though the names may cause you to think differently, the two resorts do not have much in common. Caribbean Beach is a moderate hotel that is lovely, but it does not offer the amenities that the deluxe resorts do.

If you are not planning to spend a lot of time at your hotel, you can certainly look into Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. However, you will not have access to the prime location, restaurants, pool, and other activities that the Beach Club offers .

Final Review of Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club

Since these two resorts share EVERYTHING, it’s really a matter of personal taste when deciding between these two hotels. The Disney Beach Club has a more relaxed vibe, while Yacht Club seems more sophisticated . We find that Stormalong Bay Pool is reason enough to stay at these amazing hotels. Who can pass up the opportunity to experience the best pool at Disney World?!

In addition, the location, restaurants, and activities offered at these deluxe resort hotels help to make your vacation one you will never forget! If I were planning a trip to Disney World, I would choose whichever is cheaper between the two ! Don’t forget to join our Facebook group for personalized help on finding the best resort for your family! So, how do you think they compare? Which resort would you choose? Disney Beach Club vs Yacht Club? Comment below to share!

Shari is an experienced planner and organizer for Disney vacations, cruising, and U.S. travel. Her family vacation information, reviews, and tips provide insight for moms and dads everywhere. You can read more about her story, including her journey through breast cancer, in the about me page.

Similar Posts

Unbelievably Fun Things to Do at Disney’s Boardwalk

34 unbelievably cute disney shirts for your family, disney bag policy: what to bring into the parks.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort Review (Is it worth it?)

13 Astonishingly Great Hotels in the EPCOT Area

Honest Review of Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Accommodations

Theme parks, disney cruise line – what you need to know, cruise line ships, disney private islands, recent walt disney world, recent disneyland, disney world reviews, other park reviews, recent reviews, allears style, newsletter home, which resort has the best club level in disney world.

Are you considering staying in a Club Level room during your Disney World vacation? Or perhaps you’d just like to learn a little more about this concierge option available at select Disney World Resort hotels ?

Well, there may be more factors to consider than you realize to choose the Club Level that’s right for you. (And if you’re curious to learn whether Club Level itself is a good choice for your group to begin with, we dive into that topic here .) Today we’re chatting about which Resort has the BEST Club Level in Disney World. Are you ready?

We are, too! But first things first: let’s give a brief overview of Club Levels at Disney World hotels. Club Level (also called Concierge Club Level) is a room category that offers special perks and accommodations . For instance, Club Level guests have access to an exclusive lounge that offers light meals like continental breakfast, snacks throughout the day, and even evening desserts and cocktail hours. (Cheers!)

Additionally, Club Level guests receive special planning help prior to their visit through Disney Signature Services, as well as a separate dedicated Concierge Desk onsite to help during their stay. Concierge Cast Members are typically available from 7AM to 10PM each day (as well as the time leading up to your vacation). Cast Members can assist with park tickets, advance dining reservations, and many more recommendations that can help throughout your vacation.

So, those are the basics! Now let’s explore WHICH Resort Club Level option is the BEST… or simply the best for YOU! Let’s start by going down the list of options, and then we’ll cover a few factors to consider in your decision.

Disney World Resort Hotels with Club Levels

Atrium club level in disney’s contemporary resort (deluxe resort).

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is mere steps away from Magic Kingdom , and is one of three hotels on the Monorail Loop. The vibe is bright and modern, while guests will also enjoy classic Disney touches including a mural by legendary Disney artist Mary Blair, and recently refurbished guest rooms themed to The Incredibles .

The Contemporary offers Club Level Rooms on the 12th and 14th Floor of the Resort’s Tower, with the 14th floor housing Suites. The 12th floor Atrium Club Concierge and the 14th floor Tower Club Concierge offer the same guest services and food items.

Readers have provided reviews of the Contemporary Club Level which you can read here , but we’re shining a spotlight on a few quotes below:

“Because we were staying Club Level, we were able to walk down and watch the fireworks on the balcony at night and man were the views spectacular! Eating breakfast on the club level balcony while watching the ferry and monorail come and go, as well as admire Cinderella Castle can’t be beat. T he food provided was delicious and my family and I especially enjoyed the desserts provided during the fireworks.”

“The staff could not have been more wonderful and attentive… The snacks were not as nice as at some of the other club levels where we have stayed, but they were adequate.”

Kilimanjaro Club Level in Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is nearest to Disney’s Animal Kingdom park . The most unique thing about this remarkable Resort is that there are over 200 animals that LIVE on the Savannas of the Lodge!

The Kilimanjaro Club Level is on the 6th floor of the Resort’s Jambo House, and while it is spacious and lovely, the Lounge itself does not offer a view of the Savanna (where the animals can be seen).

If you have dined at Boma or Jiko — The Cooking Place , you may be thrilled to know that the Lounge offers many bites like those you’d enjoy at those restaurants! A selection of South African wines is also available to try.

You can find reviews from AllEars readers for the Kilimanjaro Club Level Lounge here , and we’ve provided a few quotes below:

“It takes a bit of a walk to get to the top floor for refreshments and free food, even if you are close to the elevators on the lower levels.”

“The food offerings, except breakfast, shouldn’t be viewed as meal replacements but for a very light eater you can eat enough to not want a lunch or heavy dinner. The offerings in the evening tie into the theme of the resort and are a great way to try something you might not otherwise eat.”

“There were hot options at breakfast and cocktail hour. The staff were very helpful with providing food for our daughter with a food allergy. Everyone was very helpful in the lounge. I do wish the club level rooms were closer to the club area.”

King Kamehameha Club Level in Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort (Deluxe Resort)

The “Spirit of ALOHA” awaits at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort ! This South Island-inspired Resort is on the Magic Kingdom Monorail Loop and sits on the shores of Seven Seas Lagoon.

The Club level rooms at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort are located in the Hawaii and Tonga buildings, and the private lounge is on the second floor of the Hawaii building.

A HUGE bonus to the lounge is that it offers fantastic views of Cinderella Castle and the Magic Kingdom fireworks (and the music for the fireworks is played on speakers inside the lounge during the show).

Here’s some of what AllEars readers had to share in their reviews of the Polynesian’s Club Level :

“Lots of different kinds of food at each meal time and the alcoholic beverages were plentiful! I recommend the punch!! We had breakfast each day and enjoyed at least one other treat time or drink time each day. We were able to take back to our room or eat in the very nice lounge.”

“Since they built the bungalows on the beach, the views from Hawaii bldg rooms have been severely impacted, such that now only the third floor rooms have a true theme park view…. during the Magic Kingdom fireworks, the CM’s make it extra magical for all in the lounge by turning down the lights in the room and piping in the music, so we can watch AND hear the show…and it’s wonderful.”

“The concierge was always helpful, whether I needed something picked up from a park or printing out my boarding passes. Food in the club was plentiful and always tasty.”

Old Faithful Club Level in Disney’s Wilderness Lodge (Deluxe Resort)

The beauty of the Pacific Northwest and the legacy of great National Parks is celebrated at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge ! Though Wilderness Lodge is not a stop along the Monorail Loop, this Resort offers easy (and fun!) access to the Magic Kingdom by boat.

The Concierge rooms (all located on the seventh floor, along with the Club Level Lounge) offer a privacy balcony and the view will be either woods or courtyard.

Here are a few quotes from AllEars reader reviews :

“ The cast members at the club level are all top notch. Super helpful with answering any questions. Breakfast every day was great. Each day was a little different but there were always staples. The croissants were particularly great!”

“The lounge was welcoming with a stunning view of the lobby. The staff were extremely helpful and every time you passed a CM in the hallway, they smiled and said hello. We felt completely at home and very welcome indeed… The food was lovely, always plenty available with a fridge full of chilled drinks available too… The WL CL really know how to treat their guests, and it shows.”

Royal Palm Club Level in Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Grand Floridian is Disney World’s flagship Resort! Presenting a turn-of-the-century Victorian theme, the Grand Floridian is on the Monorail Loop… and the very next stop is the Magic Kingdom .

All of the Club Level room (and about half of the suites) are located on the third, fourth, and fifth floors of the main building. The Lounge is located on the fourth floor. Unless you are staying in one of the Club Level rooms, you cannot get to the third, fourth, or fifth floors of the main building. Access is by private elevator only. (The Sugar Loaf building also offers full club-level service.)

AllEars readers had the following to share in our collection of reviews for Club Level at the Grand Floridian :

“We loved the club level perk of the food and beverages. The staff was not as friendly as I was expecting, and the eating area was always crowded.”

“After many stays at The Boardwalk in Concierge level and the Wilderness Lodge Concierge level I expected a lot more from Grand Floridian.”

“The private lounge was beautiful and the food and drinks plentiful.”

Stone Harbor Club Level in Disney’s Beach Club Resort (Deluxe Resort)

Disney’s Beach Club is styled after the New England seaside at the turn of the century and the seashore theme is evident throughout this bright and airy Resort, which also boasts a pool complex that’s like its own mini water park! The Beach Club connects directly to its sister Resort, the Yacht Club. It’s also within walking distance to EPCOT !

Club Level room options are diverse, ranging from standard, garden, and water view rooms to the Newport Presidential Suite (and also including 1- and 2-bedroom suites.)

Allears readers have shared the following within this collection of Club Level reviews of Beach Club :

“It was awesome from beginning to end. The staff were outstanding and got to know us so much so when we came in from the parks, be it mid afternoon or evening, they brought us our favorite alcoholic beverages and kept bringing more. The evening offerings were enough to fill us up so we didn’t need to buy dinner.”

“the best part was the staff. Awesome helpful people. The food was always warm and restocked, staff members were constantly inquiring about how the food was and if you needed anything. They were also happy to chat and provide tips, or little known facts, or suggestions.”

Regatta Club Level in Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Where the Beach Club celebrates life along the shore, its sister Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club , is a tribute to life ON the sea with its more nautical theming. As it connects directly to the Beach Club, the Yacht Club likewise boasts a walking path directly to EPCOT as well as easy access to the Disney Skyliner .

All Club Level rooms are located on the Yacht Club’s 5th floor.

Readers have several great things to say about the Regatta Club Level in our collection of reviews :

“We definitely took advantage of the breakfast more than any of the other options since we were at the parks most of the day. On one of the late afternoons we did stop back in and were able to try out the hors d’oeuvres consisting of crudites, various cheeses, sliced roast beef and turkey with dinner rolls, chicken fingers, mac and cheese, smoked salmon and a few others I don’t recall. You easily could have made a dinner out of what was there. Another night we came back in time to enjoy the desserts which included 2 to 3 assorted mini cupcakes, mini tarts, rice crispy treats, ice cream, fresh fruit, and cookies. Good thing we were doing a lot of walking on this trip! Overall, the lounge was busy but not overcrowded.”

“This stay really lead me and my husband to decided to continue staying club level going forward… Club Level was definitely worth it.”

Innkeeper’s Club Level in Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

We have one more option for you within walking distance to EPCOT : Disney’s BoardWalk Inn . The turn-of-the-century Coney Island-inspired BoardWalk offers Club Level guests access to the Innkeeper’s Club.

Club Level guests may choose from standard rooms or water or garden views, or opt for a 2-Bedroom Suite.

Take a peek at the following quotes from AllEars reader reviews of the Innkeeper’s Cub Level at the BoardWalk .

“As for the Innkeeper’s Lounge, the Continental Breakfast had a number of good offerings. The afternoon snacks were good. The dinner time appetizers and other offerings were a big disappointment… The seating in the Lounge was usually insufficient, which is another disappointment when spending so much money for club level.”

“It’s by no means cheap but replaces mini expensive restaurant meals. Fantastic [cast members]. Overall a terrific experience!”

Chronos Club Level in Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs Resort (Moderate Resort)

Do you see how “One of these things is not like the other?” (Sing along if you remember that one 😉 ). Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is the single Moderate Resort on the list of Resorts with a Club Level option.

Club Level options for Coronado Springs Resort arrived with the addition of Gran Destino Tower in 2019. In fact, Club Level access is exclusive to rooms in the Tower, which include Standard View rooms, Deluxe-, 1-Bedroom- and Presidential Suites.

You can take a photo tour of the stunning Gran Destino Tower here ; and it’s good to know that the nearest park to Coronado Springs is Animal Kingdom (and, therefore, a bit of a bus trek to the other parks).

Factors to Consider

Theme and style.

When it comes to choosing a Club Level, choosing your preferred theme or style is much like that of choosing your Resort! So, this one all boils down to preference.

Do you love the idea of the casual feel of the Beach Club? Does the idea of seeing animals on the daily at Animal Kingdom Lodge pique your interest?

Then simply follow where your instincts lead! If you are looking more into logistics, we have more factors to consider…

Proximity to Parks

If you know you’ll be spending a lot of your time in EPCOT, the Beach Club, Yacht Club, or BoardWalk Inn would be your best bets.

If you’re planning to tackle ALL. THE. RIDES. in Magic Kingdom, a Resort on the Monorail Loop might be best for you. We’ve mentioned closest park proximity in all of the individual Resort sections above to help you consider your options.

Ratings from Readers

You may feel a little more confident in your decision by checking out what others have to say about their experience.

With the exception of the newest Club Level option (at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort), you can click on any of the review links above to check out full reviews from fellow AllEars readers to find out their thoughts and experiences regarding the individual Resort Club Levels.

Be sure to consider if a specific view from your room is of importance to you.

Because Club Level Rooms are relegated to certain areas of the Resorts, you may want to factor that into your decision.

Ah, yes… ’tis a splurge to enjoy Club Level access. As we mentioned in a previous post , the price of staying Club Level ranges from an additional $100 a night to $275 a night depending on the resort. A good rule of thumb is that the more expensive the hotel and room category, the greater the added cost.

Specific pricing can be found on the Disney World website, in exactly the same way you would search for any room in a Disney World Resort hotel. (In fact, when perusing “Room Rates” on the Disney World website, Club Level rooms are clearly marked in the search, so you can conduct an easy cost comparison between both regular rooms and other Club Level options at various Resort hotels.

We hope this chat has helped in your Disney World vacation planning! And if you’ve ever experienced Club Level at Disney World, we’d love to hear about it with a comment!

Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge Offerings

Join the AllEars.net Newsletter  to get the free Cheat Sheet for Disney's Monorail resorts: Grand Floridian, Polynesian, and Contemporary! Click here to get started!

Trending Now

Bluey fans, trust us when we say this is one merchandise item you will MASSIVELY...

Grab this Loungefly deal now!

These four rules for dressing in the parks won't fail you. Follow our lead, and...

Jungle Cruise is closing TOMORROW in Disney World for its scheduled refurbishment!

This week we spotted a few new items coming to Aldi that we think you're...

Pssst! We're sharing one of our favorite Disney finds with you that will cost you...

If you're planning to head to EPCOT next year, you may want to avoid these...

Your answers to this very basic question left us scratching our heads for a while

You need to know these rules before you go to Disney World.

You can get excellent prices on flights to Disney World through one popular budget airline!

Why isn't anyone talking about THIS Disney World hotel?!

Flights to Orlando Airport are up this year according to Visit Orlando, however, one airline...

We'll be waiting impatiently for October 16th because that's when one of our favorite rides...

There was an EPIC Lightsaber Meet Up in Disney World yesterday, and we were right...

More new nonstop flights have come to Orlando International Airport!

Loungefly is dropping a TON of new Disney merchandise and souvenirs and we're bringing you...

How long will it be until Tiana's Bayou Adventure switches to using a stand-by line?

Adding a rest day to your Disney World plans is a game changer.

Since there's so much going on at the park, we thought of a few NEW...

With Cars Land confirmed to go in place of Tom Sawyer Island, this quick-service location's...

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

One Reply to “Which Resort Has The Best Club Level In Disney World?”

The picture of the Animal Kingdom Lodge Concierge lounge is labelled incorrectly. That picture is of a lounge just off the lobby that anyone can access.

Follow us on Social!

Shop the Disney Store | AllEars® Merchandise | Shop Amazon | Press Room | Contact Us

Read more About us or Advertise with us . We respect your right to privacy. Please take a moment to review our privacy policy and terms of use .

Copyright ©1996-2024 AllEarsNet, LLC, All Rights Reserved. AllEars.Net, AllEars® Newsletter and any other properties owned by AllEarsNet, LLC are not affiliated with, authorized or endorsed by, or in any way officially connected with, The Walt Disney Company, Disney Enterprises, Inc., or any of their affiliates. All Disney artwork, copyrights, trademarks, service marks, and trade names are proprietary to Disney Enterprises, Inc. or, its subsidiary, affiliated and related companies. For official Disney information, visit http://www.disneyworld.com

• Skip to main content
• Skip to primary sidebar

Additional menu

The Family Vacation Guide

Disney’s Beach Club vs Yacht Club: Which Should You Choose?

posted by James Brockbank on September 3, 2022 // last updated on September 19, 2022

One of the best parts of planning a family vacation to Walt Disney World near Orlando, Florida , is choosing where to stay.

Disney owns and operates more than 20 resorts and other accommodations on their central Florida property, in addition to the dozens of others nearby.

If Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Disney’s Yacht Club Resort are among your options, you might be wondering which is better. After all, they’re located directly next door to each other, and the theming is similar. 

Despite having much in common, these two hotels have some key differences that make them distinct. Below, we’ll talk about the perks of staying in one of Disney’s hotels and what the Yacht and Beach Clubs have in common. Then, we’ll dive into what makes them distinct. That way, you can make the best choice for your family vacation.

Early Genie+ Access

Transportation, on-site guest relations, deluxe resorts, the skyliner, the boardwalk, room accommodations, entertainment and recreation, disney vacation club villas, recreation and entertainment, convention center, which should you choose: disney’s beach club or yacht club, perks of staying in a walt disney world hotel.

Experienced Disney vacationers will tell you that staying “on-property” has many advantages that can help you get the most out of your time in the most magical place on earth.

Each day, the four theme parks in Walt Disney World– Magic Kingdom , EPCOT , Hollywood Studios , and Animal Kingdom –open 30 minutes early for resort guests. That means you can get to the park in the morning and head to a couple of your favorite attractions without worrying about crowds.

At times in the past, Disney had offered “Extra Magic Hours” when parks opened even earlier or stayed open late in the evening for resort guests. While Disney isn’t offering them now, it certainly could return in the future.

Genie+ is the paid reservation system that allows guests to reserve times to visit top attractions. Time slots become available to park guests when the park opens for the day. 

However, guests with resort reservations linked to their accounts can make their first selections at 7 AM. That’s a distinct advantage over everyone else. What’s more, reservations for some of the most popular rides sometimes go quick.

Disney provides regular, reliable transportation from all of its hotels to its four theme parks, two water parks, and Disney Springs shopping and entertainment district. Buses run to each destination from every hotel about every 30 minutes.

In addition, there are boats and water taxis, the Skyliner gondola system, the monorail, and walking trails from several resorts. Below, we’ll talk about what’s available at the Yacht and Beach Clubs.

An often-overlooked advantage of staying at a Disney hotel is on-site guest relations. You can visit this desk to take care of a range of questions and issues before visiting the parks. You can purchase or verify tickets, make and confirm park and dining reservations, and schedule tours and special events.

Of course, guest relations is available at the entrance to all theme parks and water parks. However, there can be long lines, especially at the beginning of the day. What’s more, visiting the desk in the park takes away from your time enjoying attractions.  

What Do the Yacht and Beach Clubs Have in Common?

If you’ve done your research, you may already know that the Yacht and Beach Clubs are next to each other. They’re also often discussed together since they share so many amenities and features. 

Before we discuss what makes them unique so you can choose between them, it’s helpful to look at what they share. That way, you can get a total picture of what it would be like to spend your family vacation there.

Both the Beach Club and Yacht Club are Disney Deluxe Resorts . This is the top tier of hotels on Disney property, ahead of value resorts like Art of Animation and All-Star Sports and moderate resorts such as Coronado Springs and Port Orleans Riverside.

As you might expect, deluxe resorts have the best of everything. The rooms tend to be larger, the hotel lobbies and fixtures more opulent, and the theming is more detailed. There are better pools (with slides), more amenities (such as spas and shops), and more dining options.

Deluxe resorts have several unique features and perks. Sometimes, Disney parks stay open late for guests of deluxe resorts. They tend to have great locations with better access to the parks and transportation options. Of course, it all comes at a price. Deluxe resorts start at around $450 and increase sharply from there. 

The location is one of the best things about staying at the Yacht or Beach Club. They are two of the three resorts located directly near EPCOT. 

If you enjoy the thrilling attractions in Future World or a leisurely stroll through the World Showcase, you might like the Yacht and Beach Clubs even more than the Magic Kingdom monorail hotels–The Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, and the Contemporary.

Let’s zoom in on the three things that make this location spectacular.

The Yacht and Beach Clubs are about a ten or 15-minute walk from EPCOT . One of four theme parks in Walt Disney World, EPCOT has so much to offer. It’s split into two major worlds, and they almost feel like two separate worlds.

Future World has some of the most thrilling attractions in any of the parks, including Soarin’ , Test Track , and the brand new Guardians of the Galaxy roller coaster, Cosmic Rewind . 

Then, there’s the World Showcase, with pavilions from 11 countries around the world. Sample food, drink, merchandise, and culture without leaving central Florida.

The new Skyliner transportation system is just before you reach the World Gateway entrance to EPCOT. The Skyliner is a gondola system that connects several popular spots around the “world,” including Hollywood Studios, Riviera Resort, and several other hotels.

The Skyliner has revolutionized how people get around Walt Disney World. Many guests hated waiting for and riding buses to and from the parks, but the Skyliner has turned that experience into a ride in itself.

Guests at the Yacht and Beach Club can easily walk to the Skyliner. The Beach Club is a bit closer, but it only takes about ten minutes from the Yacht Club lobby.

The Boardwalk Hotel is on the same walking trail as the Yacht and Beach Club. In addition to the hotel is the Boardwalk entertainment area. While it’s much smaller than Disney Springs, you can find shops, restaurants, and entertainment. 

One of the Boardwalk’s favorites is Jelly Rolls, a dueling piano bar. The Atlantic Dance Hall opens nightly for drinks and dancing.

Most room accommodations at the Yacht and Beach Club are the same. Standard rooms include one king or two queen beds, and some have a pull-down bed under the television. 

Daily housekeeping is included, and guests can choose from water, pool, and garden views. In addition, both hotels have suites and a club or concierge level.

The best part of staying at the Yacht or Beach Club is arguably the main pool. The most popular on Disney property, Stormalong Bay encompasses three acres of space. There’s a lazy river, three whirlpool spas, and a life-size replica of a shipwreck with a 230-foot waterslide. It’s partially sand-bottom, and there’s a sandy beach to play on.

If you prefer a quieter poolside experience, there are three more leisure pools for use by guests at the Beach and Yacht Clubs: the Admiral Pool, Dunes Cove, and the Tidal Pool. All three have whirlpool spas and other amenities.

The Yacht and Beach Club share transportation, and the great news is how easy it is to get around Walt Disney World from both of these hotels.

The bus stop is located outside the main lobby of the Yacht Club. Buses run about every 30 minutes to the parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. The bus is the best way to get to Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and the Magic Kingdom.

There is also a boat launch behind the lobby of the Yacht Club on Crescent Lake. The boats take guests to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios and are a leisurely way to get to both parks.

As mentioned above, the Skyliner is about a ten-minute walk from the Yacht and Beach Clubs. The Skyliner takes guests to Hollywood Studios and is the fastest way to get there. 

We mentioned walking into EPCOT from these resorts, but you can also walk to Hollywood Studios. The path winds for about one mile around the water.

Finally, while the Yacht and Beach Clubs aren’t located on the monorail, you can access the monorail through EPCOT. You will need a theme park reservation at EPCOT or a park hopper ticket (useable after 2 PM) to access the monorail. However, it can take you to the Magic Kingdom.

The two resorts also share much of the same entertainment and recreation options. Moreover, guests at either hotel are almost always welcome to use amenities at the other one.

The resorts jointly host nightly campfires (weather permitting) and movies under the stars (indoors in inclement weather). There are tennis courts, volleyball courts, jogging trails, arcades, boat rentals, and fishing. There’s also a full fitness center and salon at Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness. 

What Makes Disney’s Beach Club Different?

Now that you know all the things that Disney’s Yacht and Beach Clubs share, we can look at meaningful ways that they differ. 

One of them is written right into their names. Even though the themes at the resorts are similar, they are distinct from each other. The Beach Club is reminiscent of classic Atlantic and New Jersey seaside resorts around the turn of the 20th century. 

It’s bright and cheerful, with light pastel colors throughout. You’ll notice elements of gingerbread-style and Victorian architecture, almost like an upscale beach cottage. The atmosphere is designed to be more relaxed and calming.

There are several other important ways that the two hotels differ. Here’s what’s unique to the Beach Club.

One thing that makes the Beach Club distinct is the presence of Disney Vacation Club villas. Disney Vacation Club is a vacation ownership company that sells timeshares in select Disney resorts worldwide. It also offers exceptional experiences, excursions, and reciprocity with RCI for members in good standing to use their annual allotment of points.

There are only 282 villas at the Beach Club, making it among the smallest in the collection. There are studios with kitchenettes and one, two, and three-bedroom villas with full kitchens.

You don’t need to be a DVC member to book the villas. In fact, many non-members love the villas for family reunions and space to spread out. They typically cost more than standard rooms per night.

You don’t have to be a guest at the Beach Club to dine in any of its restaurants. Anyone can make a reservation or drop in for table availability, but guests of this resort will be closer and find it easier to eat at these.

Cape May Cafe is a popular buffet spot for breakfast and dinner. Beaches and Cream Soda Shop has diner offerings for lunch and dinner and is known for its incredible ice cream. Martha’s Vineyard serves lunch but is best known for its bar service and wine selection. Finally, the Beach Club Marketplace offers counter-service and grab-and-go dining options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. 

Some guests prefer the Beach Club’s location because it is closer to EPCOT and the Skyliner. It takes about five or ten more minutes to get there from the Yacht Club, depending on where your room is situated. However, most of the rooms at the Yacht Club are closer to Stormalong Bay than at the Beach Club.

Even though guests of either resort can use all the amenities, it’s worth mentioning the ones that are located at the Beach Club:

• Dunes Cove Pool
• Volleyball courts

What Makes the Yacht Club Different?

Several elements distinguish the Yacht Club from the Beach Club, and the first is the theme. While the Beach Club is designed to look and feel like a relaxed yet refined seaside resort, the Yacht Club is more stately.

The Yacht Club is reminiscent of a grand, exclusive New England yachting or boating resort, visited by titans of industry, politicians, and some of the oldest families in America. It is elegant, plush, and nautical. In contrast to the whimsical pastels at the Beach Club, you’ll see dark blues and wood tones against white finishes. 

Perhaps because of the prestige, the Yacht Club’s prices tend to be slightly higher than the Beach Club’s, though not substantially. The rooms at both resorts follow their themes but are around the same size.

While the Beach Club has Disney Vacation Club villas, the Yacht Club has a convention center, which frequently contributes to the more formal atmosphere at the Yacht Club. In fact, the resort itself was designed to host conventions, and its setup is conducive to that.

The convention center has more than 100,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space. The hotel has almost 2,000 guest rooms, most of which are standard. Nearly 140 are located on the club level, perfect for executives. Couples also often hold weddings at the Yacht Club, and the nearby wedding gazebo is a convenient ceremony space. 

There are several dining options at the Yacht Club, and true to its theme, most of them are more formal than the ones you’ll find at the Beach Club. The main restaurant is the Yachtsman’s Steakhouse , a traditional New England steakhouse. It is one of the more formal restaurants in Walt Disney World and is only open for dinner. 

In addition, the less-formal Ale and Compass restaurant is a gastropub serving Yankee comfort food for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. The Marketplace at Ale and Compass offers counter-service and grab-and-go dining options.

Finally, two bars offer drinks and light snacks: the Ale and Compass Lounge and the Crew’s Cup Lounge. 

These are the recreation and amenities offered at the Yacht Club:

• Admiral Pool
• Tennis courts
• Ship Shape Massage Salon Fitness

If you plan to spend the bulk of your Florida vacation in Walt Disney World, we strongly recommend staying at a Disney hotel for all the reasons discussed above. But which is better–the Beach Club or Yacht Club?

As you can see, Disney’s Beach Club Resort and Yacht Club Resort have a lot in common and share many of the same amenities and perks. However, they have distinct themes that create different atmospheres. The Beach Club is more relaxed and refined, while the Yacht Club is more stately and elegant.

Regardless of where you and your family decide to stay, the most important thing is that you enjoy your time together at Walt Disney World. And don’t forget to check out Stormalong Bay–it’s the best part of either hotel!

More about our TFVG Author

James Brockbank

A seasoned traveller, Dad, and avid sports tourist, James foundered The Family Vacation Guide to share his expert vacation experiences- especially when it comes to being a travelling family man.

Featured in Travel articles such as Travel + Leisure, TripSavvy and SFGate, you know you're reading some of the best vacation tips online.

Yacht Club v. Beach Club

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts are two Crescent Lake hotels at Walt Disney World, both within walking distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios and across the water from Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. In this post, we’re going to continue our ongoing Walt Disney World hotel comparison series with an entry featuring these two so you can decide which is a better option for your vacation.

Yacht and Beach Club are sister resorts that are physically connected to one another, but this does not mean they should be viewed as a pair. Debunking this “myth” of sorts is basically our main motivation for writing this comparison. In fairness, their interchangeably does apply in some regards, such as transportation, location, dining, and amenities; in terms of theme, they are stark contrasts.

We think this is very important. When you stay in a Walt Disney World resort hotel, you’re paying a significant premium over a real world venue, and that’s largely for two things: location and theming. Given that, we think choosing a theme and resort atmosphere that appeals to you is incredibly important…

Setting aside the general ‘nautical-ness’ of each resort, the theme and ambiance of Yacht Club and Beach Club and significant departures from one another. If anything, Beach Club is more comparable to BoardWalk Inn from an atmospheric perspective, whereas Yacht Club is (arguably) more like a nautical Grand Floridian.

Suffice to say, the resort theme (and by extension, the room theme) should be a significant deciding factor in this showdown. As such, the first two variables in this Walt Disney World hotel comparisons. Unlike our other entries into this series, we do not use all six elements of two different resorts to determine which is “the best.” In fact, this comparison seeks less to crown a definitive champion and more to compare and contrast…

Theme/Atmosphere: Beach Club – While technically sister resorts, I think the theme and tone of each resort is dramatically different. Beach Club has a theme resulting from former Disney CEO Michael Eisner’s obsession with his childhood vacations in the seaside communities of the Northeast. Its theme is meant to evoke the seaside resort cottages scattered around New England in the early 20th Century.

Beach Club is very laid back; both in the substance of the theme, and the styles used. There are a lot of light colors and pastels, and this makes for a relaxing environment. The only thing slightly at-odds with this is that the lobby is sometimes noisy and chaotic, moreso than the Yacht Club lobby. All things considered, though, I’d say Beach Club shares more with BoardWalk Inn in terms of theme and atmosphere than it does with Yacht Club.

By contrast, Yacht Club feels like an actual high-society yachting club set in turn of the century New England. If I were to describe it in a single word, I’d call it “stately.” The color scheme is much more muted and darker, and there’s also an abundance of deep woods, nautically-themed antiques, and rich furniture throughout the resort. The environment could pass for a place where the Kennedys and other elites might have met for liquid lunches and made power plays.

This environment can be off-putting for some families. While I think it stops well short of being stuffy or unfriendly to families, it’s definitely more sophisticated and less laid back. You’re also more likely to see business people and conventioneers around Yacht Club, since it’s adjacent to the (huge) Convention Center.

Our take is that both of these resorts offer exceptional attention to detail and do an incredible job of conveying their respective themes, and setting a tone for the resort via those themes. Which is “better” will largely be a matter of personal preference–whether you prefer refined or laid back. Our personal take is that Beach Club is a hair better from an objective perspective, and the exterior common areas (shared between the resorts) are also more in keeping with the vibe at Beach Club. Your mileage may vary.

Rooms: Yacht Club – Both resorts recently completed room refurbishments, replacing some fairly dated rooms for more modern ones. In our estimation, the end result at Yacht Club is dramatically superior. Not only is the room more well-appointed, but it does a much better job of offering a thematic extension of the resort’s common areas. As a result, the new rooms are much darker than the old ones.

Beach Club’s new rooms are nice, but bland. They remind us of mid-grade chain hotel rooms you could find pretty much anywhere, except with a light beach motif. They are not necessarily bad, but feel uninspired to us. (The Beach Club Villa rooms are better, but still not great.) Not quite what we expect given the price points of Beach Club.

With that said, both sets of rooms are very much an extension of the style of their resorts. If you find the lobby of Yacht Club ‘stuffy and drab’ you’ll feel the same way about the guest rooms. If you enjoy the ‘light and airy’ nature of Beach Club, you’ll find that extended into the guest rooms.

One caveat I figure I should mention up front, because I know it’s going to come up in the comments is that Yacht Club has a small number of dog-friendly rooms. Thus far, very few guests have brought their pets to Yacht Club, but this seems like a very big deal to some guests.

Transportation/Location: Push – This is a really poor basis for choosing between the two, but Beach Club is slightly closer to Epcot. On the other hand, that means Yacht Club is slightly closer to Disney’s Hollywood Studios. (Most people will probably take a boat there, though.) We’re talking a 1-5 minute difference, at most.

In terms of boat transportation, the two are equal as they share a boat dock. They’re also equal(ly bad) for bus transportation, with shared buses.

Amenities: Push – For this, we’re talking dining and pools, since those are usually separate categories. Since all pools and restaurants are shared between these two sister properties, there is no meaningful distinction between any of these.

With that said, it’s always worth noting that Stormalong Bay is awesome, and is a good basis for choosing either (or both!) of these resorts.

Cost: Push – Standard room rates are identical, with higher tiers seeing some differences.

Historical discounts show better offers for Yacht Club in the recent past, but that was also during the resort’s refurbishment, so we view that unlikely to continue going forward (especially with Yacht Club seeks to cater to more business travelers).

Verdict: It Depends – This is a first for us. Even in other hotel comparisons that were really close calls, we went ahead and crowned a winner. In some cases, that required really splitting hairs, or even a bit of subjectivity.

The problem here is two-fold. First, these resorts share so many amenities that it’s downright impossible to crown one victorious without splicing them down the middle and only counting those locations physically within each resort. That’s a nonsensical approach given the shared grounds, and the fact that some rooms in Yacht Club may be farther from that resort’s amenities than some Beach Club rooms (and vice-a-versa).

Second, this verdict ultimately comes down to your personal take on the atmosphere. While I would give Beach Club a slight hair in this regard objectively, the subjective side matters far, far more. A lot of families are going to dislike Yacht Club and love Beach Club, and perhaps some older couples will prefer the refined elegance of Yacht Club. (This is not to say the inverse won’t be true, too–as mentioned, it’s a lot of personal preference.)

Really, the single element of the two resorts where we think there’s a decisive advantage is in terms of room quality, where Yacht Club prevails. However, even there, we’ve encountered a lot of people who prefer the new rooms at Beach Club because of their vibe and atmosphere. So once again, even that will largely be decided by subjectivity.

Just in case you’re really indecisive, here’s our normal poll so you can see how other Walt Disney World fans feel about these two resorts:

Considering theme, atmosphere, rooms (and probably nothing else since the rest is shared), which of these two Walt Disney World hotels do you prefer: – Disney Tourist Blog (@DisTouristBlog) December 11, 2017

We’re predicting a decisive victory for Beach Club. It seems to be Disney fans’ cup of tea much more so than Yacht Club, and the new dog-friendly policy of Yacht Club will certainly cost it a few votes, too.

Ultimately, for us, Beach Club is the winner. We really enjoy both–but prefer the Yacht Club rooms–but the vibe at Beach Club is more to our tastes when on vacation. Read our full Disney’s Yacht Club Review and Disney’s Beach Club Review to see more photos of each, which can help determine which will appeal more to you.

Planning a Walt Disney World trip? Learn about hotels on our Walt Disney World Hotels Reviews page. For where to eat, read our Walt Disney World Restaurant Reviews . To save money on tickets or determine which type to buy, read our Tips for Saving Money on Walt Disney World Tickets post. Our What to Pack for Disney Trips post takes a unique look at clever items to take. For what to do and when to do it, our Walt Disney World Ride Guides will help. For comprehensive advice, the best place to start is our Walt Disney World Trip Planning Guide for everything you need to know!

Your Thoughts

Which resort do you prefer, Yacht Club or Beach Club? Any other considerations we didn’t take into account? Do you agree or disagree with our verdict? Any questions we can help you answer about these hotels? Hearing feedback about your experiences is both interesting to us and helpful to other readers, so please share your thoughts below in the comments!

Written by Tom Bricker

What about the pervasive seafood smell in The Beach Club lobby? I’ve read that the smell can be very strong, and I am not a seafood (or seafood smell) lover.

Yacht club is a very nice place awesome rooms . Would recommend it

We had reservations at the Yacht Club. We arrived very early and was not allowed check in until almost 2 p.m. :-(. When we entered the room it was a train wreck! The door to the nightstand fell off, the room faced a bunch of dead trees and brush and it had wall safe with a key (ancient). We went to the front desk and asked for a better room. The manager was extremely nice and found us a water view room at the BC. It was great! The pool and restaurants are difficult to get around in/to. We always stay at the Grand and love it!

They accommodate early check ins when possible but the stated check in time is 3pm. Getting to check in an hour early is hardly something to be upset about.

Do you have any opinion or comparisons on the concierge lounges at these two resorts? I’m hoping to spend two nights at either in the near future. I’m finding it harder to find info or comparisons to the comfort, ambience, and offerings in the club lounges of these two resorts in particular.

First off, they are both excellent, so we really splitting hairs. That said, a few things to consider. Both were renovated in the last few years, but YC is newer having been completed within the last year. As mentioned in the general review, YC tends to attract a somewhat older crowd, so slighty fewer kids there. YC is also influenced a lot by conventions. If there is one at YC, the concierge level sees more activity – especially in the evening. The staff at both Clubs is excellent however YC’s is very experienced having been there a long time. Both clubs, and for that matter all of Disney’s concierge levels, have worked hard to improve the food offerings in the last year or so. I personally think the BC chef is excellent and very creative. In the end for us at least, it comes down to availability and what we have planned for that particular trip. For what it’s worth, we will be at BC Club level next week 🙂

First off, they are both excellent, so we really splitting hairs. That said, a few things to consider. Both were renovated in the last few years, but YC is newer having been completed within the last year. As mentioned in the general review, YC tends to attract a somewhat older crowd, so slightly fewer kids there. YC is also influenced a lot by conventions. If there is one at YC, the concierge level sees more activity – especially in the evening. The staff at both Clubs is excellent however YC’s is very experienced having been there a long time. Both clubs, and for that matter all of Disney’s concierge levels, have worked hard to improve the food offerings in the last year or so. I personally think the BC chef is excellent and very creative. In the end for us at least, it comes down to availability and what we have planned for that particular trip. For what it’s worth, we will be at BC Club level next week 🙂

First, I think that one point you mentioned in passing that I feel influences these resorts quite a bit is YC and the convention center and BC and DVC. My feeling ( I have stayed at both and will be at BC next week) is that this affects both the clientele and the atmosphere to a significant degree at each resort. I agree with your conclusion that with many essentially shared areas, it is a matter of taste. Second, while in this case I think you would have another tie, I feel that evaluating the Club levels at the Deluxe resorts is an significant delineator. They are an important, and with the continued blurring of lines between hotel categories, perhaps one of the few distinguishing characteristics of the deluxes. I know your argument about expenses, but your reviews would be a lot more complete if you included the Club levels. I know it’s a tough job, but somebody has to do it.

I will probably never stay at YC because of DVC, so I’ll give BC my vote, lol.

As a couple with no kids, we always choose Yacht because it feels so much quieter and relaxed, with a serene atmosphere similar to that of the Grand without the (often excruciatingly) high price point. This offers a great reprieve from the parks while still being themed exquisitely, and there’s something to be said for a Disney resort that is geared toward adults while still maintaining a perfectly Disney vibe. The Beach is great, but I’ve never found it to be all that “beachy” – I suppose maybe it’s because when in Florida, I don’t want to feel like I’m on a New England beach; I much prefer a tropical vibe a la Old Key West. I also don’t find that the Beach’s theming “transports” the guest to another time or place quite resorts such as the Boardwalk, AKL, WL, OKW or even the Yacht, and this is key for us when choosing a Disney resort. One more point – the bus system at the Yacht for us has always been consistently better than the Beach at all times of year because the Yacht is picked up first. I can’t count how many times we have had a full bus by the time we get to the Beach and there is no room left for Beach guests. Both resorts have their place but I’d take the Yacht any day!

Good point about the busses! I’ve had that happen on other busses and am glad to know YC gets 1st pick up, which can make for a better experience. I am going next month on our first solo trip without the little ones and we’re staying at the YC for the same reasons you describe. Fingers crossed and thanks for the review. It helped ease any small concerns I had!

We just stayed almost 2 weeks at BC. One note about the bus transportation. They pick-up at the YC first. Then BC. With that said. There were many times that the Bus would show up at BC basically already full from the YC. This made it difficult to make it to reservations/fast passes on time, even when you showed up at the bus stop on time or ahead of time. If fact we didn’t want to “lose” our Be Our Guest reservation one night and had to use the Minnie Van service. (Which I might add was excellent!) We actually joked that we should catch the bus at YC.

I am older now, and opt for the serenity of the Yacht Club. (Although, even when younger, I was drawn to the Yacht Club’s subdued atmosphere more than The Beach Club). My son and daughter-in-law, however, who have six year old triplets and an eight year old, stay in a two bedroom Villa at The Beach Club, mostly because they need the room. I guess sometimes it’s more a case of need than want. Plus, they feel the location is perfect because they can hit three theme parks without taking buses.

Tom – You wrote “Yacht Club has a small number of dog-friendly rooms”. I thought I had read somewhere, perhaps on your site, when the new policy came out recently, that dog-friendly resorts could potentially have any resort room used as a dog-friendly room. However, you seem to be indicating that only specific rooms, or perhaps specific parts of a resort, have been set aside. Do you know which is actually true? This can be an issue for those who can stay in a resort that is dog-friendly but cannot necessarily stay in a room that a dog has lived in.

Separately, while we have been to the Beach and Yacht Clubs numerous times due to the wonderful Cape May buffet, we have never actually stayed there nor seen the guest rooms. We decided a long time ago that if we were to stay there, we would only stay at the Beach Club, due to a strong preference for the light pastel colours over the dark colours at the Yacht Club in the public areas.

I can’t believe you did not point out the highly localized potentially dangerous weather on Stormalong Bay outside these resorts. This is, of course, where Hurricane Hanna hit many years ago and caused that big shipwreck on the Beach Club’s beach that Disney still has not cleared away (unlike the non-imagineered Hurricane Irma which you actually encountered earlier this year). Always a handy excuse if you are late to an ADR at the two resorts.

I’m pretty sure that only a few hotels have dedicated dog friendly rooms now. So it’s not an “any room could potentially have had a dog” situation.

Yes, it is an any room could have a dog situation. Our friends stayed at POR and arequested a dog free room/bldg. They were told that would happen. When they got to POr they were put in bldg 24, which is the designated dog bldg. They were moved to the 30’s. Then they spotted a dog dong it’s business right outside their non dog bldg room. When they went to guest services and asked why? they were told “well, those guests booked online and wanted that bldg, so…… It states that any room or bldg could have dogs in them in the test resorts. And apparently the designated dog rooms/bldgs is not really true when it comes down to it.

We have booked Yacht Club for our June 2018 visit (crazy time of year, but only time we could coordinate with my cousin’s family when all our kids are out of school, etc), and I’m really looking forward to it. Based on the photos of the rooms, we like the look of Yacht Club better, and we can easily hang in the lobby & public areas of either resort if we feel like it. So we chose the nicer rooms. Decision made, as we view all else as being equal. Can’t wait to get a chance to play at Stormalong Bay! Given the weather in June, we figured a hotel with a good pool was vital! Thanks for all your great posts on this blog! Cheers.

The opening of the (really, really good) C&A Lounge must surely give a further nod to YC’s lobby. It has an incredible sense of atmosphere, and puts the “Club” in club, if you will.

Now, a more interesting comparison (although totally useless) would be to throw NPB into the mix. It really feels like a “boutique” version of YC.

I’ve stayed at BC and BCV only. I have visited YC’s lobby many times plus I have had drinks at Crew Cup Lounge. I love both resorts theming and atmosphere, my pick is BC/BCV because I prefer the dining (Cape May is one of my favorite buffets whereas Yachtsmen Steakhouse is too pricey) , closer proximity to Epcot and Boardwalk, and I love the Solarium, Drawing Room, and Breezeway areas of BCV.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Notify me of new posts by email.

• Search forums
• Media New media

• Disney Trip Planning Forums
• Disney Resorts

Yacht Club or Boardwalk Inn?

• Thread starter Jp23rockstar
• Start date May 1, 2017

Jp23rockstar

Earning my ears.

• May 1, 2017

Rates are within dollars of each other so pricing is a mute point. However, never been to either and need advice on which one to select. I'm from the New England region so I might be partial to the Yacht Club.  

cluvsdisney

Dis veteran.

The Boadwalk is my favorite so it's always my recommendation.  

AMusicLifeForMe

Yacht Club shares arguably the best pool on WDW property with the Beach Club. I'm staying at Boardwalk for the first time at the end of the month, but I have been around the area several times. Yacht Club/Beach Club have been at the top of my list to stay at, but the Boardwalk is a great area to be at, and it also has one of my favorite restaurants on WDW property. I believe the walk from EPCOT is about the same from both. The boat stop is in the middle of both EPCOT and DHS at the Yacht/Beach Club (stop at Boardwalk while going to EPCOT and Swan and Dolphin while going to DHS). The boat stop at Boardwalk is the last stop before EPCOT. If you go to DHS from the Boardwalk by boat, you have two stops (Yacht/Beach Club and Swan and Dolphin) before getting to DHS. Your decision might be based on what appeal you are looking for in a resort. It's an easy walk to all 3 of the resorts around the Boardwalk area to enjoy all of them if you wanted to adventure to other resorts.  

allsaintsatx

I have stayed at neither so I'm no help! But, Pete Werner (owner of the DIS) just did a best/worst podcast and voted Yacht Club the "worst deluxe" so maybe listen to that podcast to get some insight. Even after listening to it, I'd still stay there! Again, I'm no help!  

DaisyDuck001

• May 2, 2017

I liked the Yacht Club before the latest refurbishments, but the changes seem to remove most of the obvious nautical theming.  

Mouseketeer

The pool is so worth it. Would you rather have a luxurious sand bottom pool or one with a giant clown slide? Yacht club is beautiful, best pool on property, and the CMs are very hospitable.  

<font color=teal>Doubly blessed<br><font color=dar

I've stayed at both, although it's been years since I stayed at the YC. We are staying again in July, though, and just did a quick sisters trip to BWI last month. Both are great resorts. I might love the BWI a bit more, but then the pool at YC gives it the edge. Honestly I don't think you can go wrong with either. My only concern about the YC right now is the refurbishment going on.  

VAfamily1998

I've stayed at both--BWI in 2012 and 2017, and YC in 2012. I prefer BWI. Although the pool at YC is amazing, it is also more crowded (or at least during the times I have been.) I also love the theme/decor of BWI more. Both are beautiful though, I certainly wouldn't be disappointed to stay at YC!  

oh ya...finally got an avatar!

i have been trying to stay at yacht club for years!!! lol! when i did my research i really liked the decor and layout of boardwalk as well. the pool and the fact that a family of 5 cannot stay at boardwalk kinda made the decision for me. location of both is really the biggest draw for me... maybe post-kids we can hit the boardwalk!! i can dream...  

DisneyWishes14

We've stayed at both. BWI multiple times and YC only once . . . so you can probably guess my answer!! I found YC to be very subdued and very much a convention resort (you may see people in business meeting attire in the lobby). There's just really nothing going on there! If you like that atmosphere, it may be the right resort for you. We LOVE BWI! We love the theming, the variety of TS and QS on the Boardwalk, the entertainment on the Boardwalk in the evening and the ability to walk to both DHS and EP (BWI is closer to DHS). My DS9 also actually prefers the pool at BWI. The slide is faster and I like the fact that everything, including the pool bar is accessible and visible from the pool deck (at YC/BC's SAB, it's very spread out with the pool bar outside the gates and the entrance to the pool slide across the walking path). At BWI, I love that I can see my DS9 wherever he is in the pool and I can even see him when he's waiting to go down the slide. Even if YC were cheaper, I would still pick BWI over YC any day of the year!  

Yacht Club. We have stayed at both, and while the Boardwalk is nice, the pool situation is a no. I can't do the giant clown pool. And I feel like the resort rooms are needing some refreshing and updating. YC has been undergoing renovations, and I personally find the new decor to be much more "true Yacht", than it was before. We will be staying this May, and frequent the BC as well. Location, pool, dining and cast members have all been tops for us for many years.  

merrick said: i have been trying to stay at yacht club for years!!! lol! when i did my research i really liked the decor and layout of boardwalk as well. the pool and the fact that a family of 5 cannot stay at boardwalk kinda made the decision for me. location of both is really the biggest draw for me... maybe post-kids we can hit the boardwalk!! i can dream... Click to expand...

SaintsManiac

Wait for it..

OP I am having a similar struggle. We are booked at BC and I am tempted to switch to BWI. We are going for Thanksgiving, so I don't even know if we'll be able to use the pools anyway. I just feel like an idiot, because I have changed our hotel 3 times LOL Maybe I am just too twitchy and need to stop.  

dizprincess717

• May 3, 2017

Yacht Club! Going for my second time this December. I couldn't imagine staying at BWI and looking across the lagoon and seeing the amazing pool that I couldn't use. I also like the decor and look/feel of the Yacht Club more than the Boardwalk. But, that's just my personal preference.  

heidijanesmith

You really can't go wrong with either the YC or BWI, the EPCOT resorts are fantastic! We stayed at YC x2 and BW x3. YC we feel is more quiet, subdued and grown up. Our teens loved the pool! BW; we like more. We like the fun atmosphere, the theme, the proximity to DS and now we love the villas. Both can have quite a walk from the pool or lobby to your room. At YC we had a very long walk, DD kept saying it was the "Redrum" hallways.  

I would pick Yacht Club...the clown pool creeps me out and we love Stormalong Bay.  

wdwthanksgiving

Yacht Club!  

stenmarks said: I would pick Yacht Club...the clown pool creeps me out and we love Stormalong Bay. Click to expand...

We almost always stay at either Boardwalk, Yacht or Beach Club, so we'd pick wherever could save you a few bucks.  

Share this page

Dis news & updates.

• The New Refresher Range From Everglazed in Disney Springs
• New Mickey & Minnie Mini Glow Pumpkins Coming Soon
• A 3-Course Magical Dining FEAST at Maria & Enzo's
• New Limited Edition Lilo & Stitch Scrump Plush Mini Backpack
• $40 Magical Dining Offer at The Edison in Disney Springs

New DISboards Threads

• 18 minutes ago
• Disney Discount Codes and Rates
• Kooks and Bay Bay
• 45 minutes ago
• Doing the Happy Dance!
• 52 minutes ago

• Today at 1:30 PM
• Community Board

• Today at 1:26 PM
• Theme Parks Attractions and Strategies

• LittleBoPeep
• Today at 1:21 PM
• Disney Cruise Line Forum

• Walt Disney World News
• Walt Disney World Articles
• Disney Cruise Line News
• Disneyland News
• General Disney News

Latest posts

• Latest: Herding_Cats
• A moment ago

• Latest: Meriweather

• Latest: ottawamom
• Latest: focusondisney
• 2 minutes ago

Disney superfans share their favorite things to do at the theme parks

• Business Insider has asked US Disney fans about the best things to do, see, and eat at the parks.
• Frequent visitors love classic attractions like the Carousel of Progress and Tower of Terror.
• They also shared food recommendations, from Casey's Corner and Satu'il Canteen to Wine Bar George.

As part of our Disney Diaries series, Business Insider has been gathering must-do itineraries for Disney World and Disneyland from people who love the theme parks. 

Here are some of their favorite things to do, see, and eat. 

Kayleigh Price has worked at Disney World and still visits the parks often

Casey's corner is the best quick-service restaurant at magic kingdom.

Even before working there , Price said she loved ordering from Casey's Corner and eating the all-American comfort food in front of Cinderella Castle 

The menu mostly consists of hot dogs and fries, but it's known for its corn-dog nuggets. 

Walt Disney Presents is a must for longtime Disney fans

Walt Disney Presents is a museum-like exhibit in Hollywood Studios with exhibits about Walt Disney. 

There's also a theater at the end of the attraction that is typically playing the "One Man's Dream" documentary about Disney's life and work. At certain points throughout the year, though, the theater instead shows special trailers or seasonal videos.

The wait at Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway can be long, but it's worth it

Another spot Price worked at and loves is Mickey and Minnie's Runaway Railway. It's a must for her every time she visits Hollywood Studios. 

She loves all the little details during the preshow and ride, as well as the catchy song played throughout.

Read Kayleigh Price's full Disney Diary: I worked at Disney World for 2 years. Here are 16 things I always do when I visit the parks .

Travel planner Kari Becker has been to Disney World over 40 times — with and without kids

Grand floridian café is a great breakfast spot before a day at magic kingdom.

If you're looking for a fun breakfast before heading to Magic Kingdom, travel planner Becker finds the Grand Floridian Café delightful. 

Every meal in the beautifully decorated dining room comes with warm biscuits and butter, and Becker recommends ordering the eggs Benedict and hash-brown casserole.

Pro tip: Ask for a table by the window so you can take in the grounds of the resort. 

The 'Finding Nemo' show is stacked with talented performers

Before it closed due to the coronavirus pandemic, "Finding Nemo – The Musical" was a must-see for Becker on every trip to Animal Kingdom. 

Now, the park offers a reimaging of the show called "Finding Nemo: Big Blue ... And Beyond."

The travel planner especially recommends the show for parents with kids — her own boys are drawn in by the beautiful storytelling.

Becker has to ride the monorail at least once every Disney trip

No matter where you're staying, on or off property, Becker said it's always worth taking a spin on the monorail. 

The nostalgic Disney transportation is fun for adults and kids alike. It's also convenient if you're looking to visit one of the Magic Kingdom resorts for shopping or dining. 

Read Kari Becker's full Disney Diary: I'm a travel planner who's been to Disney World over 40 times. Here are 13 things I always do at the parks .

Carly Caramanna has been going to the parks for over 30 years

Wine bar george at disney springs is her favorite restaurant across the property.

After visiting the Disney parks for over 30 years, Caramanna's first pick for dinner reservations is Wine Bar George in Disney Springs. 

It's owned and led by a master sommelier and has menu items like savory chimichurri skirt steak and creamy burrata along with over 140 wines.

Living With the Land doesn't always get the hype it deserves

Soarin' Around the World gets a lot of hype at Epcot, but Living With the Land right next door is one of Caramanna's favorite rides. 

The slow-moving attraction explores the history of farming, rides past actual Disney greenhouses, and rarely has a long wait. 

It's extra fun to visit Epcot during a festival

Epcot has been hosting festivals  since the 1990s, and there are currently four throughout the year: International Food and Wine Festival, International Festival of the Holidays, International Festival of the Arts, and International Flower and Garden Festival. 

Guests can sample new dishes and beverages inspired by international cuisines and enjoy unique entertainment offerings all around the World Showcase.

Read Carly Caramanna's full Disney Diary: I go to Disney World every month. Here are 16 things I always do, see, and eat at the parks .

After working at 26 locations across Disney World, Saira Umar has found her favorite things to do

Disney springs has lots to explore, and it's free to enter.

Umar could easily spend a day exploring Disney Springs — the property's free dining, shopping, and entertainment district.

The former Disney World employee recommends grabbing treats from the Ganachery, Gideon's Bakehouse, or Amorette's Patisserie while you're there. 

It's almost always worth it to take a midday break from the parks

Umar has found that getting to the parks early is key for cruising through the lines of some of the most popular attractions.

It also gives you time to take a much-needed break in the afternoon by seeing an indoor, air-conditioned show like "Mickey's PhilharMagic" in Magic Kingdom, the Short Film Festival in Epcot, "Finding Nemo" in Animal Kingdom, or "Lightning McQueen's Racing Academy" in Hollywood Studios.

Epcot is known for drinking 'around the world,' but Animal Kingdom has some great drinks, too

Umar is a fan of the alcoholic and kid-friendly drinks at Animal Kingdom. 

She recommends the Frozen Flamingo (strawberry-and-passion-fruit slush) at Harambe Market, Pink Lotus (strawberry-lychee lemonade) at Thirsty River Bar, Night Lotus (apple, pear, and lime slush with passion-fruit boba) at Pongu Pongu, and frozen Coke from various locations.

Read Saira Umar's full Disney Diary: I worked at 26 locations in Disney World. Here are 17 things I do, see, and eat every time I visit .

Noelani Soto grew up in Miami and developed the perfect schedule for a 1-day trip

Dole whip is always a must.

Dole Whip is a classic Disney snack that's perfect for a warm afternoon at the parks. Soto, who grew up taking short trips to Disney World from Miami, recommends the vanilla-and-pineapple swirl.

Pro tip: Place a mobile order and pick it up in Adventureland at Magic Kingdom to skip the line. 

Even if you're not staying there, it's fun to explore the Grand Floridian Resort

Resort-hopping is a fun way to spend an afternoon, especially when you get to check out some of the fancier spots, like the Grand Floridian.  

The Disney resorts also sometimes offer free activities, food, or beverages  around the grounds.

Soto has been able to enjoy Champagne and s'mores on different visits to the Grand Floridian. 

After a day at the parks, you can grab a late-night cupcake at Disney Springs

An ATM at Sprinkles in Disney Springs offers cupcakes and cookies 24/7.

It's great for late-night cravings after a day at the parks. 

Read Noelani Soto's full Disney Diary: I've perfected visiting Disney World for just 24 hours. Here are 12 things I try to do every time I visit .

Annual passholder Megan duBois has been visiting Disney World for over 25 years

Selfies are a great way to save memories from each trip.

Annual passholder DuBois has started taking selfies with her group right when she gets to Disney World in front of the park icons, like Cinderella Castle , the Tree of Life, the Chinese Theater, and the Spaceship Earth ball.

If you visit the parks often, it's a great way to create a memory for each trip. 

Always head to Tower of Terror when there's a 13-minute wait

Tower of Terror at Hollywood Studios has a little-known trick. Whenever the ride has a 13-minute wait on the My Disney Experience app or the boards around the park, it usually means there's actually no line at all. 

This same 13-minute rule also applies at Haunted Mansion at Magic Kingdom.

End a day at Animal Kingdom with a ride on Flight of Passage

The line for Flight of Passage at Animal Kingdom is usually over an hour long, so DuBois recommends going right before the park closes. 

The wait time might still be listed at 60 minutes, but the actual wait is typically 30 minutes or less.

Read Megan duBois' full Disney Diary: I've had a Disney World annual pass for nearly 25 years. Here are 13 things I do every time I visit .

Tarah Chieffi has 30 years of experience exploring the Disney parks

Instead of waiting in line for meet and greets, book character meals.

If you want to avoid character meet-and-greet lines, longtime Disney-goer Chieffi recommends booking a character breakfast instead. 

They usually include four or five characters circulating the room, stopping at each table for photos and autographs. 

It's best to make a reservation 60 days before your trip, as these spots are popular. 

You can get a better view of the Magic Kingdom parades in Frontierland

All of the parades at Magic Kingdom start in the back corner of Frontierland, and it's a great spot to watch them with slightly smaller crowds. 

Since it's the start of the route, you also usually get a lot of extra waves from the characters on the parade floats. Plus, you can move on to your next activity while everyone else is still watching the show. 

Satu'il Canteen at Animal Kingdom is one of the best restaurants across the property

Chieffi doesn't typically make a lot of sit-down reservations at Disney World. Instead, her family loves quick-service spots like Satu'li Canteen in Animal Kingdom's Pandora section.

The food is customizable and suitable for a range of diets.

She recommends the cheeseburger pods (which she says taste just like a McDonald's cheeseburger) and the green Hawkes' Grog ale.

Read Tarah Chieffi's full Disney Diary: I've been going to Disney World for over 30 years. Here are 14 things I always do there .

Stephanie Machado lives 15 minutes from Disney World and visits weekly

You can grab a starbucks coffee at each of the theme parks.

Machado goes to Disney World multiple times a week, and as a coffee lover, she highly recommends grabbing a cup at Main Street Bakery (Starbucks) in Magic Kingdom. 

Each park has a unique Starbucks location with a themed name.

Get in line for any rides you missed right before the park closes

When you visit the parks often, riding every single ride isn't usually a priority. But Machado has a trick for landing in the shortest lines for must-do attractions .

She waits until the end of the night, especially if there's a nighttime show distracting much of the crowd. 

There are several fun resorts to explore near Epcot 

If you need a break, Machado recommends leaving Epcot through the International Gateway exit and grabbing a snack at the BoardWalk Inn or the Beach Club.

Beaches and Cream at the Beach Club serves humongous sundaes.

Read Stephanie Machado's full Disney Diary: My husband and I live 15 minutes from Disney World. Here are 7 things we do every time we visit .

As a Disneyland employee, Amber Wainwright has tips for the California parks

Take fun photos with fewer crowds around pixar pier.

Castle pictures are iconic, but the area in front of Sleeping Beauty Castle in Disneyland is often very crowded. 

Luckily, Disneyland employee Wainwright says there are several other beautiful photo spots across the parks that are covered in artwork, like the wall on Pixar Pier.

Galaxy's Edge is a must for 'Star Wars' fans

Star Wars: Galaxy's Edge is home to the fictional planet of Batuu, and it's a great place for unique shopping, dining, and character experiences.

Wainwright highlighted eating Ronto Wraps at Ronto's Roasters, building a lightsaber at Savi's Workshop, and hunting rebel scum with Kylo Ren.

Catch a unique view of the fireworks from the Incredicoaster

One of the most unique ways to watch the nighttime fireworks is from the Incredicoaster in Disney's California Adventure. 

You get a bird's-eye view of the show while also riding one of the park's best coasters. 

Read Amber Wainwright's full Disney Diary: I'm a VIP tour guide at Disneyland. Here are 12 of my favorite things to do in the parks .

Jackie Perrin visits Disney World with her kids and has stayed at every resort

Toy story mania is the best ride for families with kids.

Perrin and her family make sure to ride Toy Story Mania at Hollywood Studios at least twice every trip. Her family members get competitive about who gets the highest score on the interactive ride.

If you're at Magic Kingdom, she recommends Buzz Lightyear's Space Ranger Spin as a similar ride.

Main Street is full of hidden entertainment gems

There are so many little entertainment opportunities up and down Main Street USA in Magic Kingdom, particularly right after the park opens.

The Dapper Dans barbershop quartet gives a welcoming serenade, and the Citizens of Main Street and Women's Suffragists interact with guests.

It's nice to spend some time at the resort pool at the hottest part of the day

People usually visit Disney for the theme parks, but Perrin said the resort pools shouldn't be missed. 

Her kids love playing there, and there's sometimes even poolside entertainment like dance parties, games, trivia contests, and evening movies.

Some of her favorite Disney pools are at Caribbean Beach Resort, Wilderness Lodge, and the Beach Club Resort. 

Read Jackie Perrin's full Disney Diary: I've visited almost every Disney World resort with my kids. Here are 15 things we always do at the parks .

Richard Keller regularly takes his 5 kids to Disneyland on a budget

Bring your own water bottles to the park so you can stay hydrated throughout the day.

One of the best tips Keller has for visiting Disneyland after making several trips with his family of seven is to pack your own water bottles. 

The heat can leave you dehydrated, and buying drinks at the parks can be pricey, especially for big families.

Pro tip: Fill them up with ice ahead of time so the water stays cool throughout the day. 

Churros are one of the best snack options at the parks, and they're big enough to share

Churros are one of the most classic snacks at Disneyland, and they cost less than $10.

Plus, Keller said his family is usually full after sharing one or two. 

He highlighted the cart near Haunted Mansion, which tends to have a shorter line and offers numerous shady places to sit nearby.

You can usually find merchandise on sale in the shops

Shopping for souvenirs with lots of kids can be stressful, but Keller has it down to a science.

They stop at the shops on Main Street on their way out of the park and check the sales racks, which sometimes offer things for up to 50% off. 

Read Richard Keller's full Disney Diary: My family of 7 has gone to Disneyland for years on a tight budget. Here are 14 things we do to save money .

Sofía Olivar worked at Epcot and has recommendations across Disney World

Big disney fans will get a kick out of the carousel of progress.

Disney World employee Olivar always rides the Carousel of Progress when she visits Magic Kingdom.

The classic attraction was built for the 1964/1965 World's Fair, and it has a catchy theme song and detailed sets. 

The wait is also always less than 15 minutes, and the indoor show offers 20 minutes of respite from the sun. 

The 'Hub grass' is a great spot to enjoy lunch 

The lawns in front of Cinderella Castle (referred to as the "Hub grass") are the perfect spots to enjoy breakfast or lunch. 

Olivar recommends a coffee from Main Street Bakery ( Starbucks ) and the loaded tots from Friar's Nook in Fantasyland — her favorite quick-service location in the park. 

The margaritas in the Mexico Pavilion are a must

Olivar said La Cava del Tequila, located inside the pyramid in the Mexico Pavilion at Epcot, has the best margaritas in Disney World.

But if you're looking for a frozen treat, you can also stop at Choza de Margarita outside.

Read Sofía Olivar's full Disney Diary: I've worked at Disney World for 3 years. Here are 14 things I always do at the parks .

After years of annual family vacations to Disney World, Jill Robbins has her favorites down-pat 

Robbins makes sure to get at least one mickey-shaped ice-cream bar a trip.

There are plenty of Disney park snacks to choose from, but for Robbins, nothing beats a classic Mickey-shaped ice-cream bar. 

She makes it a priority to grab one on every visit. 

Pin-trading is a great (and budget-friendly) activity in the park

Robbins' kids like bringing their Disney pins to the parks so they can trade with employees — or even sometimes other guests. 

Look out for employees with lanyards or corkboards around the parks if you're looking to swap. 

Planning a rest day is a lifesaver on a busy Disney vacation

Marching around the parks in the hot Florida sun all day can be tiring, so Robbins makes sure to plan for one rest day each visit so her family can relax at the hotel pool or get some time out of the sun. 

Read Jill Robbins' full Disney Diary: I've taken my 12-year-olds to Disney World every year since they were 5. Here are 12 things we always do .

Tiffany A. Telles has 3 decades of Disneyland experience under her belt

Snapping photos with characters is always a highlight.

Telles, who has been visiting Disneyland for over 30 years, said that she always tries to grab a photo with her favorite characters — especially when a special opportunity strikes. 

For example, California Adventure transforms its Paradise Gardens area into the "Coco"-themed Plaza de la Familia in the fall. Miguel from the movie is often in the parks for meet and greets. 

There are always new cocktails to sample

Each trip, Telles tries to sip on one new-to-her cocktail at Disneyland. 

Some of her favorite places to grab a drink are Lamplight Lounge, Tangaroa Terrace, and Craftsman Grill. 

When hunger strikes, a baked potato is the perfect snacky meal

Telles doesn't always want to waste precious park time on sit-down meals, so the baked potatoes at Troubadour Tavern near Fantasyland have become a go-to. 

They're easy to take on the go, have plenty of toppings, and cost less than $10 each. 

Read Tiffany A. Telles' full Disney Diary: I've been going to Disneyland for 33 years. Here are 13 things I always do in the parks .

Disney World isn't just for kids — Terri Peters visits the theme parks on her own at least once a month

Taking full advantage of resort stays is easier when you're traveling solo.

One of Peters' favorite things to do on a solo trip to Disney World is spend an afternoon relaxing on her hotel patio. She highlighted Yacht Club and Animal Kingdom Lodge as resorts with the most tranquil vibes. 

A glass of wine, a snack, and a pretty view are the perfect medicine for park fatigue. 

Not having to share cheeseburger egg rolls is a dream come true

Peters, like many Disney fans, loves all the iconic food options around the parks. But Disney World vacations can be pricey when you're traveling with a group, so she said her family often shares more basic offerings — pretzels and popcorn. 

When she's by herself, cheeseburger eggrolls at Magic Kingdom are always on the top of her snack list. No one else can steal a bite, either. 

It's fun to snag a last-minute dinner reservation

Some of the best food at Disney World is found in restaurants like Le Cellier and California Grill. But those are also often the most difficult reservations to snag.

Luckily for solo travelers, there are often walk-up reservation lists that open up at the last minute and bars/lounges where smaller parties can usually be seated pretty quickly. 

Read Terri Peters' full Disney Diary: I'm in my 40s and go to Disney World by myself at least once a month. Here are 13 things I always do there .

Carly Neil has plenty of Disneyland tips after over 300 trips to the parks

It's actually possible to 'work from home' at the parks.

If she can't swing a full day off work, frequent Disneyland visitor Neil just brings her iPad with her. 

Some of her favorite places to get a couple hours of writing in are a quiet corner on Main Street, the Grand Californian Resort lobby, Jolly Holiday, and Hearthstone Lounge.

Picking one souvenir to collect can make shopping at the parks more special

As a California local, Neil has mastered the art of not going overboard in the Disneyland gift shops. But over the years, she's loved collecting mugs that catch her eye.

Being able to curate her souvenirs makes it even more fun when a new item pops up in stores. 

Disneyland has food festivals that are just as good as Epcot's

Although Epcot is perhaps better known for its annual food festivals, Disneyland has some great offerings throughout the year. 

Neil loves exploring the Lunar New Year Celebration, the Food and Wine Festival, and the Festival of the Holidays each year. 

Read Carly Neil's full Disney Diary: I've been to Disneyland over 300 times. Here are 12 things I always do in the parks .

After working her dream job at Disneyland, Dana Bisbee moved 6 minutes away from the parks

Getting some peaceful steps in around grizzly peak is a great way to start the day.

Before the hustle and bustle of a park day starts, former Disneyland employee Bisbee likes to take a breath in a quieter section of California Adventure Park. 

Grizzly Peak is usually pretty empty, so it's a great place to walk around, gather your thoughts, and plan your day. 

Disneybounding is a fun way for adults to highlight their favorite characters

Adults can only wear real costumes at the Disney parks at the annual Halloween parties, but Disneybounding (wearing outfits inspired by different characters) is allowed all year long. 

Bisbee always jumps at the chance to really immerse herself in the Disney bubble by wearing clothes that resemble her favorite characters' senses of style. 

Not everyone knows about the fun drawing lesson available in the park

Disneyland's Animation Academy offers free lessons every day where guests get step-by-step instructions on how to draw a rotating cast of beloved characters. 

Bisbee said it's one of the most underrated things to do at the theme park, plus you get to keep your sketch as a souvenir. Since the space is indoors and air-conditioned, it's also a great way to spend a hot afternoon. 

Read Dana Bisbee's full Disney Diary: I used to work at Disneyland. Here are 11 things I always do when I visit the parks .

This landing page was originally published in June 2022 and most recently updated on August 21, 2024. 

Watch: The evolution of Disney's animated environments from 'Chicken Little' to 'Strange World'

• Main content

Adult Things to Do on Disney’s BoardWalk (2024)

There are plenty of adult things to do on Disney’s Boardwalk (or the “Epcot Boardwalk” as some call it, though its official name is Disney’s BoardWalk, with a capital “W”).

From bars to dinner, dessert, games, performers for children of all ages, and some 18+ venues, adults will love checking out this hidden gem at Walt Disney World in Florida.

And yes, the BoardWalk is free to visit!

Disclosure: This post has affiliate links, meaning we may earn a small commission if you click the link and proceed with a purchase at no cost to you. We recommend experiences, hotels, products, and services we use and support. As Amazon Associates, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Overview of Things to Do On Disney’s Boardwalk for Adults

We’ll go through the following Disney’s BoardWalk locations and entertainment in this post:

• Bar hopping (which includes a lot of the BoardWalk hotels)
• BoardWalk entertainment
• Getting dinner on the BoardWalk
• Indulge in a snack
• Getting dessert
• Shopping on the BoardWalk
• BoardWalk transportation
• Practical information (like parking and restrooms)
• Disney’s BoardWalk FAQ Answered
• Where else to go for adult entertainment after the BoardWalk

Bar Hop on Disney’s BoardWalk

There are great bars on the BoardWalk. There are several inside hotels, like inside Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. There’s also a stationary carousel bar at the BoardWalk Inn pool that’s very photo-worthy.

Additionally, there’s AbracadaBar (a personal favorite) that connects to the Italian restaurant on the BoardWalk, named Trattoria al Forno. Across from the entrance to AbracadaBar is Joe’s Marvelous Margarita stand.

As if these options aren’t enough, there are several great restaurants and bars at the Swan, Dolphin and Swan Reserve.

We loved the bar at Swan Reserve . You take the elevator up one floor to the bar area after you enter through the ground-floor doors. We also really liked the bar at Todd English’s Bluezoo at the Swan hotel.

Disney’s BoardWalk Entertainment

Watch the boardwalk performers.

There are nighttime performers on the boardwalk who are extremely talented and very entertaining to watch. For example, you may encounter a man who juggles and jump ropes or a team of acrobats who perform hula-hooping feats!

No matter the age of the viewers, including adults, these performers are mesmerizing.

Go to Jellyrolls

This is one of our favorite places in Walt Disney World! It’s a dueling pianos bar at the end of the BoardWalk, past the BoardWalk Inn but just before Atlantic Dance Hall. It’s one of the best things to do at Walt Disney World besides the parks , and it’s an especially great indoor activity in Orlando , should the weather be rainy or far too hot to be outside.

Reservations are not required or accepted. There is a cover charge of $18 to enter, and you may have to show ID to prove you’re 21 or older. You can pay the cover charge with a credit card.

Then you sit at a table, have drinks (alcoholic or non-alcoholic), eat popcorn if you want, which is free, and sing along to songs that the audience requests.

It’s mostly songs from decades of musical history, including from singers like Billy Joel, Lady Gaga, Queen…you name it, they’ll sing it. Once in a while, they’ll perform a Disney song upon request, but most songs performed are certainly non-Disney.

Bring singles to tip the performers (optional but appreciated). If you want to take a break from your table to see the Epcot fireworks at 9:00 pm, simply let your waiter or waitress know you’re doing so, and they’ll save your table.

Just get your hand stamped to re-enter Jellyrolls when the fireworks are done.

Jellyrolls Hours of Operation

They are open nights; doors open at 7:00 pm, and the show starts at 8:00 pm. The musicians perform until well past midnight. It’s shocking how fast time passes at Jellyrolls! We’ve often stayed from the show’s start time until closing.

Traveling to the BoardWalk by Car for Jellyrolls

If you are traveling to the BoardWalk to go to Jellyrolls by car, simply tell the security guards you’re going there and they should direct you to free parking.

Dance at Atlantic Dance Hall

If you love dancing, then Atlantic Dance hall is where you want to be, as adults looking for things to do on Disney’s BoardWalk. They are open in the evenings and are 21 and over. You can dance until the morning hours of the next day!

Play Carnival Games

Winning your partner a prize from the Carnival Games on the BoardWalk would be so romantic! The games open up in the late afternoon. Shoot hoops, water guns, and more. This is a pay-to-play activity on the BoardWalk.

Epcot Fireworks

You don’t have to be inside Epcot to see the fireworks. You can see them from the BoardWalk. As adults looking for things to do on the BoardWalk, we always note the time we go into Jellyrolls so we can take a break outside to see the fireworks. (The staff inside is great about this.)

And ever since the Epcot fireworks show was updated to “Luminous The Symphony of Us at Epcot” there are way more fireworks to enjoy in the sky than there used to be!

Walk Around the BoardWalk

One of the most pleasant things to do on the BoardWalk is simply taking a walk. You’ll notice mile markers for runners and walkers if you want to count it as exercise!

You can walk around the “circle” of the BoardWalk. If you start at the entrance from BoardWalk Inn, where you walk down steps to get to the BoardWalk to the right of the hotel, you can walk a full circle on pedestrian walkways from the length of the BoardWalk.

You’ll head over to where the Yacht and Beach Club Hotels are, past the International Gateway entrance to Epcot, where you’ll see the SkyLiner and back around to where you began the walk.

The views around the circle are different as you walk so be sure to bring your camera, at least for one lap!

Food Things to Do on Disney’s BoardWalk

Get dinner on the boardwalk.

There are several sit-down restaurants to choose from for a meal on Disney’s BoardWalk.

Dine at Flying Fish, Trattoria al Forno, or Big River Grille. Alternatively, if you walk around to the other side of the BoardWalk which is technically the Yacht and Beach Club hotels, there are additional restaurants inside the two hotels.

This includes Yachtsman Steakhouse, Ale & Compass, Cape May Cafe, and Beaches & Cream Soda Shop.

The Swan, Dolphin, and Swan Reserve hotels also have additional restaurants. These include Kimonos for Japanese food, Shula’s Steakhouse, and Il Mulino for Italian food. Amare is a Mediterranean-inspired option at Swan Reserve.

If you want something low-key for dinner, there is pizza on the BoardWalk from a to-go window near Trattoria al Forno. You can also get a Margherita pizza, meat and cheese plate, or French fries inside AbarcadaBar.

Get a BoardWalk Snack

If you’re not hungry for a meal (or don’t have time) but want something to nosh on, get a snack. There are several places to do grab snacks, including the BoardWalk Deli, BoardWalk Ice Cream, Carousel Coffee, or the Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs stand.

Indulge in Dessert on the BoardWalk

If you haven’t already had dessert where you ate dinner, indulge in some sweets on the BoardWalk.

Head to BoardWalk Ice Cream for quick-service ice cream near Trattoria al Forno. For sit-down ice cream, try the famous “Beaches & Cream Soda Shop” at the Yacht and Beach Club. They have table service so you can order ice cream sundaes, milkshakes, and such.

One of the newer places to hit the BoardWalk is The Cake Bake Shop Restaurant by Gwendolyn Rogers, which will hopefully open in 2024. No official date has been announced.

It replaced ESPN Club, at the side of the BoardWalk closest to Epcot’s World Showcase entrance. It will serve cookies, brownies, cakes, French macarons , pies, cheesecakes, and more.

Disney Shopping on the Boardwalk

We wouldn’t say that the BoardWalk is a great shopping destination if you want Disney items. There is a gallery on the BoardWalk with original art pieces if you’re shopping for Disney art for your home.

Other than that, you’ll find the shops that are technically hotel s tores. They have Disney apparel, candy, some wine, and other assorted Disney World souvenirs. If you want to really shop for Disney items outside of the theme parks yet still on Disney World property, we suggest heading to Disney Springs.

Disney Shopping Beyond the BoardWalk

If you’re looking for items that you can’t find on the Boardwalk, you can likely get them online (that’s if you’re unable to shop elsewhere on the Boardwalk before you leave).

Getting to the BoardWalk (Transportation)

You can get to the BoardWalk in one of five ways: walk, drive, take the Skyliner, take a boat, or use Disney World buses to arrive.

Visiting the BoardWalk from Epcot and BoardWalk Resorts

If you exit Epcot at the World Showcase entrance, you’ll be steps away from the BoardWalk. There’s only one direction to walk as you exit from that area so you can’t get lost.

The World Showcase entrance is near the UK Pavilion and France. The closest ride at Epcot from this entrance is Ratatouille: The Adventure, in France.

If you’re staying at any of the following hotels, you can walk to the BoardWalk too, either because they’re on the BoardWalk or yards away: Swan Reserve , Swan and Dolphin, BoardWalk Inn, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort.

If you don’t feel like walking from the resorts or you are mobility challenged, opt for a boat ride to the BoardWalk instead with one of the free boats that travel between the Swan, Dolphin, BoardWalk Inn and Villas, Yacht and Beach Clubs, and Epcot.

BoardWalk Access from Hollywood Studios

You can walk to the BoardWalk from Hollywood Studios (it’s kind of a long walk, but you can do it along a designated pathway). You can also take a boat, bus, or Disney’s Skyliner .

Take the bus to the BoardWalk Inn and Villas and walk to the BoardWalk from the bus drop off.

You can also take the Skyliner to the Boardwalk from Art of Animation hotel.

Getting to the BoardWalk from the Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom

The easiest way to get to Disney’s BoardWalk from either of these parks is to take a bus. Just look for a bus going to the BoardWalk Inn or BoardWalk Villas; you can easily get to the BoardWalk from there. Alternatively, you can take a bus to the Yacht or Beach Club, then take the 5-10 minute walk to the BoardWalk.

Taking a Car to the BoardWalk

If you are driving to Disney’s BoardWalk, you can park your vehicle there. Just let security know where you’re going, and it should be free to park. It may be harder to park during peak times at Walt Disney World when the lots may fill up with hotel guests.

If you cannot park at the BoardWalk Inn lot and need a solution, head to the Swan Reserve , where there is a paid lot. Upon entering the lot, you simply get a ticket from the automated machine and pay when you leave.

Once you’re parked at the Swan Reserve, Disney’s BoardWalk is a 10-15 minute walk along pathways that guide you to its location.

You can also call for a Minnie Van, Walt Disney World’s version of Lyft.

If you want to rent a car while you’re in Orlando, be sure to check Discover Cars for the best prices and easy-to-navigate website.

Don’t Postone Renting a Car!

Disney’s BoardWalk Practical Information

We tackled self-parking above, but you may want to know other practical information.

For example, what time does the BoardWalk open or do they have restrooms?

The BoardWalk never really closes because it’s a pedestrian area of Walt Disney World. But the WDW website lists its hours as 6:30 am to 10:00 pm. Yet some bars there are open later.

The shops and gallery have their own opening hours as do the BoardWalk games. As do the restaurants and bars. For example, Abracadabar opens at 4:00 pm and closes at midnight. Big River Grille & Brewing Works is open from 11:00 am to 10:00pm as another example.

Restrooms are plentiful at the BoardWalk, both in restaurants and hotels. For example, plenty of restrooms are available inside Disney’s BoardWalk hotel. There are also restrooms near the BoardWalk pool by the mini-arcade at the hotel.

There are also plenty of places to sit along the BoardWalk, between benches and Adirondack chairs. One of the best things to do on Disney’s BoardWalk, in our opinion, is sit and talk, and enjoy the Florida sunshine. (And, let’s face it – people watch, of course!)

Disney’s BoardWalk FAQs Answered

Can you see fireworks from the boardwalk.

You can see Epcot’s fireworks but not the whole show, like the water jets — only the fireworks that reach high in the sky. If you stay at the Swan Reserve , however, you can see the fireworks from the top floor of the hotel and they stream the music into the room too.

Epcot fireworks are at 9:00 pm and last 17 minutes.

Are Disney Springs and Disney’s BoardWalk the same thing?

No, they are not. They’re located in two different areas and have very different things to do. The BoardWalk is more so a casual, hidden gem. Far less people go there. Disney Springs is frequented by thousands of people a day, has a tons of shopping, and far more restaurants.

Disney Springs is where Cirque du Soleil is, where the World of Disney shop is, where Rainforest Cafe and Lego store are, and more.

Is Disney’s BoardWalk the Old Downtown Disney?

No, it is not. Downtown Disney is now Disney Springs. Disney’s BoardWalk has been it’s own destination and attraction for decades, even while Downtown Disney existed where Disney Springs is now located.

What does it cost to visit Disney’s BoardWalk?

If you’re wondering what the admission ticket is to Disney’s BoardWalk, it’s free to visit.

Any cost depends on what you do. For example, if you simply sit on the benches and watch the BoardWalk performers at night, it’s free. But if you eat at a restaurant and then go to Jellyrolls afterward, you have to pay for your meal and drinks and then pay the Jellyrolls cover charge.

What time are the performers on the BoardWalk?

The performers – like jugglers and acrobatic performers – are there at night. They are not there during the day. They usually sporadically perform around 7:00 pm to 10:00 pm, every day.

We’ve seen them in front of Abracadabar and in front of the area by the art gallery.

Do you have to be a Disney hotel guest to visit the BoardWalk?

No, you do not. You don’t have to be a Disney hotel guest, nor do you have to have tickets to the parks, nor do you have to be staying at Walt Disney World to visit the BoardWalk.

We often go for the afternoon or evening when with friends from downtown Orlando .

Can you walk to Disney’s BoardWalk from any Disney theme park?

The entrance to Epcot’s World Showcase is within walking distance. It’s right between the England and France pavilions.

Disney’s Hollywood Studios is a much further walk away. Though it’s possible to walk via a designated pathway, it takes a considerable amount of time compared to the distance between the BoardWalk and Epcot.

The walk to Hollywood Studios is approximately 25-30 minutes, whereas the walk between Epcot and the BoardWalk is 5-10 minutes.

Is Disney’s BoardWalk pet-friendly?

No, it is not, though Service Animals are allowed. The same rules apply to the BoardWalk as in Disney’s theme parks.

Adult Things to Do Near the BoardWalk at Disney World (Besides the Parks)

Miniature golf at fantasia gardens.

If you feel a little competitive, walk to the Swan Reserve from the BoardWalk to play miniature golf at Fantasia Gardens. It’s next to the hotel, and it’s only a 5-15 minute walk, depending on where you’re walking from on the BoardWalk.

There are two sides to the miniature golf course: a fun side with characters and colorful scenes from the movie “Fantasia,” called Fantasia Gardens, and a more difficult Par 3 course, called Fantasia Fairways. (The Fairways side is actually really hard!)

There’s often a wait to play, so if you have a long wait, head to the Swan Reserve to grab a drink until you can play.

Cirque du Soleil at Disney Springs

One of the most romantic things to do at Walt Disney World is going to a Cirque du Soleil show at Disney Springs . It’s an incredible performance with acrobatics, musicians, and singers. We recommend purchasing tickets in advance.

Things to Do in Florida, Beyond Walt Disney World

If you will be in Florida for a while, head to Florida’s Space Coast , which is only an hour’s drive east. This is where Disney Cruise Line has its own terminal on the Space Coast at Port Canaveral.

Another idea is to head south to Miami, where you can explore the famous (and colorful) Wynwood neighborhood , with murals galore! Or head to Little Havana for a fun time.

From there, you can keep driving south to Key Largo , which is hours closer than Key West.

Heading to Orlando? Read this next:

• 12 Fun Adult Things to Do in Orlando
• Where to Stay in Orlando: Luxury Hotels, Moderate, + More
• Ultimate List of Romantic Things to Do at Disney World (More than 60 Ideas)

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get our Weekly Top Picks of Things to Do Around the Orlando Area!

A Progressive Date at Disney’s BoardWalk

Disney’s BoardWalk is arguably one of the best date night spots on Disney property. The picturesque boardwalk that transports you to a seaside town in New England becomes even more romantic as the sun goes down. There are plenty of ways to fill your night here and it can be hard to pick just a couple. Here's our itinerary for exploring the best of Disney's BoardWalk on a progressive date night.

Updated August 2024 by Meghan Roth

Date Night at Disney's Boardwalk

Start with drinks.

Choose one of these locations to enjoy a drink at the beginning of your night.

Belle Vue Lounge If you walk through the hotel lobby to get to the BoardWalk, head down the hallway to your right for a laid-back lounge with a relaxed atmosphere. Modeled after a 1930s drawing room, this cozy little spot is perfect for soaking up the seaside breeze with a glass of wine in hand.

If you feel like stirring up some competition, settle into a comfy couch in the drawing room and challenge your partner to a board game. Or, order a drink and sit outside on the porch to people watch. Hours: 4pm–12am

AbracadaBar Located on the right-hand side of the BoardWalk, this is a favorite place for many. BoardWalk tales say that this bar is where the magicians and illusionists would gather after their performances to compare tricks and create new cocktails. The enchantment is apparent inside this space. Cozy up to the bar and order one of their magic-themed drinks, like a Magic Hattan, a Hoodunit’s Punch or the ever-mysterious Pepper’s Ghost. Hours: 4pm–12am

RELATED: Best Places to Grab a Beer at Walt Disney World

Main Course

Flying Fish Recently redesigned with an open kitchen, this seasonal seafood restaurant embodies luxury dining. For every dish, the presentation is key. There is a chef’s counter which lets you peek into the kitchen as your food is prepared.

If you choose to have your main course here, we highly recommend making reservations and checking out the dress code beforehand. Hours: 5pm-9:30pm

Trattoria al Forno If you prefer the cozy romance of a traditional Italian trattoria, this laid-back restaurant is the place to be. Think exposed brick, a warm show kitchen, and a wine list composed exclusively of Italian wines.

According to Disney legend, the trattoria was once a boarding house and tavern, owned by an Italian family on the boardwalk. Their authentic regional dishes and hand-picked Italian wines were so popular, the space was converted, room by room, into a full-blown restaurant.

Each room has a slightly different feel, so feel free to request a table to suit your mood. Try the Sala de Pranzo for a lively atmosphere, or the Taverna for a more intimate dinner date. Hours: 5pm–10pm

Yachtsmen Steakhouse Located at Disney's Yacht Club, Yachtsmen Steakhouse is a signature Disney restaurant beloved by many. It is a ten-minute walk around Cresent Lake from Disney's BoardWalk and a great alternative on our itinerary if you're looking to really explore the area.

As you might have guessed, hand-cut steaks are the star of the show here, and there is a fantastic selection of seafood and other options too. The atmosphere is very date night worthy, so get a little dressed up and enjoy the experience. Hours: 5pm–9:30pm

BoardWalk Deli Short on time? Build your own delicious picnic at the BoardWalk Deli, the newest addition to Disney’s BoardWalk. This nostalgic quick-service spot serves up “delectably delightful” pastries, hot or cold sandwiches, salads, and sides to go. You can even grab drinks, if you like! We’re especially keen on the playful cocktails, like the Social Hour Sunkissed Fizz. This summery blend of vodka, yuzu, peach, key lime, and jasmine is perfect for balmy evenings on the BoardWalk.

Pack a blanket for maximum picnic enjoyment, and spread out on the sandy shore of the Beach Club next door. To get there, exit the BoardWalk Deli, turn right, and continue around Lake Crescent until you hit the beach. Hours: 7am–10pm

Coming Soon: Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs currently serves Hand-dipped Corn Dogs and other unique Corn Dog creations over in Disneyland at the Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs kiosk in Downtown Disney.

This new location will serve some favorites from Disneyland Resort as well as brand-new items exclusive to Disney's BoardWalk.

• Mexican Street Corn Dog
• Lemonade and Strawberry Lemonade (Non-alcoholic beverages)
• Fresh Spun Cotton Candy

After Dinner Fun

After indulging in all the food and drinks, take a break and let your food digest by visiting one of these game stops.

BoardWalk games Throughout Disney's BoardWalk, you'll find various midway games and live entertainers, such as free throw shooting, ring toss, jugglers, magicians, and more. Take some time to explore!

Surrey Bikes Rent a 2-person surrey bike for half an hour to travel around the BoardWalk and burn some calories. Surrey bike rental costs around $25 per half hour. The bike rental station is located right in the middle of the BoardWalk.

Important note – ESPN Club is permanently closed. A new restaurant focused on sweets is in development.

BoardWalk Ice Cream What was once home to Ample Hills Creamery, is now simply named BoardWalk Ice Cream. This classic ice cream parlor offers awesome sundaes and shakes, as well as simple scoops of ice cream.

The vintage style beverages like the classic Egg Cream and Cherry Limeade are an affordable date idea. Currently, the only plant-based options are soy-based chocolate and vanilla. Hours: 3pm–11pm

BoardWalk Treats Just like there are games scattered around the BoardWalk, there is also food! And we all know fried, greasy fair food is the best. So, grab a funnel cake and enjoy!

Coming Soon: The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers Expected to open in 2024, this whimsical full-service restaurant will feature sweet and savory eats, dreamy desserts, and a lavish afternoon tea service. Stop in for a sweet bite and a glass of French bubbles in the pastel-hued tea room. The Cake Bake Shop features dozens of desserts made with the finest ingredients. All cakes are made in-house daily, and you can also order pies made from scratch, cheesecakes, cookie bars, french pastries, and ice cream. Pair your treats with champagne, elegant specialty cocktails, or imaginative espresso drinks.

The shop even has its own exclusive blend of French rosé bubbles, created in partnership with Jean-Charles Boisset! Try Gwendolyn’s Famous Earl’s Court Chocolate Cake, an award-winning signature recipe beloved by the likes of Dick Van Dyke, Ina Garten, and Elton John.

Continue the Night

Jellyrolls Probably the most famous spot on Disney’s BoardWalk is Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar. While the cover to get in might seem a little expensive, it is definitely worth the cost. It’s a little bit tamer than your usual non-Disney piano bar, but the piano players are incredibly talented.

The bar can become standing room only as everyone wanders over after visiting EPCOT, or after watching the fireworks . And the later it gets, the better the music and environment become. Request one of these songs for a truly unique performance: “Disney Medley,” “TV Show Medley,” “Boy Band Medley,” and “Rainbow Connection.” Hours: 7pm-2am

Atlantic Dance Hall Dance the night away at this 1940s-style dance hall. There’s no cover charge, so you can dance all night long, or just pop in for an hour before moving on. The club plays music from the 80s, 90s, and today, and is open on the weekends for maximum enjoyment. Ages 21+ only. Hours: Thursday–Sunday 8pm–1am

BoardWalk Courtyard Before you leave for the night, take a nice romantic walk around the grounds of Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. If you venture back into the hotel, make a left and walk straight out of the far doors. This will lead you to a private courtyard where many of the inn's suites are located. It is a very secluded, romantic spot where you can enjoy some alone time away from the crowds. Please be mindful of the guests and do not visit this spot too late.

Parking When parking at Disney’s BoardWalk, you must present an ID. Keep in mind it may be difficult to find parking if there is an event going on at Epcot. Sometimes having a dining reservation helps. You can always use a rideshare app or Disney transportation from Disney Springs.

Fireworks Disney’s BoardWalk is one of the locations we recommend for fireworks viewing . Be sure to include this in your schedule if you are interested.

Sit at the Bar/Make Reservations We highly recommend you sit at the bar at each location, especially if you're just ordering a few things to share. Reservations are highly recommended for any table service restaurant.

Hidden Mickeys While you are at Disney, you might as well be looking for hidden Mickeys. You can search for their locations in advance, or conduct your own scavenger hunt to see how many you can find during your visit.

Hours Please note: Hours for restaurant locations can change based on the season. Please check the website before making your final plans.

Disney's Mobile Ordering You can Mobile Order food at select restaurants and quick service locations through the MyDisneyExperience app. This includes select table service restaurants like Ale and Compass at Disney's Yacht Club. This is a great option if you want to enjoy a meal away from the busy dining room. There is plenty of seating throughout the entire BoardWalk area.

Disney Boat and Skyliner Transportation The BoardWalk area is beloved because of its prime location between EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. These theme parks are within walking distance, and there is also boat transportation and Disney Skyliner transportation. The Skyliner station is near the back entrance to EPCOT by Disney's Beach Club. Check out our Skyliner Crawl itineraries .

Additional Options While some of these options are not immediately part of Disney’s BoardWalk, they are convenient and can always be included or substituted for any of the locations listed above.

• Ale and Compass
• Beaches & Cream Soda Shop
• Crew’s Cup Lounge
• Kimonos Lounge for karaoke, sushi and sake
• Fantasia Gardens Mini Golf (across the street from the Swan & Dolphin)

Feature image credit: Jellyrolls

• Saint Petersburg /
• Eatmeat Cafe, Vorontsovskiy bulvar, 5к1

Eatmeat Cafe

Food delivery is a big plus of this restaurant. Many guests come here to enjoy perfectly cooked kebabs , khachapuri and beef . Eatmeat Cafe will offer you delicious house wine . Besides, the terrace area is beautiful.

Frequently mentioned in reviews

Ratings of eatmeat cafe, visitors' opinions on eatmeat cafe.

Food guides for travelers

Similar restaurants nearby

Tasty dishes in saint petersburg.

Restaurant features in Saint Petersburg