When planning a trip to Walt Disney World, choosing the resort you’ll stay at is often times one of the hardest decisions to make. After all, with over twenty different choices, it can be a bit overwhelming! Over the years, I’ve tried several of them, ranging from Value to Deluxe, and I have to say, I found my favorites: The Boardwalk and The Beach Club. When it comes to these two hotels, it’s not just about the room décor or the themes they depict, but more about their location.
The Epcot Resort area is comprised of a few different hotels: The Boardwalk Inn and Villas, The Beach Club and Beach Club Villas, the Yacht Club, the Walt Disney World Swan and the Walt Disney World Dolphin. They surround Crescent Lake, which spans from Disney’s Hollywood Studios to Epcot. So what is it about these deluxe hotels that make them so special?
Easy access to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios
Both of these parks are within walking distance of the resorts. Epcot is just five to ten minutes away and Hollywood Studios is 15 to 20 minutes away by foot. This is a great perk, especially at the end of a long day at the parks. Who wants to stand in a long line waiting for the bus? Not me. If you aren’t up for the walk or are looking to rest your feet, you can also take a boat to and from these parks, and even to the other resorts around the lake.
A Plethora of Dining Options
The Epcot resort area is a great place to head to outside of the parks when you’re looking for a bite to eat. Not only are there lots of different restaurants, but they range from candy stores to Signature Dining establishments. Some of my favorites on property, like Yachtsman Steakhouse and Boardwalk Bakery, are located in the area. Looking for a burger? Or maybe some ice cream? Beaches and Cream is the place to be! If you’re hungry, try the Kitchen Sink!
Entertainment
There is so much going on in this area, especially in the evening hours. Stroll through the shops around the Boardwalk. Get your picture taken in the photo booth. Watch street performers act, dance, and juggle. Sing along at Jellyrolls or dance the night away at the Atlantic Dance Hall. Catch the game at the ESPN Club. Ride a surrey bike around Crescent Lake, or rent a pontoon boat and tour the lake yourself! These are just a few of the many, many activities that occur nightly.
If you haven’t stayed in one of the Epcot resorts, I highly recommend you give them a try. If it’s not in your budget, or you’re not sure if you would like the experience, stop over one night on your next trip and walk around, explore the Boardwalk, and check out the hotels. I can almost guarantee you’ll be back for more!
Have you stayed in the Epcot resort area? What did you like about it?
