Streamsong Resort
June 10, 2025
Our Top Luxury Picks to Make the Most of Your Magical Vacation
Introduction
Magic Kingdom
Top Luxury Pick: Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
For pure luxury, nothing beats the Grand Floridian. I especially recommend booking a 1- or 2-bedroom villa—complete with full kitchen, washer/dryer, and extra space to unwind. It’s the quietest, most elegant resort on property. Getting to Magic Kingdom is a dream: you can hop on the monorail, take a scenic boat ride, or—my favorite—enjoy a peaceful walk to the park. This resort has multiple fine dining options, family and quiet pools, a splash pad for the kids, stunning fireworks views, and the nostalgic charm of the Electric Water Pageant drifting across the lagoon each evening.
Bay Lake Tower & Contemporary
These offer unbeatable convenience thanks to their direct walkway to Magic Kingdom—but they fall short on atmosphere. The theming is minimal, and the energy can feel more frenetic than relaxing. Since the Grand Floridian walkway opened, we’ve personally chosen not to return to Bay Lake Tower.Best Themed Experience: Wilderness Lodge
Stepping into the grand lobby of Wilderness Lodge feels like entering a majestic National Park lodge. I adore the cozy fireplace, rustic elegance, and immersive theming. It’s perfect for seasoned Disney travelers seeking something a little different. Just keep in mind: it’s not within walking distance of any parks—you’ll rely on boats or buses to get around.
Skip for Me: Polynesian Village Resort
While the tropical theming is charming, the resort often feels overcrowded and noisy, especially at the pool. The walk to Magic Kingdom is long, and the monorail—once magical—has become slower and more crowded due to increased scooter use. Instead, I recommend visiting for a meal at Kona Café or O’hana to get the island vibes without the hassle.
Animal Kingdom
Animal Kingdom Lodge
Ideal for those seeking a serene, safari-style retreat. Savanna-view rooms offer the rare experience of sipping morning coffee while giraffes and zebras roam below. It’s magical—but isolated. If you're hoping to explore more than just Animal Kingdom, the bus-only transportation and distance from other parks can be a drawback. A wonderful resort, but best suited for guests who prioritize the atmosphere over convenience.
Epcot & Hollywood Studios
My Favorite Right Now: BoardWalk Inn & Villas
With kids ages 7 and 9, we currently spend most of our time between Epcot and Hollywood Studios—and staying at the BoardWalk is a total game-changer. You can walk to both parks, which is the ultimate luxury in my book. The activity pool is a hit with kids, while the quiet pool is a calm retreat. Plus, the community hall offers video games, crafts, and activities—perfect for a bit of downtime.
Beach Club & Yacht Club
These neighboring resorts are known for having the best pool on property—complete with a sandy bottom, lazy river, and the biggest slide at Disney. While undeniably impressive, the sand-bottom feature isn’t my favorite, and the popularity of the resort can make it harder to snag a villa. Still, it’s an excellent choice for families who prioritize pool time.
Gandola Resorts
The Disney Skyliner connects Riviera Resort, Caribbean Beach, Art of Animation, and Pop Century to Epcot and Hollywood Studios. These resorts have excellent theming and the gondola ride is undeniably fun—but lines can get long during peak times. Personally, I prefer resorts with walkable access to the parks, but for families on a moderate budget or those looking for a unique Disney experience, these are still fantastic options.
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