5 Reasons to Try Disney’s Contemporary Resort
March 20, 2011 | By Doreen Lopez
Disney's Contemporary Resort
I recently returned from a fabulous vacation to the Magic Kingdom that I had been so excited for, since it had been many years since my last visit. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort – it was all that I expected! Here are 5 reasons to give this property a try:
5 – Seven Seas Lagoon and Bay Lake. With the Seven Seas Lagoon on one side, and the Bay Lake on another, the Contemporary practically begs you to get out on the water. The resort has a small sandy beach and its own marina that rents sailboats and offers many water sports like waterskiing, tubing, parasailing, fishing and more.
4 – The History. The Contemporary also holds the distinction of being Disney’s first resort opening with the Magic Kingdom in October of 1971. Disney has done an outstanding job of upgrading both the decor and amenities, making this hotel a perennial favorite of Disney fans and convention-goers alike (this hotel is also a very popular convention destination). Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers 1,008 guestrooms located in three separate buildings. The newly renovated rooms are beautiful and spacious. The decor is futuristic modern with colorful geometric designs. The warm earthy tones add to the coziness. The bedding is first rate with ultra comfortable pillow tops. Many rooms have private furnished balconies, and you will enjoy garden, lake, or great Magic Kingdom views. (Tip: If you do not have a Magic Kingdom view room, there is a large outdoor patio on the far end of the grand concourse where you can view the fireworks.) The rooms are exceptional! The pool area is nice and has a view of Bay Lake. There is a large kids pool, and also a standard pool with water slide. There is no “kids club” at the Contemporary. Guests needing such services will have to use the Neverland Club at the Polynesian (reservations required).
3 – Dining Options. The Contemporary’s restaurant offerings are among the most varied and very best on the Disney World property. Chef Mickey’s is a must for breakfast (must reserve in advance). The buffet is extensive, great choices for everyone, and can’t be beat for character interaction, as the characters make their rounds to every table, and will spend as much or as little time as you want. On the 4th floor – you will also find a “food ‘n’ fun” center where breakfast, lunch, dinner, and snacks are offered via convenient counter service. Choices included are grilled sandwiches, salads, and snacks and all are available 24 hours a day. The food options are many – there is also the Outer Rim Lounge, the coffee bar, the Sand Bar at the Pool, and the critically acclaimed Wave and California Grill.
2 – Monorail. There are three Disney World resorts (the Contemporary, the Polynesian, and the Floridian) with monorail service, but only the Contemporary has the monorail travel directly through it! Transportation from the Contemporary includes monorail to Epcot, Polynesian, Grand Floridian, Magic Kingdom, and the tickets and transportation center. There is a water launch that goes to the Wilderness Lodge, and bus service to Animal Kingdom, Disney’s Hollywood Studios and Downtown Disney. Bus service is shared by all the Magic Kingdom Resorts.
1 – Best location. With spectacular views of Wishes and the Electric Water Pageant and just a short walk or monorail ride to the Magic Kingdom, it’s obvious that the Contemporary Resort lies at the epicenter of action at Disney World. Being able to stay so close to so many of the best restaurants, resorts and Cinderella’s Castle is truly a privilege, and it’s why so many of us love the Contemporary Resort. Great for families traveling with little ones and hopping between the parks.
All in all, I loved my visit at the Contemporary Resort. This is a unique property and a great place to spend your next Disney Vacation.