When planning a non-park day during your next Walt Disney World vacation, resort choice is key
In my 6+ years of experience as a travel planner specializing in Disney destinations, I have found that guests often fall into one of two categories: those that hit the parks from rope drop to kiss goodnight and spend a minimal amount of time at the resort; and those that like to plan non-park days in order to rest and enjoy their resorts amenities.
Some repeat guests stick 100% to one category, while many waffle back and forth depending on their travel party and trip duration. For those of you who like to spend a bit of time relaxing and enjoying all of the amenities, the resorts have to offer.
I present to you my top 5 list of Walt Disney World resorts at which I love to spend non-park days.
Related: Top 5 things NOT to pack for your Disney World Vacation
Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa
Starting our list off at #5 is Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. Those who know me well have heard about my love for Saratoga Springs on more than one occasion; I love this resort, I have booked several stays here with my family, and I truly believe it is one of the most underrated resorts on property. As a Disney Vacation Club resort, you enjoy amenities like the use of washers and dryers at no charge and a fun game room.
There is a spa on the property, the main pool area is a great way to spend a day of fun in the sun, and you can walk (or take a boat) to Disney Springs. The resort is also located right along the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, providing some spectacular views of the fairways from the balconies of many of the rooms. You really can’t go wrong with a stay at Saratoga Springs for your next Non-Park Day.
Gran Destino Tower at Coronado Springs
I am still amazed that the Gran Destino Tower, coming in strong at #4 on our list of the top resorts to spend your non-park days, is considered a moderate rather than a Deluxe resort. The tower is incredible, with amazing theming and well-appointed rooms. I have spent some time having to do some remote work during a recent stay here, and I really enjoyed setting up my laptop while enjoying the live entertainment in the Barcelona Lounge.
Gran Destino Tower also features the Dig Site, one of the coolest pools on Disney property! Do NOT overlook the Gran Destino Tower for your next Walt Disney World trip.
Disney’s Boardwalk Resort
The Boardwalk Resort, which is #3 on our list, is home to some beautiful grounds and a fun feature pool. The item that really sets the Boardwalk apart from many other resorts for your non-park day is the Boardwalk area itself. Featuring live acts, games, Jellyrolls dueling piano bar, and the AbracaBar, the Boardwalk provides fun and activities from sunup through well past sundown.
Unlike Saratoga Springs, the Boardwalk is certainly not a well-kept secret, but I can tell you the resort certainly lives up to the hype.
Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Standing at #2 on our list of the top resorts at which to spend a non-park day is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. If the Boardwalk resort is all about activities, the Polynesian is all about relaxation. Elements like a beautiful lobby, a relaxing feature pool, and a beach that overlooks the Magic Kingdom are just some of the reasons why Disney’s Polynesian Resort is a fan favorite year after year.
Want a dole whip? They have it! Want to watch the fireworks at night while enjoying a relaxing non-park day? The Polynesian has you covered. Want to enjoy breakfast with Stitch in the morning? Yep, Disney’s Polynesian Resort can accommodate that request!
Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Ok, I know #1 in our list, Yacht Club and Beach Club, are actually two separate resorts. Each has its own theming as well as its own custom scents (I just LOVE the smell of the Yacht Clubs Lobby!). The one feature that puts these resorts at #1 on my list is a feature they share-Stormalong Bay. This feature pool is like having your own personal waterpark at your resort! The expansive pool area spans 3 acres and features a sand-bottom pool, a lazy river, a 230-foot waterslide, and 3 whirlpool spas.
You can start your day with breakfast at Ale and Compass or Cape May Cafe, spend all day at the pool, and then cap it off with ice cream from Beaches and Cream. If you have not yet stayed at Disney’s Yacht Club Resort or Disney’s Beach Club resort, be sure they are on your list!
Ready to start planning a trip to enjoy one of these amazing resorts? Reach out to me so we can start planning today! As a travel advisor with Destinations To Travel, my services are included AT NO ADDITIONAL COST when you book your Walt Disney World vacation package through me.
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