Which Magic Kingdom Resort is Right For You?

When you are looking for a place to stay at Walt Disney World, there are so many options to choose from!

Some of the most magical resorts are the ones closest to the Magic Kingdom. Many of these resorts are all deluxe options, which is the most luxurious way to stay on property! They are all beautifully themed, and have easy access to the Magic Kingdom (young children or the young at heart will love the convenience of staying close to this iconic park!), but each resort is still very different. How do you know which resort you should reserve?

We are here to break down all of the details to help you decide which one is right for you!
After all, who wouldn’t love waking up  to the sights and sounds of the Most Magical Place on Earth?

Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

A stay at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa provides the ultimate luxury experience! This turn-of-the-century Victorian-style hotel is the flagship resort at Walt Disney Resort. It rests on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon and has stunning views of Cinderella Castle. It is just one monorail stop from the Magic Kingdom, and a new walkway just opened between the park and this resort!

The lobby at the Grand Floridian is one of the most beautiful lobbies at Walt Disney World, with huge chandeliers and a stunning stained glass ceiling. Just off the lobby you’ll find several dining options, including 1900 Park Fare and Grand Floridian Cafe, as well as the newly opened Enchanted Rose Lounge. This is a must-visit for an Beauty and the Beast fans!

There is a beach and two pools on this property, so plenty of opportunities for fun in the sun! There is also a spa at this resort, and the guest rooms were renovated in recent years.

The Grand Floridian is classy enough for an adults-only getaway, but still has enough whimsical touches to delight any young children. It is normally the priciest resort on property, but if you are wanting to splurge it is a wonderful option!

Polynesian Village Resort

Imagine sitting on the beach, eating a Dole Whip, watching fireworks over the castle. Does it get any more magical than that?

Polynesian Village Resort has a laid-back island atmosphere and lush gardens that make you feel like you’re truly on a tropical getaway!  The illuminating tiki torches, relaxing music, and intoxicating scent of South Seas flowers completely immerse you. Currently many areas of the resort are being refurbished, with the Great Ceremonial House getting a refreshed look and the standard (non-DVC) rooms receiving a Moana overlay.

You have a choice of utilizing either the boat or monorail to get to the Magic Kingdom from the Poly. Additionally, you can walk to the Transportation and Ticket Center, and hop onto the direct EPCOT monorail (at this time, this monorail service is not operating). The Polynesian has two pools and a large beach with a stunning view of Cinderella Castle!

You have the option of staying in one of their regular guest rooms, DVC rooms, or an over-the-water bungalow villa. Several popular dining options are in the main Great Ceremonial House, including the all-you-can-eat ‘Ohana and the always entertaining Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto! Grab a Dole Whip at Pineapple Lanai.

This is a kid-friendly resorts with a slick volcano slide, and is the perfect relaxing respite from the bustling parks. Plus, did we mention Dole Whips??

Contemporary Resort

The Contemporary Resort, an A-frame structure with nostalgic style, is just a short walk from Magic Kingdom and offers some of the most beautiful views in all of Walt Disney World!

This resort is unique in that the monorail passes right through the middle of the hotel. If you reserve a room in the main tower building, you’ll be able to see the monorail as you walk out of your room, and you could have a spectacular view of either the Magic Kingdom or picturesque Bay Lake!

If you are too tired from a day of Magic Kingdom fun and don’t want to make the walk back (though the path from the resort to the park is under ten minutes!), the Contemporary is the first stop on the Monorail on the resort loop leaving the park. There are several great dining options, including the incredibly popular character meal at Chef Mickey’s and the top-of-the-world views at California Grill.

The Contemporary is the closest you can get to the Magic Kingdom; it’s almost as if you’re staying right in Tomorrowland! Next door is the Bay Lake Tower, a DVC resort. If you are looking for a larger villa, this is a great option as well!

Wilderness Lodge Resort

Your jaw will drop when you enter the expansive lobby of the Wilderness Lodge. You’ll immediately be drawn to the cozy environment, made possible by the wood carvings, rocking chairs, teepee chandeliers, and 80 foot tall fireplace.

Unlike the other Magic Kingdom resorts, Wilderness Lodge is not located on the monorail and is not within walking distance. But don’t let that deter you! Magic Kingdom is just a short boat ride away. Because this resort is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of the park, it’s a peaceful place to rest your head after a long day.

Some of the rooms at Wilderness lodge have bunk beds, which is perfect for families! There are also DVC accommodations, as well as water-side cabins.

You can also dine water-side at the consistently satisfying and relaxing Geyser Point, or enjoy a raucous meal at Whispering Canyon Cafe.

There are two pools at this resort, and while there isn’t a beach, Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground is just a short walk away, where you can enjoy horseback rides and campfires.

If you have any nature-lovers in your party, definitely check out this resort! Likewise it’s great for those who want a little rustic and a little luxury in one resort.

Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds

If you’re looking for Disney Magic with a real rustic touch, Fort Wilderness Resort and Campgrounds may be for you!

Here, you can hook up your camper, pitch a tent, or stay in a woodsy 6-person cabin.

There are family-friendly activities for the whole gang that you won’t find anywhere else on property — from the hoe-down fun of the temporarily closed Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue to horseback riding and s’mores at a campfire sing-along!

You’ll feel miles away from the theme parks, but the Magic Kingdom is accessible by a quick boat ride! Fort Wilderness is unlike any other accommodation experience at Walt Disney World, and thanks to Florida’s weather, you can enjoy the outdoor fun all year long!

We hope this list helps guide you to your perfect Magic Kingdom resort! Keep reading All Ears for the latest news at the Walt Disney World Resorts!

Check out our ranking of the Disney Resort pools here!

Which Magic Kingdom resort is your favorite! Let us know in the comments!

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