Disney Deluxe Resorts Part I

Deluxe resorts are the ultimate in luxury and style. They have the best views, the best restaurants, the best amenities and the best locations. The only thing I don't like about deluxe resorts is the price. During the off season, a standard room in one of these high-end hotels can cost you over $300 per night.
Disney has more deluxe resorts than any other type. There are 8 of these, so I've split them up into two blogs. The four in this blog are all located near Epcot or the Animal Kingdom.


Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge

This is #2 on my favorites for deluxe resorts. It's located on the backside of the Animal Kingdom savannah, so the animals are known to roam right up next to your balcony. How awesome is that?! Everything about this hotel is keeping with the African theme. There are several different views and room types available, from suites to bunk beds.
The pool is like an oasis in the desert. It's gorgeous and relaxing, and even has it's own grass-top tiki hut. There's also educational encounters with the animals on the savannah, arcades, billiards, ping-pong, a children's activity center, and night-time outdoor showings of your favorite Disney movies.
I can tell you first-hand that the dining here is great. Boma is a sit-down restaurant at the lodge that features all kinds of authenic African food, as well as traditional American favorites. There are also two more fine dining restaurants at the lodge.


Disney's Beach Club Resort

The Beach Resort puts you in a cozy New England lake-side retreat. The grounds feature lots of shade trees and even a waterfall. You can get rooms with views of the garden or lake. There are three swimming pools, a beach, fishing, volleyball, tennis, and a kids' activity center.
The resort houses great dining like the Yatchsman Steakhouse and Captain's Grille, as well as casual dining options.


Disney's Yacht Club Resort

The Yacht Club resort is sister resort to the Beach Club. The two sit right next to each other and share many amenities like swimming pools and recreational activities. The Yacht Club is themed as, well, a yacht club in New England. Water, pool and garden views are available.
There is easy access to the restaurants at the Beach Club, plus a few lounges at the Yacht Club.


Disney's Boardwalk Inn

I stayed here in 2003, and it is a great place! It has all the charm and elegance of a seaside boardwalk in the 1940s. It is located on the same lagoon with the Yacht and Beach Club resorts, walking distance from Epcot. There is also a boat here that will take you to Disney's Hollywood Studios.
There are 3 swimming pools. Two are quiet pools, while the main pool features a water slide. There is also fishing and a community hall where you can play ping-pong, board games and other things. There is easy access to Fantasia Mini Golf, which is loads of fun and themed with all your favorite scenes from the movie. For dining, shopping and other recreation, just step out the back door and right onto the Boardwalk. It's like stepping back in time. There are boardwalk carnival games, dance clubs, shops, and great dining (I highly recommed Spoodles!) You can also rent pedal buggies that seat up to 6 people. It makes for a fun trip up and around the boardwalk, with lots of laughs.


The final four deluxe resorts are up next!