With the choice of so many Disney World properties to book when visiting the most magical place on earth, Disney's Boardwalk Inn and Villas gets our vote for your next stay.
From its Atlantic coast boardwalk theme to the many food and entertainment options and its proximity within the Epcot resort area, the Boardwalk Inn is hands down my gang's favorite on-site property. But, we are not going to leave it there - here are 22 reasons why this resort should be at the top of your list when booking your next stay.
From its Atlantic coast boardwalk theme to the many food and entertainment options and its proximity within the Epcot resort area, the Boardwalk Inn is hands down my gang's favorite on-site property. But, we are not going to leave it there - here are 22 reasons why this resort should be at the top of your list when booking your next stay.
The Promenade at Disney's Boardwalk Inn and Villas lit up at night (c) travelincousins.com
1. Charming turn-of-the-century theme
The Boardwalk Inn is impeccably designed in a style reminiscent of east coast towns like Coney Island, Atlantic City and Cape May. Its exquisite construction and charming decor takes guests back in time to the turn of the 20th-century with its themed promenade and architecture.
2. Quarter-mile Boardwalk Promenade
The quarter-mile promenade is a delight. Surrounded by water, the Boardwalk Inn promenade consists of dine-in and boardwalk food kiosks with coastal city favorites like hot dogs, giant pretzels. The outdoor bench seating facing the water adds a coastal town feel, which we love.
3. Beautiful atmosphere day and night
Whether strolling the wooden promenade in the light of day looking out over the water or enjoying the fun and festive pier with its strung lights, and outdoor eateries, this property's youthful atmosphere is captivating.
4. Waterfront View
I believe that a waterfront view says it all. Set along Crescent Lake, the boardwalk is surrounded by water with lovely views of the Yacht and Beach Club.
View from the boardwalk of Crescent Lake (c) travelincousins.com
5. Walking Distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
Your feet can do the walking to either Epcot or Hollywood Studios which means no need to take Disney bus service and no need to wait for it in either direction.
6. Friendship Boat to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
Whether heading to the park or returning back, the Friendship Boat is a super fun and scenic way to travel. Conveniently located at the pier on the Boardwalk promenade, this breezy water mode of transportation offers guests rides to and from Epcot and Hollywood Studios as well as to the Yacht and Beach Club Resort, Swan and Dolphin.
7. Atlantic Dance Hall on the Boardwalk
If you are looking for some night action close to "home," this adult-only nightclub and dance club features music from the ‘80s, ‘90s and today.
Disney's Hollywood Studios (c) travelincousins.com
8. Surrey Bikes
The Surrey bike rentals allow you and your gang to step back in time. Just like in old Atlantic City, you can take in the sites along the promenade as you leisurely ride by.
9. Boardwalk Bakery
Definitely one of my gang’s favorite places for a grab and go snack or quick service meal any time of day. Amazing bistro style sandwiches and salads, muffins and baked goods as well as all kinds of beverages. We usually hit the bakery on our way to the park as we start our day or for an evening bit while hanging out on the promenade.
10. ESPN Club
If your group is still energetic after a day at the parks, this club is open to teens and adults and features live radio sports shows and interviews with celebrity athletes.
(c) travelincousins.com
11. Jelly Rolls
The Boardwalk Inn is home to a terribly cool and upbeat, lively piano bar for the over-21 crowd with dueling pianos and audience sing-alongs.
12. Funnel Cake Cart
Reminiscent of days gone by, the Boardwalk’s Funnel Cake Cart is more like a funnel cake dessert bar! Whether you prefer to sprinkle sugar, drizzle chocolate syrup or pair with ice cream, these fresh ‘n’ hot funnel cakes are well worth the indulgence.
13. Pizza Window
We just love the pizza window! Serving piping-hot pizza by the slice or by the pie, as well as beer, sangria and soft drinks, it’s a treat for kids of all ages!
The Boardwalk Inn is home to a terribly cool and upbeat, lively piano bar for the over-21 crowd with dueling pianos and audience sing-alongs.
12. Funnel Cake Cart
Reminiscent of days gone by, the Boardwalk’s Funnel Cake Cart is more like a funnel cake dessert bar! Whether you prefer to sprinkle sugar, drizzle chocolate syrup or pair with ice cream, these fresh ‘n’ hot funnel cakes are well worth the indulgence.
13. Pizza Window
We just love the pizza window! Serving piping-hot pizza by the slice or by the pie, as well as beer, sangria and soft drinks, it’s a treat for kids of all ages!
EPCOT is a short walk or boat ride to and from The Boardwalk Inn (c) travelincousins.com
14. Outdoor Movies on the Lawn
Imagine watching a movie under the stars just like they used to do at seaside towns. During one of our stays we enjoyed Disney’s Frozen. It’s a festive way to wind down from a busy day of rides and attractions.
15. Choice of Various Accommodations
Flanked between a hotel lobby, one side of the Boardwalk Inn has inn-style rooms, while the other features villa-style accommodations for guests. Garden View outer room inn accommodations are just adorable, each with their own lush garden decorated with colorful flowers and just right for romantic stays for couples and honeymooners.
My group always opts for the villa-style accommodations since they are a bit more roomy and offer separate bedrooms, which serves us well and is a great feature for families. We also love the convenience that the villas offer with in-room kitchenette for studios and full kitchen and in-room washer-dryer in one bedroom villas and larger.
16. On-Site Spa and Fitness Center
Muscles & Bustles Health Club, has state of the art treadmills, bicycles and ellipticals available to guests during their stay. Now that my girls are both old enough, we love to make a few visits to work off some of the yummy Disney food during our stay.
The Boardwalk Promenade (c) travelincousins.com
17. Boardwalk “Street Entertainers”
Just like the boardwalks of Cape May, New Jersey and Coney Island, Brooklyn, there are carnival-style street performers along the promenade. From Thursday to Saturday evenings, you can take in the talents of jugglers, balancing act performers and street musicians under the stars. If you are inclined, get your portrait done by the on-site caricature artist.
18. Unique Decorative Points of Interest
Throughout the lobby, there are quaint miniature, glass-enclosed replicas of rollercoasters and carousels reminiscent of the elements that made up the actual Atlantic coast boardwalk towns of the early 20th century. You can even spy the reproduction “Nanny Chairs” that were used in the late 1800’s for nannies to sit in while the children rode the carousel. Trivia - nanny chairs were used since carousels did not have the bench style seats that are found on them today.
19. Three Pools to Enjoy
If you and your group enjoy romping in the pool, you’ll be happy to know there are two leisure pools and one themed pool. The themed Luna Park Pool is designed with a “carousel-style” pool bar.
Beautiful View at night of The Boardwalk Promenade (c) travelincousins.com
20. Quaint Belle Vue Lounge
When you are looking for a quiet place to sit and relax, you must visit the quaint 1930’s-style Belle Vue Lounge. Although it is just a sitting room, it is designed to take guests back in time with comfy chairs and radios playing programs from the era. Enjoy coffee and pastries in the morning or a cocktail in the evening. There are also board games available to guests.
21. Lots of Outdoor Green Spaces
The Boardwalk Inn is designed with lots of outdoor spaces. So whether you are in the mood to walk about or hang loose under a tree on one of the many benches, you have your choice. This feature makes this property great for kids to run about and play.
22. Character Dining at Trattoria Al Forno
This Italian restaurant offers a delicious “Bon Voyage Adventure Breakfast with a chance to meet Disney’s Princess Ariel and Prince Eric and Princess Rapunzel and Flynn Rider. You'll find it a bit quieter and more intimate than some of the park character breakfasts, which we love.
Till next time,
Travelin' Elisa & Kelsey
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