Epcot is the gateway to the World, the World Showcase that is. People love Epcot for the fact they can explore 11 countries in just 1 day. So, staying at a resort that brings you closer to the culture is perfect. Enter the Epcot Area Resorts. Located right next to Epcot, these resorts feature different themes for all guests to enjoy. Currently there are six resorts in this area, with a new resort on the horizon. The current resorts in the Epcot area are Disney’s Boardwalk Resort, Disney’s Beach Club Resort, Disney’s Yacht Club Resort, the Walt Disney World Dolphin, the Walt Disney World Swan and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Also, set to open in Fall of 2019 is Disney’s Riviera Resort. Keep reading to learn more about these beautiful resorts.

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

If your feeling Northeast coast vibes, then you should head to Disney’s Boardwalk Inn. A 10 minute walk from Epcot, this resort is home to attractions all their own. In addition to the deluxe accommodations of the resort, this area is also home to the entertainment district of Disney’s Boardwalk. Here you can dine on unique food, try out some Boardwalk classics like the photo booth and do some shopping.

This area is also a popular spot to watch Illuminations since you don’t have to worry about the crowds at the end of the night. This resort is great for kids thanks to their fun Luna Pool, which features a carnival theme. For the big kids in your family, they can head to Jelly Rolls which is a 21 and older dueling piano experience or the Atlantic Dance Hall, which is also a 21 and older dance club. This resort is home to Disney’s Boardwalk Villas, a Disney Vacation Club Property. To see an in depth review of Disney’s Boardwalk Inn, click here. 

Disney’s Beach Club Resort & Disney’s Yacht Club

Right across Crescent Lake from Disney’s Boardwalk are Disney’s Beach and Yacht Club Resorts. Although they are two separate resorts, they are connected which is why they are usually lumped together. Both resorts share Storm Along Bay, which is a three acre pool with a lazy river and shipwreck. Plus, there is sand to mimic the beach and a swim up counter service experience for those who want to make the most out of their relaxation. Both resorts are about a 5-7 minute walk from Epcot. If trying different restaurants is your thing, there are restaurants abound at these resorts.

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

As you would expect, Disney’s Yacht Club transports you into a nautical wonderland. This resort gives definite cruise ship vibes thanks to the giant globe located in the center of the lobby. Disney’s Yacht Club is home to the signature dining experience, the Yachtsman Steakhouse. You can also dine at Ale & Compass Restaurant or visit the Ale & Compass Market. 

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club makes you feel as if you’ve entered a seaside cottage. This resort is home to the ever popular Cape May Cafe, which is a buffet. Disney’s Beach Club Resort also has a Disney Vacation Club property, which is Disney’s Beach Club Villas. Another spot that visitors love at the Beach Club is Beaches and Cream, which is a delicious place to grab some ice cream after a hot day. 

Walt Disney World Dolphin & Swan

Nestled onto the shores of Crescent Lake are Walt Disney World’s Dolphin & Swan Resorts. While these resorts are on Disney property and are official Disney resorts, one is a Sheraton and the other a Westin, which means you receive some but not all of the perks of staying at an “Official” Disney resort. Guests staying at the Dolphin & Swan can use the same transportation as guests staying at “Official” Disney Resorts, are able to purchase ticket packages and utilize Extra Magic Hours, but cannot use a dining plan or charge on their Magic Band. Both resorts feature pools and restaurants that are popular on property.

Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort

Do you constantly hear Sebastian singing “Under the Sea” in your head? Then you should check out Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. Located on the other side of Buena Vista Drive, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is a moderate resort themed after the beautiful Caribbean Islands. Like other moderate resorts, Caribbean Beach is spread out among six different villages each named after a different Caribbean island. While Caribbean Beach is considered an Epcot Area Resort, you are not able to walk there from the hotel and you do not have access to the Friendship Boat Service from this resort. This hotel is currently under renovations and has received a new table service restaurant called Sebastian’s Bistro.

Disney’s Riviera Resort

Coming in Fall of 2019 is Disney’s Riviera Resort. This new Disney Vacation Club property was inspired by a trip that Walt Disney took to the Mediterranean. It is set to have 300 rooms with a rooftop restaurant, called Topolino’s Terrace, that will provide stunning views of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios which is close. To go along with this Mediterranean theme, Disney’s Riviera Resort will be a stop on the new Skyliner Gondola System. Based on renderings provided by Disney on the Disney Parks Blog, this resort is set to reflect the beauty that is Europe and all of its grandeur. The addition of this new DVC property is exciting for guests and will offer a new experience. As a point of reference, this new resort is being built right next to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.

Let me know in the comments below if you’ve ever stayed in one of the Epcot Area Resorts. And if so, which was your favorite?

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