Hiya, Eric! Welcome back to planDisney! I'm so excited that you've stopped by with such an oh-so-fun planning question.
Eric, you are someone after my own Disney heart! I love exploring the immersive theming and amenities of the Disney Resorts Collection Hotels as much as I love playing in the theme parks. My favorite dining experiences, lounges and shopping are located at the Disney Deluxe Resorts, and while there is an endless magical combination of ways to tour the Resorts, I'll share my favorites with you!
Your planning is already off to the most magical start, Eric.
Disney's Beach Club Resort, with arguably the best pool in all of Walt Disney World Resort and its location in EPCOT's backyard, is the practically perfect place to start your Resort-hopping day. Start by exploring the adjacent
Disney's Yacht Club Resort and walking around Crescent Lake to
Disney's BoardWalk Inn. AbracadaBar is one of my favorite lounges on property, and the lively vibe of this Resort makes it one of my very favorite places to stay and visit.
Next, I recommend taking a bus to Magic Kingdom Park to hop the monorail and explore the Resorts on the monorail loop. First up will be
Disney's Contemporary Resort where you cannot miss the iconic Mary Blair mural in the Grand Canyon Concourse or the Mickey sculpture along the beautiful Bay Lake. I highly recommend making a lunch reservation at
Steakhouse 71, which is located here.
Then, hop back on the monorail to
Disney's Polynesian Village Resort to grab a DOLE Whip from Pineapple Lanai while you walk along the lush landscaping and beautiful beach. You'll be transported straight to a tropical holiday, so be sure to stop by Tambu Lounge for a Lapu Lapu, served in a pineapple! I love the shopping here, too! Aloooooha!
Next, hop the monorail to the elegant and gorgeous
Disney's Grand Floridian Resort & Spa. This Resort is absolutely stunning, and Enchanted Rose is my favorite place to grab amazing cocktails and small plates. I must recommend the Lavender Fog, as it is so delicate and delicious. The Grand Floridian Spa and shopping at this Resort are incredible. Enjoy!
From the Grand Floridian, take a boat or the serene walk back over to Magic Kingdom Park to hop a bus to
Disney's Riviera Resort to complete your day of fun and magic. When you're ready to head back to your home away from home, take the Disney Skyliner to the EPCOT Skyliner station and then take the short walk over to Disney's Beach Club Resort. BEST. DAY. EVER!
Of course, I can't chat about a Deluxe Resort tour without mentioning two of my favorites:
Disney's Animal Kingdom Lodge and
Disney's Wilderness Lodge. Wilderness Lodge can be reached via a slow-moving, scenic boat ride from Magic Kingdom Park, and you can get to Animal Kingdom Lodge by bus from any of the theme parks. The theming at these Resorts is unmatched, and while they may be a bit out of the way, a visit is well worth it!
I hope this was helpful, Eric, and I hope you have the most magical time on your magical adventure! Please stop by any time with any questions you may have.
You've got a friend in me,
Mandy