Thinking about a stay at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn? Here are three reasons you’ve got to check out this iconic Deluxe hotel.

As a New Yorker, I’m used to living in a city that doesn’t sleep. The fast-paced lifestyle usually bodes well for me at Disney because I love to go, go, go and do as much as possible in the time that I have.

Luckily, the energy and adrenaline I get from the parks don’t end when I have the pleasure of returning to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn.

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This Deluxe Resort is a hotel, shopping center, and entertainment district all in one. The BoardWalk exudes the charm of a Coney Island-meets-Atlantic City waterfront resort at the turn of the century.  Disney-approved theming fills every crook and cranny of the property. From the miniature model of the first wooden looping roller coaster (Flip Flap Railway) that popped up at Coney Island in 1895 to the iconic carnival-themed Luna Park Pool, the BoardWalk is a never-ending escapade into the discoveries and adventures of another time and place.

Nighttime at the BoardWalk Inn. Photo by Mike Billick

But in case you aren’t quite convinced yet, I have three more reasons to stay at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn on your next Walt Disney World vacation.  Note: As WDW continues to monitor the COVID-19 pandemic, certain attractions mentioned in this piece may not currently be offered. [metaslider id=”50088″]

1. Location, Location, Location! 

At the BoardWalk Inn, you’re just steps away from the International Gateway at EPCOT. Photo by Rich Ramos

When it comes to location, you can’t beat Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. Nestled comfortably between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, the BoardWalk offers easy walking to two parks. That’s right: You. Can. Walk. To. Two. Different. Parks. From. Your. Hotel. Room.  Don’t want to start your steps until you enter the park? Too full from Disney desserts to walk home? Not a problem! The BoardWalk Inn is basically a Skyliner stop thanks to its proximity to the International Gateway at EPCOT. This Skyliner station not only takes you to Hollywood Studios but also several other resorts.  Speaking of other resorts, the BoardWalk Inn sits directly across from Disney’s Yacht and Beach Clubs and adjacent to the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Resort, both a Friendship Boat ride away. 

Find a bench to view the fireworks. Photo by Cliff Wang

A bonus of this property’s location is catching a view of the fireworks from the various parks. To see the latest EPCOT nighttime spectacular, grab a seat on one of the many benches located around the BoardWalk’s Crescent Lake. You can also head over to the bridge that connects Disney’s BoardWalk and Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel to view Star Wars: A Galactic Spectacular.  [metaslider id=40370]

2. Day-to-Night Life 

The pools at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn are reason enough to stay. Photo by Laurie Sapp

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn successfully walks a tightrope (get it?) when it comes to amusements for all ages. Like other Disney Resorts, BoardWalk Inn boasts three pools—one with a 200-foot-long water slide and two smaller leisure pools for those who prefer a, well, leisurely water day. Additionally, it has the usual arcade and movies under the stars.  There’s nothing worse than a rainy day at Disney … unless you are staying at the BoardWalk Inn. Swing by Ferris W. Eahler’s Community Hall for movies, video games, and the opportunity to make your own ears at the craft corner. You can also sit back and relax while listening to a Radio Show Broadcast from the ’30s and ’40s. Note: Technically, Community Halls are reserved for DVC members, but Cast Members will often allow non-DVC families to enter and enjoy. Whether you are a kid or just a kid at heart, you’ll be sure to want to take advantage of some of the more unique activities BoardWalk Inn has to offer. For example, surrey bikes, anyone?  Fun fact: These two- and four-person bikes have hidden Mickeys in the headlights. 

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The BoardWalk really picks up in the afternoon and evening, so I recommend checking out all of the adorable shops earlier in the day. Wyland Gallery is filled with beautiful pieces of art to purchase. Screen Door Shop has a little bit of everything from baked goods to cigars to vinyls of Disney rides. Thimbles and Threads holds a substantial amount of general and resort-specific Disney merchandise. 

Nighttime on the BoardWalk is unforgettable. Photo by Laurie Sapp

As the evening rolls in, so does the hustle and bustle of this lively BoardWalk. Get competitive with some old-fashioned carnival games, have your caricature drawn, say “cheese” in one of the numerous photo booths, or even ink up with an airbrush tattoo. Nightlife doesn’t always come to mind when planning a Walt Disney World vacation, but guests 21+ can put on their dancing shoes and head over to the Atlantic Dance Hall. This 1940s-style nightclub plays modern music and is currently open from 8 PM to 1 AM, Thursdays through Sundays.  If singing is more your style, you won’t want to miss Jellyrolls. This dueling piano bar is always a great time! Grab a drink and warm up your vocals because audience sing-a-longs are inevitable.  [metaslider id=”37755″]

3. Food

You’ll never be at a loss for a nosh at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. There is an impressive number of Quick-Service establishments akin to EPCOT food booths … if all of the booths at Epcot were carnival-themed.

Quick-Service Restaurants at BoardWalk Inn

The legendary Pizza Window. Photo by Laurie Sapp

Being a self-proclaimed junk foodie, I feel very calm when walking the BoardWalk as every sweet and savory treat is at my fingertips. The famous Pizza Window is a fan-favorite as it is exactly what it’s called: a window that you go up to, order, and leave from with pizza! To satisfy your sweet tooth, make your way over to the Funnel Cake Booth or the newly opened BoardWalk Ice Cream. BoardWalk Bakery is also beloved for its variety of baked goods, in addition to sandwiches, soups, and salads. 

Browsing the goods at BoardWalk Bakery. Photo by Laurie Sapp

Adults may prefer Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas for a frozen concoction to help ease those warm Florida nights. Alternatively, travel back in time when stepping into AbracadaBar. This social club will catapult your curiosities as you sip on spirits in a cocktail lounge that at one point, according to BoardWalk lore, vanished into thin air! It has reappeared and is ready for your company. 

Table-Service Restaurants at BoardWalk Inn

Trattoria Al Forno offers character dining. Photo by Brett Svenson

Big River Grille & Brewing Works is a family-friendly microbrewery and restaurant offering American pub classics with a twist. Similarly, ESPN Club is the place to be on game day. Catch your favorite team on one of the almost 100 monitors in this lively atmosphere.  When in the mood for a more upscale dining excursion, look no further than Flying Fish Cafe. At this seasonal and sophisticated restaurant, the chefs turn succulent seafood into works of art. Being a Signature Dining option, a modest dress code is required.  Trattoria Al Forno is a casual Italian restaurant open for both breakfast and dinner. The Bon Voyage Adventure Adventure Breakfast is also a prime Character Breakfast destination where you’ll get to dine with the likes of Rapunzel, Flynn Rider, Ariel, and Prince Eric.  Staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is like getting two different vacations for the price of one: Walt Disney World and the most fun parts of the Northeastern United States. Filled with vintage antiques, a unique chandelier (you’ll know it when you see it!), and a boardwalk that lights up the evening sky, the BoardWalk is sure to indulge your every whim. Additionally, there will be new perks starting October 1 for Deluxe Disney Hotel guests, including the BoardWalk, which includes early theme park access and extended evening hours. Count me in!  Not sure if you’re going? You can just get more information about a potential Disney vacation.

Know your dates? Just need advice for now?

https://www.wdw-magazine.com/your-comprehensive-guide-to-the-2021-epcot-food-and-wine-festival/ https://www.wdw-magazine.com/review-beaches-and-cream-soda-shop-at-disneys-beach-club/ https://www.wdw-magazine.com/disney-worlds-boardwalk-resort-opens-a-new-ice-cream-shop/ [metaslider id=”53772″]