Disney saratoga springs
Welcome to Saratoga Springs Resort, a luxurious Deluxe Resort at Walt Disney World inspired by the historic town of Saratoga Springs, New York. Known for its horse racing heritage, the resort features elegant equestrian touches throughout, from racetrack-inspired design elements to detailed artwork and charming décor.
Saratoga Springs is a Disney Vacation Club Resort and one of the largest on Disney property, with over 1,200 villas spread across five themed sections: The Grandstand, The Carousel, The Paddock, Congress Park, and The Springs. Each area offers its own unique atmosphere, with beautifully landscaped grounds and easy access to resort amenities.
Conveniently located just across the lake from Disney Springs, the resort offers guests walking access to Disney’s main shopping, dining, and entertainment district. Complimentary water taxis and bus transportation are also available throughout the resort and to all Disney parks.
Accommodations range from Deluxe Studios to three-bedroom Grand Villas, ideal for families and larger groups. On-site amenities include multiple pools, a full-service spa and fitness center, bike rentals, golf at the Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, and both quick-service and table-service dining.
Saratoga Springs offers a peaceful, scenic retreat with spacious accommodations and excellent proximity to everything Walt Disney World has to offer.
Room Types at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Like all Deluxe Resorts, Saratoga Springs offers a range of accommodations designed to suit various group sizes, amenity needs, and preferences. Whether you're traveling solo, with a partner, or with a large group, there’s a room style that will work for you.
Deluxe Studios
Sleeps: Up to 4 adults
Beds: 1 queen bed and 1 double-size pull-down bed
Features: Kitchenette, split bathroom, private porch or balcony
Views: Garden, lake, pool, woodlands, or golf course fairways
Deluxe Studio Preferred: Same layout, but located closer to Disney Springs or The Carriage House (lobby, dining, main pool) for added convenience
These are a great choice for smaller families or couples who want basic kitchen amenities and scenic surroundings.
Villas
Saratoga Springs is a Disney Vacation Club Resort, so its villa options are especially extensive. Villas are ideal for longer stays or for guests who want the comforts of home—like full kitchens and laundry machines—with Disney quality service.
1-Bedroom Villa
Sleeps: Up to 5 adults
Beds: 1 king bed, 1 queen-size sleeper sofa, 1 twin-size pull-down bed
Features: Full kitchen, washer and dryer, spacious living area
Views: Garden, courtyard, lake, pool, woodlands, or fairways
2-Bedroom Villa
Sleeps: Up to 9 adults
Beds: 1 king bed, 2 queen beds, 1 queen-size sleeper sofa, 1 twin-size pull-down bed
Features: Two bathrooms, full kitchen, washer and dryer, large living and dining area
3-Bedroom Grand Villa
Sleeps: Up to 12 adults
Beds: 1 king bed, 4 queen beds, 1 queen-size sleeper sofa
Features: Two floors, full kitchen, three bathrooms, washer and dryer, spacious dining and living areas
These are ideal for large family gatherings or multi-generational vacations.
Disney Specialty Lodging: Treehouse Villas
For a unique stay that blends rustic charm with Disney magic, the Treehouse Villas are a standout option.
Sleeps: Up to 9 adults
Beds: 1 queen bed, 1 bunk bed, 1 queen-size sleeper sofa, 1 twin-size sleeper chair
Style: Elevated private units nestled in the woodlands
Features: Full kitchen, washer and dryer, deck, grill, and three bedrooms
Location: Set apart from the main resort in a tranquil forested area, with boat or walking access to the rest of Saratoga Springs
These villas feel like your own private cabin in the woods, with beautiful views and peaceful surroundings.
Price Range and Booking Information
Saratoga Springs Resort is a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort, meaning the majority of rooms are booked using DVC points rather than cash. If Saratoga Springs is your home resort, you can book your stay up to 11 months in advance using points. If it is not your home resort, the booking window opens 7 months in advance, subject to availability.
While most inventory is reserved for DVC members, Disney does hold a portion of rooms for cash-paying guests, which can be booked directly through the Walt Disney World website or through authorized travel planners. Cash prices typically range from $400 to $800+ per night, depending on the season, room type, and view.
If you're not a DVC member, another great way to stay at Saratoga Springs at a lower cost is by renting DVC points. Many guests choose to rent points through trusted third-party services or directly from members. This can significantly reduce the cost of staying at a Deluxe Resort, especially for longer stays or larger villas. Rentals typically cost between $18 and $24 per point, and a stay at Saratoga Springs may require 10–40 points per night, depending on the room category and season.
Important Note: Renting points is a final sale and usually non-refundable, so be sure you're confident in your travel dates and understand the terms before booking.
Pools at Saratoga Springs Resort
Saratoga Springs offers five distinct pool areas, giving families plenty of options to relax, splash, and play. Whether you're looking for a lively main pool with activities or a quiet spot to unwind, there’s a pool for every mood.
High Rock Spring Pool (Main Feature Pool – Located near The Springs and The Carriage House)
This beautifully themed area is the resort’s main feature pool, surrounded by natural rockwork and waterfalls.
128-foot waterslide built into the rocks
Donald Duck splash zone with a miniature water slide for little ones
Two whirlpool spas
Daily activities like trivia, pool parties, and relay games run by Cast Members
Near On the Rocks Pool Bar and close to Artist’s Palette dining
The Paddock Pool (Secondary Feature Pool – Located in The Paddock section)
A fan-favorite among families, this pool area combines fun and function.
146-foot-long waterslide
Whirlpool spa
Interactive water play area with two kid-sized slides
Picturesque stone bridge perfect for photos and kid-watching
The Paddock Grill is located right next to the pool, offering poolside meals and drinks
Leisure Pools (Quieter, all-ages pools spread throughout the resort)
Perfect for a low-key swim or a quieter atmosphere, these pools are tucked away in convenient locations:
Congress Park Pool – Offers water views of Disney Springs, plus nearby playground and barbecue grills
The Grandstand Pool – Includes playground and grills as well
Treehouse Villas Pool – Private and peaceful, ideal for Treehouse guests
Pool Hours
Pool hours at Saratoga Springs typically run from 10:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though hours may vary slightly by season and weather. Feature pools are usually staffed with lifeguards during operating hours, while leisure pools are open with no lifeguard on duty.
Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
Staying at Saratoga Springs Resort puts you just steps away from one of Walt Disney World’s premier golf destinations: Lake Buena Vista Golf Course. This beautiful 18-hole course winds through the lush surroundings of Disney’s Lake Buena Vista area and has been certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary, making it both scenic and environmentally friendly.
Course Highlights
18-hole championship course
Scenic fairways that wind through Saratoga Springs, Old Key West, and the Treehouse Villas
Home to elevated greens, narrow fairways, and a challenging yet approachable layout for all skill levels
On-site Pro Shop offering golf gear, apparel, and exclusive Disney Golf merchandise
Golf carts with GPS and practice putting greens available
Private lessons available through the Arnold Palmer Golf Academy
Who Gets a Discount?
Discounted lesson rates are available for:
Disney Vacation Club Members
U.S. Military members
Florida residents
Disney Cast Members
Junior golfers
Location and How to Get There
The Lake Buena Vista Golf Course Clubhouse is located adjacent to The Springs section of Saratoga Springs Resort. Guests staying at Saratoga can walk to the clubhouse, making it one of the most convenient golf experiences on property.
If you're staying elsewhere, complimentary Disney transportation (buses or Minnie Vans) can bring you to Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort, where signage will guide you to the course. Free parking is also available for golfers.
How to Book a Tee Time
Tee times and lessons can be booked online or by calling:
Phone: (407) WDW-GOLF (407-939-4653)
Website: www.golfwdw.com
Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during holidays or busy travel seasons.
Dining at Saratoga Springs Resort
If classic American fare is what you're craving, Saratoga Springs delivers with a mix of table service, quick service, lounges, and poolside kiosks. From hearty steaks and seafood to fresh salads and cocktails by the pool, there's something for every guest and every mood.
The Turf Club Bar and Grill
Type: Table Service
Cuisine: American steakhouse with coastal and comfort food options
Hours: 4:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: $$–$$$ (Entrees typically $25–$50)
Set in a refined racetrack clubhouse atmosphere, The Turf Club serves hearty entrees in a cozy setting with views of the golf course and nearby lake. It’s a hidden gem for guests looking for a quieter dinner without leaving the resort.
Top Picks (from Disney Food Blog & AllEars):
Grilled New York Strip Steak
Shrimp & Grits
French Onion Soup
The Turf Club Lounge
Type: Lounge
Cuisine: Bar food, appetizers, and craft cocktails
Hours: 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Price Range: $–$$
Connected to the Turf Club restaurant, this upscale lounge is perfect for relaxing with a handcrafted cocktail and a small bite. Expect a quiet, polished vibe with velvet seating and classic lounge music.
Top Picks:
Turf Burger
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Old Fashioned or seasonal craft cocktails
The Artist’s Palette
Type: Quick Service
Cuisine: American casual with sandwiches, flatbreads, and grab-and-go items
Hours: 7:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Price Range: $–$$
The resort’s main quick service dining location offers a vibrant, artsy interior and a wide range of options. Guests can grab breakfast in the morning or enjoy hot meals, snacks, and drinks throughout the day.
Top Picks:
Roast Beef Sandwich with horseradish aioli
Margherita Flatbread
Breakfast Croissant Sandwich
The Paddock Grill
Type: Quick Service / Pool Bar
Cuisine: American
Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: $–$$
Located at The Paddock Pool, this casual walk-up spot is perfect for poolside dining. Breakfast is available in the morning, and the lunch/dinner menu features hearty, kid-friendly classics.
Top Picks:
Bacon Cheddar Burger
Chicken Caesar Salad
Spiked Frozen Cocktails
On the Rocks
Type: Pool Bar (Quick Service)
Cuisine: Beverages and small bites
Hours: 11:00 AM – 9:00 PM
Price Range: $
Located at the High Rock Spring Pool, this bar is great for adult beverages while the kids swim nearby.
Top Picks:
Piña CoLAVA (raspberry twist on a piña colada)
Blueberry Lemonade Cocktail
Mickey Pretzel with cheese
Backstretch Pool Bar (Seasonal Operation)
Type: Pool Bar (Quick Service)
Cuisine: Light snacks and drinks
Hours: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Price Range: $
A quieter pool bar near The Grandstand section. Limited menu but perfect for a midday refresh.
Top Picks:
Nachos with cheese
Foot-long Hot Dog
Turkey Wrap
Chip ‘n Dale’s Café (Located at Lake Buena Vista Golf Course)
Type: Quick Service
Cuisine: Deli-style sandwiches and snacks
Hours: 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Price Range: $
This golf-side kiosk offers fresh, easy options before or after your tee time. It's walkable from The Springs section and also great for early risers before a park day.
Top Picks:
Club Sandwich
Caesar Wrap
Fresh Fruit Cup or chips
Transportation at Saratoga Springs Resort
Saratoga Springs is a peaceful and scenic resort, but it is slightly more remote when it comes to accessing the Walt Disney World theme parks. The resort does not offer monorail or Skyliner access, so Disney buses and water taxis are your main modes of transportation.
Bus Transportation to the Parks
Complimentary Disney buses provide transportation to all four theme parks (Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom), as well as the water parks and Disney Springs. The ride time to the parks typically ranges from 10 to 20 minutes, depending on traffic and your exact location within the resort.
Saratoga Springs has five internal bus stops:
The Grandstand (usually the first stop for theme park buses)
The Carousel
The Paddock
Congress Park
The Springs (main lobby and last stop before exiting the resort)
Buses run in two directions: one loop heads toward the parks and another returns from the parks to the resort. Because of the size of the resort, the internal loop can add travel time, so be sure to plan ahead.
Pro Tip: Use the My Disney Experience App
The My Disney Experience app includes real-time bus arrival estimates for each stop at Saratoga Springs. Open the app, tap on your resort reservation, and you’ll be able to see when the next bus is arriving for each park—this is a major time-saver when planning your morning departure.
Boat Transportation to Disney Springs
One of Saratoga Springs' best perks is its proximity to Disney Springs. Guests can take a water taxi from The Springs dock (near the lobby and High Rock Spring Pool) for a scenic ride across the lake. Boats typically run every 20–30 minutes and are a relaxing, hassle-free way to access Disney Springs for shopping, dining, or evening entertainment.
You can also walk to Disney Springs via a pedestrian bridge from the Congress Park section, which takes about 5–10 minutes and brings you directly to the Marketplace area.
FINAL THOUGHTS…
Ratings:
Resort Classification:
Restaurants/Food Options: /10
Hotel Theme: /10
Disney Theming: /10
Cleanliness: /10
Space: /10
Pool: /10
Kids Activities: /10
Transportation: /10
Size of Resort: /10
Location: /10
