Disney's Boardwalk Villa & Inn Resort

Welcome to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: A Coney Island-Inspired Gem

Themed after New York’s historic Coney Island, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is one of my favorite resorts of all time. With its vintage seaside charm, lively entertainment, and peaceful views of Crescent Lake, this resort captures the magic of a bygone era in the most delightful way.

If you're looking to plan a trip to Walt Disney World but aren't sure where to stay, you're not alone. With so many resort options both on property and off, it can be hard to choose. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is a great family-friendly option that still feels like a grown-up getaway. Whether you're planning a vacation with kids or a romantic escape, this deluxe resort offers comfort, style, and entertainment in one beautiful location.

In this blog, I’ll cover everything you need to know before booking your stay. We’ll explore the types of rooms available, popular dining options and menu highlights, recreational activities, and transportation options to help you reach all four Disney parks with ease.

Room Options at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas

Disney’s BoardWalk Resort is unique in that it combines two different experiences in one location: BoardWalk Inn, a traditional deluxe hotel, and BoardWalk Villas, which is part of the Disney Vacation Club. Both sections are located along the charming Crescent Lake promenade and offer shared access to the resort’s pools, restaurants, activities, and transportation. But once you step inside your room, the differences between the two sides become clear.

BoardWalk Inn Rooms: Classic Hotel Style with Club-Level Options

The Inn side of the resort feels like a refined boutique hotel with elegant furnishings and turn-of-the-century seaside charm. These rooms are located closest to the resort lobby and face either the garden courtyard, pool, or boardwalk area. Most rooms include two queen beds or a king bed with a daybed, and are decorated in crisp whites, soft blues, and vintage-style details that reflect the Atlantic City theme.

Guests can book standard rooms, suites, or Club Level rooms. Club Level rooms include access to the Innkeeper’s Club, a private lounge that serves continental breakfast, midday snacks, evening wine and appetizers, and nightly desserts. Club Level also includes personalized concierge services that can assist with dining, tours, and park planning.

Room categories on the Inn side include:

• Standard View and Water View Rooms (sleep up to 5 adults)

• 1-Bedroom and 2-Bedroom Suites (sleep up to 6 adults)

• Club Level Rooms and Suites (also sleep up to 6 adults)

These rooms do not have kitchens or in-room laundry, but they are ideal for guests who want easy access to the lobby, lounges, and a more classic hotel stay with daily housekeeping.

BoardWalk Villas: Spacious, Home-Like Comfort

The Villas side of the resort is part of Disney Vacation Club and is located farther down the promenade near the quiet leisure pool and Fantasia Gardens Mini Golf. These accommodations are perfect for larger groups, longer stays, or guests who want more of a home-away-from-home feel.

Villa options include Deluxe Studios, 1-Bedroom, 2-Bedroom and 3-Bedroom Grand Villas. These rooms offer more flexibility with kitchen and laundry features, and the décor still carries the same whimsical, turn-of-the-century boardwalk theme.

Villa categories include:

• Deluxe Studios (sleep up to 5 adults)

• 1-Bedroom Villas (sleep up to 4 adults plus 1 child under 3)

• 2-Bedroom Villas (sleep up to 9 adults)

• 3-Bedroom Grand Villas (sleep up to 12 adults)

Deluxe Studios feature:

• One queen bed

• One queen-size pull-down Murphy bed

• One twin-size Murphy bed under the TV console

• A kitchenette with a microwave, mini-fridge, sink, and toaster

• A split bathroom for convenience

These updated Murphy beds are far more comfortable than the old sleeper sofas and provide flexibility without taking up extra space during the day.

1- and 2-Bedroom Villas include:

• A full kitchen with all major appliances

• A separate bedroom (or two) with either a king or queen bed

• A large living and dining area with a queen-size Murphy bed

• A washer and dryer

• Spacious bathrooms, often with a soaking tub in the master suite

3-Bedroom Grand Villas offer multiple bedrooms, three full bathrooms, and even more living space, making them ideal for large families or group vacations.

The Villas are especially convenient for families who want to cook meals, spread out, and do laundry during their trip. Many guests who stay in Villas appreciate the extra space and flexibility, especially when traveling with kids or extended family.

Dining at Disney’s BoardWalk

Dining plays a huge role when deciding where to stay at Walt Disney World. At Disney’s BoardWalk Resort, there’s a wide mix of restaurants, lounges, snack carts, and quick service spots. It’s a vibrant scene, especially at night when the lights glow over Crescent Lake and street performers roam the promenade.

That said, during summer rainstorms, the dining setup can be less ideal. Many options are outside or walk-up style, which can be inconvenient in bad weather. Recently, Disney added indoor options that give guests more flexibility year-round. Below is a full guide to BoardWalk dining, including what each place offers and where to find them around the resort.

Quick Bites and Snacks

BoardWalk Ice Cream
Located near the BoardWalk Villas, across from Trattoria al Forno, this charming retro-style shop serves hand-scooped sundaes, waffle cones, floats, and classic shakes. The menu is inspired by Beaches & Cream at Beach Club Resort. It’s a great spot for a sweet treat during an evening stroll.

Carousel Coffee
This indoor coffee bar is located just off the main lobby inside the BoardWalk Inn. It offers cold brew, seasonal lattes, teas, and pastries. It’s an easy and comfortable place to grab a quick breakfast or coffee before heading to the parks.

Leaping Horse Libations
Located at the Luna Park Pool, this whimsical, circus-themed pool bar offers frozen drinks, beer, wine, and small bites like sandwiches, salads, and snacks. It’s a fun and easy option during a pool day or mid-afternoon break.

BoardWalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas
This colorful margarita stand is located along the promenade near the stairs leading to the boat dock. It serves frozen margaritas in several flavors, plus light snacks like pretzels and fruit. It's perfect for adults looking for a refreshing drink in the evening.

Funnel Cake Cart
You can find this cart near the Village Green lawn on the boardwalk. It serves fresh funnel cakes topped with powdered sugar and optional add-ons like whipped cream or fruit. It’s not always open, but when it is, it draws a crowd quickly.

Meals and Table Service Dining

Flying Fish (Dinner Only)
This upscale restaurant is located right on the boardwalk next to AbracadaBar. Known for refined seafood and elegant interiors, Flying Fish features signature dishes like potato-wrapped red snapper and seared scallops. It's one of the best spots at the resort for a romantic or celebratory meal.

Trattoria al Forno (Breakfast and Dinner)
Located between BoardWalk Ice Cream and the Pizza Window, this full-service Italian restaurant serves hearty breakfasts and rustic Italian dinners. Breakfast includes omelets, pancakes, and a popular breakfast pizza, while dinner features handmade pasta, wood-fired pizza, and traditional entrees.

BoardWalk Deli (Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner)
This quick service deli is located in the center of the boardwalk near BoardWalk Joe’s. It serves New York-style sandwiches, fresh pastries, bagels, and snacks. It’s one of the few locations with mobile ordering and limited indoor seating, making it ideal for a quick bite in any weather.

Pizza Window (Lunch and Dinner)
Attached to Trattoria al Forno and facing the lake, this walk-up window offers cheese and pepperoni pizza by the slice or as a whole pie. It’s convenient for families or large groups looking for a casual and quick meal.

The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers (Lunch, Dinner, Afternoon Tea)
Located near the front entrance of the BoardWalk Inn, this whimsical table service restaurant and bakery is one of the newest and most elegant additions to the resort. The interior features sparkling chandeliers, pastel tones, and floral accents that create a storybook atmosphere. Guests can enjoy full-service lunch and dinner menus with savory entrees like quiche, French onion soup, and chicken salad sandwiches. The highlight for many is the stunning dessert case filled with towering slices of cake, tarts, and pastries. Afternoon tea service is also available and makes for a charming midday break. With full indoor seating, this is a beautiful and much-needed escape from the Florida sun and rain.

Lounges and Bar Service

Belle Vue Lounge
Tucked inside the BoardWalk Inn near the elevators off the main lobby, this vintage-style lounge feels like a 1930s parlor. In the morning, it offers coffee and pastries. In the evening, it becomes a relaxed cocktail bar with comfy seating and classic drinks.

AbracadaBar
This magic-themed lounge is located between Flying Fish and Trattoria al Forno. Themed as a former magician’s retreat, it features rich decor, mysterious details, and specialty cocktails like the Conjurita and Parlor Trick. It’s a popular stop for guests looking for a unique pre-dinner experience.

Carts on the Boardwalk

BoardWalk Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas
Located along the boardwalk near the staircase to the boat dock, this colorful kiosk is the go-to stop for frozen drinks. The margaritas here come in a variety of fruity flavors and can be made with or without alcohol, making it a fun option for adults and families alike. Light snacks like pretzels and fruit cups are also available. It's a quick stop with big flavor, perfect for enjoying while you walk the promenade.

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs
Located near the entrance of BoardWalk Ice Cream, this fan-favorite spot originally from Downtown Disney in California now brings its cult-favorite menu to Walt Disney World. The stand offers a small but mighty selection of hand-dipped corn dogs, including the classic, spicy options, and over-the-top creations like the pickle dog. Each corn dog is made to order and served hot, crisp, and golden. This is a must-try for guests looking for something unique and indulgent to eat on the go.

Recreation at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort

Once you’ve eaten your way through the BoardWalk’s dining scene, you’ll want to explore everything else this resort has to offer. Whether you're planning a full resort day or just looking for something fun to do between park visits, Disney’s BoardWalk has plenty of recreational options for guests of all ages.

Pools

Luna Park Pool
Located in the courtyard between the BoardWalk Inn and Villas, Luna Park Pool is themed after a 1920s-style amusement park. Its standout feature is the 200-foot-long “Keister Coaster” water slide, which winds through a colorful rollercoaster structure before splashing into the main pool. The area also includes a whirlpool spa, a separate kiddie pool, and shaded seating areas. This is the resort’s feature pool and a favorite for families.

Community Hall Pool
This quiet leisure pool is located near Community Hall on the Villas side of the resort. Tucked away from the busier Luna Park area, it’s a relaxing spot with a whirlpool spa, loungers, and a peaceful atmosphere. It’s ideal for guests staying in the Villas who want a quick swim or a low-key afternoon by the water.

Rose Garden Courtyard Pool
Located on the east side of the BoardWalk Inn near the garden wing rooms, this second leisure pool is beautifully landscaped with flowers and greenery. It’s another quiet option for guests who prefer a more tranquil swimming experience. Like the Community Hall Pool, it also features a whirlpool spa and is a great place to unwind after a busy park day.

Resort and BoardWalk Recreation

Fantasia Gardens and Fairways Miniature Golf

Located just across the street from the BoardWalk Resort, near the Swan and Dolphin Hotels, this 36-hole mini golf complex is inspired by Disney’s Fantasia. It features two courses: a whimsical, family-friendly course with dancing hippos and music notes, and a more challenging fairways-style course that plays like a traditional golf experience in miniature. It’s a short walk or drive and a great mid-morning or early evening outing.

Surrey Bike Rentals

Rent a 2- or 4-person surrey bike and cruise around Crescent Lake. The rental station is located directly on the boardwalk, near the main courtyard between the resort and the lakefront. This is a fun and active way to take in the sights, especially in the morning or early evening when the weather is cooler.

Tennis and Pickleball Courts

Two lighted courts are located just past the BoardWalk Villas near Community Hall. Complimentary racquets and balls are available from Community Hall for guests who want to play. Whether you're a beginner or a seasoned player, these courts are a scenic and fun place to enjoy some friendly competition.

Playground

The Luna Park Play Area is located next to the main Luna Park Pool. It's a colorful, soft-surfaced space where kids can climb, slide, and burn off some energy. It’s ideal for families with younger children who need a park-like break without leaving the resort.

Side Show Games Arcade

Located near the Luna Park Pool, this indoor arcade features classic and modern video games, air hockey, and skill games. It’s a fun way to spend time during rainy weather or just add some variety to your day.

Spa and Fitness

Muscles & Bustles Health Club

Located on the lower level near the BoardWalk Villas, this full-service fitness center includes treadmills, elliptical machines, strength equipment, free weights, and a sauna. Open 24 hours, it’s a quiet and well-equipped space for guests who like to stick to their workout routines while on vacation.

Transportation at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort

One of the best reasons to stay at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort is how connected it is to the rest of Walt Disney World. With multiple transportation options right at your doorstep, getting to the parks, resorts, and Disney Springs is easy and flexible. Here’s a full breakdown of what’s available and how to use it during your stay.

Walking Paths

BoardWalk is one of the few resorts where you can walk to not just one, but two theme parks. If you like to get a little fresh air in the morning or avoid lines and wait times, walking may be your favorite option.

• To EPCOT: It’s about a 5-minute walk to the International Gateway entrance at the back of EPCOT’s World Showcase. There are two routes you can take. One goes over the bridge with a beautiful elevated view of Crescent Lake. The other follows a lower, level path under the bridge, which is a little easier for strollers or mobility aids. Just note that the lower route does pass by the resort’s designated smoking area near the bridge.

• To Disney’s Hollywood Studios: This walk takes around 15 to 20 minutes along a flat, paved pathway that follows the waterway. It’s stroller-friendly, shaded in spots, and often quieter than the boat queue or bus stop.

FriendShip Boat Launches

BoardWalk has its own boat dock, located along the promenade near the center of the resort. These FriendShip Boats provide a scenic and relaxing way to travel to nearby destinations. Boats typically arrive every 20 to 25 minutes and loop through the following stops:

• EPCOT (International Gateway entrance)

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios

• Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

• Disney’s Beach Club Resort

• Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin Hotels

This is a great option if you want to save your steps or just enjoy a calm ride across Crescent Lake and the connected waterways.

Disney Skyliner Access

While the Skyliner doesn’t load directly at BoardWalk, it’s only a short walk away. Just head to EPCOT’s International Gateway entrance, and you’ll find the Skyliner station right outside the gates. From there, you can ride to:

• Disney’s Riviera Resort

• Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort (main transfer hub)

• Disney’s Pop Century Resort

• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

• Disney’s Hollywood Studios

The Skyliner is smooth, quick, and offers amazing views of the resort areas. It’s also one of the most fun transportation experiences at Walt Disney World, especially for kids.

Disney Bus Transportation

Disney buses run continuously between BoardWalk and several major locations throughout the resort. The main bus stop is located outside the front lobby of the BoardWalk Inn. From there, you can catch direct buses to:

• Magic Kingdom

• Disney’s Animal Kingdom

• Disney Springs

• Disney’s Blizzard Beach

• Disney’s Typhoon Lagoon

Buses typically run every 20 minutes, starting about 45 minutes before park opening and continuing until about an hour after park closing. They are air-conditioned, stroller-accessible, and run year-round, rain or shine.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Villas is truly one of the best resorts on Walt Disney World property. Its unbeatable location with walking access to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, combined with the easy transportation options and nightly entertainment, makes it a top pick for families and adults alike. The resort’s smaller size gives it a more relaxed, intimate feel compared to some of the larger Disney resorts, while the turn-of-the-century New York charm brings something whimsical and nostalgic to your stay. Grab a slice of pizza, watch a magician perform on the boardwalk, and soak in the views of Crescent Lake, because BoardWalk has a magic all its own.

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