Walt Disney World Resort in Florida: A Comprehensive Guide
Overview of Walt Disney World Resort
Walt Disney World Resort is a massive resort located in Lake Buena Vista, Florida, United States. It is one of the largest and most popular vacation destinations in the world, attracting millions of visitors each year. The resort is divided into four main theme parks: Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom, as well as two water parks, Disney Springs, and several on-site hotels and resorts.
Size of Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort covers an area of approximately 25,000 acres (39 square miles or 101 square kilometers). This makes it one of the largest resort areas in the world. To put this into perspective, the resort is roughly the size of the city of San Francisco.
Breakdown of Walt Disney World Resort by Park
Here is a breakdown of the Walt Disney World Resort by park:
- Magic Kingdom: 107 acres (0.17 square miles or 0.44 square kilometers)
- Epcot: 300 acres (0.48 square miles or 1.24 square kilometers)
- Hollywood Studios: 135 acres (0.21 square miles or 0.55 square kilometers)
- Animal Kingdom: 580 acres (0.92 square miles or 2.4 square kilometers)
- Disney Springs: 100 acres (0.16 square miles or 0.41 square kilometers)
- Typhoon Lagoon and Blizzard Beach Water Parks: 250 acres (0.39 square miles or 1.01 square kilometers)
- Disney’s BoardWalk: 100 acres (0.16 square miles or 0.41 square kilometers)
Accommodations at Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort offers a wide range of on-site hotels and resorts, catering to different budgets and preferences. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: 1,608 rooms
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Beach Club Resort: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Kidani Village: 1,400 rooms
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas – Jambo House: 1,400 rooms
Dining at Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort offers a vast array of dining options, ranging from quick-service restaurants to fine dining establishments. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Be Our Guest Restaurant: French-inspired cuisine at Magic Kingdom
- Le Cellier Steakhouse: Upscale steakhouse at Epcot
- Remy’s Ratatouille Bistro: French-inspired cuisine at Epcot
- Ohana: Family-style dining at Polynesian Village Resort
- Cinderella’s Royal Table: Character dining at Magic Kingdom
- Hollywood & Vine: Character dining at Hollywood Studios
- The Hollywood Brown Derby: Classic American cuisine at Hollywood Studios
- San Angel Inn Restaurante: Mexican cuisine at Epcot
- Tiffins: International cuisine at Animal Kingdom
Shopping at Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort offers a wide range of shopping options, from high-end retailers to unique boutiques. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Disney Springs: 120 stores and restaurants
- Disney’s BoardWalk: 20 stores and restaurants
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: 20 stores and restaurants
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: 20 stores and restaurants
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort: 20 stores and restaurants
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: 20 stores and restaurants
Transportation at Walt Disney World Resort
The Walt Disney World Resort offers a range of transportation options, including:
- Disney’s Magical Express: Free shuttle service from Orlando International Airport to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
- Disney’s Bus Transportation: Bus service to all four theme parks and Disney Springs
- Disney’s Water Taxi: Water taxi service to Disney’s BoardWalk and Disney Springs
- Disney’s Monorail: Monorail service to Magic Kingdom and Epcot
- Disney’s Skyliner Gondolas: Gondola service to Disney’s BoardWalk and Disney Springs
Tips and Tricks for Visiting Walt Disney World Resort
Here are some tips and tricks for visiting Walt Disney World Resort:
- Plan Ahead: Make sure to check the Disney website for park hours, closures, and special events
- Make a Schedule: Create a schedule to help you make the most of your day
- Use the My Disney Experience App: The app allows you to check wait times, make dining reservations, and even order food
- Take Breaks: Don’t forget to take breaks and rest your feet
- Stay Hydrated: Bring plenty of water and snacks to keep you energized throughout the day
Conclusion
Walt Disney World Resort is a massive resort that offers something for everyone. From the four main theme parks to the two water parks, Disney Springs, and several on-site hotels and resorts, there’s something for every interest and budget. With its wide range of dining options, shopping, and entertainment, Walt Disney World Resort is the perfect destination for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing vacation or an action-packed adventure, Walt Disney World Resort is sure to deliver.