Monday, January 30, 2012

Resorts - Disney's Boardwalk Resort

A part of the magic that resides at Walt Disney World lies in part to the fact that the parks are not amusement parks, but are theme parks. Now, you may be wondering why I concern myself with the minutia of semantics. Well, it is quite simple really. In short, an amusement park is a collection of thrill rides, various attractions and the occasional sprinkling of shows. The rides or attractions generally have no relation to each other. In a theme park, everything is related in some way in an effort to tell an overall story.

Not only are the Disney parks themed, so are the resorts. Each location designed in a way that tells its own individual story. And, as with the attractions and parks as a whole, the level of detail serves to make those stories deeply immerse.

Such is the case with Disney's Boardwalk Resort. This may be this author's favorite resort, and happens to be my family's home resort for the Disney Vacation Club. A cross between Atlantic City and Coney Island, this resort transports you to a time just prior to the mid-twentieth century.With a full understanding that there is a multitude of blogs or sites available with in-depth information about resort costs, layout, etc., DLuminations would like to forego the in-depth review you may find on those other sites and offer a brief overview of things of interest surrounding the resort that may help you make the decision as to whether or not you would like to stay there.

The Boardwalk: Can't you hear the Drifters singing those famous lyrics now? "Under the boardwalk..." Oh well, in case you don't, the resort itself offers plenty of nostalgia of its own. Arcades, fishing, watercraft and bike rentals all along the wooden planks of the boardwalk just to name a few. But, this perhaps isn't the neatest part of the boardwalk area. Instead, take a moment to stroll around the area during the evening hours, or simply look out over your balcony if you are located on the boardwalk side of the resort. You are likely to encounter magicians, musicians or comedians who will surely bring something magical to your trip.Resort Location: Nestled between EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios, this resort allows for easy access to two parks. Sure, you can take a bus to either of the parks - as you could from any resort - but you can also take a ferry boat or even walk to the resorts in minimal time. The walkway from the Boardwalk Resort brings you to the front entrance of Hollywood Studios, just past the bus terminals. The entrance to EPCOT, however, is found between England and France in the World Showcase.

Not only does the placement of the resort allow for ways access to two parks, if you find yourself back at the resort prior to Illuminations in EPCOT, you can still see much of the fireworks from the Crescent Lake side of the resort. You can also catch a glimpse of the fireworks from Fantasmic!

Lastly, although this resort offers more than its fair share of wonderful dining experiences, if you are in the mood for something extra special, you may walk across the bridge or take a ferry to the Yacht & Beach Club Resorts, where you can dive-in to a World Famous Kitchen Sink at Beaches and Cream.

Restaurants: The Boardwalk Resort may be home to some of the best meals in all of Walt Disney World. From Iron Chef Cat Cora's Kouzina, to the Flying Fish Cafe, or Big River Grill & Brewing Works, you are sure to have an amazing dining experience. For the more laid back guest, try the ESPN Club or the Boardwalk Bakery.Nightlife: As already noted, there are a number of neat experiences waiting for you to enjoy during the evening hours. However, for those who desire something more, try the Atlantic City Dance Hall or JellyRolls. The Atlantic City Dance Hall is located at one end of the boardwalk (closest to Hollywood Studios) and provides a great atmosphere for dancing the night away while overlooking Crescent Lake. JellyRolls is an all request, dueling piano bar that is too fun to pass up.Pools: Though there are two pools at this location, the Luna Park Pool ranked #3 in an earlier post listing the Top 10 Disney Resort Pools. The pool features a 200-foot waterslide called the Keister Coaster. The opportunity to shoot out of the clown's mouth at the end of this roller coaster inspired slide definitely makes the slide worth getting your "keister" wet for! The circus atmosphere is completed by elephants on the pool deck that shower you with their trunks.Have you stayed at Disney's Boardwalk Resort? What were your impressions or opinions? Was there something you liked about the resort or wanted to add to help people better enjoy their stay? If so, just add your comments below; we would love to hear from you!

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