TIPS FOR DISNEY'S CONTEMPORARY RESORT & VILLAS

The Contemporary’s Bay Lake Tower is a Disney Vacation Club property, but you don’t have to be a member to reserve a room (though members get to book first, and they may fill it up). Bay Lake Tower offers dramatic views of the Magic Kingdom next door and Bay Lake. The Skyway Bridge connects the Bay Lake Tower to the original tower for access to the monorail and other resort services.

The Magic Kingdom fireworks can be watched from a viewing patio on the Bay Lake Tower rooftop (alas, it’s only accessible to Disney Vacation Club members), but there is a viewing patio on the 4th floor of the main tower—look for the door tucked in behind Fantasia Market. California Grill diners can also use their deck (see page 255). Note that the 4th floor viewing platform may occasionally be closed for special events.

A new room service option, 'Express Fresh,' with quick-to prepare-items served in disposable containers is being tested here now through April 1, 2017. No need to set up a tray or table for dining and items will be delivered to guest rooms in 30 minutes or less.

The Electrical Water Pageant, a whimsical parade of lighted barges and music, can be seen from the shore of Bay Lake at 10:10 pm (or a bit later if the Magic Kingdom fireworks are at 10:00 pm).

The Contemporary Tower also offers one- and two-bedroom suites and two concierge levels, all with special amenities. Among the many amenities in the suites (triple sheeting, turndown service, etc.), the bathrobes are great.

The obvious method of transportation to Magic Kingdom is via the monorail, but consider walking instead on busy mornings or when the park lets out—it’s much faster! The monorail goes around the lagoon clockwise, so it can take a while to reach the Magic Kingdom.

Guest rooms in the Garden Wing can be a hike from the Tower’s restaurants and services. If this is a concern, reserve a Tower room.

The Contemporary Resort has a large convention center also.

Check-in time is 3:00 pm/4:00 pm. Check-out time is 11:00 am.

RATINGS FOR DISNEY'S CONTEMPORARY RESORT & VILLAS

Ratings are explained on page 28.