Resort Review: Contemporary Resort

I was recently fortunate enough to stay stay at one of the most iconic hotels on Walt Disney World property - the Contemporary Resort.

Yup. And though you can't really tell by this picture, that's the one that the monorail runs through. On my first trip to Walt Disney World my jaw dropped when I was on the monorail and we went INTO a hotel (and I still think it's really stinkin' cool)! Instantly I wanted to stay there. And we did stay at Bay Lake Tower once, but it wasn't The Tower.

Now I can say this little Disney Bucket List item has been completed!

So how did I like it?

I loved it! Gorgeous hotel. This is one of the original Walt Disney World hotels.

The rooms are very spacious and sleep 5.

Two very comfy queen sized beds.

Sleeper sofa.

The Contemporary is a conference resort, so there is a great desk area in the room. Typically in Disney hotels there is a small table with two chairs - the Contemporary does not have that.

TV unit with shelves for storing things

Two closets - one has shelf minimal space, the other does not. These are right in the 'hallway' to the room when you walk-in. Coffee bar between the two closets.

Dual sinks in area with shower/tub combo.

Toilet is behind a sliding door.

Two chairs and a little table on the balcony

Pros:

Large Rooms, they sleep 5
Amazing location - walking distance to the Magic Kingdom, monorail to Epcot. For family's with young kids, you don't have to fold your stroller on the monorail (priceless!)
Chef Mickey's, The Wave and California Grill are located at this resort
Great Quick Service option - Contempo Cafe
Coffee shop in the lobby
Huge arcade
Slightly more frugal rooms that look the same found in the Garden Wing
Nice pool with a water slide, quiet pool, children's splash area
Beach
Water sports available at the resort (parasailing, boat rental, etc.)
Watch the nightly Electrical Water Parade from your hotel room on the Bay Lake side.
Beautiful views! With Theme Park View you can enjoy the Magic Kingdom nightly fireworks from your hotel room. With the Bay Lake View you can enjoy this:

Cons:

Higher price-point. When you are steps away from the Magic Kingdom, the price reflects it.
The elevators in The Tower get busy and full.
The food court gets really crowded - can be hard to find a table during peak dining times.
As mentioned above, no table and chairs in the room in case you like to eat in your room.
Lack of counter space in the bathroom

There is some under the sinks, but between the sinks it's very limited. No ring or bar for the hand towels either.

Both my husband and I feel the pros far outweigh the cons at this resort and we'd happily stay here again!

A few fun details:

Love!

My first stop every morning - the coffee bar. :-) Also a nice spot to keep your sunglasses and other things to grab before you head out the door each day.

Labels: Resort Review, Walt Disney World