Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort sets a high bar for elegance and convenience, making it the perfect choice for those seeking a modern Disney retreat with all the conveniences of its prime location. Is this Disney Vacation Club property for you?
- What accommodation options are available?
- Other than Magic Kingdom are there other attractions are nearby?
- What options dining are available?
- What amenities set Bay Lake Tower apart?
- What pool and recreational activities are available for a perfect balance of fun and relaxation?
- What transportation options are available from Bay Lake Tower to Disney parks and attractions?
- For families, what activity options ensure everyone has a memorable stay?
- How does the resort accommodate guests with accessibility concerns?
This article answers all these questions and more. We’ll start by giving you a quick overview of Bay Lake Tower and what makes it unique then move on to specifics on theming, architecture, accommodations and its seamless integration into the Disney World experience.
Quick Take about Bay Lake Tower
Bay Lake Tower is a modern high-rise resort in the Disney Vacation Club portfolio, located at Walt Disney World. Adjacent to the iconic Contemporary Resort, it overlooks scenic Bay Lake, allowing for picturesque views and easy access to the Magic Kingdom.
- Location: You’ll find Bay Lake Tower conveniently connected to the Contemporary Resort, which is known for its proximity to the Magic Kingdom. This means you are just a short walk or monorail ride away from enjoying the attractions at the park.
- Design: The resort harmonizes with the Contemporary’s aesthetic, featuring modern architecture and a sleek, angular design. You can appreciate the deluxe accommodations and watch the nightly fireworks over Cinderella’s Castle right from your room.
- Amenities: Bay Lake Tower offers a wide range of amenities. You have access to a contemporary pool with a waterslide, a dedicated pool for young children, and outdoor recreation options like volleyball and tennis.
- Dining Options: As a guest, you can dine at the Contemporary Resort’s various eateries, which range from quick service to fine dining. Notable examples include ‘California Grill’ and ‘Chef Mickey’s.’
- Vacation Experience: Your vacation experience at Bay Lake Tower includes the perks of staying on Disney property. These perks consist of extended Magic Kingdom hours, complimentary transportation, and advanced dining reservations.
With its stylish rooms, convenient location, and rich array of amenities, Bay Lake Tower is an excellent choice for both Disney Vacation Club members and regular guests seeking to enhance their Disney World vacation.
What Is a Walt Disney World Resort?
A Walt Disney World Resort is an accommodation facility within the Walt Disney World complex, offering guests immersive themed experiences and amenities. As part of your Disney Vacation, staying at a Walt Disney World Resort allows you to be enveloped in the magic of Disney throughout your visit. These resorts cater to a variety of preferences and budgets, ranging from value to deluxe categories.
- Choose a Disney Vacation Club villa for added amenities like kitchens or kitchenettes and living areas, which provide a home-like environment.
- Enjoy the convenience of proximity to Disney parks, with some resorts offering additional benefits like extended park hours and complimentary transportation.
- Experience a diverse selection of themed resorts, ensuring unique stays, from the tropical ambiance of Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort to the grandeur of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa.
The Walt Disney World Resorts encompass a plethora of dining options, from quick service to fine dining, alongside pools, recreation, and entertainment activities designed for guests of all ages. If you’re a Disney Vacation Club member, you can use your points to stay at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and other Disney Vacation Club Resorts, enjoying the flexibility and comfort that comes with membership perks. With such a diversity of choices, every stay at a Walt Disney World Resort promises a new and exciting vacation experience.
What Makes Bay Lake Tower Unique?
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a modern take on luxury, boasting elegant features and historic charm, presenting a perfect blend of style and nostalgia.
What Is the Story Behind Bay Lake Tower’s Theme and Standout Features?
Bay Lake Tower reflects a sleek, contemporary design, inspired by the neighboring iconic Disney’s Contemporary Resort. The resort’s theme revolves around a modern aesthetic, featuring clean lines and a curvature mimicking the original resort’s A-frame structure. Standout features include:
- Monorail Access: This lodge offers the convenience of the monorail service that passes through Disney’s Contemporary Resort, creating fluid transportation to the Magic Kingdom and other park areas.
- Theme Park View: Rooms designated as ‘Theme Park View’ provide breathtaking vistas of the Magic Kingdom, allowing you to witness the famous fireworks display from the comfort of your room.
- Top of the World Lounge: An exclusive rooftop lounge offering panoramic views of Walt Disney World Resort.
How Does Bay Lake Tower’s History and Its Connection to Walt Disney Enhance Its Uniqueness?
Bay Lake Tower carries the legacy of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, one of the original Walt Disney World hotels that debuted in 1971. The history combines with the vision of Walt Disney to instill a sense of timelessness. Unique historical connections include:
- Walt’s Legacy: The resort was realized as part of Walt’s vision for an “Experimental Prototype Community of Tomorrow” (EPCOT), incorporating futuristic elements and convenience.
- Continuous Evolution: Since opening, Bay Lake Tower has evolved while maintaining the spirit of innovation, mirroring the park’s growth and Disney’s Contemporary Resort’s heritage.
- Exclusive Access: As part of the Disney Vacation Club, guests experience a unique connection to the Disney legacy through exclusive amenities and personalized experiences.
Where Will You Stay?
Choosing your accommodations at Disney’s Bay Lake Tower involves selecting from a range of meticulously themed rooms and suites, each boasting a list of amenities, unique views, and special features that tailor to various guest preferences.
What Types of Rooms and Suites Can Guests Choose From?
Bay Lake Tower offers a variety of accommodations that cater to different party sizes and preferences. You can choose from the Deluxe Studio, which accommodates up to 4 guests, the One-Bedroom Villa for up to 5 guests, the Two-Bedroom Villa that can host up to 9 guests, and the lavish Three-Bedroom Grand Villa, which can accommodate up to 12 guests. Each room type is designed with comfort and Disney charm in mind.
Which Amenities Are Included Within Each Room or Suite?
Your room or suite in Bay Lake Tower will include modern amenities to ensure a comfortable stay. Expect to find a fully equipped kitchenette in Deluxe Studios and a full kitchen in the villas, a washer and dryer in One-Bedroom accommodations and larger, and a range of entertainment options like flat-screen TVs and DVD players. Complimentary Wi-Fi is provided throughout.
What Views and Room Categories Are Available for Selection?
Bay Lake Tower presents a selection of room categories with distinct views: the Standard View offers a glimpse of the resort or parking area, the Lake View overlooks the tranquil Bay Lake, and the coveted Theme Park View provides a clear sight of the Magic Kingdom Park. The choice of view will enhance your stay, with each offering a unique vantage point of the resort’s surroundings.
Are There Special Features or Bonus Opportunities Available in Certain Accommodations?
Guests staying in select suites at Bay Lake Tower can enjoy additional perks such as access to the Top of the World Lounge, where you can take in panoramic vistas of Walt Disney World Resort. Using Disney Vacation Club Points, members have the flexibility to enjoy other Disney Vacation Club Resorts. As a part of the Club, you can capitalize on these points to customize your Disney experience.
What Is Bay Lake Tower Close To?
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort boasts close proximity to several Disney attractions, dining, and recreational options, delivering a convenient and immersive stay for guests.
How Close Is the Resort to Disney Theme Parks?
Magic Kingdom is astonishingly close to Bay Lake Tower; you can reach it within minutes. Access the park with a brief walk or by using the complimentary Monorail service. For Epcot, direct Monorail transportation is available, and the journey typically lasts around 15 minutes.
What Dining and Entertainment Options Are Nearby?
Adjacent to Bay Lake Tower, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a variety of restaurants. You’ll discover options ranging from quick service to signature dining, such as Chef Mickey’s and the California Grill. For extensive entertainment and more dining choices, Disney Springs is a short bus ride away.
Is the Resort Near Any Water Parks?
The resort is in the vicinity of two Disney water parks: Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon. You can reach either park via Disney’s bus transportation in approximately 20 minutes, depending on the wait times for buses and the actual travel time.
Are There Recreational Activities Nearby?
You have access to numerous recreational activities. Enjoy boating on Bay Lake, go fishing or rent a bike. For golf enthusiasts, the Magnolia and Palm Golf Courses are a short bus ride from the resort.
Where Are the Nearest Medical Facilities?
In case of a medical need, Celebration Health Hospital is the nearest full-service facility, approximately a 15-minute drive from Bay Lake Tower. On-site, first aid stations are available at all Disney parks and staffed with registered nurses for more immediate, minor needs.
What Are Your Dining Options?
At Bay Lake Tower, your culinary journey is graced with a variety of dining options, from fast bites to gourmet experiences, matching your every craving and dietary need.
Which On-Site Restaurants Can Guests Enjoy?
Bay Lake Tower boasts proximity to several on-site restaurants including the California Grill, renowned for its fine dining and exquisite views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. For a classic American menu in a contemporary setting, Steakhouse 71 located at the adjacent Contemporary Resort offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Are Quick Service and Table Service Dining Options Available?
Yes, both quick service and table service options are available to you. Contempo Cafe is a quick service restaurant providing casual dining with an American menu for all meals of the day. If you prefer table service, visit Chef Mickey’s for a lively atmosphere and beloved dishes.
Is Character Dining an Option at This Resort?
Character dining is indeed an option at Chef Mickey’s, where you can indulge in a buffet meal while meeting some of your favorite Disney characters. This experience combines dining with the joy of character interaction, perfect for families.
What Types of Cuisine and Special Diet Options Are Offered to Guests?
Your dietary preferences and restrictions are catered to with a vast array of cuisines including American, Asian, and seafood-based dishes. Special diet options are readily available, with menus featuring allergy-friendly and plant-based selections to accommodate your needs.
What Signature Culinary Offerings and Themed Dining Experiences Can Guests Expect?
Expect signature dishes such as sushi at California Grill, which chefs craft to perfection. Themed dining experiences at Chef Mickey’s not only offer a buffet of delectable choices but also an unforgettable ambiance as Disney characters mingle with guests during their meal.
What Tier Is Bay Lake Tower?
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a luxury tier property that offers premium accommodations and amenities.
How Is the Resort Categorized Within Disney’s Tier System, and What Does This Mean for Guests?
Bay Lake Tower falls under the Deluxe Villa category. Deluxe Villas represent the highest tier within the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) resort classifications, indicating a range of upscale benefits for your stay. Here’s what you need to know:
- Accommodations Level: As part of the Deluxe Villa tier, the rooms at Bay Lake Tower are spacious with added features such as full kitchens, private balconies, and intricate modern design elements.
- Location and Accessibility: The proximity to Magic Kingdom is a notable perk. Guests can easily walk or catch the monorail to the park from Bay Lake Tower.
- Amenities: You will find comprehensive amenities, including multiple dining options, a contemporary-themed pool with a waterslide, and access to the services at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
- DVC Membership Privileges: As a Disney Vacation Club property, guests at Bay Lake Tower have the opportunity to use their DVC points for their stay and enjoy the member-exclusive Top of the World Lounge.
- Views: Bay Lake Tower offers unique views of Bay Lake on one side and Magic Kingdom on the other, providing a memorable experience for guests.
Staying at Bay Lake Tower means you’ll enjoy a high level of comfort, convenience, and the comprehensive Disney service associated with Disney’s Deluxe Villas.
What Can You Do at Bay Lake Tower?
At Bay Lake Tower, a variety of amenities and activities await, ensuring a satisfying mix of relaxation and fun for your stay.
What Pools and Water Activities Does the Resort Offer?
Bay Lake Tower boasts a contemporary-themed pool area with a waterslide that promises an exhilarating plunge. You can relax in the whirlpool spa after enjoying the excitement of the waterslide. Nearby, Bay Lake itself beckons for a range of water activities.
Are Fitness Centers and Spa Services Available for Guests?
For those seeking fitness and wellness, Bay Lake Tower offers a state-of-the-art fitness center. Experience rejuvenation with available spa services to soothe your senses post-workout or after a day exploring Magic Kingdom.
Which Recreational Activities Are Provided for Guest Enjoyment?
A roster of recreational options is tailored for guests of all ages at Bay Lake Tower. Engage in a spirited game of tennis, or spend leisure time enjoying the recreation offerings, ensuring a memorable stay beyond the theme park thrills of Magic Kingdom.
What Types of Entertainment Can Guests Expect During Their Stay?
Evening entertainment is vibrant, highlighted by views of Magic Kingdom fireworks from the Top of the World Lounge. Sip your cocktail at the Cove Bar as the night sky above Bay Lake Tower is illuminated with magical displays.
What Iconic, Resort-Specific Activities Are Unique to This Location?
Bay Lake Tower is uniquely positioned next to Contemporary Resort and Magic Kingdom, allowing for exclusive experiences such as dining with characters at Chef Mickey’s. Its proximity to iconic attractions infuses your stay with the quintessential Disney charm.
Are There Shopping Options Within the Resort?
Disney’s Bay Lake Tower offers a selection of on-site shopping opportunities for those staying at the resort.
What Shopping Experiences Are Available On-Site for Guests?
Shopping is the act of purchasing goods from a retailer. At Bay Lake Tower, your shopping experience is convenient, with a range of retail options available without having to leave the grounds. Guests can find a variety of souvenirs and essentials to commemorate their stay or to gift to others.
- Bayview Gifts (BVG): Located in the adjacent Contemporary Resort, you have easy access to this boutique offering Disney merchandise, including apparel, accessories, and keepsakes.
- Fantasia Market: If you require basic groceries or sundries during your stay, the Fantasia Market provides a selection of food items and personal necessities.
Disney merchandise satisfies the desire for themed souvenirs while available apparel keeps you ready for any occasion. In purchasing gifts, you’re able to share the magic of your Disney vacation with friends and family. With these shopping experiences, you meet both your essential needs and your desire for special mementos.
How Do You Get Around?
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a variety of transportation options to enhance your visit to the Walt Disney World Resort.
What Transportation Options Are Available for Guests to Access Disney Parks and Other Attractions?
Disney’s Monorail System is a prime transportation option available to you. This iconic service provides a direct route to the Magic Kingdom Park and, with one transfer, to Epcot. Additionally, you can take advantage of the bus transportation for access to Disney’s Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, and Disney Springs.
- Buses: Depart approximately every 20 minutes.
- Monorail: Available from 30 minutes prior to earliest park opening until one hour after latest park closing.
Moreover, water taxis and ferryboats are a scenic way to travel from the resort to the parks.
- For Magic Kingdom, use the resort monorail or boat service.
- For Epcot, transfer at the Transportation and Ticket Center from the resort monorail to the EPCOT monorail line.
- Servicing Disney Springs, buses run one hour before opening until one hour after closing.
Are There Unique Resort-Specific Transportation Features Guests Should Know About?
Bay Lake Tower offers the Sky Way Bridge, a convenient walkway that connects you directly to the Contemporary Resort. This bridge allows you to reach the monorail platform without any hassle.
- The Sky Way Bridge also provides easy access to dining, shopping, and the conference center.
- If you prefer a more personal transportation experience, boat rentals are available at the marina.
Additionally, a contoured jogging path offers a pleasant walk to the Magic Kingdom Park for those who prefer to traverse the resort grounds by foot.
What Makes Bay Lake Tower Special?
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort stands out due to its unique design, historical context, and exclusive benefits, offering guests a distinct experience.
What Unique Aspects or Historical Significance Does This Resort Hold?
Bay Lake Tower carries historical significance as it complements the iconic A-frame structure of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which opened in 1971. It shares the avant-garde style that has made its counterpart a timeless piece of Disney’s architectural history. The design of Bay Lake Tower echoes the original vision of modernity and innovation, featuring contemporary aesthetics and a curvature that mirrors the waves of Bay Lake.
Are There Any Notable Facts or Awards That Guests Should Be Aware Of?
Notable Facts:
- Bay Lake Tower is a Disney Vacation Club property, known for its luxurious accommodations and modern amenities.
- The resort achieved LEED certification from the U.S. Green Building Council for its environmentally friendly design and operation.
Awards:
- Bay Lake Tower has received recognition for excellence in family travel and hospitality, ensuring that your stay is acknowledged industry-wide for its quality and service.
What Exclusive Viewing Experiences Does the Resort Offer for Fireworks or Parades?
Exclusive viewing experiences at Bay Lake Tower are unparalleled. Guests have access to:
Fireworks:
- Top of the World Lounge, an exclusive space at the resort’s top floor with a panoramic view of the Magic Kingdom fireworks display.
- Balconies in select rooms that provide private and comfortable viewing of the fireworks, with the majestic Cinderella Castle in the distance.
Parades:
- While parades are not directly visible from the resort, the proximity to the Magic Kingdom allows for quick and convenient access to enjoy the parades up close.
By choosing Bay Lake Tower, you engage with a piece of Disney’s history and enjoy exclusive amenities that enhance your vacation experience.
Are There Any Childcare or Children’s Activities Offered?
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort provides a range of services and activities optimized for children’s enjoyment and parents’ peace of mind.
What Childcare Services and Children’s Activities Does the Resort Provide?
Childcare at Bay Lake Tower is designed to ensure that children are looked after in a safe and entertaining environment. You have access to in-room babysitting, allowing for an adult evening out with the comfort of knowing your children are in good hands. In-room babysitting is managed by independent childcare provider Kid’s Nite Out, which caters to children aged 6 months to 12 years.
Children’s activities at the resort are numerous and diverse. These include:
- Pool Activities: Organized pool games and fun events at the Bay Lake Pool ensure your children’s stay is both active and enjoyable.
- Community Hall: Community Hall offers arts, crafts, and board games, providing both creative outlets and social interaction for your children.
- Pirate Adventure Cruise: Designed for children aged 4 to 12, this themed boat ride around Bay Lake adds an exciting storytelling element to your child’s vacation.
In your resort itinerary, you will find detailed schedules and age requirements for all activities, ensuring you can plan your family’s stay with precision.
Services and Facilities for Guests with Disabilities
Disney’s Bay Lake Tower has made considerable efforts to ensure that guests with disabilities have a comfortable and enjoyable experience. You will find a range of accessible features and services designed to accommodate your needs.
Accessibility Features and Services
Your stay at Bay Lake Tower includes access to rooms equipped with a variety of accessibility features. Rooms offer options such as visual fire alarms and door knock and phone alerts for hearing-impaired guests. Bathrooms may include roll-in showers, grab bars, and accessible sinks and toilets.
- Amenities are carefully considered for accessibility. You can expect the main areas, including the lobby and restaurants, to be wheelchair-friendly.
- Visiting Disney World? Complimentary transportation services, like buses and monorails, are equipped to handle various mobility aids.
Disney’s careful planning in the design of suites is aimed to support a seamless experience. Walt Disney World Resort provides a host of other services to assist guests with disabilities throughout the theme parks and the resort.
Maximizing Experience with Technology
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort maximizes your vacation experience through advanced technology integration.
Use of Disney’s Mobile Apps and Technological Services
Bay Lake Tower provides access to numerous technology-driven amenities that enhance your visit to nearby Disney parks. MagicBand technology acts as your room key and park ticket, streamlining your entry to both Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
- Download Disney Apps: First, download the My Disney Experience app to manage plans, view attraction wait times, and utilize Disney’s Genie service.
- Mobile Ordering: Utilize mobile ordering at park restaurants to save time and avoid long lines.
Magic Bands can also be linked to your Disney Vacation Club membership, enabling seamless charges to your room for dining and merchandise. Interior navigation aids help you find your way around the parks efficiently.
Disney Plus members may sync their accounts for personalized content recommendations during your stay. Multiple charging stations throughout the resort ensure that your devices are always ready for use.
Planning Your Stay
Before diving into the details of your upcoming visit, it’s essential to be aware that staying at Disney’s Bay Lake Tower offers convenient proximity to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, allowing access to a variety of dining and transportation options.
Essential Tips for First-Time Visitors
Disney’s Bay Lake Tower is a deluxe villa resort next to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, offering modern accommodations with a sleek design. When you choose to stay here, your vacation experience is marked by exclusive benefits.
- Book Early: Secure your room well in advance especially if you plan to visit during peak seasons.
- Dining Reservations: Disney’s Contemporary Resort boasts exceptional dining venues such as ‘California Grill.’ Make reservations up to 60 days prior to your visit to ensure availability.
- Transportation: Utilize the free monorail and bus services for transportation to the parks from Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
- My Disney Experience: Manage your vacation details with this mobile app, including check-in, dining reservations, and park tickets.
Recommendations for Families and Groups
Bay Lake Tower is designed to accommodate families and groups, with room options that include deluxe studios and one- or two-bedroom villas.
- Villa Amenities: Choose a one- or two-bedroom villa to enjoy full kitchens and additional space.
- Recreation: Engage in activities at both Bay Lake Tower and Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which offer pools and arcade games.
- Room Requests: Request rooms with views of Magic Kingdom to enhance your group’s experience, subject to availability.
Logistical Advice for an Optimal Visit
To optimize your visit to Disney’s Bay Lake Tower, there are logistical elements to consider for a smooth experience.
- Check-In/Out Times: Check-in is at 4 PM, and check-out is at 11 AM. If you arrive early, store your luggage with Guest Services.
- Parking: Complimentary standard parking is available for guests staying at Bay Lake Tower.
- MagicBands: Use MagicBands for seamless access to your room, parks, and charged purchases to your room.
- Pool Access: Remember that Bay Lake Tower’s pool is exclusive to its guests, but you also have access to all pools at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.
By focusing on these particulars, your stay at Bay Lake Tower is set to be both magical and meticulously planned.
Best Times to Visit
When planning a vacation to Disney’s Bay Lake Tower, considering the seasonal events, crowd levels, and weather conditions can greatly enhance your experience.
Seasonal Events
Disney World hosts various seasonal events that can be the highlight of your stay. Visit during Halloween and you’ll enjoy the Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party at Magic Kingdom. For the winter holidays, the resort transforms into a festive wonderland featuring the Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, complete with themed fireworks and parades.
Crowd Avoidance
Plan your trip in the off-peak months to avoid large crowds. January and early February, after the holiday season, are typically less crowded. Mid-September to mid-November, excluding holidays, also tend to have lighter crowd levels. By scheduling your stay during these times, you can experience shorter wait times for attractions and a more relaxed atmosphere.
Weather Considerations
Orlando’s weather plays a significant role in your Disney World vacation. Consider visiting in the fall or spring when the weather is milder, and you can comfortably enjoy outdoor activities. The summer months, while popular, often bring hot temperatures and frequent rain, which could impact plans for watching fireworks shows or spending full days in Magic Kingdom.
Why Choose Bay Lake Tower
Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a combination of luxury and convenience that makes it an exceptional choice for accommodation. Suites and Deluxe Studios feature modern kitchens, providing you with the comforts of home. This is especially advantageous if you desire the flexibility to prepare your own meals or snacks.
- View and Proximity: Bay Lake Tower’s Grand Villas boast stunning views of Bay Lake. Plus, the resort is situated in the Magic Kingdom resort area, allowing for quick and easy park access.
- Dining Experiences: Savor the flavors at Steakhouse 71, or enjoy a high-end meal at California Grill. Dining here isn’t just about the food; it’s an experience with vistas and tastes to remember.
- Amenities: Indulge in a variety of amenities, including refreshing pools and the Top of the World Lounge, perfect for viewing Disney fireworks.
- Transportation: Board the monorail, which passes through the Contemporary Resort, for convenient transportation to various Disney destinations. It’s not just a ride; it’s a part of the Disney experience.
You’ll find the blend of Disney magic and modern luxury captivating, with each aspect of your stay carefully curated to ensure a memorable vacation.
