Hey there! So, let me tell you about Disney's Contemporary Resort. It's one of the coolest places to stay if you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando. This resort is like a dream come true for Disney fans and anyone who loves a touch of modern luxury.
First things first, the name "Contemporary" isn't just for show. This place is literally a contemporary masterpiece! Imagine a sleek and stylish high-rise hotel that's part of the magic of Disney. This is an opening day hotel, opening on October 1, 1971, so to pay homage to that era, the resort has been completely updated in a sleek mid-century modern cool vibe.
One of the most unique features of this resort is that the monorail actually glides right through the building. Yeah, you heard that right! How cool is that? It's like living in the future while being surrounded by Disney magic. And speaking of magic, the monorail can whisk you away to the Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, making it super convenient to explore the entire Walt Disney World Resort.
Overall, Disney's Contemporary Resort is the perfect blend of modern luxury and Disney magic. It's a place where dreams come true, and where you can create memories that will last a lifetime. So, if you're planning a trip to Walt Disney World and you want to stay in style, this resort should definitely be at the top of your list. Trust me, you won't be disappointed!
What is Disney’s Contemporary Resort?
Disney's Contemporary Resort is a deluxe hotel located within the Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida. It is one of the original resorts that opened with the Magic Kingdom theme park in 1971 and has since become an iconic symbol of Disney hospitality.
The resort is known for its distinctive modern design and unique architecture. The main building is a sleek A-frame structure with a monorail track passing through it, offering convenient transportation to Magic Kingdom and other nearby attractions. This design feature makes Disney's Contemporary Resort a truly one-of-a-kind destination, but does anyone else get toaster vibes from it?
Mural by Mary Blair
As you enter the resort from the monorail you will be greeted by a massive mural. The mural created by Mary Blair at Disney's Contemporary Resort is a breathtaking masterpiece that immediately captivates guests with its vibrant colors and whimsical design. Spanning multiple stories, the mural showcases Blair's distinctive artistic style, featuring a playful interpretation of a grand canyon landscape. The use of bold shapes and vibrant hues creates a visually striking composition that transports viewers to a world of imagination and wonder. With cleverly integrated Disney characters adding an element of surprise, Mary Blair's mural at Disney's Contemporary Resort stands as a testament to the resort's commitment to celebrating art and storytelling, leaving a lasting impression on all who have the pleasure of admiring it.
FUN FACT:
Have fun searching for the famous 5 legged goat in the iconic mural!
Who is Mary Blair?
Mary Blair had a profound influence on the Disney company, leaving an indelible mark on its artistic and storytelling legacy. As an artist and Imagineer, Blair's unique style and vibrant imagination brought a fresh and innovative perspective to Disney's animated films and theme park designs. Her use of bold colors, geometric shapes, and whimsical patterns injected a sense of joy and playfulness into Disney's visual narratives. Blair's iconic work on films like "Cinderella," "Peter Pan," and "Alice in Wonderland" introduced a distinct visual language that resonated with audiences and continues to be celebrated today. Her contributions extended beyond animation, as she played a key role in the development of iconic attractions like "It's a Small World" and the murals at Disney's Contemporary Resort. Mary Blair's artistic vision and her ability to create enchanting worlds filled with wonder have left an enduring legacy within the Disney company, inspiring generations of artists and ensuring her impact will be felt for years to come.
Story Behind the Design
The history of Disney's Contemporary Resort dates back to the early planning stages of Walt Disney World in the late 1960s. The resort was envisioned as a modern and futuristic hotel that would reflect the contemporary design trends of the time.
The resort's unique architecture was the brainchild of architect Welton Becket and Disney Imagineer Bob Gurr. They conceived the idea of a hotel with a monorail track passing directly through it, creating a groundbreaking and visually striking design. The monorail system was an essential part of Walt Disney's original vision for Disney World, providing futuristic transportation for guests.
What is even more unique than the monorail running straight through is how the Imagineers designed the structure to plug in the rooms… Instead of building the full building and then having to go through and design the rooms, the Contemporary Resort was designed to have the rooms built and created off-site and then using a crane “plugging” them into place. They learned that this was not as convenient as they once thought and don’t use this method for updates today.
Where is the Contemporary Resort?
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is closest to the Magic Kingdom, with views of Cinderella Castle from its large windows. This resort also shares a monorail line with Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort.
What Types of Rooms are Available at Disney’s Contemporary Resort?
At Disney's Contemporary Resort, you can find a range of room options to suit your needs and preferences. Back in 2021 the rooms even received a refresh with light Incredibles themeing. Overall, accomodations feature modern and stylish accommodations with a touch of Disney magic.
Here are some of the room types available:
Standard Rooms
These rooms offer a comfortable and contemporary design with either a garden or theme park view. They typically come with two queen beds or one king bed, along with amenities such as a flat-screen TV, mini-refrigerator, and a private bathroom.
Deluxe Rooms
The resort offers Deluxe Rooms with a variety of views, including Magic Kingdom views, Bay Lake views, and Standard views. These rooms provide additional space and amenities, such as a separate sitting area and a larger bathroom.
Club Level Rooms
Disney's Contemporary Resort also features Club Level accommodations, which provide access to an exclusive lounge. Guests staying in Club Level rooms enjoy additional benefits such as personalized concierge service, complimentary refreshments throughout the day, and access to the lounge's complimentary evening appetizers and beverages.
What Do You Get When You Stay in a Club Level Room?
- Access to the Club Level Lounge
One of the primary benefits of staying in a Concierge Level room is access to the exclusive Club Level Lounge. This private lounge is located on the 12th floor of the main building and offers a tranquil retreat for guests. You can relax in a comfortable setting while enjoying complimentary refreshments and snacks throughout the day. - Personalized Concierge Services
The Club Level rooms come with personalized concierge services. A dedicated team of Cast Members is available to assist you with various needs, including making dining reservations, arranging transportation, and providing recommendations and information to enhance your Disney experience. - Complimentary Food and Beverage Offerings
The Club Level Lounge provides a selection of complimentary food and beverage offerings throughout the day. You can enjoy continental breakfast in the mornings, light snacks and refreshments during the day, afternoon tea, and hors d'oeuvres and beverages in the evenings. It's a convenient way to grab a quick bite or relax with a drink without leaving the resort. - Exclusive Views and Seating for Fireworks
Another fantastic perk of the Concierge Level rooms is the opportunity to enjoy exclusive views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks. You can access a private observation deck within the Club Level Lounge, where you can watch the spectacular fireworks display over Cinderella's Castle. It offers a prime viewing location without having to jostle with the crowds.
Suites
If you're looking for more space and luxury, the resort offers a selection of suites. These suites feature separate living areas, additional bedrooms, and expansive views of either Bay Lake or Magic Kingdom. Suites can vary in size and configuration, providing options for families or larger groups.
Pricing at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
The pricing at Disney's Contemporary Resort varies depending on several factors, including the room type, seasonality, and any special offers or promotions available. It's important to note that prices are subject to change, so it's best to check the official Disney website or consult with a travel agent for the most up-to-date information.
As a deluxe resort, Disney's Contemporary Resort typically offers higher-end accommodations and amenities, which can be reflected in the pricing compared to other resort categories within Walt Disney World. The resort's convenient location near the Magic Kingdom and its iconic design contribute to its popularity and may impact the pricing as well.
Room rates at Disney's Contemporary Resort can range from a few hundred dollars per night for a standard room during value seasons, to several hundred or even over a thousand dollars per night for suites or higher-tier accommodations during peak seasons. Prices tend to be higher during holidays, school breaks, and other peak travel periods.
It's worth mentioning that Disney often offers various discounts and packages throughout the year, so it's a good idea to keep an eye out for any available promotions that can help make your stay more affordable. Additionally, guests can take advantage of Disney's dining plans, which provide a pre-paid option for meals and snacks available starting January 2024.
For specific pricing details and to explore the available options, it's best to consult the official Disney website, reach out to Disney reservations, or connect with a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations.
Disney’s Contemporary vs. Bay Lake Tower
Disney's Contemporary Resort and Disney's Bay Lake Tower are two separate but interconnected resorts located near the Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida. Here are some key differences between the two:
- Architecture and Design: Disney's Contemporary Resort is a standalone hotel with its iconic A-frame structure and modern design. It has a distinct retro-futuristic style that has become an iconic symbol of Walt Disney World. On the other hand, Disney's Bay Lake Tower is a separate resort that is connected to the Contemporary Resort through a walkway and sky bridge. Bay Lake Tower has a more contemporary and sleek design, with a focus on modern luxury.
- Accommodations: Both resorts offer a range of accommodations, but they have different room types and configurations. Disney's Contemporary Resort offers standard rooms, deluxe rooms, and suites with various views, including garden, theme park, or lake views. Disney's Bay Lake Tower, on the other hand, primarily consists of villas. These villas are spacious and feature kitchenettes or full kitchens, making them ideal for larger families or groups.
- Amenities and Facilities: While guests staying at Disney's Bay Lake Tower have access to all the amenities and facilities of Disney's Contemporary Resort, Bay Lake Tower itself has a few exclusive features. It has its own pool area, the Bay Cove Pool, which offers a waterslide and a children's splash area. Additionally, Bay Lake Tower has a rooftop lounge called the Top of the World Lounge, providing stunning views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks.
Dining at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Dining at Disney's Contemporary Resort is a culinary delight that caters to a variety of tastes and preferences. The resort offers a range of dining options, from casual and family-friendly to upscale and fine dining experiences. With its diverse array of dining choices, Disney's Contemporary Resort ensures that guests can savor memorable culinary experiences throughout their stay.
Contempo Cafe
Contempo Café, located at Disney's Contemporary Resort, is a vibrant and convenient quick-service dining option that offers delicious and diverse cuisine. Nestled on the Grand Canyon Concourse, this bustling food court-style restaurant provides a lively atmosphere with modern decor and floor-to-ceiling windows offering views of the monorail passing through the resort.
The menu at Contempo Café features an array of culinary delights to satisfy every palate. From breakfast to dinner, guests can enjoy a variety of flavorful options. Start your day with classics like Mickey waffles, eggs, bacon, and pastries. For lunch and dinner, the menu offers a range of choices including sandwiches, burgers, and salads.. Vegetarian and allergy-friendly options are also available, ensuring there's something for everyone. Plus, they have great cupcakes, so be sure to save room for dessert!
The restaurant's quick-service format ensures efficiency and convenience, allowing guests to grab a quick bite or sit down and enjoy a leisurely meal. Mobile ordering is available through the My Disney Experience app, allowing guests to place their orders in advance and pick them up at a designated time, saving valuable park time.