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A Comparison of Magic Kingdom Resorts At Disney World

Contemporary Resort

Contemporary Resort

This resort holds the title of being the closest to the Magic Kingdom — a short walk down a sidewalk will get you to the head of Main Street, U.S.A.  Whether you opt for a theme park view or not, no room at the Contemporary will offer a bad view — guests will look out to the Magic Kingdom or out onto Bay Lake.  Guests can choose to walk to the park or hop aboard the monorail to get to the park, but given how the Resort Loop monorails run, it is far quicker to walk to the park. 

Donald Duck Chef Mickey's

Choices abound when considering dining at the Contemporary – a classic buffet with the Fab Five can be found at Chef Mickey’s, a quick snack can be found at the Contempo Café, a special meal can be found at the California Grill on the top floor of the resort.  Downstairs, hidden away from the hustle and bustle, guests can find a great offering at the Wave of American Flavors — make sure to plan some time before your meal for a refreshing cocktail either at the Wave or looking out over Bay Lake at the Outer Rim.  Guests will also enjoy watching the monorail zoom through the resort on its way back and forth between the Ticket and Transportation Center and the Magic Kingdom.

Polynesian Village Resort

Disney's Polynesian Resort Lobby

The final resort situated on the shores of the Seven Seas Lagoon, the Polynesian Village Resort invites guests to the islands of the South Pacific with relaxing pools, longhouses of rooms, and the tropical flavors and tastes of faraway lands.  Guests can get to the Magic Kingdom via Monorail or boat.  Before heading to the park, guests may feel inclined to enjoy the family-style all-you-care-to-enjoy breakfast at Ohana to be able to meet Mickey, Pluto, Lilo, and Stitch — we’d recommend also making a dinner reservation to enjoy the crazy tasty menu after a long day in the park. 

Guests on the run can grab something quick from Captain Cook’s or a Dole Whip on the run from the Pineapple Lanai.  If you have more timers enjoy your meal, guests can dine at Kona Café and enjoy delicious sushi or other tropical offerings.  Guests can also enjoy a wonderful dinner and show on the beach with the Spirit of Aloha dinner — advance payment and reservations are required.  Looking for a refreshing Lapu Lapu?  Head to the Tambu Lounge next to Ohana to relax before dinner!

Fort Wilderness

Fort Wilderness Cabin
Photo Credit: Disney

The final resort near the Magic Kingdom will require guests to rent or own an RV or choose to rough it in a cabin or tent.  However, what is lacking in amenities is made up for with a stunning setting where you’ll see wildlife, get to know your neighbors, and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere around the resort.  You can enjoy a great bike ride, a swim, roast marshmallows at night, or holiday decorations during certain times of the year. 

Guests wanting to explore the resort can do so on horseback at the Tri-Circle D Ranch or rent a golf cart and drive around taking in the sights.  Great food can be found at Trail’s End (a true hidden gem) for breakfast, lunch, and dinner and amazing show (and food, too) is right next door at the Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue!  Guests will love the relaxed atmosphere walking along the beach, enjoying a boat rental, watching movies, or roasting marshmallows.

Depending on your budget and the amenities that you are seeking from your resort, we are confident any of the Magic Kingdom resorts will do — what is your favorite?  Which can’t you wait to stay at next?

By Tyler



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