Chances are, if you plan a vacation to Disney, you’re going to spend a few days at the parks. Trying to get as many rides in as possible so you can get our money’s worth is totally understandable. But there is a secret I wanted to tell you about Disney’s Boardwalk.
What is the Disney Boardwalk?
If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, you may have heard of the Disney Boardwalk. Located on the shores of Crescent Lake, the Disney Boardwalk is a charming promenade that offers a unique blend of dining, shopping, and entertainment options.
It’s also home to several Disney resorts, including Disney’s Boardwalk Inn and Disney’s Beach Club Resort.
The Disney Boardwalk is designed to resemble a turn-of-the-century seaside resort town, complete with whimsical architecture, street performers, and carnival games.
As you stroll along the boardwalk, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and eateries, ranging from casual snack stands to upscale dining experiences. You can also browse through a variety of shops, selling everything from Disney souvenirs to high-end jewelry.
One of the main attractions of the Disney Boardwalk is the nightlife, which includes live music, dancing, and a variety of themed bars and lounges.
Getting to Disney’s Boardwalk
Take a “break” from the typical theme park adventure and explore Disney’s Boardwalk. It’s right behind Epcot’s World Showcase, so it’s easy to find. To get there, you’ll head between France and the UK and see the boardwalk in a few minutes if you keep walking.
You can also get there by going directly to the Disney Boardwalk Resort.
There are quite a few restaurants nestled along the boardwalk, a wide variety of table-service restaurants, and nightly shows that the entire family can enjoy watching while they take a few minutes to relax and unwind.
Although it can get crowded, it is much better than the parks. If you have some time during the day and need to get away, it’s usually the least crowded mid-afternoon. Once everyone has had lunch and is headed back to the park for the afternoon.
One of the best perks about the Disney boardwalk is there are so many activities and restaurants. You’ll have everything you need in one spot, so you’ll be able to save energy instead of having to walk long distances to get from your hotel, car, restaurant, or other activities.
Just be sure to take some time in advance to plan out your itinerary so you know exactly where you plan to visit. This will save you time from backtracking and ensuring everyone is on the same page in your group, so there is no miscommunication.
Staying at the Disney Boardwalk Resort
One of the best things about Disney’s boardwalk is the vast variety of things to do in close proximity. You’ll be able to walk up in the morning and over to Epcot from most of them.
There is also a boat right on the dock that will also take you to Hollywood Studios. So you’re close to two theme parks, which is really nice.
It’ll be a magical experience that will also save you the time to rent a car and make your way through the parking lots as you fight the crowds to get into each park.
Buses are also available for the Animal Kingdom and the Magic Kingdom if you’d prefer to stay at the same resort all day. Disney wants to make it as convenient for you as possible so you can focus on yourself and your family having a great time instead of focusing on logistics.
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
This one is literally right on the water’s edge, so the view can’t be beaten. It’s designed to give you the feel of being in Atlantic City with sophisticated charm and mesmerizing bright lights.
If you’re lucky, you’ll get a room facing the water so you can admire your surroundings no matter the time of day. There are plenty of activities to keep you entertained when you need a break from the park and plenty to help you relax. Let’s take a look at a few of the amenities they have to offer below:
- State Of The Art Fitness Center
- Carnival Games For The Kids
- Disney Skyliner Transportation
- Pool with Waterslide
- Delicious Seafood and Prime Steaks
- Deluxe Villas Available with Kitchens, Washer, Dryer & Private Bedrooms.
Other Resorts Near Disney’s Boardwalk
Let’s look at some of the most popular accommodations near the boardwalk so you can determine which is best for your family’s needs. All the ones included are just a few minutes walk to Epcot and all the restaurants along the boardwalk.
Walt Disney World Swan
This hotel is next door to the boardwalk, and you can hop on a free bus to go to any of the four parks. The boat dock is close as well if you want to take it to Hollywood Studios. Y
Below are a few of the best amenities this hotel has to offer:
- 24-Hour Fitness Studio
- Access to 5 Different Pools
- Multiple Restaurants On-Site
- Balcony View Rooms Available
Walt Disney World Dolphin
A short distance away from the boardwalk to get you away from the hustle and bustle. The whole family is welcome to this beautiful hotel.
It’s very close to Epcot and Hollywood Studios, so you’ll have a short bus ride to both if you ever need to take a break and come back to your hotel during the day. They offer a wide variety of amenities, including:
- Advance Golf Tee-Times
- Dine at Our World Famous Sushi & Italian Restaurants
- Disney Character Dining
- Full-Service Spa
- Grotto Style Pool
- Perfect view of IllumiNations Firework Show
Things To Do at Disney Boardwalk Resort
1. Enjoy a stroll along the boardwalk and take in the sights and sounds of the area.
2. Rent a Surrey bike and explore the boardwalk in a unique and fun way.
3. Visit the many shops and boutiques for some souvenir shopping or to pick up some unique gifts.
4. Take a spin on the boardwalk’s iconic carousel, which features hand-painted horses and other charming details.
5. Catch a live performance by street musicians or other entertainers who regularly perform on the boardwalk.
6. Enjoy a delicious meal or snack at one of the many restaurants and food stands located along the boardwalk.
8. Play some classic carnival games and win prizes at the boardwalk’s midway games.
9. Take a boat ride around Crescent Lake to see the boardwalk and surrounding area from a different perspective.
10. Dance the night away at the Atlantic Dance Hall, a popular nightclub that features live DJs and a wide variety of music genres.
Disney’s Boardwalk Family-Friendly Activities
It’s very common to bring along your little ones on a trip to Disney World. After all, they are the ones who typically get most excited about seeing Cinderella’s castle, the characters, and all the shows that are going on around each park.
Seeing their happy faces always makes it worth bringing them along. It’s important that when you take a break from running around the park, you’re able to keep them entertained and happy.
At the end of the day, they will be glad to have had some relaxing time walking around the boardwalk and spending quality time with you.
Let’s get you some inspiration on what to do below for family-friendly activities.
Trattoria Al Forno
A kid must eat, but that doesn’t mean you can’t enjoy your food either. This table-service restaurant right along the boardwalk welcomes families of all sizes.
They have an authentic Italian menu that includes wine, which chances are you’ll need after a long day at the park juggling your kids. They also have character dining experiences for breakfast, so be sure to book your spot in advance if you’d like your child to have this once-in-a-lifetime experience they can’t get anywhere else.
Street Performers
Your kids will be entertained as they watch the unique street performances like balancing acts, musicians, and jugglers. They come out to entertain every weekend. It’s especially magical once it starts to get dark, and all the lights along the boardwalk come on, making for a beautiful view.
Family Walk Along the Boardwalk
Your kids will enjoy being able to take a look out at the water and have some room to stretch their legs. Chances are it will be less crowded than the parks (one can only hope), so they’ll have more room to explore.
There are some adorable shops you can stop by as a family, and if your kids have been well-behaved, even pick up a souvenir or two. There are also some classic midway games that you can all play together.
FriendShip Boat Ride
Take a much-needed break when the whole family is on the verge of a meltdown because everyone is tired.
Take a ride on the boat that travels between Hollywood Studios and Epcot’s International Gateway (right next to the Boardwalk). Not only is it a mode of transportation but also some much-needed entertainment and time to rest your legs.
The best part is they are air-conditioned, so you’ll never have to worry about your little ones overheating.
List of Boardwalk Disney Restaurants
1. Trattoria al Forno
2. AbracadaBar
3. Big River Grille & Brewing Works
4. ESPN Club
5. Flying Fish
6. Boardwalk Bakery
7. Ample Hills Creamery
8. Pizza Window
9. Funnel Cake Cart
10. Leaping Horse Libations
11. Belle Vue Lounge
12. Joe’s Marvelous Margaritas
13. To-Go Cart
14. The To-Go Cart
Date Night on Disney’s Boardwalk
Whether you’ve been able to secure a babysitter for the evening or you’re visiting Disney as a couple without any kids, it will be a great adventure. It’s important to take time for yourselves and unwind after a hectic day of running around like crazy.
Atlantic Dance Hall
If you and your partner love to dance or are looking for something fun and out of the ordinary, this will make for a night to remember. You’ll have a blast as you dance to music from the ‘70s, ‘80s, ‘90s, and 2000s, so there is something everyone will enjoy.
They are open from 9 pm to 2 am, and you must be 21 years and older to enter. It’s the perfect place to get away from all the kids you’re around all day at the park and have some much-needed grownup time. You’ll also be able to meet a few new people worldwide, which is always exciting.
Jellyrolls Jazz Club
Open most nights from 9 am-2 pm.
They feature dueling pianos that will keep you entertained for hours. All of the musical talents are out of this world and very unique. The audience is encouraged to sing along, and you’ll even have a chance to make requests throughout the evening while interacting with the musicians.
Flying Fish Cafe
It is a world-class restaurant along the boardwalk known for its yummy seafood and steak. It’s newly renovated, making the atmosphere quite spectacular.
They ask that men wear collared shirts and women wear pants, jeans or dresses. They ask that you don’t wear clothes with holes, swimwear or hats. Make reservations in advance, if possible, to make sure you can get a table.
II Mulino New York
It is located inside the WDW Swan Hotel. It’s a divine Italian bistro that opened in 2007 and has been a hit ever since. Everything on the menu is amazing and authentic, so you’ll feel like you’re actually in Italy.
With free valet parking, there is no excuse not to try this amazing restaurant. Be sure to make reservations ahead of time and adhere to their strict dress code so you don’t risk being asked to leave.
There is a vast array of other Disney boardwalk restaurants for you to choose from. The best part is that there are options for every price range, so you shouldn’t stress about the cost of eating out for date night.
Just be sure to do your research ahead of time so you know what type of cuisine you’d like to try. The last thing you want to do is get there and roam aimlessly when you’re tired because you didn’t make reservations ahead of time or come up with a game plan.
There is So Much to Explore at the Disney’s Boardwalk
Chances are, if you’ve never stayed near Disney’s boardwalk, you had no idea it existed, but now you do! The next time you decide to take a trip to Disney, be sure to take a detour to walk along the boardwalk and explore all the restaurants and scenery it has to offer.
Remember, taking a break from the hustle and bustle of theme parks is ok. They can get overwhelming, and having time to unwind and relax is good.
No matter if you have your kids or you and your partner are having a romantic evening together.
