The Contemporary Resort, the iconic hotel on the doorstep of Magic Kingdom theme park, has long been a favourite of die-hard Disney World fans - but, as one of the ‘deluxe’ resorts, it is certainly not the cheapest ‘on property’.
With its unique and iconic design, unrivalled location, monorail station, dining and family-friendly amenities, it is rated among the top picks for many guests heading to Disney World.
But, what makes it stand out?
Here we take a closer look at some of the positives and negatives commonly pointed out in guest reviews, and we consider which kind of guests this premier Disney World resort best appeals to.
Magic Kingdom on the doorstep
Quite simply, one of the biggest draws of Disney’s Contemporary Resort is its proximity to Magic Kingdom. Disney World’s flagship theme park is literally a few minutes walk away.
If you’re not fancying even the short walk - or someone in your group has mobility issues - you can also hop on the monorail right in the Contemporary resort lobby, and be at the Magic Kingdom gates in a matter of moments.
Being so close to Magic Kingdom also makes Contemporary a great place to watch the park’s nighttime fireworks show - a perk that makes the resort’s theme park view rooms especially popular.
Contemporary is also home to Chef Mickey, arguably Disney World’s most popular character dining experience, particularly for families visiting with younger children.
The resort’s conic A-frame design, with the mono-rail track running straight through the middle of it, sees the Contemporary stand out on the landscape. In terms of accommodations, the hotel’s spacious rooms offer great views of the Magic Kingdom, or Bay Lake, or the surrounding grounds.
It is the epitome of classic Disney World nostalgia that appeals to Disney fans who appreciate the history of what is an original Disney World hotel.
Who will Love the Contemporary Resort?
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is ideal for families, especially those with young children, looking at the bigger budget Disney World resorts.
Across all the ‘on-property’ resorts, few other hotels give guests quite the same sense of “staying at Disney World”, partly for the pure proximity of Magic Kingdom and also because of the classic Disney World aesthetic and long-running features like Chef Mickey and the monorail station.
However, the resort also appeals to some couples (or solo travellers) who will appreciate its mix of convenience and particular style.
On the top floor of the Contemporary is California Grill, a top-rated Disney World restaurant that offers fine dining with spectacular views. It is among the favourite spots for a romantic evening.
Of course, what sets the Contemporary Resort apart from other resorts is its unmatched convenience.
The monorail running right through the hotel is a signature feature, making transportation to the Magic Kingdom and Epcot parks seamless.
For families with young children, this is a also game-changer as it means they can avoid waiting for buses.
Meanwhile, walking to Magic Kingdom on a bright and fresh morning may be one of the best ways for anyone to start their day at Disney World!
Drawbacks
Undoubtedly, on paper, no other resort is in as convenient a location for the theme parks as the Contemporary Resort, But, it does have its drawbacks and guest reviews aren’t unanimously positive.
It is definitely not cheap. guest’s may be happy to trade off some of that convenience for some savings on the hotel price point.
The other Disney World resorts (some of which are a lot lower-priced) aren’t exactly a hassle to stay at, and all benefit from complimentary transport straight to the park entrances.
At the same time, guests visiting Disney World with a large budget will probably find a higher level of luxury and indulgence at some of the other ‘deluxe’ level resorts like fellow monorail hotels, the Polynesian Village Resort and the Grand Floridian, or hotels such as the Wilderness Lodge, Boardwalk Inn or Swan & Dolphin Resorts.
The Contemporary is perhaps not the best for guests looking for a quiet, laid-back time. There’s literally a monorail running straight through the middle of the hotel! There are other high-calibre resort hotels at Disney World that may suite these guests much better.
Polynesian Village Resort or Animal Kingdom Lodge, meanwhile, may give guests a more
Who is the Contemporary Resort for?
Disney’s Contemporary Resort give guests a unique blend of convenience, family-friendly fun, and proximity to Magic Kingdom.
For many fans of classic Disney, Magic Kingdom, and old-school Disney World nostalgia it will be the ultimate choice, and perhaps a bucket-list hotel booking.
Nevertheless, guests who want a more peaceful and luxurious stay for what is a premium price may prefer some of the other deluxe Disney World resorts.
