Contemporary Resort

Walt Disney World

A Monorail Runs Through It

For years, we were perfectly happy being next-door neighbors to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, choosing to stay at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort instead. Eventually, we decided it was time to stop admiring it from across the way and give it a try ourselves.

The views of Magic Kingdom completely won us over, and the kidlets were fascinated by the monorail gliding right through the middle of the building. Being able to walk to the Magic Kingdom entrance is a huge perk, especially for families with little ones who may not be thrilled about waiting for transportation after a long park day. (Parents, you know the walk back to the room can be the most magical part of the night.)

With its modern design, incredible location and unique monorail access, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a very different vibe from the other monorail resorts. Let’s take a look at what makes it a great fit for some families and maybe not the perfect match for others.

Shopping at Disney's Contemporary Resort

Disney’s Contemporary Resort & Bay Lake Tower
4600 North World Drive
Lake Buena Vista, Florida 32830
(407) 824-1000

Guest Rooms | Club Level | ShoppingDining | Recreation | Around the Resort

Rates: $700+/night
Room Occupancy: 3/4/5 in a standard room or studio, 4+ in suites and villas
Transportation: Monorail to Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Polynesian Village, Grand Floridian; boat to Magic Kingdom; bus to all other Disney guest areas

 

Guest Rooms

Guest Room at Disney's Contemporary Resort with Magic, Memories, Mayhem

Standard rooms at the Contemporary are spacious, crisp and Incredible-y themed. 😉 They bring a fun Disney touch to your stay while giving families plenty of room to relax after a busy park day.

Other room options offer different layouts and a general modern style with fewer Disney character details. However, they do offer comfortable, updated spaces for guests who need more space in modern resort aesthetic.

Standard rooms and suites are found in the main tower and garden wing, while studios and villas fill the halls of Bay Lake Tower.

Standard Rooms

Standard room amenities at Disney’s Contemporary Resort include a coffee maker, beverage cooler, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-panel television, in-room safe, hairdryer, toiletries, iron and ironing board and a patio or balcony.

  • Garden Wing King – Views of pools or parking area; 1 king, 1 day bed; up to 3 adults
  • Garden Wing Deluxe – Views of gardens, pools, marina or Bay Lake; larger floor plan than standard rooms; 1 king, 1 day bed; up to 3 adults
  • Garden Wing Resort View – Views of parking area or obstructed views of other areas; 2 queens, 1 day bed; up to 5 adults
  • Garden Wing Water View – Views of pools, marina or Bay Lake; 2 queens, 1 day bed; up to 5 adults
  • Main Tower Water View – Views of Bay Lake; 2 queens, 1 day bed; up to 5 adults; club level rooms are available in this category
  • Main Tower Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 2 queens, 1 day bed; up to 5 adults; club level rooms are available in this category
Guest Room at Disney's Contemporary Resort with Magic, Memories, Mayhem

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Deluxe Lake View Studio Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary with Magic, Memories, Mayhem

Studios

Studio amenities include a kitchenette, complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-panel television, in-room safe, hairdryer, toiletries, iron and ironing board and a balcony.

  • Deluxe Studio Resort View – Views of parking area or obstructed view of another area; 1 queen bed and 1 double-size pulldown; up to 4 adults
  • Deluxe Studio Preferred View – Views of Bay Lake; 1 queen bed and 1 double-size pulldown; up to 4 adults
  • Deluxe Studio Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 1 queen bed and 1 double-size pulldown; up to 4 adults

Deluxe Preferred View Studio

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Villas

In addition to sleeping quarters, villas feature a living area, full kitchen and washer dryer.

  • 1 Bedroom Resort View – Views of parking area or obstructed view of another area; 1 king, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 5 adults
  • 1 Bedroom Preferred View – Views of Bay Lake; 1 king, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 5 adults
  • 1 Bedroom Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 1 king, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 5 adults
  • 2 Bedroom Resort View – Views of parking area or obstructed view of another area; 1 king, 2 queens, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 9 adults
  • 2 Bedroom Preferred View – Views of Bay Lake; 1 king, 2 queens, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 9 adults
  • 2 Bedroom Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 1 king, 2 queens, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 9 adults
  • 3 Bedroom Preferred View – Views of Bay Lake; 1 king, 4 queens, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 12 adults
  • 3 Bedroom Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 1 king, 4 queens, 1 queen pulldown, 1 single pulldown; up to 12 adults
Deluxe Lake View Studio Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary with Magic, Memories, Mayhem
Deluxe Lake View Studio Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary with Magic, Memories, Mayhem
Club Level at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Disney's Contemporary Resort with Magic, Memories, Mayhem

Suites

All suites incude club level access.

  • Garden Wing 1 Bedroom – Views of parking area or obstructed view of another area; 1 king, 1 queen sleeper sofa, 1 twin sleeper chair; up to 5 adults
  • Garden Wing 1 Bedroom Hospitality – Views of parking area or obstructed view of another area; 2 queens, 1 queen sleeper sofa, 1 day bed; up to 7 adults
  • 1 Bedroom Water View – Views of Bay Lake; 2 queens, 1 queen sleeper sofa; up to 6 adults
  • 1 Bedroom Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 2 queens, 1 queen sleeper sofa; up to 6 adults
  • 2 Bedroom Water View – Views of Bay Lake; 1 king, 2 queens, 1 queen sleeper sofa; up to 8 adults
  • 2 Bedroom Theme Park View – Views of Magic Kingdom; 4 queens, 1 queen sleeper sofa; up to 10 adults
  • Theme Park VIew Presidential – Views of Magic Kingdom; 1 king, 2 queens, 1 queen sleeper sofa; up to 8 adults

Atrium & Tower Clubs

The Atrium Club is located on the 12th floor, while the Tower Club is on the 14th floor. The Atrium Club is where most standard Club Level rooms are located, while the Tower Club primarily serves guests staying in suites. 

The Club Level lounges at Disney’s Contemporary Resort are stocked throughout the day with offerings that go well beyond a quick snack stop. Start your morning with breakfast before heading to the parks, grab a little something during the day, enjoy evening appetizers and end the night with desserts and beverages (even a great selection for 21+).

Club Level at Disney's Contemporary Resort

Is Club Level Worth It?

Club Level can be a fun way to add extra magic to your Disney stay, but whether it’s worth the splurge depends on how you’ll use it. We break down the perks, costs and who it’s really best for in our guide to Club Level at Walt Disney World.

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Shopping & Sundries

Shopping at Disney's Contemporary Resort

Shopping at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is conveniently located on the fourth floor on the main concourse.

Bay View Gifts is the largest shop, offering Disney merchandise, apparel, seasonal items, luggage, sundries and, of course, fudge (always a good idea). Fantasia features a great selection of pins, toys and other Disney favorites, while Fantasia Market is the stop for snacks, groceries, beverages and other vacation essentials.

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Dining

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is surrounded by some fantastic dining options, but the resort itself is home to several Walt Disney World favorites. From casual bites to signature meals and quintessential character dining, many of the resort’s standout dining experiences are just an elevator ride away from your room.

Magic, Memories, Mayhem Chef Mickey's

Chef Mickey’s

One of Walt Disney World’s most iconic character dining experiences, Chef Mickey’s is located on the fourth floor of Contemporary Resort. Featuring a buffet for breakfast and dinner, it’s a favorite for families hoping to meet Mickey and friends in the middle of Disney World nostalgia

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Steakhouse 71

Named for the year Walt Disney World and the Contemporary first welcomed guests, Steakhouse 71 is inspired by the optimism and style of the early 1970s. The restaurant serves classic American fare in a relaxed atmosphere that works just as well for families as it does for date night. While lunch and dinner are great, breakfast has developed a loyal following, especially when paired with one of the restaurant’s fan-favorite mimosas.

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California Grill

Sitting atop the Contemporary’s iconic tower, California Grill offers one of the most unforgettable dining views at Walt Disney World. With sweeping views of Magic Kingdom and the nighttime fireworks, the setting is just as memorable as the meal. The menu features elevated favorites including steak, seafood and sushi, making this a popular choice for a special occasion, date night or a Disney splurge.

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Contempo Cafe

The Contemporary’s fourth-floor quick service location serves up breakfast, salads, sandwiches, flatbreads, baked goods and more throughout the day. Grab a table in the open dining area and watch the monorails glide by while you enjoy your meal. It’s also a favorite among guests with food allergies thanks to the knowledgeable cast members and accommodating menu options.

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Dining at Disney's Contemporary Resort
Chef Mickey's

More Dining

Beyond the main dining locations, the Contemporary has a few more spots worth knowing about.

Contemporary Grounds is the perfect stop for coffee, pastries and a quick bite. Located in the main lobby, it’s an easy grab-and-go option before heading to the parks or on your way back to your room.

For a relaxing drink, the Contemporary offers several lounges throughout the resort. Steakhouse 71 Lounge, California Grill Lounge and Outer Rim each offer their own atmosphere, with some locations also serving appetizers and light bites.

Poolside, The Sand Bar is a casual spot to grab burgers, hot dogs and a refreshing drink while soaking up the sun. Over at Bay Lake Tower, guests can also enjoy Cove Bar, a poolside lounge serving drinks and snacks just steps away.

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Recreation & Activities

The Contemporary is a hub of recreation, especially if you’re looking to add a little water fun to your vacation. With Bay Lake right outside your door and multiple pools to choose from, it’s easy to turn a resort day into its own adventure.

The Contemporary’s main pool (which, honestly, could use a more exciting name) is the larger feature pool area with a slide and plenty of space to relax. The circular Bay Lake Pool offers a quieter option with views of the water, while Bay Cove Pool is reserved exclusively for Bay Lake Tower guests. That separation is a little different from many Disney resorts where sister buildings share amenities, so keep that in mind when choosing your stay.

Boat Nook Marina is the place to go for many of the resort’s water-based activities, including fishing excursions, motorized boat and Sea Raycer rentals and a variety of aquatic adventures through Sammy Duvall’s Watersports. Guests can try parasailing, personal watercraft, tubing, wakeboarding, water skiing and more.

Prefer to keep your feet on solid ground? The Contemporary also offers tennis courts, sand volleyball, jogging trails and an arcade for even more ways to enjoy your resort time.

Kidani Village Pool

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Pool Areas

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Around the Resort

The Contemporary has a vibe unlike any other Disney resort. From the soaring atrium and monorail gliding through the building to the Bay Lake views and modern design, it feels like a little piece of Disney history that’s still moving forward.

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Around Bay Lake Tower

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Holidays at the Contemporary

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More Magic Tips

A few tips go a long way toward making your stay at the Contemporary even more Incredible!

  • Skip the monorail at rope drop. Yes, it’s iconic. Yes, it’s fun. But everyone else knows that too. The walking path from the Contemporary to Magic Kingdom is usually only about 10 to 15 minutes from your front door to park gate, and it can save you from waiting with the morning crowds.

  • Save that California Grill receipt! If you splurge on dinner at California Grill, don’t toss your receipt. You can come back later that evening to watch Magic Kingdom fireworks from the private outdoor observation deck with the music piped in.

  • Request your room location wisely. The Grand Canyon Concourse on the fourth floor is the heartbeat of the Contemporary. It’s where you’ll find the shops, dining and monorail, which is incredibly convenient, but it can also get noisy. If you’re sensitive to sound, a higher floor may be your best friend.

  • Don’t sleep on the Garden Wing. Sleep in it! These rooms are often less expensive and still give you that amazing Contemporary location. They don’t have the same “wow, I’m inside the tower!” feeling, but some families love the quieter, more tucked-away vibe.

  • Make the Contemporary work for your crew. This resort has a lot of choices, and the “best” room really depends on what matters most to your family. That’s where having someone who knows the little details can make all the difference. We’re happy to help you figure out if the Contemporary is your perfect fit with our complimentary planning services!

Our Take on the Contemporary

The location is the clear star of the show at the Contemporary. Those Magic Kingdom views are hard to beat, and being able to walk to the park is a huge perk. While it isn’t our favorite of the monorail resorts, there’s no arguing with the convenience, especially for families who plan to spend a lot of time at Magic Kingdom.

The room rates are some of the highest on property, but the Contemporary does frequently offer discounts, and this money-conscious mama is always a fan of a good deal. Getting that incredible location without paying the absolute top price makes those promos worth watching.

For me, the Contemporary doesn’t have the “Disney threw up everywhere” feeling that I personally love in a resort. I enjoy those immersive Disney details that make you feel like you’ve stepped into another world. Because the Contemporary also serves as a convention resort, parts of it can feel a little more polished and business-like than whimsical. That said, I completely understand why it has such a loyal following. The iconic architecture, monorail gliding through the Grand Canyon Concourse, incredible Magic Kingdom views and unbeatable location make it a contendor for a reason.

Magic sweet magic! Does this resort look like your kind of home away from home? Let's start planning!

Enjoy complimentary concierge vacation planning, including resort comparisons, discount watch and more, when you book your vacation with us!