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Resort Hopping - EPCOT Area


While the EPCOT resorts don’t have an eye-catching Monorail wizzing by, they are an easy walk around the lake apart which can be even better on a beautiful Florida day. If you take the Skyliner to EPCOT or exit EPCOT via the International Gateway (between UK and France) you are just moments away from some great resorts to explore. I typically just walk because it’s faster, but there is a Friendship Boat that will go from EPCOT’s International Gateway to Disney's Boardwalk, Yacht and Beach Club, and the Swan and Dolphin before continuing on to Hollywood Studios. 

Disney's Beach Club Resort

Disney’s Beach Club is light and bright and has a few things worth stopping by for. Beaches and Cream out by the pool is a fast favorite, serving up burgers and shakes along with the famous Kitchen Sink sundae. But they also have a walk up ice cream window to grab a fun shake and stroll along the lake. During the holidays, pop inside the main lobby to see a Gingerbread carousel and get some hot cocoa. 

If you’re a fan of character meals, Cape May Cafe also has a great character breakfast that tends to be a bit easier to grab a reservation for than Chef Mickey’s, but you’ll still get some great character opportunities. 

Disney's Yacht Club Resort

Right next door to the Beach Club you’ll find the sophisticated counterpart, Disney's Yacht Club Resort. The light and airy feel of the Beach Club is traded for dark woods and navy blues reminiscent of a ship. In the lobby there is a beautiful model ship and globe to check out, and during the holidays, there’s a train village. Stop for a drink at the Ale and Compass Lounge, or head over to the Yachtsmen Steakhouse for some of the best steak on property (reservations highly recommended.)

The store at the Yacht Club is unassuming, but typically had a great selection for fans of shopping and can be more peaceful than some of the other resorts. 

Disney’s Boardwalk Inn

Across the lake you’ll find Disney's Boardwalk Inn, home to many restaurants, snacks and evening entertainment. You can grab a margarita and stroll along the lake, enjoy a nice dinner at one of the many restaurants, or if your whole party is over 21, end the night at Jellyrolls, a dueling piano bar that is a ton of fun. 

Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin, and Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

While these are not Disney operated resorts, they are still worth exploring on a resort day. The restaurants may be a bit easier to walk up or make same day reservations at since they typically do not take the Disney Dining Plan. We recently had dinner at Amare at the Swan Reserve and it was quite the incredible meal! 

Planning a Walt Disney World vacation? We are here to help! Contact your Kingdom Konsultant travel professional or submit a request form for a free quote today. Make sure to check out our Planning for Walt Disney World Vacations page for more posts. 

We Want to Hear From You

What is your favorite activity at the EPCOT Area resorts?  Let us know in the comments!


Maci is an avid foodie and loves trying out new restaurants and seasonal food offerings in the parks. You can email Maci at maci@kingdomkonsultant.com.

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