Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: Turn-of-the-Century Charm Meets Vibrant Nightlife
If you’ve ever wanted to wander down a twinkly boardwalk at sunset, ice cream in hand, music playing in the background—Disney’s BoardWalk Inn might be your spot. It’s got that old-timey charm without feeling stuffy, and it strikes this sweet balance of relaxed and refined. It’s one of my favorite places to stay when I want to slow things down a little… without being far from the magic.
The Vibe: Nostalgic, Relaxed, and Close to the Action
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is inspired by the Atlantic City boardwalks of the early 1900s. Think striped awnings, vintage charm, and twinkling lights reflecting off the water. The vibe is both romantic and lively, with a blend of upscale touches and playful nostalgia. The BoardWalk itself comes alive in the evenings with carnival games, performers, and waterfront dining, offering a dose of fun just steps from your room. You’re right in the middle of the Disney magic, but the vibe is slower. More peaceful. More “let’s grab a coffee and walk by the water” than “rush to rope drop.”
Room Options & Accommodations
The rooms at BoardWalk were recently refreshed, and they strike a great balance between clean, upscale design and a few subtle Disney nods. They’re not over-the-top themed—but if you look closely, you’ll notice carousel horses, hidden Mickeys, and vintage artwork inspired by early boardwalks.
Standard Rooms – Most include 2 Queen Beds and a Day Bed, or 1 King Bed options. Many offer views of the garden, water, or even fireworks at night.
Club Level Rooms – Located on the Innkeeper’s Club floor, these rooms come with access to a private lounge serving continental breakfast, snacks, and evening hors d’oeuvres.
Suites & Villas – For larger parties, the BoardWalk Villas (next door and part of the same resort area) offer 1–3 bedroom options with full kitchens and living areas.
Pro Tip: Ask for a BoardWalk View Room if you love people-watching or want to enjoy nighttime energy from your balcony. Prefer quiet? A Garden View Room is your best bet.
Dining Options
One of the best parts of BoardWalk is—you guessed it—the actual boardwalk. It’s lined with food options that range from quick grab-and-go to sit-down dining.
Flying Fish (Signature Dining)
Upscale seafood and steakhouse fare in a stunning, open-kitchen atmosphere. A great choice for a date night or special occasion.
Advanced Reservations Recommended
Dining Plans Accepted
Trattoria al Forno (Table-Service)
Italian comfort food, including hearty pastas and wood-fired pizzas.
Dining Plans Accepted
BoardWalk Deli (Quick-Service)
A convenient stop for classic sandwiches, fresh bakery items, and coffee drinks.
Leaping Horse Libations (Pool Bar)
Fun carousel-themed bar by the pool serving cocktails, mocktails, and light bites.
BoardWalk Treats & Entertainment
Don’t miss sweet stops like the Funnel Cake Cart, Pizza Window, the BoardWalk Ice Cream Shop, or AbracadaBar, a magician-themed lounge.
Recreation & Amenities
BoardWalk Inn has plenty of ways to unwind or stay active:
Luna Park Pool – A whimsical Coney Island-themed pool with a waterslide resembling a classic wooden roller coaster.
Leisure Pools – Two additional quiet pools throughout the resort for a more relaxing swim.
Surrey Bike Rentals – Ride along the BoardWalk in style—fun for couples and families.
Evening Entertainment – Street performers, magicians, and midway-style games make the BoardWalk feel like a mini theme park at night.
Arcade Games – Side Show Games Arcade offers a fun break from the parks.
Movies Under the Stars – Evening Disney movie screenings on the Village Green.
Fitness Center – Muscles & Bustles Health Club is open 24/7 for resort guests.
Playgrounds & Jogging Trails – Kids can play near the pool, and runners can enjoy scenic loops around Crescent Lake.
Campfire Activities — Located on the Village Green 6:30pm-7:30pm Nightly
Extended Evening Hours
As a Deluxe Resort, guests staying at deluxe resorts have access to Extended Evening Hours on select nights. This is not available every night. Read more about Extended Evening Hours here!
This perk allows extra time in the parks with shorter wait times for popular attractions.
Includes select attractions, dining, and shopping
Valid only for guests staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts or Villas
Pro Tip: Take advantage of shorter wait times for attractions like Space Mountain, TRON Lightcycle / Run, and Seven Dwarfs Mine Train during Extended Evening Hours.
Transportation & Park Access
BoardWalk Inn offers premium park access:
Walk to EPCOT
Take a Friendship Boat to EPCOT or Hollywood Studios
Bus service is available to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Disney Springs, and water parks.
Location
BoardWalk Inn is located in the EPCOT Resort Area, nestled along Crescent Lake between Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts.
This is an old map, but it still gives you a great idea of where the resort is located.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ Elegant, vintage theming with a vibrant nightlife atmosphere
✔️ Walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios
✔️ Unique dining and entertainment right outside your door
✔️ Deluxe accommodations with Club Level options
✔️ Easy access to Disney Skyliner and boat transportation
Cons:
❌ Can get noisy near the BoardWalk-facing rooms at night
❌ No on-site character dining (though nearby resorts offer it)
❌ Limited quick-service options compared to other resorts
Final Thoughts & Who Should Stay Here
BoardWalk Inn is one of those resorts that somehow feels both grand and cozy. You’re just a few steps from the excitement of the parks, but you can also spend a quiet evening watching the lights reflect off the water while your kids eat ice cream in their pajamas. It’s full of charm, convenience, and that little touch of Disney whimsy that sneaks up on you in the best way.
It’s great for couples, foodies, park-hopping pros, and families who want to be in the middle of it all. It combines timeless elegance with plenty of entertainment and unbeatable access to two parks.
✨ Ready to plan your stay at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn? Start Planning Now and let’s make it magical! 🎠🏰
