Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Iconic Architecture & Monorail Access to Magic Kingdom
If you’re looking for a sleek, modern stay just steps from Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a top-tier choice. As one of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts, it offers stunning views, monorail access, and a variety of accommodations, including the Garden Wing and Bay Lake Tower. Whether you’re drawn to its iconic A-frame design or the unbeatable location, this resort delivers a luxurious and convenient Disney experience.
Theming & Atmosphere
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is known for its clean, futuristic aesthetic, featuring bold architecture and a sleek, modern design. The resort’s open atrium showcases a striking 90-foot mural by Disney legend Mary Blair, adding a touch of whimsy to its sophisticated atmosphere. With monorails gliding through the center of the resort and breathtaking views of Cinderella Castle or Bay Lake, the Contemporary combines retro-futuristic style with premium comfort.
Room Options & Accommodations
The Contemporary Resort offers several room types to accommodate a variety of guests.
Main Tower Rooms:
Stunning views of either Magic Kingdom or Bay Lake.
Options include rooms with two Queen beds and 1 day bed or a King bed and 1 day bed.
Club Level accommodations available for an extra touch of luxury.
Garden Wing Rooms:
Located in a separate building near the main tower.
Features views of the lake, gardens, or parking area.
Options include rooms with 2 Queen beds and 1 Day bed or 2 Queen beds or a King bed
Offers a quieter, more secluded experience compared to the Main Tower.
Bay Lake Tower:
Disney Vacation Club (DVC) villa-style accommodations.
Options range from Deluxe Studios to 3-Bedroom Grand Villas.
Includes kitchenettes or full kitchens, plus separate living areas.
💡 Pro Tip: If you want to be as close to Magic Kingdom as possible, opt for a Theme Park View room in the Main Tower.
Garden Wing Location & Distance
The Garden Wing is located to the side of the Main Tower, offering a quieter setting with views of Bay Lake or a courtyard. While it is a separate building, it’s only about a 5-minute walk from the Main Tower, where dining, shopping, and monorail access are located. This makes it a great option for guests who want a slightly more secluded stay (or a lower priced stay) while still being close to all the Contemporary’s main amenities.
Dining Options
Disney’s Contemporary Resort boasts some of the best dining at Walt Disney World, with options ranging from casual to fine dining.
California Grill (Signature Dining)
Located on the 15th floor, this restaurant offers incredible panoramic views of Magic Kingdom and the fireworks. Known for fresh sushi, artisan pizzas, and a seasonal menu, this is one of Disney’s premier dining experiences.
Hours: 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM
Advance Reservations Required
Dining Plans Not Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Chef Mickey’s (Character Dining)
A must-visit for families, Chef Mickey’s offers an all-you-can-eat buffet with Mickey and friends stopping by for fun table visits.
Hours: Breakfast – 7:30 AM to 12:30 PM & Dinner – 5:00 PM to 9:30 PM
Advance Reservations Recommended
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Steakhouse 71 (Casual Dining)
This modern steakhouse pays tribute to Disney’s early years and serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with hearty American favorites.
Hours: 7:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Advance Reservations Recommended
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Contempo Café (Quick Service)
A convenient quick-service option serving fresh pastries, sandwiches, salads, and classic Disney snacks.
Hours: 6:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Mobile Order Available
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Cove Bar (Pool Bar)
A relaxing poolside bar at Bay Lake Tower featuring cocktails, beer, and light snacks.
Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Walk-Up Only
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Contemporary Grounds (Coffee Bar)
A great stop for Joffrey’s Coffee, pastries, and grab-and-go breakfast items.
Hours: 6:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Walk-Up Only
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Outer Rim (Lounge)
A laid-back lounge with panoramic views of Bay Lake, offering specialty cocktails, beer, and wine.
Hours: 2:00 PM – 12:00 PM
Walk-Up Only
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
The Sand Bar (Pool Bar)
A casual spot near the main pool serving tropical drinks, beer, and light poolside bites.
Hours: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM
Walk-Up Only
Dining Plans Accepted
Dining Menu Linked Here
Recreation & Amenities
The Contemporary Resort offers plenty of entertainment and activities beyond the parks.
Feature Pool & Water Play Area – A lakeside pool with a waterslide and splash area for kids.
Cabana Rentals - Kick back in luxury beside the Bay Pool as you unwind in your very own private cabana.
Bay Lake Marina – Rent boats, enjoy fishing excursions, or try parasailing.
The Game Station Arcade – A fun spot for classic and modern video games.
Movies Under the Stars – Nightly Disney movie screenings.\
Jogging Trails – Enjoy scenic paths along Bay Lake and around the resort.
Sports - Enjoy volleyball and tennis
Extended Evening Hours
As a Deluxe Resort, guests staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort 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
One of the biggest perks of staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is its unparalleled proximity to Magic Kingdom.
🚝 Monorail Access: The resort is on the Monorail loop, providing quick transportation to Magic Kingdom and easy transfers to EPCOT.
🚶 Walkability: A short 10-minute walk brings you straight to Magic Kingdom’s entrance.
🚌 Disney Bus Service: Available to Animal Kingdom, Hollywood Studios, Disney Springs, and water parks.
🚤 Boat Transportation: Scenic boat rides available to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness Resort.
Location
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is just steps away from Magic Kingdom, making it one of the most convenient resorts for guests who want to maximize their time in the park. The resort also offers easy access to EPCOT via the monorail. Plus, with a walkway to Magic Kingdom and monorail connections to Disney’s Grand Floridian and Polynesian Village Resort, you’ll have plenty of nearby dining and entertainment options.
This is an old map, but it still gives you a great idea of where the resort is located.
Cost & Value
As a Deluxe Resort, the Contemporary is one of the pricier Disney hotels, with rates typically ranging from $500 to $900 per night. Bay Lake Tower villas can be even higher, especially for larger accommodations.
Pros & Cons
Pros:
✔️ Unbeatable location—walk to Magic Kingdom!
✔️ Monorail access to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT.
✔️ Stunning views of the park and fireworks.
✔️ Top-tier dining, including California Grill and Chef Mickey’s.
✔️ Spacious villa options at Bay Lake Tower.
Cons:
❌ Higher price point compared to other resorts.
❌ Monorail can be crowded during peak hours.
Final Thoughts & Who Should Stay Here
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is perfect for families, couples, and anyone looking for luxury with ultimate convenience. With its walkability to Magic Kingdom, monorail access, and fantastic dining options, it’s an excellent choice for those wanting to maximize their time in the parks while staying in a stylish and modern setting. If you’re looking for a blend of nostalgia and upscale comfort, this resort is a fantastic pick!
If you’re considering a stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, I’d love to help you plan! Start Planning Here.
