The Boardwalk
Walt Disney World is made up of so many different areas its easy to overlook or not visit a certain area. There is the Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, Epcot and Hollywood Studios along with Blizzard Beach and Typhoon Lagoon, but two areas that get overlooked by many on their trip, one more than the other are, Disney Springs and The Boardwalk. Yes, I know when most go to Disney World they are mainly there to visit the theme parks and stay at their home resort. But, I always suggest setting aside some time to visit Disney Springs and The Boardwalk to get a break from the theme atmosphere.
Nestled away between Epcot and Hollywood studios is an area that many do not know about or think its even worthy of their time to see, The Boardwalk. This is my personal favorite area in Disney World which features The Boardwalk, Yacht Club, Beach Club, The Dolphin and The Swan resorts. Each of these amazing resorts are all just a walk away from each other and located around Crescent Lake. The resorts here give guests the ability to walk to Epcot or take a Friendship Boat to Hollywood Studios which also provides a feeling of exclusivity and seclusion in a great way that in my opinion no other resort in Disney World can provide.
The Boardwalk is modeled after Atlantic City from the period of the 1920’s and 30’s. For those who have never been to Atlantic City, it captures the feeling of an amusement park on the water without the amusement rides. Its various games and foods that you would find on the boardwalk almost make you think of Coney Island. At night however is when Crescent Lake and The Boardwalk come to life. The lights come on from all the neighboring resorts and you are engulfed in a completely different atmosphere, not to mention you are able to see Spaceship Earth from the right spots. How Disney constructed this area truly is magical and is what Disney imagineering is all about.
If you are hungry, then you have come to the right place. The Boardwalk is filled with various restaurants that you can try out just by walking a couple of steps. Some of my favorite places to eat include the Flying Fish, Trattoria al Forno, Big River Grille & Brewing Works and the ESPN Club. For you sweet lovers make sure you try the Boardwalk Bakery and the Ample Hills Creamery which have some of the best treats and ice cream on property. That’s not all, for all you who like to go out for some nightlife, make sure you visit Jellyrolls a dueling piano bar and AbracadaBar which is themed around a magicians dream. Here you will sample drinks that change before your eyes in a Houdini inspired atmosphere. Lastly, for those who like to cut loose and listen to music, make your way to the Atlantic Dance Hall which has a massive dance floor and plays music nightly.
So for those interested in seeing this hidden gem it is worth the trip. You can exit your way out the back of EPCOT through the International gateway or catch a Friendship boat from Hollywood studios to experience it for yourselves. Personally I’d suggest staying at one of the resorts which will give you access to 2 of Disney’s best theme parks and its best kept secret, The Boardwalk. If you are interested contact us at Castle Vacations today and we will make sure you have the best Disney experience of your lives! [email protected]