If you’re looking for the perfect resort to stay at during your Walt Disney World vacation, look no further than Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa. Sitting just across the lake from Disney Springs — the expansive shopping, dining, and entertainment complex on property — this Disney Vacation Club Resort truly has it all. Whether you’re visiting with friends, family or looking for a romantic getaway, you can find a bit of everything at Saratoga Springs.
Need help planning this amazing getaway? Learn more about Academy Travel — denoted as an Earmarked Diamond Travel Agency by Disney itself — by clicking HERE.
Below are some of our other Disney Resort guides:
- Your Ultimate Guide to Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Your Guide to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge Resort
- A Complete Guide to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
- Your Guide to Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
- Your Guide to Disney’s Beach & Yacht Club Resorts
- Disney’s BoardWalk Inn: A Complete Guide
Overview of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa
As described by Walt Disney World, the resort is “Inspired by historic Saratoga Springs—a late-1800s’ New York retreat famous for its spas and horse racing—this charming, Victorian-style Resort hotel is nestled between rolling golf course greens and the shimmering Lake Buena Vista. Delight in stately Studios and multi-bedroom Villas, dazzling pools and a spa. You can also explore the fun activities and exciting dining options of Disney Springs, just a boat ride away.
Amenities include:
- On-property Transportation with Disney’s Bus System
- These busses run frequently and will take you to the different theme parks, water parks and can also drop you off at Disney Springs if you’d prefer a bus over a boat.
- Complimentary transportation to and from the Orlando International Airport with Disney’s Magical Express
- Disney’s Magical Express is an incredible offering which allows for a seamless and stress free flight experience. By giving Disney your flight information and booking a stay at any resort on property, you can access this magical service, free of charge.
- When you land in Orlando and when you’re headed home, leave your baggage to the skilled cast members who handle your travel and everything will end up where it needs to be. You don’t have to stress about figuring out car service to and from the airport, but instead can kick back and relax on their comfortable and spacious coaches and leave the driving to a responsible member of the Disney family.
- Disney’s Magical Express also runs television programs and trivia on the coaches, to get the whole family excited and start your vacation off right from the moment you land.
- Complimentary boat transportation
- These boats are a great way to enjoy the sunset and get some fresh air on your way to Disney Springs — the shopping, dining, and entertainment district at WDW.
- Wifi throughout the resort
- Parking
- Childcare services
- Merchandise Delivery and Pickup from Disney Springs and the theme parks
- Shop at Disney Springs or ny of the theme parks or resorts on property and leave the heavy lifting to Disney. With this awesome service, you can let them know your resort and your bags will arrive right to where you’re staying so you don’t have to carry it around all day.
- Fun fact– you can also ship your items home from the parks and resorts so you don’t have to worry about making room in your luggage!
- Spa and Fitness Center
- More details below.
- Resort Concierge
Disney’s Saratoga Springs recreation and activities
As expected with any resort on Disney property, you’ll find an array of activities, both indoor and outdoor, that suit parties of all ages. Below we will break down some of the best things to do at Saratoga Springs for both adults and families.
Pools/Water Recreation
The resort offers five different pools, spread out throughout the property — including The Treehouse Villas — so that no matter where you’re staying, you can quickly and conveniently access one. With that being said, some of the pools are larger and more exciting in terms of activities and what’s offered. Below, you can find a breakdown of what to expect from each pool, so you can plan which sounds like the right fit for you.
The Paddock Pool offers a 146-foot waterslide for those wanting a little thrill, as well as small children’s play area pool with two miniature slides. If you’d prefer to kick back and relax, you can enjoy a dip in the whirlpool tub or sip on a fruity drink poolside, at the Paddock Grill. While it’s not the largest pool on property, it sets itself apart from some of the other more standard pools in terms of size and activities.
The High Rock Spring Pool is the largest and most lively to visit for a little fun-in-the-sun family time. What many consider the main pool within the resort, The High Rock Spring area features two waterslides (128 foot and a small toddler size slide), a Donald Duck-themed fountain play area, two whirlpool spa hot tubs and the On The Rocks Pool Bar. It’s located right off of the Carriage House (front lobby area) which connects to the gift shop and dining on property. It’s a central location to the main hub of activities, makes it a fun place to spend the day for anyone in the family.
Throughout the day, be on the lookout for the water games team, to play music, host fun poolside challenges, and lead Disney bingo!
If you prefer a potentially quieter experience, you may enjoy one of the three Leisure Pools — The Treehouse, Congress Park, or Grandstand pools. While still enjoyable to lounge at, these offerings are smaller and away from the main hub of the resort. Each has its own whirlpool spa and grilling areas and is able to be accessed by guests of all ages.
Indoor Activities: Arcade/Community Hall Crafts
If you’re looking for indoor activities for families as a chance to wind down or enjoy some rainy day magic, look no further than the Arcade and Community Hall. Only a few steps away from each other, these two different offerings allow something for everyone. Get energized in the arcade, playing both new age and classic games for all ages, or cozy up in the Community Hall for some craft time!
Recreation leaders in the hall will assist in getting you set up to do all sorts of fun activities, whether it be playing with clay, coloring, making magnets, and more. You can also rent equipment or check out games and movies here if you’d prefer to take things back to the comfort of your hotel room for family time.
If you enjoy painting, then you’ll want to be sure to register ahead of time for a Thursday night painting class in the Community Hall. Running from 6:00-8:00 pm, the $35 class is offered to guests ages 12 and up. This unique Disney experience not only allows you a fun evening of bonding and art but also gives you a souvenir to take with you when you’re finished! To book, call the reservations line at (407) 939-7529.
Outdoor Activities: Campfires, Bike Rentals, Golfing, and More
There are endless possibilities for outdoor activities at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. Whether you’re hoping for a high-energy outing with kids, a morning of slow movement and reflection or a day spent golfing with friends — this resort has you covered.
Lake Buena Vista Golf Course
This golf course has hosted the PGA Tour in the past and is regarded as world-class among those who enjoy the sport. As cited by Disney,
“Certified by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary and rated an impressive 4 stars by Golf Digest, the 18-hole course was conceived by Joe Lee and most notably features elevated bunkered greens that put a premium on accurate approach shots. Test your skills and fortitude at the demanding 7th hole with its challenging island green. Reservations are highly recommended but not necessary, and walk-up golfers will try to be accommodated.
Pairing Players: In order to give all Guests the opportunity to play, we do try to pair players into foursomes whenever practical. This promotes a consistent pace of play. For less-skilled golfers who are worried about being paired up, we recommend the 9-hole walking Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course. Additionally, while we can accommodate any size party or group of golfers, we limit players to a maximum of 4 Guests per tee time.
Lessons: Private lessons from PGA instructors are available for an additional fee. Professional lessons are 45 minutes long and can be scheduled for juniors (Guests 5 to 17 years of age) and adults (Guests 18 years of age and up).
For more information on lessons or reserving a spot, please call (407) WDW-GOLF
Fitness and Sports Opportunities
There are various opportunities to engage in fitness and outdoor sporting activities while staying at Disney’s Saratoga Springs. Guests can look forward to Sunrise Yoga classes by the pool, fishing excursions, standard and Surrey bike rentals offered at the Community Hall, Tennis and Basketball Courts with equipment rentals, and beautiful scenic jogging trails that border the lake.
Movies and Campfires Under the Stars
Celebrate good weather and tasty treats with complimentary campfire activities and outdoor screenings of popular Disney films.
“All Guests are welcome, and all activities are complimentary and held on select nights as weather permits. Entertainment is subject to cancellation or change at any time without notice. Activity and entertainment offerings vary by location.
For movie schedules, please check with the Front Desk at your Walt Disney World Resort Hotel, or call (407) 939-2273.”
Dining at Saratoga Springs
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is the perfect resort to stay at if you have an interest in fine dining. Not only does the resort itself have a top-notch restaurant and lounge, but is only a boat ride (or quick walk) from some of the best restaurants on property — located at Disney Springs Shopping and Dining district. A scenic boat ride across the lake is the perfect start to a fun evening at Springs and whether you’re looking for an elegant date night or a themed restaurant for your whole family to enjoy, you can find what you’re looking for at this expansive dining hub.
Prefer the convenience of dining in at your resort? Here at Saratoga, you have that option too. If you’re looking for a sit-down dining experience with an upscale feel, you may be interested in The Turf Club Bar and Grill. This restaurant has a beautifully themed lounge as well, where guests can enjoy a cocktail before being seated if they’d like. Disney recommends reservations for this popular option and describes its theme as a day at the races.
“A hidden gem complete with its own cocktail lounge, this intimate venue recalls a romantic and bygone era.
Nestled alongside Lake Buena Vista Golf Course clubhouse, The Turf Club Bar and Grill is the perfect spot to unwind after a round of golf and one of the best-kept secrets of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
Relax with a beverage at the lounge and shoot some pool, or head on through to the restaurant, where dim lighting and wood-paneled walls create a sophisticated, gentlemanly ambience. Outside, a spacious covered patio affords views of the beautifully landscaped golf course as well as Lake Buena Vista and Disney Springs.
Be transported to turn-of-the-century Upstate New York as you browse vintage equestrian memorabilia: photos of jockeys and their horses, antique riding gear and racing articles of yesteryear.”
Thinking that you’d rather stay on the casual side for dinner? No problem at all. Between The Artist’s Palette, The Paddock Grill, and the various pool bars and snack stands around the resort, you’ll surely be able to find exactly what you’re looking for.
If you’re planning on staying at the resort for more than a few days, you may also find it beneficial to buy one of the souvenir cups that allow for free refills when you visit the quick-service restaurant at your resort.
Academy Travel agents specialized knowledge can help you with FastPass+, Advanced Dining Reservations (ADRs), RunDisney and other special or seasonal events, discounts, and so much more.
Senses Spa – at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Looking for a little relaxation on your Disney vacation? Look no further than Disney’s Senses Spa. Tucked right into the main hub of the resort, Senses offers all kinds of services aimed at making you feel relaxed and renewed. The Spa and 24-hour fitness center fit right into the theme of Saratoga Springs and are designed from top to bottom to look like the classic 19th-century wellness retreats that could be visited in Upstate New York. Below we have a list of some of the offerings and what to expect from Senses Spa, shared by the Disney website.
For an extensive list of services including pricing, click HERE to be redirected to their website!
“Rejuvenation awaits you in a serene sanctuary that captures the pastoral beauty of the American countryside. Here, nature meets nurture.
Reminiscent of New York’s legendary mineral springs, the spa will transport you to another era—to a time when people looked to the land for health and prosperity. It’s a timeless haven of pampering and relaxation, with therapeutic elixirs, soft lighting, comforting music and soothing spa services, such as:
- Massage therapies
- Facial treatments
- Body therapies and wraps
- Wet relaxation space with a whirlpool, heated loungers and a steam room
- A relaxation room
Each experiences is designed to renew you—mind, body and spirit.
24-Hour Fitness Center
Keep fit while on vacation with state-of-the-art Life Fitness and Hammer Strength equipment located in the exercise center. Work-out machines including treadmills, bicycles (standard and recumbent), elliptical machines and stair climbers are available to Guests of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa for the ultimate cardiovascular work-out. Free weights and strength-training equipment are also on site for those looking to pump iron.”
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Room Types and Pricing
All room information and pricing is taken directly from the Walt Disney World website and reflect current pricing. Keep in mind that as with any Disney Resort, these prices will fluctuate over time based on season, day of the week, and project busyness of the property.
For the most accurate pricing for your trip, visit the Walt Disney World website and enter the dates that you plan on visiting or call their reservations line at (407) 939-5277 for more detailed information. Prices also differ for Florida Residents, Disney Annual Passholders, Disney Vacation Club Members or U.S. Military. The Disney reservation line will be able to answer specific questions about pricing and deals that relate to any of the above.
Room Types:
Deluxe Studio ($456.50)
- Views of Garden, Lake, Pool, Woodlands or Fairways
Deluxe Studio – Preferred ($525.50)
- Sleeps up to 4 Adults
- Spacious accommodations include a kitchenette with small fridge and microwave, and porch or balcony
1 Bedroom Villa ($607.17)
- Views of Garden, Lake, Pool, Woodlands or Fairways
- 1 King Bed and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa
1 Bedroom Villa – Preferred ($696.33)
- Views of Garden, Courtyard, Woodlands or Water
Close to Disney Springs or to The Carriage House and Dining- 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa and 1 King Bed
2 Bedroom Villa ($805.00)
- 1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa
2 Bedroom Villa – Preferred ($973.50)
- 1 King Bed and 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa
- Great for a large family, villas include a full kitchen, dining area, washer and dryer
Treehouse Villa ($1,009.00)
- Views of Woodlands
- Sleeps up to 9 Adults
- Unique accommodation includes 3 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, and a full kitchen elevated off the ground
3 Bedroom Grand Villa (Call for rates)
- Views of Garden, Lake, Pool, Woodlands or Fairways
3 Bedroom Grand Villa – Preferred (Call for rates)
- 1 King Bed and 4 Queen Beds and 1 Queen-Size Sleeper Sofa
Want to figure out the right resort fit for your Walt Disney World vacation? When you use Academy Travel to book your vacation, you don’t pay any extra fees or commissions. In fact, most people will save money with the assistance of an Academy Travel agent because they know of discounts and vacation packages of which many are unaware.For more information about Academy Travel and the services they offer, you can visit their websites at www.mickeyvacations.com, and www.academytravel.com.
A Family’s Experience at Saratoga Springs
My family has been visiting Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa every year since I was twelve years old. My parents joined the Disney Vacation Club and ever since that year, this resort has truly felt like a home away from home. We’ve made incredible memories on this property that wouldn’t be possible without the very evident Disney magic and hardworking cast members that feel like family to all who visit.
If you’re wondering why you should choose this resort over countless other options both on and off Disney property, I could give you a long list of reasons. But instead, I’ll keep it simple and just say that this beautiful resort encompasses all of the comfortable warmth of home, with the delightful and extravagant feelings of vacation. Add in top-notch hospitality and stunning displays of art and detail found everywhere you look, you won’t want to leave and you will definitely be back to visit.
Looking for more Disney guides to help you out with planning/executing a stress-free vacation? Look no further, we’ve got you covered. Below find some of the latest guides on Inside The Magic.
- Ultimate Guide to Disney Villains After Hours
- A Guide to Disney’s 2020 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival
- A Complete Dining Guide To All The Restaurants At Magic Kingdom in Disney World
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