Disney’s Contemporary Resort at Walt Disney World Guide

in Walt Disney World

contemporary resort exterior

Credit: Disney

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a Deluxe Resort at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida and is considered a Magic Kingdom area Resort hotel. It was actually one of the original hotels when the theme park property opened on 50 years ago on October 1, 1971. Disney’s Contemporary is also the only Disney World hotel that the Resort Monorail passes directly through.

disney resort
Credit: Disney

The official website for Disney’s Contemporary Resort describes it as:

Retreat to this ultra-modern Disney Resort hotel and discover award-winning dining, spectacular views and dazzling pools. Whether you’re staying in the iconic A-frame Contemporary tower or the nearby Garden Wing, you can walk to Magic Kingdom main gate or catch the Resort Monorail as it breezes through the tower. Inside, a 90-foot-tall mural by Disney Legend Mary Blair—responsible for the distinct look and feel of the “it’s a small world” attraction—celebrates the Grand Canyon and the American Southwest.

From the rooms offered to dining opportunities to transportation options, Disney’s Contemporary Resort has a lot to offer! If you are looking to book a stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort on your next Walt Disney World vacation, here is a complete guide.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort Lobby

contemporary resort lobby
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Contemporary Resort lobby has actually been under refurbishment for quite some time in 2021, moving into 2022. The lobby is located on the first floor of the Resort and also gives Guests access to the Disney busses, which will take them to the Parks and Disney Springs.

The lobby is one of the newly refurbished areas of Disney’s Contemporary and it now has a mid-century modern feel with a Mary Blair twist! The first thing Guest will see when they walk in is a new mural, which also gives a nod to the one located on the third floor of the hotel.

disney contemporary lobby
Credit: Inside the Magic

The mural extends throughout the lobby, with new couches and furniture to match, as seen in the image above.

Another newly added aspect is next to the check-in desk, where Guests can now use tables as a workstation or just as an area to lounge in (as seen in the image below).

disney contemporary lobby
Credit: Inside the Magic

And while parents are getting work done, or unwinding, children can utilize a nearby area to enjoy a Disney film.

For more information on the newly refurbished lobby, visit our website here.

Rooms at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

contemporary resort new guest room
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a variety of rooms including lake views, garden views, theme park views, and standard views. Depending on the time of year, and the type of room you choose, will affect the cost.

The lake view will give you a view of Bay Lake while a theme park view will give you views of Magic Kingdom.

Amenities at Disney’s Contemporary Resort

disney contemporary
Credit: ITM

Special Fireworks Viewing Area

Disney’s Contemporary offers a special viewing area for Guests to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks — without the massive crowds. But how do you find this secret area? Follow these steps!

For starters, you will want to be on the same floor as the Fantasia Market. Once there, you will want to look past the Fantasia Market where you will find two doors that looks like they are for employees only — but they’re not!

Seven Seas Lagoon at Magic Kingdom

You will get stunning views of Seven Seas Lagoon while staying at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, which Disney describes as:

Behold the beauty of Seven Seas Lagoon, a man-made body of water serving as an aquatic red carpet to Magic Kingdom park.

The planning for Seven Seas Lagoon began back in October 1965; soon more than 7 million cubic yards of earth was moved to create this amazing body of water. It is home to three small islands—Blackbeard Island, Castaway Cay and Beachcomber Island, all of which have played a part in the Disney legacy. Fun Fact—historically, Castaway Cay has been the launching point for perimeter fireworks at Magic Kingdom park!

Today, Seven Seas Lagoon remains a staple of the Walt Disney World Resort, offering fishing excursions, boat rides, fireworks viewing and so much more.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort dining guide

chef mickey
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is filled with various dining options — from sit-down restaurants to quick-service meals to bars and lounges, here is everything this Resort hotel has to offer when it comes to food!

Steakhouse 71

Steakhouse 71 Disney’s contemporary resort
Credit: Disney

Steakhouse 71 is the newest restaurant at Disney’s Contemporary Resort. What makes this menu so unique is that it offers dishes inspired by Walt Disney himself, including The Steakhouse 71 Feast or Walt’s Prime Rib Hash for breakfast as well as French Onion Soup, Prime Rib, 6-oz Filet Mignon or Dry-aged Bone-In Pork Chop for lunch or dinner.

Walt Disney World describes this restaurant as:

A Family-Friendly Steakhouse

Get a taste of Disney heritage when you dine at the newest restaurant in Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Named for the year Disney’s Contemporary Resort first opened, Steakhouse 71 harkens back to the design style of the 1970s, reimagined in a contemporary, comfortable and sleek way. You’ll even notice some Florida flair—such as Orange Bird and citrus groves—mixed in with the décor.

An Inspired Menu

Feast on a delicious menu that offers a nod to Walt Disney himself! Choose from dishes inspired by some of Walt’s favorites, including The Steakhouse 71 Feast or Walt’s Prime Rib Hash for breakfast and French Onion Soup, Prime Rib, 6-oz Filet Mignon or Dry-aged Bone-In Pork Chop for lunch or dinner. Classic cocktails and a portfolio of Disney family wines are also available.

Steakhouse 71 Lounge

Find just the escape you’re looking for! Settle into comfortable lounge seating and sip on beverages reminiscent of the 1970s. Enjoy drinks inspired by the history of the area, including cocktails that evoke scents of citrus groves, and so much more. We also invite you to taste modern interpretations of classic dishes, such as PB&J Chicken Wings, Loaded Macaroni and Cheese and the house classic Bacon and Eggs.

California Grill

california grill sushi
Credit: Disney

If you are looking for an elegant meal, paired with the perfect view of Magic Kingdom’s fireworks, California Grill is the place to dine.

Walt Disney World describes this restaurant as:

Sublime Vistas and Spectacular Cuisine

Experience the flavors of the Pacific Coast at this award-winning restaurant.

Via private elevator, ascend to the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort, where you’ll discover exquisite panoramic views of the shimmering lagoon, Floridian woodland and Cinderella Castle. Inside, enjoy the vibrant sights and sounds of the lively onstage kitchen, where chefs combine global flavors in deliciously inventive new ways.

Gourmet Dining

Californian cuisine celebrates fresh, seasonal ingredients and the international, melting-pot culture of the Golden State.

To complement their entrées, Guests 21 years of age and older can select from an extensive selection of hand-picked wines—most of which are from California. Sommeliers are on hand to offer pairing suggestions, as well as a guided 3-course wine pairing.

Magic Kingdom Fireworks Spectacular

California Grill offers one of the best fireworks dining experiences at Walt Disney World Resort.

Lights dim as the music is piped into the restaurant—immersing Guests in the magic of the night.

Please note that fireworks may be cancelled due to inclement weather and are subject to change.

Chef Mickey’s

chef mickeys
Credit: Disney

Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers one of the most popular character dining experiences on Walt Disney World property — Chef Mickey’s! Dine with Mickey and friends as you indulge in an all-you-care-to-eat, family-style meal (offered for both breakfast and dinner).

Walt Disney World describes Chef Mickey’s as:

Chef Mickey’s Family Feast — Character Dining

Experience Character Dining and an enhanced all-you-care-to-eat, family-style meal in a bright, happy space. As the monorail whizzes by, soak up the expansive views of Bay Lake and behold the stunning 90-foot-high mural by Disney

Legend Mary Blair that overlooks the festive eatery. Each table will receive a special, autographed card keepsake from Mickey and his friends. Throughout the dining experience, Mickey Mouse and some favorite pals will make surprise appearances in each of the dining rooms. See them move throughout the restaurant, waving hello as rollicking music fills the air.

Delight in a Bountiful Breakfast and Savor Delectable Dinner Fare

For breakfast, enjoy sweet and savory breads, Scrambled Eggs, Smoked Bacon, Slow-roasted Beef Brisket, Mickey Waffles and a collection of Chef Mickey’s Signature entrées—including Banana Bread French Toast, “Loaded” Potato-Cheese Casserole and the “Celebration” Mickey Pancake.

Dinner offerings begin with a first course including Chef Mickey’s Caesar Salad and Citrus-Poached Shrimp Salad, followed by a second course with signature items such as the Potato Gnocchi, Roasted Garlic Potato Gratin and Plant-Based Faro Wheat Fried Rice, as well as protein selections featuring Prime Rib, Traditional Roast Breast of Turkey and Salmon. And please save room to end your feast with the Pastry Chef’s sensational, family-style desserts!

Contempo Cafe

contempo cafe
Credit: Disney

Walt Disney World describes this quick-service restaurant as:

Soak up your surroundings as you ponder your next meal. Situated on the Grand Canyon Concourse, this eatery boasts a prime view of monorails buzzing by—and the 90-foot mural by Mary Blair, the legendary artist behind “it’s a small world.” You’ll also find a diverse menu of fare, including flatbreads, salads, sandwiches and a tempting array of cupcakes infused with Disney magic.

Contemporary Grounds

Jump start your morning with a cup of coffee from Contemporary Grounds! Disney describes this coffee shop as:

Featuring gourmet coffees, iced tea, hot chocolate, smoothies and assorted artisan baked goods, this is the perfect place to energize before you venture to the parks! Joffrey’s Coffee™, the Official Specialty Coffee of Walt Disney World Resort.

Cove Bar

cove bar
Credit: Disney

Disney describes Cove Bar as:

Find specialty cocktails, beer, wine, wraps and salads at this private poolside bar for Guests of Bay Lake Tower and Disney Vacation Club members.

Outer Rim

For a more “up-scale” bar, check out the Outer Rim — complete with stunning views and delicious cocktails. Disney describes the Outer Rim as:

Admire stunning views of Bay Lake with specialty cocktails before—or after—dinner. Try a Piña CoLAVA, Watermelon Margarita, Blue “Glow-tini” or more! A full bar menu is also available.

The Sand Bar

Looking for the perfect afternoon spot? Check out The Sand Bar. Here, you can munch on burgers or hot dogs while sipping on a cocktail or sangria! Disney describes this bar as:

Picnic poolside with burgers, hot dogs and more. Tropical cocktails, draft beer, sangria and wine make it even more fun! Or cool off with a full bar menu and some AC inside the enclosed bar. Dessert items are also available.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort reviews and prices

disneys contemporary resort
Credit: Inside the Magic

Disney’s Contemporary Resort currently has a 4.6 star review on Google. Jenn M., who recently stayed at the Resort hotel, gave it a 5-star review, writing:

Unbelievable club atrium level! The food is prepared by the restaurant upstairs – the California Grill – it is sofisticated and just down right yummy. The cast members have worked so hard to bring this club level back to life during the pandemic. You can tell that they really care and that makes the experience all the better. It is really nice having food options available until 10pm. This gave us so much flexibility. We just had one sit down lunch per day in the parks and we never had to buy dinner. The recent room renovations made outstanding use of the space. I loved how the couch folded into a single bed without spilling out into the rest of the room. All of the shelves and outlets were quite useful as well. …and of course, gotta love the rain shower! For convenience to the parks, the Contemporary can’t be beat!

And user T MB, who also gave Disney’s Contemporary a 5-star review, stated:

This is a great hotel for a family with younger children. The under 12 crowd will love it here. There is Chef Mickey’s for them which is super fun. The new steakhouse 71 is delicious. The location to Magic Kingdom is walking distance. If you have a sensory sensitive child get a room facing the park and go there to watch the magic kingdom show. All the magic without the crowd.

Start Planning Your Trip to a Galaxy Far, Far Away

disneys contemporary resort
Credit: Inside the Magic

If you want to stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort but aren’t sure where to begin planning — Don’t hesitate to reach out to our friends over at Academy Travel.

Founded in 1996, Academy Travel is celebrating over 20 years in business and as the original “Disney Exclusive” travel agency. Academy Travel has earned the highest designation that Disney can bestow upon a travel agency, EarMarked Diamond!

Academy Travel is an Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and has been designated as a Diamond EarMarked Travel Agency specializing in Walt Disney World, Disneyland Resort, Disney Cruise Line, and Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa.

So what are you waiting for? Start planning your dream Disney vacation today!

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