Disney's Boardwalk Inn

We were staying at another property, so we only came over to visit. The boardwalk was easy to get around and not crowded, and I really liked the theme and the whole idea. Its central spot makes it easy to walk to Hollywood Studios or Epcot, as well as a few nearby resorts. I hope the area keeps thriving, since I noticed several businesses were shuttered. The new Cake Bake shop is gorgeous and has tasty treats, though an iced coffee with no add-ins was $15 and only okay. Still, it’s a nice place for a walk when you want a break from the busy parks.

The room setup was so well thought out. Our villa studio had a preferred view, a queen bed, a pulldown Murphy bed, and an additional twin bed that folded down. I also spent plenty of quiet time on the balcony, watching the lake lights reflect on Cake Shop and catching the Epcot fireworks at night. The kids had activities on the big courtyard lawn, and we could hear the magic shows. It was just perfect. The hotel’s seaside boardwalk theme is charming, and everyone I met was incredibly kind and helpful. I even fell asleep in one of the inviting rocking chairs on the back porch. Over the holidays there was a big gingerbread house, and the pastry chef who made it came out to greet people. They had a special pin that smelled like gingerbread, the only Disney pin we have with that feature. Being between Epcot and HS made for lovely strolls, and we enjoyed the boat rides too. This is my favorite Disney hotel so far. There’s something magical about it, and I can’t wait to come back.

You’re paying more for the location, but there’s a lot within an easy walk: Swan and Dolphin, Beach and Yacht Club, Hollywood Studios, and Epcot. A nighttime stroll around Crescent Lake is especially pretty. If you need a break from the parks, you can take a bus over from Disney Springs or any of the theme parks. Parking is limited to resort guests and people with dining reservations. The place feels like Atlantic City at the turn of the century, right on Crescent Lake. There are lots of restaurants and live entertainment, including street performers after sunset. The dueling piano bar has closed, though the Atlantic Dance Hall is still there with no cover charge. You can rent a surrey bike, try the carnival games, shop, or pick up a snack at the gift shop. Disney’s Boardwalk Villas are on Epcot Resorts Blvd.

I rarely leave a negative review, but I felt this was worth mentioning. My mom, who’s in her 70s, was treated with respect and kindness. I assume they thought she was the paying guest, but she wasn’t. My husband was repeatedly asked if he worked there, and staff seemed to mistake us for grocery delivery or Uber drivers, or anyone but paying customers. We were met with cold indifference and felt deeply disrespected. I’ve never had an experience like it, and I won’t stay here again.