The magic of Disney World is something that draws people from all corners of the globe. From fairy tales brought to life to thrilling rides and unforgettable experiences, there’s something for everyone at Disney World. But where is the closest Disney World to you? That depends on where you are in the world.
The “closest” Disney World would depend on your geographical location. There are six Disney World resorts worldwide – in Florida and California in the United States, Tokyo in Japan, Paris in France, Hong Kong, and Shanghai in China. You can use the Maps of Resorts on the official Walt Disney World Resort website or the My Disney Experience app to determine which is closest to you.
Disney World Resorts Worldwide
There are six Disney resorts located worldwide, each offering a unique experience and a taste of the magic that Disney is known for. Here’s a rundown of the resorts and their locations:
- Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, United States: Home to four theme parks – Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom.
- Disneyland Resort in California, United States: Consists of two theme parks – Disneyland and Disney California Adventure.
- Tokyo Disney Resort in Japan: Comprises two theme parks – Tokyo Disneyland and Tokyo DisneySea.
- Disneyland Paris in France: Houses two theme parks – Disneyland Paris and Walt Disney Studios Park.
- Hong Kong Disneyland Resort in Hong Kong: Features one theme park – Hong Kong Disneyland.
- Shanghai Disney Resort in China: Boasts one theme park – Shanghai Disneyland.
These resorts are spread across three continents – North America, Europe, and Asia.
Factors to Consider When Determining the “Closest” Disney World
When determining the “closest” Disney World, several factors come into play. It’s not just about geographical proximity. Here’s what you need to consider:
- Location: This refers to the proximity of the resort to the Disney parks you plan to visit the most.
- Transportation: Different resorts offer various transportation options, such as buses, monorails, the Disney Skyliner, and walking paths.
- Budget: Disney World offers resorts at various price points, from value to deluxe.
- Dining: Different resorts offer different dining options, from quick-service to table-service restaurants.
- Amenities: Resorts offer various amenities, such as pools, recreational activities, and views.
- Proximity to other attractions: If you plan to visit other attractions in Orlando, such as Universal Studios or SeaWorld, consider the location of the resort in relation to these attractions.
- Neighborhoods: Research different neighborhoods near Disney, such as Windermere, Celebration, Kissimmee, Davenport, and Winter Garden, to find the best fit for your preferences and needs.
Determining the Closest Disney World Resort
To determine which Disney World resort is closest to you, you can use the Maps of Resorts on the official Walt Disney World Resort website. This map provides an overview of all the resort hotels and their locations relative to the theme parks.
Another option is to use the My Disney Experience app, which provides interactive maps of the parks and resorts, allowing you to see the distances between various locations within the Walt Disney World Resort.
Unique Features of Each Disney World Resort
Each Disney World resort has unique features that may affect a visitor’s choice. Here are some highlights for each resort:
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: Offers an unforgettable experience with over 200 birds and hoofed animals on-site.
- Disney’s Contemporary Resort: Features a sleek futuristic design and a monorail that passes through the main building.
- Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa: Known for its luxury and Victorian theme, it offers fine dining and a full-service spa.
- Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort: Provides an authentic tropical experience with a volcano-themed pool and easy monorail access.
- Disney’s Wilderness Lodge: An intimate resort with a Northwest theme, it features an 82-foot tall stone fireplace and a cascading waterfall.
- Disney’s Yacht Club Resort: A picturesque resort with a New England seaside theme, it’s known for the three-acre Stormalong Bay pool complex.
- Disney’s Boardwalk Inn: Offers a New England seaside theme and is within walking distance of Epcot.
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort: A moderate-priced resort with an island theme, it features white sand beaches and seven pools.
- Disney’s All-Star Music Resort: A value-conscious option with whimsical décor and oversized icons depicting various music genres.
- Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort: An affordable option with larger-than-life sports paraphernalia.
Transportation Options to the Resorts
Several transportation options are available to get to Disney World resorts from major cities or airports. These include Mears Connect, car rental services, rideshare services like Lyft and Uber, and the Orlando Airport Shuttle.
Accommodations and Amenities at the Resorts
Disney World resorts offer a variety of accommodations and amenities for guests, from value to deluxe options. All resorts offer complimentary Wi-Fi, transportation to the theme parks, and access to various recreational activities.
Cost Comparison
The costs associated with visiting each resort vary depending on the category and the specific resort within that category. From value resorts starting at around $120 per night to deluxe resorts that can go over $1000 per night, there’s something for every budget.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
When planning your visit, consider factors such as the length of your stay, your budget, dining preferences, attractions you wish to visit, and the time you plan to spend at the resort. Also, remember to be flexible and open to changes in your plan.
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney World traveler, knowing where the closest Disney World is can help you plan your trip more effectively. No matter where you are in the world, the magic of Disney is never too far away!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the operating hours of Disney World theme parks?
The operating hours of Disney World theme parks vary depending on the season and the specific park. Generally, the parks open between 8:00am and 9:00am and close between 8:00pm and 10:00pm. It’s best to check the official Disney World website for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Are there any discounted tickets available for Disney World resorts?
Yes, Disney often offers various discounts and special deals on park tickets and resort stays. These can include discounts for Florida residents, military personnel, and annual pass holders. Check the official Disney World website or contact Disney directly for the most current information on available discounts.
Can I bring my own food and drinks into Disney World parks?
Yes, you are allowed to bring your own food and non-alcoholic beverages into Disney World parks, as long as they are not in glass containers. However, large coolers and loose or dry ice are not permitted.
Is there a best time of year to visit Disney World?
The “best” time to visit Disney World depends on what you’re looking for. If you want to avoid crowds, the best times to visit are January through early February and August through September. However, keep in mind that some attractions may be closed for refurbishment during these times. If you want to experience special events, like Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party or the Epcot International Food & Wine Festival, you’ll want to plan your visit for the fall.
Are there any age restrictions for certain rides at Disney World?
Yes, some rides at Disney World have height restrictions, and a few have age restrictions. These restrictions are in place for safety reasons. Details about these restrictions can be found on the official Disney World website or the My Disney Experience app.
