Bay Lake Tower at Walt Disney World: The Ultimate DVC Resort


Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort adds a modern touch to the skyline near Magic Kingdom Park at Walt Disney World Resort. It is distinguished by its unique architecture and contemporary design, a feature that resonates with the aesthetics of its neighboring namesake, the Contemporary Resort.

Rising 15 stories, this Disney Vacation Club (DVC) property boasts unparalleled views of both the Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake. Its proximity to Magic Kingdom allows guests the convenience of a short stroll to the park, making it an attractive choice for visitors seeking both luxury and location.

Accommodations at Bay Lake Tower come with a range of options suitable for different group sizes and preferences, featuring modern amenities and comforts that Disney guests have come to expect. The resort’s crescent shape ensures that many of its rooms provide impressive vistas of the surrounding areas. Guests have access to a variety of services, including complimentary self-parking, enhancing the overall experience of their stay.

The number of points needed cost of staying at Bay Lake Tower can vary widely, with a range reflecting the diverse room types, views and time of year. Non DVC members can also stay at this resort on a nightly basis just like any traditional Disney hotel.

If you thinking about staying at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, we would appreciate if you can use our links when making the reservations. Endless Summer is an affiliate with MarriottHilton and Expedia.com and receives a small commission for each stay that was referred by our website.

Resort Overview

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers luxurious villas with modern design elements, conveniently located within walking distance to the Magic Kingdom. It’s a deluxe lakeside hotel that spells elegance and comfort with its array of accommodations and exclusive amenities.

Location and Proximity

Bay Lake Tower benefits from its proximity to Disney’s Magic Kingdom, providing guests with the unique opportunity to walk or take a short monorail ride to the park. The resort is positioned along Bay Lake and is connected by a sky way bridge to Disney’s Contemporary Resort, extending access to additional dining and recreation.

Theme and Design

Designed by renowned architect Charles Gwathmey, Bay Lake Tower blends a sleek, modern aesthetic with the warm playful elements that Disney resorts are known for. The resort features a distinctive ‘C’ shape structure and contemporary interiors complemented by views of Bay Lake or the Magic Kingdom.

Rooms and Accommodations

The accommodation options range from deluxe studios with kitchenettes to one, two, and three-bedroom villas that include full kitchens and living areas. These villas provide a comfortable stay for families and larger groups.

  • Deluxe Studio: Sleeps up to 4, includes a kitchenette, queen-size bed, and a sleeper sofa.
  • One-, Two-, and Three-Bedroom Villas: Feature a full kitchen, living area, and multiple bathrooms with varying bed configurations.

Exclusive Amenities

Bay Lake Tower offers exclusive access to the Top of the World Lounge, a rooftop destination where guests can view the fireworks over the Magic Kingdom. Additionally, guests can enjoy a pool with a waterslide, a community hall, and the Cove Bar.

Dining Options

Adjacent to the resort, Disney’s Contemporary Resort houses dining venues such as the California Grill and Chef Mickey’s where guests can indulge in breakfast and dinner. Bay Lake Tower also provides convenient quick-service options and a pool bar.

Disney Vacation Club Benefits

As part of the Disney Vacation Club resorts, Bay Lake Tower provides benefits such as the use of Magic Bands, Disney Genie+ booking advantages, and periodic refurbishments to ensure the villas maintain high standards for luxury and comfort. Members can enjoy stays at this deluxe resort with their points system.

Accommodation Details

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers a variety of villas with different views and an array of high-quality features, amenities, and club-level services designed for comfort, privacy, and luxury.

Room Types and Views

Bay Lake Tower provides several types of villas to cater to different guest needs and preferences. Guests can choose from 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas, as well as studio villas. Views from these accommodations include:

  • Standard view: Often features obstructed or partial views.
  • Lake view: Overlooks the serene Bay Lake.
  • Theme park view: Offers sights of the bustling Magic Kingdom Park, sometimes including views of Cinderella Castle.

Room Features and Layout

Each villa at Bay Lake Tower has been thoughtfully designed to offer a spacious and relaxing environment. Villas typically include a combination of the following:

  • A master bedroom with a king bed.
  • Additional bedrooms with two queen beds or one queen bed and a sleeper sofa.
  • A living room area for relaxation.
  • A private balcony area for personal enjoyment.

The Grand Villa provides lavish accommodations, featuring expansive space and enhanced luxury for larger parties.

In-Room Amenities

Villas at Bay Lake Tower are equipped with a variety of amenities aimed to provide a convenient and relaxing stay:

  • Fully-equipped kitchen or kitchenette, with appliances such as a refrigerator, microwave, and coffee maker.
  • Washer and dryer in 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom villas.
  • Vacuum cleaner, iron and ironing board, and safe.
  • Room service is available for all guests.

The combination of well-appointed villas with practical in-room amenities ensures a comfortable and memorable stay at Bay Lake Tower, whether guests are seeking to relax or recharge after a day at the parks.

Recreation and Activities

Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers guests a plethora of recreational options, from enchanting pools with waterslides to the opportunity for fitness and relaxation, as well as a variety of entertainment choices and outdoor explorations to delight visitors of all ages.

Pools and Recreation

Guests can bask in the Florida sun at the main pool area, which boasts a waterslide wrapped in an artistic, glass-block design. Enchanting pools create an ideal setting for rest and relaxation. For those seeking a quieter retreat, the all-ages leisure pool provides a more tranquil experience. Kids can delight in their own water play area. Amidst this aquatic haven, there’s ample space around the pools for lounging in comfort.

Fitness and Relaxation

The fitness center offers state-of-the-art equipment for guests intent on maintaining their workout routine. Overlooking Bay Lake, visitors can exercise with a view, making fitness a joy rather than a chore. Afterward, the lounge area affords a serene space to unwind and cool down.

Entertainment Options

Bay Lake Tower provides a variety of entertainment options. At the Top of the World Lounge, guests can enjoy a cocktail with a stunning vista of Magic Kingdom‘s Cinderella Castle. They may even catch the fireworks display. The Community Hall offers family-friendly activities and space for recreation indoors.

Dining and Cuisine

Bay Lake Tower provides guests with a variety of dining experiences, from casual bites by the pool to fine dining with a view of the theme park’s fireworks. The options cater to all palates, whether it’s a quick snack, a family meal, or a romantic dinner for two.

Signature Restaurants

California Grill crowns the adjacent Contemporary Resort, accessible for guests of Bay Lake Tower. It is renowned for its exquisite seasonal fare and striking views of the Magic Kingdom, offering a vantage point for nighttime fireworks. Patrons can indulge in delicacies crafted by expert chefs, making it a sought-after destination for dinner.

Casual Dining and Snacks

For those seeking a more causal dining experience, Steakhouse 71 provides breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a focus on contemporary American cuisine highlighted by fine steaks and specialty cocktails.

Contempo Café is another option for a quick service meal on-the-go. Additionally, Bay Lake Tower hosts The Cove Bar, a pool bar serving light refreshments and snacks—ideal for guests desiring to stay poolside.

Room Dining Experience

Guests can enjoy the comfort and convenience of in-room dining. Those staying in rooms with full kitchens can prepare their own meals, while rooms with kitchenettes provide smaller scale appliances for basic meal prep. For an effortless dining experience, room service is available, offering a range of options from breakfast in bed to a relaxing dinner enjoyed with a theme park view.

Unique Dining Experiences

At the Top of the World Lounge, Bay Lake Tower’s exclusive rooftop venue, guests can enjoy a sophisticated atmosphere with small plates and cocktails paired with panoramic views of Disney’s Magic Kingdom. This lounge is a prime location for viewing the evening fireworks, making it a memorable dining experience.

Planning Your Stay

When organizing a vacation at Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, travelers should focus on details pertaining to bookings, maximizing their stay experience, and understanding transport options. Adhering to these aspects ensures a smooth and enjoyable Disney holiday, especially for families seeking the premium amenities of a deluxe resort on Disney property.

Booking and Reservation Tips

Bay Lake Tower offers a range of accommodations, including options with majestic views of Bay Lake. It is recommended to book early, especially for larger suites such as 3-bedroom Grand Villas, which are in high demand for their spaciousness and suitability for up to 12 adults. These villas come with 4 full bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a living area, perfect for families or large groups. Guests should also consider mid-week stays for potentially lower rates and increased availability. Magic Bands, which serve as room keys and payment methods, are typically included with your stay.

Disney Genie+ and Lightning Lane selections can be made 60 days in advance by guests staying at Bay Lake Tower, providing an edge in planning their visit to the theme parks, including Epcot, which is easily accessible from the resort.

Maximizing Your Experience

To enhance your stay, it is advisable to utilize monorail access for transportation to various parks and attractions. Bay Lake Tower’s proximity to the Magic Kingdom is especially beneficial for guests, as it is at walking distance, allowing for easy re-entry to the park throughout the day. Additionally, families should schedule their dining reservations alongside their park plans to efficiently manage time.

Furthermore, guests can make the most of their time by staying at a deluxe resort with theme. They offer detailed Disney property experiences and recreation such as swimming pools with waterslides and kids’ activities.

Transport and Accessibility

The resort offers complimentary self-parking for guests with vehicles as well as a variety of transportation options.

Transport Mode Destination Notable Benefit
Monorail Magic Kingdom, Epcot Quick and direct access
Bus Transport Various Disney Parks Extensive coverage

Disney’s efficient transport options, such as its monorail system, provide convenient access to Disney’s entertainment venues.

For those preferring to explore Orlando’s attractions outside of Disney, having a personal vehicle or using ride-sharing services may be an ideal choice, given the resort’s central location within Lake Buena Vista, Florida.

Jerry Joyce

Jerry Joyce has been a Florida resident since 1988 and has lived in a variety of places in the South Florida area. Jerry is an avid boater & water sports enthusiast, beach aficionado, a lover of great food, muscle car fan and a theme park annual passholder for many years. Some of his favorite places in Florida include the Florida Keys, Walt Disney World, Cedar Key, the Loxahatchee River, St. Augustine and Ten Thousand islands.

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