Discover the Charm of Boardwalk Disney: Where to Eat, Play, & Stay

If you’re in search of a travel destination that offers nostalgic seaside charm blended seamlessly with the enchanting world of Disney, look no further than Disney’s BoardWalk.

Sprawling over a quarter mile along the glittering waterfront, this homage to the turn-of-the-century Coney Island and Atlantic City boasts a stunning array of Disney BoardWalk restaurants, things to do, and unique accommodations that cater to both the young and the young at heart.

With so much to explore and experience, let us delve deeper into the magical allure of Disney’s BoardWalk, guiding you through where to eat, play, and stay in this idyllic Disney World setting.

Proximity Perks: EPCOT and Hollywood Studios Near Disney’s BoardWalk

Both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios are conveniently close to BoardWalk Disney. Imagine the joy of stepping out from your accommodations onto a quarter-mile promenade capturing the charm of Coney Island and Atlantic City, knowing that you’re mere moments away from two of Disney’s iconic theme parks!

But how can you get to these parks from the BoardWalk? You can access Disney’s BoardWalk by a charming boat ride or a leisurely walk from EPCOT’s International Gateway and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

If you’re coming from the other theme parks or Disney Springs, a bus service is available for your convenience. Whether you’re heading to EPCOT for the spectacular fireworks shows or embarking on an adventure-filled day in Hollywood Studios, Disney’s BoardWalk ensures a hassle-free commute.

If walking isn’t your style, consider indulging in some wheel fun. Surrey Bikes, one of the BoardWalk’s main attractions, are available for guests to hire.

Get some exercise while soaking in the delightful views as you pedal your way around the lagoon and make your journey to the parks just as enjoyable as the destination itself.

Mickey, Pluto, and Goofy Garden Sculptures at Disney's Epcot International Flower & Garden Festival - Orlando, Florida, USA

Feasting at Disney’s BoardWalk: Top-Rated Restaurants

Flying Fish

At the heart of Disney BoardWalk’s culinary scene is the renowned Flying Fish restaurant. By focusing on the art of seafood, this nighttime hotspot presents a delightful sensory experience to its visitors.

Whether it’s the tender Spanish Octopus or the much-loved Chilean Sea Bass paired with Miso Blue Crab, each dish is thoughtfully crafted to offer a harmonious blend of flavors.

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Beyond seafood, Flying Fish also serves a range of sushi to satisfy varied palates, making it an integral part of your food journey at Disney BoardWalk.

Trattoria al Forno

Embark on a culinary journey to Italy without leaving Disney’s BoardWalk when you visit Trattoria al Forno. A haven for lovers of authentic Italian cuisine, this restaurant is renowned for its Lasagna al Forno, a mouthwatering medley of Italian cheeses, beef, veal, pork, and herbed ricotta.

And let’s not forget dessert – their Tiramisu features ladyfingers drenched in rich espresso, paired with creamy Italian Mascarpone. If you come in the morning, you could get a character breakfast with Rapunzel and Flynn Rider!

Jellyrolls

Experience an electrifying night at Jellyrolls, a hidden gem along the Disney BoardWalk. This vibrant adults-only venue is home to two dueling pianos and a playlist that spans decades. Soak in the lively tempo as skilled pianists play your favorite tunes from the ’70s, ’80s, ’90s, and beyond.

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With a cover charge of $18, Jellyrolls opens its doors nightly from 7 PM to 1:45 AM, exclusively to guests aged 21 and above. Have a memorable time singing along, laughing out loud, and toasting to the good times – a rendezvous at Jellyrolls is sure to make your Disney experience unforgettable.

BoardWalk Bakery

If you’re looking for a laid-back breakfast stop serving delicious eats all day, then the BoardWalk Bakery is a must-visit on the Disney BoardWalk. Feel the wafting scent of fresh croissants, muffins, and scones draw you in as you admire the classic bakery setting.

Aside from the fantastic pastries, you’ll also find hot and cold sandwiches perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. An essential stop for those with a sweet tooth, the bakery also carries crumbly cookies and, of course, classic Disney-themed cupcakes!

entrance of Disney BoardWalk

Ample Hills Creamery

For a sweet retreat at Disney BoardWalk, Ample Hills Creamery is simply unskippable! Known for its luxuriously rich, artisan ice cream, it whisks you into classic Americana.

Here, you’ll find a riot of flavors pleasing to both kids and adults – from delightful vanilla to the unique Ooey Gooey Butter Cake.

Ice cream cones, sundaes, and shakes are churned out from mid-afternoon till late at night, ensuring a delightful dessert or a delectable cure for evening cravings.

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With each scoop carrying a true artisan touch, Ample Hills elevates the classic ice cream experience to sublime deliciousness.

AbracadaBar

A visit to Disney’s BoardWalk isn’t complete without stopping by the AbracadaBar. This unique establishment whisks you back to the Golden Age of Magic, each sip of your cocktail revealing another layer to the intriguing tale of its magician founders.

Open from 4 PM till the very wee hours, AbracadaBar serves a range of Curious Cocktails, Worldly Wines, and Baffling Beers, each one as riveting as the lounge’s history.

So sit back, order an Abra Fries along with your cocktail, and watch the atmosphere come alive with enchantment and a dash of elegant nostalgia.

Disney BoardWalk Hotels

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

Immerse yourself in the charm of the turn-of-the-century Atlantic City at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. A quarter-mile promenade of exquisite dining, unique shops, and exciting nightlife, this deluxe resort also adjoins the thrilling EPCOT and Hollywood Studios.

The Inn is a reimagining of the golden era of seaside resorts, featuring beautiful gardens, a carnival-themed pool, and surrey bikes. Evoking yesteryear grandeur, this Disney establishment ensures a magical and memorable stay for its patrons.

Disney’s BoardWalk Villas

Looking for the best Disney BoardWalk Resort? If you crave the enchantment of a waterfront adventure during your trip to Walt Disney World Resort, Disney’s BoardWalk Villas should be on your radar.

This deluxe resort, designed with the elegance of 1940s Atlantic City in mind, offers spacious and homely accommodations with a touch of vintage charm. From deluxe studio rooms to one and two-bedroom villas, it caters to a range of guest needs.

With amenities like charming pools, fitness centers, and convenient access to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT, Disney’s BoardWalk Villas is a dream stay for any guest.

Aside from having access to the bustling BoardWalk, guests can also choose from a variety of dining, shopping, and entertainment options just walking distance from their villas.

Pool and Exterior View of Disney's Yacht Club Resort - Orlando, Florida, USA

Disney’s Yacht Club Resort

Step into the elegant harborside ambiance of Disney’s Yacht Club Resort. This deluxe resort, reminiscent of New England’s yachting clubs, offers a luxurious stay, with sophisticated rooms complemented by nautical-themed decor.

Guests can benefit from superb dining options that pair high-end seafood and steak entrées with panoramic views of Crescent Lake.

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Furthermore, the exceptional location near EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios sets an unmatched tone for your Disney vacation experience and makes it a coveted choice among Disney BoardWalk hotels.

Disney’s Beach Club Resort

Experience luxurious accommodations with a subtle touch of elegance at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. This New England-style beach hotel promises a relaxing and sun-soaked getaway amidst Disney’s enchanting charm.

Its proximity to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios makes it perfect for those looking to explore the marvels of Disney’s theme parks.

Here, you also get premier access to Stormalong Bay—a beachfront water wonderland—and a unique dining experience in its superb restaurants, adding to the overall magic of your Disney vacation.

exterior night view of pool and resort at Disney’s Beach Club Resort in Orlando, Florida, USA

Where to Stay Near Disney BoardWalk

Walt Disney World Swan Hotel

Situated merely footsteps away from Disney’s enchanting BoardWalk, the Walt Disney World Swan Hotel is an oasis of elegance and comfort.

Renowned for its sophisticated charm, the hotel offers luxurious accommodations alongside various premium amenities. Close to the hotel, you can enjoy swift access to both EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

What’s more, food connoisseurs will find delight in the Swan Hotel’s diverse collection of gourmet dining options, including the renowned Il Mulino.

Whether you’re looking to relax by the poolside or explore the exhilarating theme parks, this hotel offers a remarkable base for your Disney adventure.

Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel

Immerse yourself in the sea-inspired elegance of the Walt Disney World Dolphin Hotel. Known for its unique architecture and stunning views, this deluxe resort is a gem nestled in the heart of the Walt Disney World Resort. You’ll find the hotel packed with luxury amenities designed for utmost comfort.

What’s more, it’s conveniently located near the thematic beauty of EPCOT and the magic-filled Disney’s Hollywood Studios.

Treat yourself to the renowned dining experience of Bluezoo, which serves expertly crafted seafood dishes. Enjoy valet parking, and take a stroll down the Disney BoardWalk in the evening for a memorable end to your day.

Wide shot of a large resort hotel with two huge swan sculptures on top of it next to a lake with a boardwalk and a ferry boat

Disney BoardWalk Shops: Interesting Stores Worth Visiting

Dundy’s Sundries: Find Unique Disney Pins

Make sure to stop by Dundy’s Sundries for a myriad of eclectic Disney pins. Whether you’re a seasoned pin trader or just beginning your collection, you’ll find a wealth of unique designs to choose from, from the iconic Mickey Mouse to your favorite Pixar characters.

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As a bonus, you may even find limited edition series and commemorative pins from special events at the Walt Disney World Resort.

cinderella holding hands with a girl in pink shirt and glasses at walt disney world in Orlando, Florida, USA
photo credit: Travel Kreations via Facebook

Character Carnival: Shop Fun Costumes for Kids

Enter the magical realm of Disney’s Character Carnival, where you’ll find enchanting costumes that’ll pique the imagination of every child.

This vibrant store carries a range of Disney character-themed costumes – perfect for transforming your little one into their favorite Disney hero or princess!

With a costume from Character Carnival, your child can relive magical Disney moments and create lasting memories that extend well beyond your vacation.

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The store also offers exciting accessories to further enhance the costume experience. So whether it’s for the pure fun of dress-up or preparing for a special Disney event, Character Carnival should be your go-to stop.

Wyland Galleries: Explore Paintings, Sculptures, and Prints

Stepping into Wyland Galleries, you’ll find yourself immersed in a world of creativity and vivacious colors. This gallery is a must-visit for art enthusiasts staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Resort or nearby.

It features an eclectic collection of paintings, sculptures, and prints by renowned marine life artist Wyland. It’s perfect for picking up a unique souvenir or simply absorbing the tranquility of these awe-inspiring works.

Beyond the stunning visuals, the gallery also offers interactive experiences, allowing you to delve deeper into the artistry and stories behind the impressive pieces.

christmas lights at disneyland Sleeping Beauty's castle

Thimbles and Threads: Restock Fabrics, Sewing Supplies, and Crafts

At Thimbles and Threads, you’ll find an exciting variety of high-quality fabrics, unique sewing supplies, and a plethora of crafts. This charming Disney BoardWalk shop is a haven for craft lovers of all ages.

Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or a DIY enthusiast, Thimbles and Threads offer an array of vibrant patterns, handy tools, and delightful crafting kits to make your dreams come true.

It’s also the perfect place to pick up a hands-on souvenir that captures the magic of Disney. Enjoy exploring shelves gleaming with the charm of creativity and the sparkle of imagination!

Disney Boardwalk FAQs

Spanning approximately a quarter mile along the shimmering Crescent Lake, Disney’s BoardWalk mimics the enchanting oceanfront promenades of Coney Island and Atlantic City. It’s an expansive space rich in its nostalgic aesthetic of the 1940s, fostering unlimited fun, dining, and entertainment options.

Of course, it’s worth staying at Disney BoardWalk hotels! The proximity to key theme parks, the panoply of dining options, and the unique charm of this Coney Island and Atlantic City-inspired area make it an unbeatable choice for an unforgettable Disney experience.

Plus, the array of amenities on offer—from cozy rooms to stunning views to delightful entertainment options—go a long way in ensuring your stay is as magical as the enchanting environment that surrounds you.

Got Your Disney Discount Tickets Yet?

If you haven’t grabbed your Disney World discount tickets yet, now is the time.

Not only can you secure these coveted passes on Tripster, but there’s also the opportunity to ramp up your savings by bundling your hotel stay with your ticket purchase.

Exceptional accommodations like the Walt Disney World Swan and Walt Disney World Dolphin are currently offering their rooms at unbeatable low rates. It’s a win-win for both adventure and relaxation all under the enchanting Disney skyline.

Seize the magic today by purchasing your discounted Disney World tickets and securing your dream hotel stay!

What Did We Miss?

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Written by Nicole King

There are only two things that make Nicole really happy–books and travel! When her head’s not buried in a book, she’s most likely...


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