Resort Showcase – Disney’s Contemporary Resort & Bay Lake Tower

Easy walking access to the Magic Kingdom is just one reason we love the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower for our clients!

Whether you jumped on at the TTC, or you’re resort hopping along the monorail loop, the next stop in our Resort Showcase series is the Contemporary Resort & Bay Lake Tower.

Opening on October 1, 1971, the Contemporary Resort was one of two hotels that opened alongside the debut of Walt Disney World itself. The Deluxe hotel is known for its distinctive A-frame structure and modern (at least at the time) design details. A 90-foot mural by Disney artist Mary Blair resides inside the main atrium, celebrating Native American culture alongside the Grand Canyon.

In 2009, Bay Lake Tower joined the ranks, boasting 15 stories and nearly 300 studios and villas. The two buildings are connected by an elevated outdoor walkway, making it easy to go back and forth as you please. 

The Contemporary has undergone various refurbishments over the years, most recently in 2021 when Incredibles-themed rooms were added to the roster.

Guests of the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower are among the lucky few to enjoy not only spectacular views of Bay Lake and/or the Magic Kingdom, but also a walkway that puts the Magic Kingdom main gate just steps away from your room.

Refurbishments over the years have kept the Contemporary rooms fresh and modern.

Guest rooms at the Contemporary include Standard Queen or King, along with various sizes and styles of Suites. You can choose what you want to see outside of your window, including Standard, Garden, Lake or even Theme Park views. As you’d imagine, Theme Park-view rooms are a great option if you’d rather watch fireworks from the comfort of your balcony, and Lake View rooms are ideal for catching the Electrical Water Pageant.

You may also choose to stay in the Contemporary’s Garden Wing, a separate building connected to the main atrium by a covered walkway. Because the Garden Wing is only three stories tall, Theme Park views are unavailable, but many prefer this location thanks to the quiet that comes with being off-the-beaten-path.

Just across the walkway at Bay Lake Tower, you can choose from Deluxe Studios, or fully-equipped 1, 2 and 3-bedroom Villas that sleep up to 12 adults. Views mirror those of the Contemporary, so you can look out your window to a relaxing Bay Lake view, or catch the fireworks above the Magic Kingdom.  

The Contemporary also offers rooms and suites with Concierge or Club Level service.

As with the Deluxe resorts we’ve already visited, the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower are well-equipped with the basics.

You’ll have a coffee maker, along with unlimited tea and coffee for the entirety of your stay. Other basic amenities include high-speed WiFi and internet access, a hairdryer, toiletries, a beverage cooler, an iron and ironing board, etc.

Deluxe studios and suites will often also have various kitchen appliances, like a microwave and/or toaster, along with paper plates and utensils.

If you’re looking for more comforts of home, or if you need more space for a larger group, Villas are an excellent route to go. One, two or three-bedroom villas offer all of the essentials, as well as a full kitchen with a refrigerator, stove and oven. You’ll have pots, pans, dishes and flatware, so you don’t need to rely solely on dining reservations or quick service menus. Villas also typically have a DVD player, a more luxurious soaker or jetted tub, and plenty of space to spread out as you please. 

Check out Disney’s resort site for a full list of amenities available at the Contemporary or Bay Lake Tower.

Location, Location, LOCATION!

The immediate proximity to the Magic Kingdom is a huge draw for visitors to the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower. Not only is this property on the monorail loop, but it comes with a walking path right to the Magic Kingdom entrance. This path even has its own security stop, so you can skip the main security lines outside the park. 

Water taxis and ferryboats have previously been an option to take you to Magic Kingdom resort hotels, but service is still paused due to COVID restrictions. We hope to see the boats return soon, as they’re a great option to resort hop or get to dining reservations at other hotels.

If you’re headed to another park or resort elsewhere on Disney property, you can hop on a bus, or take the monorail to the Transportation and Ticket Center and transfer from there.

You may not immediately think of the Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower as culinary hotspots, but this resort is home to some of the most highly-regarded restaurants and lounges on Disney property.

Celebrating a special occasion? California Grill serves up top-notch steaks, seafood, and unmatched views of the Magic Kingdom. We recommend getting your Advanced Dining Reservations early for this restaurant, and aim to be there in time to watch the fireworks like you’ve never seen them before.

If you’re a Disney Vacation Club member, you can’t miss the Top of the World: A Villain’s Lair on the top floor of Bay Lake Tower. Intricate cocktails and appetizers pair well with a stunning view of the Magic Kingdom. Be aware, though, this lounge is among the most exclusive on Disney property. Only Disney Vacation Club members with access to Membership Extras, and who are staying in a WDW Resort hotel can make it past the velvet rope. If you’re not a DVC member, but are a guest on an eligible member’s reservation, consider yourself on the list.

Steakhouse 71 recently replaced The Wave restaurant, specializing in various grilled favorites and comfort sides.

Counter & Quick Service

Contempo Café – Casual American quick service

Contemporary Grounds – Casual American coffee bar with artisanal baked goods. 

Cove Bar – Casual American quick service and bar, serving only resort guests and Disney Vacation Club members. 

Sand Bar – Casual American quick service offering poolside favorites and a full bar.

Table Service & Lounges

Steakhouse 71 – Casual American steakhouse 

Outer Rim – Lounge serving up specialty cocktails and stellar views of Bay Lake.

Fine & Signature Dining

California Grill – Signature Dining, American & seafood with breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom and Bay Lake.

Chef Mickey’s – Casual, family-style American fare with Character Dining options.