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Boardwalk Inn vs Boardwalk Villas at Disney World: Which Should You Choose?

Do you really know the big differences between the Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas? The truth might surprise you.

It could change your opinion on the best Disney resort for your next trip.

Exploring the Difference Between Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas

Disney resorts like the Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas each bring something special. The Boardwalk Inn is a classic Disney hotel with comfy rooms. These rooms can fit up to five people and have a coffee maker, fridge, and housekeeping help.

Those staying at the Boardwalk Inn get to step into a Coney Island-inspired world. Plus, Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are just a hop away.

Boardwalk Villas: Disney Vacation Club Accommodations

The Boardwalk Villas, on the other hand, belong to the Disney Vacation Club. They offer bigger villa-style spots. Here, you’ll find kitchenettes with a fridge, microwave, and coffee maker, as well as living and sleeping spaces.

They’re great for families or anyone wanting more than the standard hotel room. You’ll also have on-site laundry to make your stay more relaxed.

Boardwalk Inn vs Boardwalk Villas: Which Disney Resort?

While they may sound similar in name, there are many differences between the Boardwalk Villas and the Boardwalk Inn. Here’s a breakdown of what they both offer.

Room Types and Amenities

When picking between the Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas, you must look at the rooms and amenities. The Boardwalk Inn has cozy hotel rooms with two queen beds, a day bed, or a king bed. The Boardwalk Villas have studios, one-bedrooms, and two-bedrooms for more space. They both let you use the Luna Park pool and its fun water slide.

Location and Transportation

Both Disney spots are by the Crescent Lake. They’re also a walk away from Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. You can walk, take a boat, or use the Disney Skyliner to get there. To visit other Disney parks, buses are ready at both places.

Dining and Entertainment Options

The Boardwalk area is a big hit for guests of the Inn and Villas. It has plenty of places to eat, from quick bites to fancy dinners at Trattoria al Forno. You’ll also find fun things to do, like watching street performers and visiting Jellyrolls, where they play music. This all makes the area feel like a lively Coney Island.

A Taste of Coney Island Charm

Coney Island is an entertainment area in New York City. It’s famous for its lights, beaches, and boardwalks. And staying at either of these resorts gives you the complete package!

Theming and Atmosphere

The Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas take you to Coney Island’s charm. They make you feel like you’re on a 20th-century boardwalk. With a carousel chandelier and vintage art, it’s a trip back to a time of seaside fun.

Recreational Activities and Pools

At the Boardwalk Inn and Villas, fun is always around the corner. The Luna Park Pool has a 200-foot slide and a bar. The resorts also offer two quiet pools for a calm swim. You can rent bikes to see the Coney Island-like Disney resorts, watch shows, and enjoy the pools.

Photo Copyright Disney

How to Choose Between Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas?

Choosing where to stay at Disney World, whether the Boardwalk Inn or Boardwalk Villas, can be tough. Think about what you like, how big your group is, how long you’ll be there, and your budget. These things will help you pick the best place for you.

Factors to Consider

Do you want a typical hotel with someone cleaning your room? Then Boardwalk Inn might be for you. But if you like having more room and stuff like a small kitchen in your room, try the Boardwalk Villas. Your group size, how long you’ll stay, and your budget all matter too.

Pros and Cons of Each Resort

Let’s look at what’s good and not so good at each place to make your decision easier

Boardwalk InnBoardwalk Villas
– Traditional hotel experience
– Convenient housekeeping services
– Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios
– Nightly rates range from $641 to $1,118 (2024)
– Access to free transportation, Early Theme Park Entry, and Lightning Lanes
– Spacious villa-style accommodations
– Kitchenettes (studios) and full kitchens (1-2 bedrooms)
– In-unit laundry facilities
– Studio rooms can accommodate up to 5 people
– Standard studio rates around $150 per night (Adventure Season)
– Walking distance to Epcot and Hollywood Studios

In the end, choosing between Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas is about what you need, your group’s size, and what you like. Look at the good and bad of each place. This will help you pick the Disney spot that will turn your dream vacation into a magical time.

Our personal recommendation? Go with the Boardwalk Inn. Unless you’re traveling with a large group or have a lot of money to burn, there’s no need to spend the extra money at the Boardwalk Villas.

Final Thoughts

Both the Boardwalk Inn and Boardwalk Villas give incredible Disney experiences. The Boardwalk Inn is pretty much your classic hotel. The Boardwalk Villas are much bigger with lots of room. When you think about what’s good and bad about each, you can pick the Disney place that’s perfect for your dream vacation.

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About the Author:Matthew Manganaro
Matthew Manganaro
Disney World Expert

Matthew's lifelong Disney passion fuels his dedication to simplifying a magical vacation for others through his work at TwoLittleSparks. With over 28 years of visits and counting under his belt, Matthew is committed to reigniting the childhood magic of Disney for everyone. After all, what's so wrong with believing in a little magic?

Get to know Matthew