Planning a trip to Walt Disney World can be complicated — especially when you’re trying to choose between 25 resort hotels. If you’ve narrowed down your choices to these hotels, how do you make your final selection?
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort
Well, we’re here to walk you through the differences between Disney’s BoardWalk Villas and Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
Whether room size, location, pools, and/or restaurants are most important to you, we share the information that you’ll need to make an informed decision. After all, we want you stay at the hotel that is best for your family!
Let’s get started and look at all the details so that you can plan your Disney trip with confidence.
BoardWalk
There’s no doubt that Disney vacations are expensive, and no one wants buyer’s remorse when it comes to what can usually be the most EXPENSIVE part of your Disney trip. We’re approaching this chaos-agent of a decision with as much logic as possible, so we’re breaking it down into five categories:
- Common Ground
- Theme/Rooms
- Pools
- Food
- Transportation
Welcome Home to Saratoga Springs
Common Ground
Before we mention their differences, let’s take a look at what BoardWalk Villas and Saratoga Springs have in common. First, both are Deluxe Villa Resorts offering many of the same perks. These hotels can be booked by Disney Vacation Club members or cash-paying guests.
What a view from Saratoga Springs!
So, you won’t find oversized Disney character decors that you might find at the more festive Value Resorts. But look for fun entertainment on the boardwalk.
We’re ready for some entertainment!
Both resorts offer bus transportation to Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom at Walt Disney World.
Bus transportation from Magic Kingdom
For BoardWalk Villas, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $597 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $4,455 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit.
For Saratoga Springs, that means that for the cheapest room at the cheapest time to visit, you can expect to pay around $451 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts), and it goes up to $3,477 per night (not accounting for any tax or current discounts) for the most expensive rooms at the most expensive time to visit.
Extra Theme Park Hours Benefits for Disney World Resort Hotel Guests
Theme/Rooms
BoardWalk Villas offers studios, as well as 1-3 bedroom villas.
Deluxe studios sleep up to five. One-bedroom villas sleep up to four guests, while two-bedroom villas sleep up to 8 and three-bedroom villas sleep up to 12.
Saratoga Springs both offer villa-type accommodations with studio, 1-bedroom (sleep up to five), 2-bedroom, or 3-bedroom layouts. Furnishings are generally a little bit more on the higher end.
Speaking of spacious accommodations, the 3 Bedroom Grand Villas at various Disney Vacation Club properties can sleep up to 12 people! These rooms typically come with 3 bedrooms, 3 (or more) bathrooms, a (very large) full-sized kitchen, living area, dining area, and a balcony. These rooms are available first for DVC members to book, so they’re pretty difficult to score and pricing is not readily available to the public (unless you call Disney to book for a specific date).
Studios have two beds and a kitchenette. The one-to-three-bedroom villas have a full kitchen, as well as washer and dryer. If you’re looking for convenience, these amenities might make your trip a whole lot easier!
The Murphy bed at Saratoga Springs
Plus, Saratoga Springs is a huge resort and thus, rooms are often available!
BoardWalk Villas
Welcome to the charming turn-of-the-century Atlantic boardwalk themed resort, aptly named BoardWalk Inn. The BoardWalk brings in vibrant colors reminiscent of a seaside amusement park. In essence, the BoardWalk Inn balances the fun of the theme with the luxury of a deluxe resort.
Stroll the boardwalk!
The rooms last received a bit of a touch up and spruce back in 2016 and with the ongoing construction and other resort renovations may see some TLC, soon. We hope the room updates and renovations keep with the classic Disney charm we’ve come to love and aren’t watered down to look like other standard hotels.
4 BIG Changes (Including New Restaurants) Announced for Disney’s BoardWalk
Saratoga Springs
Here, you’ll escape to a 19th century equestrian resort, although there aren’t any horses! Opened in May 2004, the quaint gardens add to the peaceful atmosphere. The large resort layout consists of a central lobby building with outer buildings housings the actual hotel rooms.
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort Studio
Studios at this resort are smaller providing a queen bed and pull-down bed. Two bedrooms sleep up to 8 people.
Treehouse Villa
However, the unique but very remote treehouse villas can accommodate up to nine guests.
Results
What location and price point do you prefer? If your focus is saving money and spending time at Disney Springs, choose Saratoga Springs. We prefer the charm and appeal of Disney’s BoardWalk Villas where you feel like you’re at a New England seaside escape.
NEWS! MAJOR HOTEL CHANGE Announced for Disney World
Pools
When the weather is HOT or you just need a break from park queues, head to your resort pool! After all, the pools have their own unique features and special theming. Feature pools at Walt Disney World hotels usually have at least one slide and also offer poolside activities. Look at the hotel’s recreation schedule for more information. Some Disney resorts are so spread out that they also offer leisure pools. These swimming spots are family-friendly with at least one whirlpool spa. Leisure pools are quieter than the more crowded and active feature pools.
Pool Slide at BoardWalk
Note that poolside towels are always complimentary.
BoardWalk Villas
The BoardWalk Inn has three pool, the main pool called Luna Park, and two “leisure” pools for folks that are looking for more chill than thrill for their watery adventure.
The Luna Park pool used to be the home of the nightmare-fuel clown water slide that lit up a night and may have caused an entire generation to need therapy. Luckily for you fine folks, you get to enjoy the renovated model of the Keister Coaster pool slide.
BoardWalk Inn Pool
Where the trauma-inducing clown was replaced with a fun mural of Mickey, Minnie and gang enjoy a pool adventure with you on this 200-foot long slide.
This fun pool is 184,217 gallons and is just step away from the fun of the boardwalk where you can easily grab a quick ice cream or margarita and then jump right back in the pool.
Saratoga Springs
This resort has two featured pools — High Rock Spring Pool and The Paddock Pool.
While High Rock Spring is currently under renovation until late March 2023, the other pools remain open for your enjoyment. Once re-opened, we expect High Rock Spring to continue to offer a fun atmosphere with waterfalls, zero-depth entry, and a 128 ft. slide. You’ll find two whirlpool spas at this location. Got kids? They’ll love the Donald Duck splash area with a fun kiddie-sized slide.
Pool at Saratoga Springs
The zero-depth entry Paddock Pool showcases a slide that starts at the top of a water tower and provides 146 feet of fun! Kids can splash in the aquatic play area showcasing two small waterslides. Nearby, a horseshoe-shaped whirlpool offers a nice respite.
Paddock Pool at Saratoga Springs
Leisure pools with whirlpool spas can be found at the Treehouse Villas, Congress Park, and The Grandstand.
Results
While Saratoga Springs has more pools, we think the feature pool at BoardWalk Villas is more charming. If you are craving a walk down memory lane with childhood snack favorites nearby and festive carnival music, then you’ll likely agree!
10 Hidden Secrets About Disney World Pools
Food
Park days can be exhausting. Whether you’re taking a whole day to enjoy your resort, or you are relaxing after a shopping excursion at Disney Springs, once you’re at your Disney World hotel, you might not want to get back on a bus or boat for nourishment. So, you’ll want to know about the best options at your Disney World resort!
Artist’s Palette at Saratoga Springs
Take a look at the menus and decide which resort has the food that best suits your family.
BoardWalk Inn
The BoardWalk Inn has been updating and renovating many of the common areas like the dining options on the actual boardwalk, including the rebranding of the BoardWalk Deli (formerly the BoardWalk Bakery), and the soon to open Cake Bake Shop. Inside the BoardWalk lobby, the fan-favorite Belle Vue Lounge reopened with new furnishings, that received some humdrum remarks from loyal guests for losing its charm and looking like it was furnished by Wayfair. And Carousel Coffee recently opened serving up pastries, Joffrey’s Coffee, but a rather subdued vibe for joint named after a bright and vivacious carnival attraction. Let’s take a look…
Cheers!
AbracadaBar, according to the story, you can still feel the magic in the air at this former secret haunt of boardwalk magicians and entertainers… a group that mysteriously vanished over 70 years ago. Guests can experience their lingering magic in the sights, sounds, and even tastes (through the signature “Curious Cocktails”) in this enchanted lounge!
AbracadaBar
Atlantic Dance Hall is another bar on the BoardWalk. Looking for a place to get your groove on? Boogie down to music from the 80s through today at Atlantic Dance Hall! You can request your favorite music videos, and dance along as they play on the large screens above. Shake your groove thang, and get your dance on with a group of friends! Please note that Atlantic Dance Hall is limited to guests 21 and older and typically open Thursday through Sunday nights from 8PM to 1AM.
Atlantic Dance Hall
The Belle Vue Lounge is what many call a “rare find” at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. Modeled after a 1930s sitting room, it has nice touches like board games and working radios playing shows from eras past. Tucked right off the main lobby, this lounge is a great place to relax and enjoy a drink after a long day at the parks, or even to take a quick snooze in a comfy chair to recharge in late afternoon. Guests can also stop here for coffee or pastries in the morning.
Belle Vue Lounge
Head to a real brewing factory at Big River Grille & Brewing Works! Here you can sample many different kinds of beers, along with great burgers, steaks, nachos, and more. The floor-to-ceiling glass walls in the Big River Grille & Brewing Works restaurant provide a glimpse into the beer-making process. Watch while an on-site brew master crafts the establishment’s beers. Or sit outside and enjoy the BoardWalk atmosphere and water views.
Big River Grille & Brewing Works
Step back in time to a seaside boardwalk village on Crescent Lake where turn-of-the-century charm meets savory eats and sweet treats at the BoardWalk Deli. Breakfast, lunch, and dinner are offered, and guests enjoy items like house-baked bagels, an “overstuffed warm pastrami Reuben” or a hand-piped cannoli. In Disney’s words, the menu takes us on “a road trip of classic sweet and savory flavors from New York to the Jersey Shore,” and you can check it out here.
BoardWalk Deli has pastries and sandwiches
Craving a cool treat while strolling along the Disney World BoardWalk? Then stop by BoardWalk Ice Cream! This ice cream to-go store scoops up simple sundaes and cones made with Edy’s brand ice cream. The treats here are said to be inspired by the beloved Beaches & Cream Soda Shop at the nearby Beach Club Resort.
BoardWalk Ice Cream
BoardWalk Joe’s is a stand on Disney World’s BoardWalk that is known for ONE thing: “Marvelous Margaritas!” For a relatively small kiosk, there is a surprising variety of flavorful margaritas available — and sometimes you’ll happen upon a seasonal concoction! A selection of snacks such as pretzels and roasted nuts is also available. Non-alcoholic smoothies (including one made with Dole Whip!) are also on offer.
Boardwalk Joe’s
Stop by the Pizza Window on Disney World’s BoardWalk for a piping hot pizza pie! One of those most relaxing and fun things to do at Disney World is stroll along the Disney BoardWalk, taking in all the sights and smells around Crescent Lake. With 9,000 square feet of entertainment, shops, and restaurants, there are several options for a quick bite to eat. Why not grab some fresh pizza from the BoardWalk Pizza Window? They serve up whole pizza pies and pizza by the slice (and Sangria to go with it, for of-age guests, along with fountain drinks). Grab one of the cafe tables outside or stroll while you eat.
BoardWalk PIzza
If you happen to be walking down Disney World’s BoardWalk and you’re in the mood for a quick snack, be sure to stop at the BoardWalk To Go kiosk. At the kiosk you’ll find baskets of deep fried treats including fried mac and cheese bites and corn dogs. You can even grab a meal combo built around a hot dog, cheeseburger, or pulled pork sandwich. (Note: This location has been permanently closed.)
Boardwalk To-Go
The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers is coming to Disney World’s BoardWalk in 2023! This new Table Service restaurant will serve items for brunch, lunch, and dinner featuring both sweet and savory menus. Afternoon tea service will be offered as well! Disney notes that the new eatery will present a “whimsical atmosphere that complements the magic of the idyllic charm of Disney’s BoardWalk that guests know and love.” And guess what? Guest will also be able to pop in for a quick treat by grabbing something to-go from the bakery case!
Concept art for The Cake Bake Shop
You can find Carousel Coffee at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn. This spot is located right off the Resort’s lobby, making it a perfectly convenient spot for your pick-me-up cup! Coffee, tea, and pastries (including options by Joffrey’s Coffee) are on offer. Keep an eye out for seasonal drinks and unique options like a Dark Cherry Mocha Frozen Blended Coffee (which Disney shares is a flavor staple of “coffee shops, family-owned delis, and ice cream parlors along the shores” in keeping with the BoardWalk’s vintage seaside theme). As far as the eats, you can grab classic snacks such as the Vintage Mickey & Minnie Sugar Cookie, Banana Bread, Croissants, Muffins, NJ Crumb Cake, Bagels, and a Mickey Brownie up for grabs.
Carousel Coffee
Flying Fish is a signature restaurant that serves gourmet seafood to guests on Disney World’s BoardWalk. Many tout both the sea and land dishes here. (The Char-Crusted New York Strip is a favorite among landlubbers.) The location — complete with a lovely glass school of fish “swimming” above the main dining room — has an emphasized focus on seasonal, sustainable fare.
Flying Fish
You’ll find a truly classic carnival treat on Disney World’s BoardWalk: Funnel Cake! The Funnel Cake Standalso serves the rather unexpected offering of Fried Ice Cream. Enjoy your “Tasty Sensations” (as the sign says) while you stroll or pull up a bench on the BoardWalk while watching the people go by! PLEASE NOTE: The BoardWalk Funnel Cake is currently closed. We will keep you updated when a reopening is announced!
Funnel Cake Stand is closed
Jellyrolls
Leaping Horse Libations
Trattoria al Forno
So many amazing places to eat, how can you choose? Or you don’t have to, just systematically eat your way through the BoardWalk!
Click HERE to find our COMPLETE GUIDE TO EATING at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn!
Saratoga Springs
Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is an equestrian-themed resort, with dining options that are simultaneously relaxed and refined.
The Turf Club Bar and Grill features steaks and chops — along with pasta dishes — in a lovely atmosphere created with dark woods and forest greens.
Pork Chop
You can also enjoy spending some time at the Turf Club Lounge. (May I recommend the Mint Julep?) We do want to note that the Turf Club at Saratoga Springs is only open for dinner.
Backstretch Pool Bar and On the Rocks Pool Bar serve cold specialty drinks that are perfect for relaxing by the pool on a sunny day.
On the Rocks Pool Bar
The Artist’s Palette is a Counter Service option serving breakfast, lunch, and dinner in a spot made to resemble an artist’s studio in New York. The indoor seating is welcome on hot Florida days, chilly mornings and evenings, and during rainstorms!
Fresh sandwiches, pizza, salads and more are on offer, and the bakery case always boasts some fantastic and creative cupcakes.
Stop by Artist’s Palette for seasonal treats!
The Paddock Grill is located by the Paddock Pool, offering substantial eats to enjoy poolside — even for the early risers at breakfast!
Click HERE for our Complete Guide to Eating at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort!
Results
While the variety at Saratoga Springs is rather slim, you’re not far from Disney Springs, which has a ton of restaurants. If your favorite eateries are at Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs may look more appealing to you.
BoardWalk Villas has a LOT of dining and a lot of variety. While it lacks an actual food court, there are several table and quick service restaurants, so you probably won’t need more options. BoardWalk Villas wins out for offering more onsite options. Nearby Beach Club and Yacht Club add to your dining choices. And don’t forget that EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios are in close proximity as well!
BoardWalk games
The BoardWalk Inn really embraces the casual vibe of its carnival setting with nostaglic, approachable snack foods like pizza, sandwiches and ice cream to craft beers and fine Italian fare. One thing is for sure, you won’t go hungry at the BoardWalk!
Transportation
BoardWalk Villas provides bus transportation to Animal Kingdom and Magic Kingdom at Walt Disney World. Saratoga Springs relies on bus transportation to destinations (except Disney Springs and some nearby hotels).
BoardWalk Villas
The BoardWalk Inn is considered an “EPCOT-area” resort. It sits on Crescent Lake, across the lake from Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club Resorts. This resort is situated in between TWO Disney parks, EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Yep, that’s right, you can walk or enjoy a relaxing boat ride on a Friendship Cruise boat to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. We love walking to EPCOT’s International Gateway. Not having to worry about fighting EPCOT’s post-fireworks crowds? Yes, sign us up, please.
Friendship Boat
If Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom, or Disney Springs is your destination, then you can board one of Disney’s buses to transport you over to these parks.
Skyliner
And as if walkways, boats, and buses weren’t enough options for you, BoardWalk guests are also within walking distance of the EPCOT Skyliner station. This means you have easy access to the other Skyliner resorts if you want to go exploring other resorts or just have a relaxing cruise through the sky.
Saratoga Springs
You can walk and boat to Disney Springs, but otherwise, you’re stuck with a moderately lengthy bus ride to get around. And beware of those internal stops again! This is a rather large resort, so it’s easy to get lost when trying to locate the different amenities featured on the property.
Take a boat to Saratoga Springs!
This hotel is fairly far away from the Disney parks — so getting to-and-from places using Disney’s complimentary transportation can take a big chunk out of your day.
Results
BoardWalk Villas wins in this category due to its proximity to Disney’s Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. Plus, there is the Skyliner for visiting other resorts! At Saratoga Springs, the Sassagoula Riverboats to Disney Springs are a pleasant mode of transportation, except during inclement weather.
Learn all about WDW Transportation
The Winner!
So, where do we think you should stay? Sorry, that decision has to be up to you. It depends on the people in your traveling party and what your plans are during your stay at Walt Disney World. If you’re wanting to stick to a stricter budget, then Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort might be the deluxe villa resort to book!
A few more considerations: Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course is located on the sprawling property of Saratoga Springs.
Your hotel at Walt Disney World will either be a place just to sleep or a hang-out in between touring the parks. If you’re seeking relaxation and don’t feel the need to rush to the parks, then Saratoga Springs provides an excellent respite from the crowds.
Enjoy relaxing at Saratoga Springs!
However, if we had to recommend one resort over the other, we’re going to choose BoardWalk Villas. We always enjoy being close to two theme parks and only a walk away from the dining options at Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club resort. The EPCOT resort area is truly one of the most convenient locations on Walt Disney World property.
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Hands down Boardwalk is the best DVC accommodations in Disney. Easy to get everywhere, lots of food options in walking distance, easy park access. Really wish they would expand because so often they are already booked when we want to go!