For first-time visitors to Epcot, staying close to the park is a great way to enhance your experience, ensuring easy access to the park and its attractions. Here are some of the best places to stay for an unforgettable Epcot visit:
1. Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
- Location: A short walk from Epcot’s International Gateway entrance.
- Why Stay Here: This charming, seaside-style hotel offers a vibrant atmosphere with easy access to Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The BoardWalk area also features dining, shopping, and entertainment options, perfect for evening relaxation after a day at the park.
2. Disney’s Beach Club Resort
- Location: A 5-10 minute walk to Epcot.
- Why Stay Here: This resort offers a relaxed, beach-themed experience with a luxurious pool area, including the famous Stormalong Bay. It’s perfect for those looking for a bit of tranquility while staying close to the action at Epcot. Plus, its location makes it an easy hop over to Epcot’s World Showcase.
3. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
- Location: Adjacent to the Beach Club, just a short walk to Epcot.
- Why Stay Here: The Yacht Club is a more elegant and upscale option. It shares the same pool area as the Beach Club and offers a more refined, nautical atmosphere. It's an excellent choice for first-timers looking for luxury, and its proximity to Epcot makes it a very convenient option.
4. Disney’s Contemporary Resort
- Location: A monorail ride away from Epcot.
- Why Stay Here: The Contemporary Resort is iconic for its modern design and direct access to the Magic Kingdom via the monorail. While it’s not immediately next to Epcot, it’s just a short monorail ride away and offers convenient access to other Disney parks.
5. Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Resort
- Location: Within walking distance of Epcot and Disney’s Hollywood Studios.
- Why Stay Here: This pair of resorts are located on Disney property but are not directly owned by Disney, offering a more budget-friendly option while still providing many perks like early park entry. It’s an ideal choice for first-time visitors who want to be close to Epcot while enjoying a slightly more affordable stay.
6. Walt Disney World Swan Reserve
- Location: Near the Swan and Dolphin Resorts, walking distance to Epcot.
- Why Stay Here: This newer, upscale hotel offers a sophisticated and quieter environment while being a short walk from Epcot. It’s a great place for first-timers who want luxury without the crowds of other Disney resorts.
7. Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Location: A short Skyliner ride away from Epcot.
- Why Stay Here: For something unique, the Riviera Resort offers stunning views and is connected to Epcot via the Disney Skyliner, making it easy to travel between the parks. The Mediterranean-style hotel is beautiful and provides a relaxing atmosphere with luxurious amenities.
8. Walt Disney World Resort Hotels Near Epcot
- Location: Hotels like Disney’s Pop Century Resort and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort are a short bus ride away from Epcot.
- Why Stay Here: For those on a budget, Disney’s value resorts offer a more affordable stay while still giving you all the perks of staying on Disney property, including free transportation to Epcot and other Disney parks.
Tips for First-Timers:
- Staying within Disney property gives you access to convenient transportation and early park entry, allowing you to maximize your time at Epcot.
- Consider proximity: If you want to spend a lot of time at Epcot, staying within walking distance will save you time.
- Hotel perks: Look for resorts that offer unique amenities like pools, dining options, and special experiences to enhance your stay.
Choosing the right place to stay near Epcot depends on your preferences, budget, and how close you want to be to the park. Whether you’re seeking luxury or affordability, there’s an option to suit every first-timer’s needs.
