Last Updated on June 30, 2021 by Kimberly Stroh
We just returned from our second stay at Bay Lake Towers as Disney Vacation Club Members. Bay Lake Towers is a DVC Resort (meaning DVC Members own real estate there) but anybody can stay at the resort. We chose to stay at Bay Lake Towers for my son’s first Disney World trip because of its close proximity to the Magic Kingdom Park. The resort is located on the monorail system which makes it convenient for families traveling with young children.
Bay Lake Towers Hotel. Photo credit: Priceline.
Bay Lake Towers is connected by a walkway to the Contemporary Resort which is home to Chef Mickey’s for character dining, signature dining at the California Grill and several other quick service options. I love the easy access to the amenities of the Contemporary Resort without the crowds. Bay Lake Towers seems private and quiet since it’s seperate.
We stayed in a Deluxe Studio which has a queen bed, pull-out bed, private balcony, shower/bath combo and a kitchenette. All DVC resort rooms offer an area to prepare food and eat. Our studio was like a large apartment with a very hotel room feel. They do have 1, 2 or 3 bedroom villas as well.
The queen size bed of the Deluxe Studio.
Kitchenette area of the Deluxe Studio.
Each room is decorated with clean lines, modern furniture and framed Mickey art. The bathroom had a sliding door, which was a little challenging with a toddler who could open it easily. Everything felt fresh and welcoming in our room. My favorite feature of the studio are the multiple mirrors. Having them makes getting ready so much easier when several people are getting dressed at the same time.
The Bath/Shower Combo.
The Vanity in the Deluxe Studio
Bay Lake Towers has a pool view, lake view and theme park view (of the Magic Kingdom). I’ll let you in on a little secret: the lake view is great too because the Water Pageant comes by nightly! I actually prefer the lake view. This recent trip, you could hear the train from the Magic Kingdom (which was thrilling for my son) and still enjoy the lake view.
Lake view of Bay Lake.
Separate from the Contemporary Resort, Bay Lake Towers has it’s own pool and outdoor bar area. The kid’s can enjoy the water slide, zero entry pool and splash pad. Poolside entertainment was also offered for the little ones, like the Disney Jr. Pool Party. Bay Lake Towers does have a small beach, but it’s usually vacant.
Bay Lake Towers Pool area. Photo Credit: Disney Parks Blog
Other resort features include a fire pit where Cast Members assist in nightly S’more making and the running path located behind the resort.
The only drawback to Bay Lake Towers is the walk to the Contemporary Resort for the monorail, boat transportation and buses. It wasn’t a problem for us, but some guests may find it difficult after a day at the parks.
Our family loved staying at the Contemporary Resort before our DVC Membership begun, so Bay Lake Towers is a natural choice for us now. My favorite part is being close to the Magic Kingdom via monorail. It gives you more time to experience the fun and magic with less hassle.