Monorail Resorts vs. Boardwalk Resorts: Where Should You Stay?



Disney's BoardWalk

There are so many different options when choosing to stay on property at Disney World. Disney offers a variety of options depending on location and value. There’s two prime areas on property with multiple Disney Vacation Club resorts that are some of the most sought after. 

The monorail loop and boardwalk area have resorts that have some of the best amenities, theming and access to the parks. If you’re looking at where to stay on Disney property, these two areas offer an unforgettable vacation experience. However, which area is best for you?

Monorail Resort Loop

Along the monorail loop are Bay Lake Towers (just a quick walk to Contemporary’s monorail station), Polynesian Resort and Grand Floridian. All three of these resorts offer some of the best amenities on property and either have a walkway to the Magic Kingdom or just hop on the monorail for a quick ride over!

Disney's Polynesian DVC Rental vs. Resort Stay
Disney’s Polynesian Resort and Bungalows, DVC Resort and Deluxe Resort Hotel

Soon, Polynesian’s DVC Island Tower will open and that’ll be another resort option on the monorail loop. You’ll have the ability to stay in one to three bedroom villas, all new dining experiences and a brand new Moana inspired splash pad.

If your focus is taking time at the Magic Kingdom and staying at well-themed resorts, the monorail loop is for you! Some rooms also have a great lake view of Magic Kingdom park and the fireworks. You can also easily take the monorail to EPCOT from the Ticket and Transportation Center, so you’ll have access to two parks.

Boardwalk Area

The main two DVC resorts on the boardwalk are the Boardwalk Villas and Beach Club Resort. Sitting across the lake from each other, these two resorts offer not only their own amenities, but a row of bars, walk ups and restaurants. The Boardwalk area is a lot better for night time activities for everyone. You’re also next to the Swan and Dolphin where there are more restaurants and lounges to explore.

Friendship boat at Boardwalk Villas
The Friendship boats at Beach Club & Boardwalk Villas are a great way to pop over to Epcot from the resort!

Boardwalk and Beach Club both are walking distance to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Staying at one of these DVC resorts, you get two parks with an easy walkway to both. There are also boats that go to each park. 

Choosing Where To Stay

Where you go depends on your preference of parks and what resort fits what you want to do during your vacation. For a more nightlife and foodie option, the Boardwalk resort area is for you. However, the Monorail resorts are some of the most sought after on Disney property, plus you’re staying right next to the most popular park in the world!

Grand Lobby
Grand Floridian Lobby. Photo: Emily Murray.

If budgeting is a concern, you can also see how many points it costs each night at each resort. You can check our resale points here to see what works best for you. Both of these resort areas will create a magical experience for your vacation.

Featured Photo: Emily Murray.

Written by

Brooke Aliberti


Growing up in Orlando, Brooke has been going to Disney World her whole life. Being a part of a DVC family has also allowed her to stay in the beautiful DVC Villa Resorts and even a trip to Aulani in Hawaii! Brooke loves evening walks on Sunset Boulevard and trying all the food at EPCOT.

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