3 Best Disney Monorail Hotels (Pros and Cons)

The Disney monorail hotels located on the Monorail loop at Walt Disney World Resort include Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. These hotels offer guests convenient access to the Magic Kingdom via the iconic Monorail system.

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Introduction to Disney Monorail Hotels

But did you know that there are three hotels located right on the Monorail loop?

That’s right, you can actually stay at a hotel that’s just a quick ride away from the park, making it easy to come and go as you please.

But which of the Disney Monorail hotels are the best choice for you?

Let’s take an in-depth look at each of the three Disney Monorail Hotels:

  1. Disney’s Contemporary Resort
  2. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
  3. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

We’ll give you a detailed overview of the rooms and amenities, dining options, and location on the Monorail loop, as well as a breakdown of the pros and cons of each hotel.

By the end of this article, you’ll have all the information you need to make an informed decision about which Disney Monorail Hotel is right for you.

So sit back, relax, and let’s take a journey through the magical world of Disney Monorail Hotels!

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1. Disney’s Contemporary Resort

disney monorail hotels contemporary resort
Disney Contemporary Resort

If you’re looking for a hotel that’s both modern and iconic, look no further than Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

This ultra-modern hotel was built in 1971 and has since become a popular choice for its sleek design, incredible food options, and convenient location on the Monorail loop.

The Contemporary Resort is known for its unique design, which features an A-frame structure with a monorail track running straight through the middle of the hotel.

The hotel was designed by architect Welton Becket, who also worked on the iconic Capitol Records building in Hollywood.

The rooms at the Contemporary Resort have a mid-century modern vibe, with clean lines, bold colors, and retro-inspired furniture.

Many of the rooms offer stunning views of the Magic Kingdom, and some even have balconies.

The hotel also offers a variety of dining options, including the popular California Grill restaurant on the top floor, which offers breathtaking views of the park.

One of the biggest advantages of staying at the Contemporary Resort is its location on the Monorail loop.

Guests can easily hop on the Monorail and be at the Magic Kingdom in just a few minutes.

The hotel is also within walking distance of the park, which makes it a convenient choice for guests who want to be close to the action.

Pros and cons of staying at the Contemporary Resort

Pros:

  • Convenient location on the Monorail loop and within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom
  • Sleek, modern design with stunning views of the park
  • Wide range of dining options, including the popular California Grill
  • Easy access to other Disney parks and resorts via the Monorail

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than other Disney hotels
  • Can be crowded and busy, especially during peak season
  • Some guests may find the design to be too stark or sterile

Overall, Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a great choice for guests who want a modern, convenient hotel with easy access to the Magic Kingdom.

While it may be pricier than other options, the stunning views, delicious dining options, and unique design make it a popular choice for many Disney fans.

2. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

Disney monorail hotels Grand Floridian Resort
Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

For guests who want to experience the ultimate in luxury and elegance, there’s no better choice than Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.

This Victorian-style hotel is designed to evoke the grandeur and opulence of Florida’s golden age, with its stunning architecture, ornate details, and lush landscaping.

The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is known for its impressive Victorian-style architecture, with its towering white walls, red gabled roofs, and grand lobby featuring a stunning chandelier.

The hotel is designed to evoke the grandeur and elegance of the turn-of-the-century seaside resorts that were popular in Florida at the time.

The rooms at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa are spacious and elegant, with ornate furnishings, rich fabrics, and plush bedding.

Many of the rooms offer stunning views of the Seven Seas Lagoon or the Magic Kingdom.

The hotel also offers a wide range of dining options, from the fine-dining Victoria & Albert’s restaurant to the more casual Grand Floridian Cafe.

Guests can also indulge in a variety of spa services at the resort’s luxurious Senses Spa.

Like the other Monorail hotels, the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa offers convenient access to the Magic Kingdom via the Monorail.

The hotel is located just one stop away from the park, making it a quick and easy ride.

The hotel is also within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom, and guests can enjoy the scenic views along the way.

Pros and cons of staying at the Grand Floridian

Pros:

  • Luxurious and elegant atmosphere with impressive Victorian-style architecture
  • Spacious rooms with stunning views of the Seven Seas Lagoon or the Magic Kingdom
  • Wide range of dining options, including fine-dining Victoria & Albert’s and the casual Grand Floridian Cafe
  • Convenient location on the Monorail loop and within walking distance of the Magic Kingdom
  • Access to a variety of spa services at the Senses Spa

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than other Disney hotels
  • Can be crowded and busy, especially during peak season
  • Some guests may find the formal atmosphere to be too stuffy or pretentious

Overall, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is a great choice for guests who want to indulge in luxury and elegance during their Disney vacation.

While it may be pricier than other options, the stunning architecture, spacious rooms, and impressive dining and spa options make it a popular choice for many Disney fans.

3. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

disney monorail hotels polynesian village resort
Disney Polynesian Village Resort

For guests who want to escape to a tropical paradise without leaving the Disney World Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is the perfect choice.

This South Pacific-themed hotel features lush tropical landscaping, tiki torches, and a white-sand beach, all designed to transport guests to a far-off island paradise.

The Polynesian Village Resort is known for its immersive South Pacific-themed design, with its thatched roofs, tiki torches, and lush tropical landscaping.

The hotel is designed to evoke the feeling of a tropical paradise, complete with white sand beaches, crystal-clear lagoons, and palm trees swaying in the breeze.

The rooms at the Polynesian Village Resort are designed to reflect the hotel’s South Pacific theme, with bamboo furnishings, floral accents, and island-inspired artwork.

Many of the rooms offer stunning views of the lagoon or the Magic Kingdom.

The hotel also offers a variety of dining options, including the popular ‘Ohana restaurant, which serves family-style meals with a Hawaiian twist.

Guests can also enjoy the nightly Disney’s Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show, which features Polynesian dancing, music, and fire-knife performances.

The Polynesian Village Resort is located on the Monorail loop, just a quick ride away from the Magic Kingdom.

Guests can easily hop on the Monorail and be at the park in just a few minutes.

The hotel is also within walking distance of the Transportation and Ticket Center, where guests can catch transportation to other Disney parks and resorts.

Pros and cons of staying at the Polynesian

Pros:

  • Immersive South Pacific-themed design with lush tropical landscaping and a white-sand beach
  • Wide range of dining options, including the popular ‘Ohana restaurant and the nightly Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show
  • Convenient location on the Monorail loop and within walking distance of the Transportation and Ticket Center
  • Access to other Disney parks and resorts via the Monorail and other transportation options

Cons:

  • Can be more expensive than other Disney hotels
  • Can be crowded and busy, especially during peak season
  • Some guests may find the South Pacific theme to be too kitschy or over-the-top

Overall, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is a great choice for guests who want to experience a tropical paradise within the Disney World Resort.

While it may be pricier than other options, the immersive theming, stunning views, and impressive dining and entertainment options make it a popular choice for many Disney fans.

Comparison of the Three Disney Monorail Hotels

Now that we’ve taken a closer look at each of the three Disney Monorail Hotels, let’s compare them to help you make an informed decision about which one is right for you.

Room Rates

In terms of room rates, the Polynesian Village Resort tends to be the most expensive of the three, followed by the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa and then the Contemporary Resort. However, keep in mind that room rates can vary depending on the time of year and availability.

Dining Options

All three hotels offer a variety of dining options, but they differ in terms of cuisine and atmosphere.

The Contemporary Resort is known for its upscale dining options, including the popular California Grill, while the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa offers a range of formal and casual dining options, including the fine-dining Victoria & Albert’s and the casual Grand Floridian Cafe.

The Polynesian Village Resort is known for its South Pacific-inspired cuisine, including the popular ‘Ohana restaurant.

Other Amenities

Each hotel offers a range of amenities, including pools, spas, fitness centers, and other recreational activities.

The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa is known for its impressive spa services at the Senses Spa, while the Polynesian Village Resort offers nightly entertainment at the Spirit of Aloha Dinner Show.

The Contemporary Resort features a sleek and modern design, with rooms that are being redesigned to incorporate elements from the movie The Incredibles.

Overall Atmosphere and Guest Experience

The overall atmosphere and guest experience at each hotel differ greatly, catering to different types of guests.

The Contemporary Resort offers a modern and sleek atmosphere that’s great for couples or guests who appreciate a more sophisticated atmosphere.

The Grand Floridian Resort and Spa offers a luxurious and elegant atmosphere that’s perfect for couples and families who want to indulge in luxury.

The Polynesian Village Resort offers a more relaxed and tropical atmosphere that’s great for families and guests who want to experience a Hawaiian getaway.

Best Choice for Different Types of Guests

For families with children, the Polynesian Village Resort is a great choice, with its tropical atmosphere, character breakfasts, and easy access to the Magic Kingdom.

Couples looking for a luxurious and romantic getaway may prefer the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, with its upscale dining options and elegant atmosphere.

Guests who appreciate a modern and sophisticated atmosphere may prefer the Contemporary Resort, with its sleek design and upscale dining options.

In conclusion, each of the three Disney Monorail Hotels has its own unique atmosphere, dining options, and amenities, catering to different types of guests.

By considering factors such as room rates, dining options, and overall atmosphere, you can make an informed decision about which hotel is the best choice for you.

Which Disney hotels are on the monorail route?

The three Disney hotels that are located along the monorail route are the Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. These hotels offer guests the unique experience of traveling to Magic Kingdom by monorail, adding to the excitement and magic of their Disney vacation.

Are all Disney hotels connected to the monorail system?

No, not all Disney hotels are connected to the monorail system. In addition to the three hotels located along the monorail route, there are many other Disney hotels that are located throughout the resort, each with its own unique theme, amenities, and transportation options.

How many hotels are located along the Disney monorail route?

There are three Disney hotels located along the monorail route: the Polynesian Village Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Each of these hotels offers its own unique atmosphere and amenities, and all three are conveniently located just a quick monorail ride away from Magic Kingdom.

Which hotel’s lobby does the monorail pass through on the way to Magic Kingdom?

The monorail passes through the lobby of Disney’s Contemporary Resort on the way to Magic Kingdom. This unique feature allows guests to experience the thrill of riding through the hotel, giving them a glimpse of the sleek and modern design that defines this iconic Disney hotel.

Can you use a Disney hotel as a parking spot and take the monorail to Magic Kingdom?

Yes, you can park your car at any Disney hotel, including the three hotels located along the monorail route, and take the monorail to Magic Kingdom. This can be a convenient and stress-free option for guests who want to avoid the hassle of parking at the park.

Is it necessary to be a Disney resort guest to use the monorail?

No, it is not necessary to be a Disney resort guest to use the monorail. Anyone can use the monorail to travel to Magic Kingdom or to explore the three hotels located along the route. However, resort guests may enjoy the added convenience and proximity to the monorail.

Is Animal Kingdom Lodge one of the hotels on the monorail line?

No, Animal Kingdom Lodge is not one of the hotels on the monorail line. However, the hotel offers its own unique transportation options, including complimentary bus service to all four Disney parks and Disney Springs.

What is the reason for the closure of the Disney Monorail?

There has not been any recent announcement about the closure of the Disney Monorail. However, like any mode of transportation, the monorail undergoes regular maintenance and upgrades to ensure its safety and reliability for guests.

Does the Disney monorail connect all of the parks in the resort?

No, the monorail does not connect all of the parks in the resort. It only travels between Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, and the Polynesian Village Resort. However, there are other transportation options available for guests who want to explore the other Disney parks, including buses, boats, and the new Disney Skyliner.