Why Coronado Springs Resort is a Disney Hidden Gem

There is much talk of which Walt Disney World resort is the very best.  Everyone has an opinion and a favorite – and they aren’t afraid to share their opinions.

I’ve heard many Disney visitors say something to the effect of “it’s just a room.  I can sleep anywhere – I care about the parks.”

I disagree. . .

View over the water at Disney’s Coronado Springs.

 

Picking a resort that fits both your financial, family, and amenity needs is a key part of ensuring a memorable vacation.

So if you want a resort that packs a punch when it comes to theming, but doesn’t break the bank, The Coronado Springs Resort is the way to go.

When considering your accommodations you’ll find that moderately priced resorts come with a few more bells and whistles than the Value and a few less than the Deluxe.  Generally you can count on them to have a full service restaurant, while the value resorts usually only have a counter service or food court.

Both resorts will likely have a bar and/or a pool area bar, but often the moderate hotels come with refrigerators in the room standard.

Often there are fun and themed topiaries on property that add to the atmosphere.

 

So why is the Coronado such a diamond in the rough?

Let’s talk about the 4 reasons:

  • Its a moderate resort – with a bonus. Coronado falls in the moderately priced category, but with an upside.  Because Coronado Springs is a convention center as well it seems to be a cut above its fellows such as Caribbean Beach Resort.  The rooms are a bit nicer, with nicer dividers in the sink/ bathroom area, nicer finishes, and an overall more updated feel.  The grounds and walkways are very well manicured and the resort itself is flat out beautiful.  There is also a fun buzz with business travelers and conventioneers added to the mix.  Often mid scale resorts are very family dominated, which means the bars aren’t particularly busy or all that fun.  Mixing in travelers and groups adds an energy to the property.
  • The theming is Fantastic and the Grounds are Beautiful.  The grounds, aside from being well kept, are very eye catching.  There is a lot color and intentional design when it comes to the Spanish-colonial theming throughout the resort.  There are themed topiaries,  catchy music piped all around, and a large water feature that breaks up the resort.  Even the check in area is easy on the eyes and really evokes the sense of style that blends with the rest of the resort.
  • Rix Lounge is a fun hangout.  There is a nice bar tucked inside the resort just past the check in area.  This is where Coronado being a conference center pays off – there are always folks to talk to if there is a conference on property.  The food in the bar is passable (the house chips are pretty tasty), and the selection of spirits is solid.  If you like bourbons and vodkas, you’ll find your standards and a few top shelf items.   Normally Grey Goose and Woodford Reserve are available.  The seating is first come, first served and the location opens at 5pm and can be open as late as Midnight.
  • The Lost City Pool.  This is one of the best pools on Disney property.  The central feature of the pool is a 50 food Mayan themed pyramid complete with a 123 foot water slide.  The pool is massive and the surrounding area has plenty of chairs and areas to sit.  It is a fabulous place to unwind after a long day at the park or to just have a “resort day” and let the kids run wild.  But be aware that the pool is big and its easy for young ones to get into the deep areas – so heads up  for safety.
Standard room with 2 queen beds at Coronado Springs.

So, if you are looking for a great place to stay on Disney property that often feels like you getting a little more than at the other moderate resorts, check out the Coronado Springs.

Have a magical day!

Tony

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