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- Disney's Polynesian Village Resort is one of the most popular choices for families visiting Walt Disney World, not only for its close proximity to the Magic Kingdom, but for the exotic, tropical touches that make it feel like a far-flung vacation destination.
- Nightly rates begin around $486 making it one of the most expensive Walt Disney World Resorts. However, excellent amenities such as pools, activities, shopping, restaurants and bars, plus clever theming make it feel worth the splurge.
- I stayed in a Garden View Room on two occasions and loved it both times. But plan ahead - the well-designed concept and great location means the hotel is often booked up far in advance.
- Read all Business Insider hotel reviews here.
Staying at Walt Disney's World's Polynesian Village Resort is like getting two vacations in one - the fun of a family-friendly Disney resort as well as an exotic Polynesian escape.
One of the first resorts to open at Walt Disney World, the Polynesian has been a top choice for visitors for almost 50 years since it opened back in 1971.
Inspired by South Seas and the islands of Polynesia, the hotel features tropical touches such as imposing tiki figures, colorful prints, and lush landscaping. Of all the resorts I've experienced at Walt Disney World, which are many, the Polynesian boasts one of the most well-executed themes. When I'm there, I really feel like I've been transported from Orlando to the tropics.
Even though the hotel is just two stops from Magic Kingdom, it manages to feel worlds away, likely because there's so much to do on property.
There are over 846 guest rooms and suites spread out among a handful of buildings named for islands such as Samoa, Tonga, Hawaii, and Fiji. Plus, there are two pools, organized activities, shopping, six on-site restaurants, two bars, and even one Dole Whip counter serving up Disney's celebrated pineapple soft-serve treat that's so very hard to resist.
If you opt to leave Disney's version of paradise, hotel guests enjoy park perks like Extra Magic Hours (time before or after regular park operating hours that are reserved just those staying at Disney resorts), which cuts down on time spent standing in line for attractions. There are other helpful resort perks too; guests can take advantage of airport transportation to and from Orlando International Airport, as well as the option to check your bags directly to your flight from the hotel.
This deluxe resort is consistently at the top of the price range for Walt Disney Resorts, almost as pricey as Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. A standard Garden View Room, the least expensive guest room, will generally cost between $486 to $690, depending on the time of year.
A theme park view will add another $200 to $300 a night, and for those who really want to splurge, there's the overwater bungalow, which sleeps eight, and costs upwards of $2,875 per night.
Want more Disney World hotel suggestions? Read our list of the best hotels and resorts in Walt Disney World
I've stayed at the Polynesian twice, both times in one of a standard Garden View room and it's remained one of my favorite Walt Disney World Resorts. The unique theming, friendly service, lively restaurants and bars, and the breathtaking grounds all make it more convenient than a trip to Fiji or Bora Bora. Plus, the Haunted Mansion, Space Mountain, and the Jungle Cruise are just minutes away, which is a big bonus. After all, you're still here to visit Walt Disney World.
- The first impression
- The room
- On-site amenities
- What's nearby
- What others say
- What you need to know
- The bottom line
- Book Walt Disney's World's Polynesian Village Resort starting at $486 a night
Keep reading to see why I was so impressed by Walt Disney's World's Polynesian Village Resort.
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