The Disney BoardWalk is one of the most underrated spots in Walt Disney World. Tucked between EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, this vibrant waterfront district is packed with unique dining, live entertainment, and scenic views. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing break from the parks, a lively night out, or just a taste of Disney without a park ticket, the BoardWalk has something for everyone. Ready to explore this hidden gem? Let’s dive in!

What Is Disney’s BoardWalk?

Disney’s BoardWalk is a lively, old-fashioned waterfront “district” at Walt Disney World located between EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The area is inspired by classic American boardwalks like Atlantic City and Coney Island and is designed to feel like a charming turn-of-the-century seaside escape. With its colorful buildings, vintage street lamps, and views of Crescent Lake, it’s a great place to take a break from the parks while still soaking up the Disney atmosphere. Plus, it’s super convenient—just a short walk from EPCOT’s International Gateway and a quick Skyliner or boat ride from Hollywood Studios.

There’s plenty to see and do at Disney’s BoardWalk, whether you’re in the mood for a great meal, some evening entertainment, or just a leisurely stroll.

While the restaurants and entertainment serve as the many amenities for those staying at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn Resort, anyone visiting Disney World can explore the area – you don’t have to be staying there!

Disney BoardWalk Hotels

The easiest way to experience the Disney BoardWalk is by staying close by! Here are all the resorts that are within walking distance.

Disney’s BoardWalk Inn

As the hotel that sits on the BoardWalk, Disney’s BoardWalk Inn captures the charm of 1940s Atlantic City with its seaside-inspired architecture and decor. This hotel is great for those looking for a quieter place to stay or in need of rooms that accommodate more than four adults. As a Deluxe Resort and Disney Vacation Club property, the standard rooms sleep up to 5 adults, and larger one- and two-bedroom suites are also available.

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club

Disney’s Yacht & Beach Club are located across the lake from the Disney BoardWalk and are a great option if you want to be close to all the restaurants and nighttime entertainment. These sister resorts share Stormalong Bay, a 3-acre water complex featuring a sand-bottom pool and shipwreck-themed waterslide. It is largely regarded as the best hotel pool in Disney World and the only way to be able to enjoy it is to stay at the hotel as it is closed to non-resort guests.

Both resorts provide easy access to the BoardWalk’s restaurants and shops via a scenic walking path around Crescent Lake. The walk takes about 10-15 minutes.

Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotel

While not owned and operated by Disney, the Walt Disney World Swan & Dolphin Hotels are two off-site hotels with the benefit of being located next to Disney’s BoardWalk. The hotels connect to the BoardWalk via a waterfront walkway, putting dining and entertainment within easy reach. Plus, you’ll still be able to take advantage of several Disney hotel guest perks including extra time in the theme parks, early Lightning Lane service booking windows, and more.

The hotels connect to the BoardWalk via a waterfront walkway, putting dining and entertainment within easy reach.

Walt Disney World Swan Reserve

The newest addition to the area, Swan Reserve is an off-site boutique hotel accommodation in Walt Disney World. The modern 14-story tower is owned and operated by Marriott (like the Swan & Dolphin) and features a ton of unique restaurant offerings for guests. The walk to the BoardWalk is a bit further than the other hotels in the area, however, this also gives the hotel a bit more of a secluded feel.

Disney BoardWalk Restaurants

From signature fine dining to casual quick service spots and bars, there are a lot of places to eat and drink on Disney’s BoardWalk! While each nearby hotel has its own variety of dining offerings, here are the spots you can dine at on the BoardWalk.

AbracadaBar

This magician-themed lounge captures the golden age of magic with vintage decor and clever illusions. The cocktail menu features creative cocktails with names inspired by famous magicians and their tricks like the Conjurita and Pepper’s Ghost. Bar bites are also available to complement your beverages.

The ambiance reflects a 1940s magician’s parlor with deep woods, rich purples, and authentic magic memorabilia adorning the walls.

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs

Blue Ribbon Corn Dogs is one of the newest dining options on the Disney BoardWalk, bringing the iconic snack stand from Disneyland to the East Coast. This walk-up window serves hand-dipped corn dogs made fresh to order. Each corn dog features a premium all-beef hot dog encased in sweet cornbread batter. The menu is simple but satisfying, offering classic corn dogs along with unique twists like a pickle corn dog dipped in peanut butter.

BoardWalk Deli

Formerly the BoardWalk Bakery, this New York-style deli offers breakfast, lunch, and dinner options. The menu features made-to-order sandwiches on fresh-baked breads. Breakfast includes bagels, egg sandwiches, and pastries. And for lunch and dinner, you can try signature sandwiches like pastrami on rye or turkey club or choose from their grab-and-go salad and soup offerings.

BoardWalk Ice Cream

Cool off with hand-scooped ice cream in classic and unique flavors at BoardWalk Ice Cream! Seasonal flavors rotate regularly, offering new taste experiences throughout the year. If you’re not sure what to get, try the Mickey Kitchen Sink Sundae! This Disney-themed treat features multiple scoops of ice cream and tons of toppings.

BoardWalk Joe’s

If you’re craving a margarita, BoardWalk Joe’s is the place to go! The walk-up snack stand is known for serving up some of the best drinks if you want to relax and enjoy the views of Crescent Lake on the BoardWalk.

BoardWalk Pizza Window

Fresh pizzas are served by the slice or as whole pies at this casual BoardWalk Pizza Window. The menu features classic toppings like pepperoni and cheese, plus specialty combinations. Each pizza is made with hand-tossed dough and quality ingredients. Side salads and beverages are also available to complete your meal.

The convenient location makes it perfect for a quick lunch or late-night snack.

The Cake Bake Shop by Gwendolyn Rogers

This popular whimsical bakery and restaurant combines table service dining with a grab-and-go dessert spot. The menu features soups, salads, and sandwiches for lunch and more sophisticated entrees for dinner. And if you really want to make an event out of your trip to The Cake Bake Shop, an afternoon tea service is available and includes traditional scones and finger sandwiches.

The standout thing about this new spot is the decorations and atmosphere inside so we recommend choosing to make a dining reservation instead of using the grab-and-go location. Though, you’ll probably want to stop there too for a slice of cake!

Flying Fish

Flying Fish is a signature dining restaurant that specializes in fresh seafood and upscale dishes. The open kitchen showcases chefs preparing sustainable fish and premium steaks. And you really can’t go wrong when ordering from this delicious menu, though we do recommend trying the Chef’s tasting menu if you’re visiting for the first time.

Jellyrolls Dueling Piano Bar

Jellyrolls is Disney World’s only dueling piano bar and, if it’s fun you’re looking for, this is the place to go! Two pianists face off nightly, taking audience requests and creating an interactive show. And while you enjoy the music you can snack on popcorn and cocktails.

Keep in mind that this is an adults-only bar and there is a cover charge.

Note that Disney has announced Jellyrolls will be closing in Spring 2025. We expect that it will reopen at a new location at a later date. Stay tuned for more details!

Trattoria al Forno

This Italian restaurant serves breakfast and dinner in a warm, family-friendly setting. The breakfast menu features traditional American favorites alongside Italian-inspired dishes while dinner offerings include house-made pasta, wood-fired pizzas, and Italian specialties. It’s also a great place to take kids as the open kitchen provides some entertainment for them while you dine.

More Things To Do at Disney’s BoardWalk

There’s more to do than just eat and drink when you’re visiting the Disney BoardWalk! If you’re looking for a fun family-friendly activity, you can rent Surrey bikes and pedal along the waterfront promenade. Or, do some shopping at Screen Door General Store, Disney’s Character Carnival, and the Thimbles & Threads gift shop. Each store offers Disney merchandise and vacation essentials.

While visiting the BoardWalk is fun during the day, the night is really when it comes alive. Street performers bring the fun with skilled magicians performing tricks, comedic jugglers making everyone laugh, and impromptu shows from talented musicians.

The grassy area also hosts seasonal movie screenings under the stars. Bring a blanket and settle in for classic Disney films with the BoardWalk as your backdrop. And if you want to do some dancing, check out the Atlantic Dance Hall! The nightclub highlights music from the 80s through today.

Getting to Disney’s BoardWalk

Getting to Disney’s BoardWalk is one of the biggest hurdles to being able to enjoy it. Unlike the theme parks and Disney Springs, there is no direct bus transportation to the BoardWalk. Instead, you’ll need to be staying at a nearby hotel, coming from EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios, or take a bus to one of the nearby resorts.

If you’re coming from EPCOT or Disney’s Hollywood Studios, you can get to the BoardWalk by walking on one of the paths that connect the two parks or take Disney’s free boat transportation.

If you’re coming from a resort connected to the Disney Skyliner (including Caribbean Beach Resort, Riviera Resort, Pop Century Resort, and Art of Animation Resort), you can just hop on that!

And, if you’re coming from Disney Springs, Animal Kingdom, or Magic Kingdom, take a bus to Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and walk through the hotel to get to the BoardWalk.

While there is parking available nearby at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn, you must have a dining reservation at one of the BoardWalk restaurants to park in the resort lot.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the BoardWalk at Disney free?

Yes! The BoardWalk area is free to visit and explore and you don’t need a park ticket or hotel reservation to access the shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues. Just note that parking can be limited during peak times unless you have a dining reservation or are staying at a BoardWalk area hotel.

What time does entertainment start at Disney BoardWalk?

Street performers and entertainment typically begin by 7PM nightly and end around 10PM most evenings. The exact schedule varies by season and day of the week so ask a Cast Member if you’re unsure.

Can you see fireworks from Disney BoardWalk?

You can see much of the fireworks displays from EPCOT’s Harmonious show from several spots along the BoardWalk. However, you’ll only see the fireworks, not the special effects and lighting used over the World Showcase Lagoon.

The best viewing locations are near The Cake Bake Shop on the bridge connecting the BoardWalk to the EPCOT International Gateway Entrance.

How long is the Disney BoardWalk?

The BoardWalk stretches approximately a quarter mile in length along Crescent Lake. A complete loop around the lake, including the path past the Yacht & Beach Club, is roughly three-quarters of a mile.

Which is better, Disney BoardWalk or Disney Springs?

The biggest difference between Disney’s BoardWalk and Disney Springs is its size. Disney Springs is much larger and offers more shopping options and a wider variety of restaurants than the BoardWalk.

The BoardWalk, on the other hand, is much smaller and provides a more intimate atmosphere with its early 20th-century Atlantic City theme and waterfront setting. There are fewer shops, restaurants, and bars. However, this tends to make it less crowded and give you time to enjoy more of the entertainment and restaurants.

The BoardWalk’s central location between EPCOT and Hollywood Studios also makes it more convenient for park visitors.

Comments

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