
As avid Disney fans and people who love exploring new destinations, resort hopping at Walt Disney World is an enchanting way for us to experience the magic beyond the theme parks. With lunch and dinner reservations as the anchors of our day, we plan to embark on a delightful journey through Disney’s diverse resorts. Here’s a detailed itinerary that ensures we’ll savor a variety of Disney’s unique resort offerings while enjoying some fantastic dining experiences.
1. Begin at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
We’ll start our day at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort (where we’re staying). This Southwestern-themed resort offers stunning architecture and beautiful views around Lago Dorado.
2. Bus to Hollywood Studios and Then to Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts
We’ll hop on a Disney bus from Coronado Springs to Hollywood Studios. From there, we’ll catch a boat or walk to Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. This duo of resorts is known for its classic New England charm and beautiful lakeside setting. We stayed Club Level at Yacht Club when we did our VIP trip in 2023.
3. Lunch at Beaches & Cream
We can’t wait to enjoy lunch at Beaches & Cream Soda Shop, renowned for its retro vibe and delicious diner fare. Hopefully we’ll save room for their famous Kitchen Sink Sundae!
4. Walk to Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Hotels
After lunch, we plan to take a leisurely walk to the neighboring Disney’s Swan and Dolphin Hotels. These resorts offer a more modern take on luxury, and we hope to admire their impressive architecture and unique amenities.
5. Walk to Disney’s BoardWalk Resort
Then we’ll stroll along the picturesque boardwalk to Disney’s BoardWalk Resort. This area is filled with charming shops, street performers, and a lively atmosphere reminiscent of an old-fashioned Atlantic boardwalk.
6. Skyliner to Art of Animation Resort
From the BoardWalk, we’ll hop on the Disney Skyliner to Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This resort is a colorful celebration of animation, with larger-than-life décor inspired by Disney classics. We are looking to take in the themed sections and marvel at the vibrant, playful designs.
7. Walk to POP Century Resort
Adjacent to Art of Animation is Disney’s POP Century Resort. We’ll take a short walk over to this resort, which celebrates the pop culture of the 20th century with fun, nostalgic decor and oversized icons.
8. Skyliner to Disney’s Riviera Resort
Next we’ll return to the Skyliner and head to Disney’s Riviera Resort. This Mediterranean-inspired resort features stunning views and elegant décor. We’ll take a moment to appreciate the artistry and perhaps grab a drink at one of their dining options.
9. Walk to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
From the Riviera Resort, we’ll take a scenic walk to Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. This tropical paradise boasts colorful island-themed buildings and a laid-back atmosphere. Explore the lush grounds and enjoy the Caribbean vibes.
10. Bus to EPCOT and Then to Saratoga Springs Resort
Next we’ll catch a bus to EPCOT, and from there, transfer to a bus heading to Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. This resort draws inspiration from the classic horse-racing town of Saratoga Springs, New York. We plan to enjoy a leisurely walk around the property and perhaps visit the Springs, which features a charming area with dining and shopping.
11. Boat to Old Key West Resort
From Saratoga Springs, we can take a boat ride to Disney’s Old Key West Resort. This resort captures the essence of the Florida Keys with its laid-back, tropical ambiance. We’ll wander through the quaint streets and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere.
12. Boat to Disney Springs and Then Boat to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter
Next, we’ll travel by boat to Disney Springs, then transfer to a boat heading to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. This resort evokes the charm and romance of New Orleans with its elegant courtyards and lively ambiance.
13. Walk to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
We’ll take a short walk from French Quarter to Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside. This resort celebrates the beauty of the Louisiana bayou and features picturesque landscapes and Southern charm.
14. Bus to Magic Kingdom and Monorail to Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Then we’ll hop on a bus to Magic Kingdom and board the iconic Monorail to Disney’s Contemporary Resort. Known for its sleek, modern design and the innovative restaurant, California Grill, this resort offers incredible views of the Magic Kingdom.
15. Boat to Wilderness Lodge
From the Contemporary, we’ll take a boat to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. This resort offers a rugged, rustic charm with its lodge-inspired architecture and cozy atmosphere. I can’t wait to see the majestic lobby and the tranquil surroundings.
16. Boat to Contemporary and Monorail to Disney’s Polynesian Resort
We’ll return by boat to the Contemporary and then take the Monorail to Disney’s Polynesian Resort. It’s been years since I’ve visited this resort, and I can’t wait for the boys to experience the tropical paradise with its lush landscaping, tiki torches, and the famous Ohana restaurant. Relax and soak in the island vibes. Maybe one day we’ll get a reservation for Ohana!
17. Monorail to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort
Next, we’ll hop on the Monorail to Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort. This elegant, Victorian-themed resort exudes luxury and sophistication. We’ll stroll through the grand lobby and admire the beautiful décor and opulent surroundings.
18. Monorail to Magic Kingdom and then Bus to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground
Then we’ll finish our Monorail loop at Magic Kingdom, and then take a bus to Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. This resort offers a unique camping experience with charming cabins and an outdoor atmosphere. We’ll explore the rustic trails and enjoy the natural beauty of the campground.
19. Bus to Magic Kingdom and then to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
From Fort Wilderness, we’ll take a bus to Magic Kingdom and transfer to a bus heading to Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge. This resort offers a unique safari experience with views of exotic animals from your room. It’s our Disney home away from home, and we’re probably going to need to be dragged out of there. We’ll immerse ourselves in the rich cultural themes and wildlife of the African savanna.
20. Dinner at Boma
We’re going to enjoy a late dinner at Boma – Flavors of Africa, located at Animal Kingdom Lodge. This buffet-style restaurant offers a delightful array of African-inspired dishes and is a perfect way to end our day with a delicious, hearty meal. If you’ve read any of my other Disney posts, you’ll know our family simply can’t visit Disney World without visiting Boma.
21. Bus to Disney Springs and Then Back to Coronado Springs Resort
Finally, we’ll catch a bus back to Disney Springs, then transfer to a bus heading to Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort. Concluding our whirlwind resort-hopping adventure where we began, reflecting on the day’s explorations and magical experiences.
With this itinerary, we’ll enjoy a thorough tour of Disney World’s resorts, each with its unique charm and character. When planning your own resort hopping itinerary, it’s important to know what times the parks close so you know how late you can use that park to swap buses. I can’t wait to circle back to this post after our trip to report on how it went!
What’s your favorite resort hopping itinerary?

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