The holiday season at Walt Disney World is nothing short of magical. While the parks are stunningly decorated, the resorts bring their own unique charm with breathtaking holiday displays. Whether you’re staying on property or just visiting, exploring these beautifully adorned resorts is a must during Christmas. Here are the best places to stay for Christmas at Walt Disney World Resorts.
1. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
This Disney luxury resort is located in the Magic Kingdom area of Walt Disney World. It’s luxury feel, spa, and wide range of ammenities makes it a perfect place to stay. Here is why the holidays really bring the Christmas spirit to life!
Why it’s special:
The Grand Floridian transforms into a holiday wonderland with its towering Christmas tree and the famous life-sized Gingerbread House. The house doubles as a working shop, offering delicious gingerbread and festive treats, filling the air with a delightful aroma.
Decor Style:
Disney’s Grand Floridian resort has a victorian elegance that meets holiday splendor. Expect sparkling ornaments, lavish garlands, and poinsettias throughout the resort. The life-sized gingerbread house and giant Christmas tree in the lobby really brings the holiday feel to life.
Must-See:
The iconic Gingerbread House, meticulously detailed and photo-worthy. They also have a huge Christmas tree in the lobby and photo ops throughout the lobby of the resort. They usually have a PhotoPass cast member in the lobby to capture photos by the Christmas tree and the Gingerbread house.
2. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge is a luxury resort located close to Magic Kingdom park that brings Disney magic, outdoor adventure, and luxury all into one place. From geysers and waterfalls, to views of the lake and Magic Kingdom fireworks. Add a touch of Christmas and this resort really gets everyone excited for the holidays.
Why it’s special:
The Wilderness Lodge exudes rustic holiday charm, enhanced by its grand lobby and woodsy theme. You can find a massive Christmas tree once you walk in that is adorned with natural ornaments that give that woodsy and rustic feel. You can find a grand fireplace in the lobby which is perfect for relaxing by the fire, enjoying some hot cocoa and the Chrismtas feel throughout the resort.
Decor Style:
Disney’s Wilderness Lodge has a cozy and rustic feel with twinkling lights throughout the resorts along with pinecones and outdoorsy type decor. It also includes Native American influences in various different parts of the resort.
Must-See:
The warmth of the fireplace surrounded by festive decorations creates the perfect holiday atmosphere. Grab a delicious cup of coffee or hot cocoa and relax in the lobby by the fireplace admiring the holiday feel around you.
3. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Beach Club Resort
Feel like you’re at a resort right on the beach at Disney’s Beach Club Resort. Located near EPCOT this resort has a chrismtas decorations all throughout including a beautiful life-sized gingerbread carousel.
Why it’s special:
The Beach Club is home to the stunning, life-sized chocolate and gingerbread carousel, a true masterpiece that changes themes annually and features intricate designs of Disney characters.
Decor Style:
Disney’s Beach Club Resort is decorated with coastal holiday charm along with nautical accents and bright, festive hues.
Must-See:
The edible gingerbread and chocolate carousel is a favorite among guests, combining craftsmanship with Disney magic.
4. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s BoardWalk Inn
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn is located near EPCOT and just a short walk to the side entrance of EPCOT. You can also get on the boat for a ride or escape to Hollywood Studios on the skyliner. This resort offers a touch of elegance and Christmas charm althroughout to get you in the holiday spirit.
Why it’s special:
This Disney resort captures the beauty of the holidays with vintage Atlantic City vibes. Its decorations are classic and playful, appealing to guests of all ages.
Decor Style:
Disney’s BoardWalk Inn shares timeless holiday elegance with playful touches throughout.
Must-See:
A miniature holiday village and large gingerbread displays add an extra dash of charm at this Disney resort. Take the family and walk around to find all of the gingerbread houses and truly soak in all of the Christmas charm.
5. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is by far one of my favorite resorts in all of Walt Disney World. My favorite part is their Savannah viewing area right outside of the lobby. As you enter the lobby during the holiday season you can find all sorts of Chrismtas decorations including festive animals, a Christmas tree, and more.
Why it’s special:
Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge adds an exotic twist to the holidays with its African-inspired ornaments and a massive Christmas tree in the lobby.
Decor Style:
The Christmas decorations found at Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge are earthy and exotic, with handcrafted decorations celebrating African culture and animals found throughout Africa.
Must-See:
The themed ornaments and unique decorations blend beautifully with the savanna views just outside the resort. The lobby is also something you can’t miss. And don’t forget to head to the viewing area to truly enjoy the animals at the resort.
6. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the only resort at Walt Disney World where the monorail goes through the resort. I always thought this was so cool. It offers views of the lake and you can even watch the fireworks at Magic Kingdom from the resort. Best of all, they have some beautiful Christmas decorations throughout the resort.
Why it’s special:
The Disney Contemporary Resort offers decor that is sleek and modern. It takes Christmas decor to the next level with its stunning 14-foot-tall gingerbread Cinderella Castle, complete with hidden Mickeys and Disney character designs.
Decor Style:
The decoration style at Disney’s Contemporary Resort is minimalist and yet contemporary, with festive accents and Disney flair paying attention to the minor details to brind Disney characters and Christmas spirits to life.
Must-See:
The gingerbread castle is a centerpiece that impresses every holiday season. You can’t miss it!
7. Holiday Decorations at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is absolutely breathtaking. They have Polynesian culture spread throughout with their overall style, atmosphere, food, and decor. Visit the Polynesian Resort if you’re looking to feel the island life with a touch of Christmas. And don’t forget as you enter to say, “Aloha” and “Mele Kalikimaka.”
Why it’s special:
This tropical-themed resort adds an island twist to Christmas with decorations that blend traditional holiday themes with Polynesian culture.
Decor Style:
At Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort you can expect Polynesian holiday vibes featuring leis, orchids, and festive tiki ornaments and native Christmas decorations.
Must-See:
The unique blend of Polynesian and Christmas décor makes this resort one-of-a-kind during the holidays. You can also enjoy a beautiful firework display from Magic Kingdom every night right from the resort.
Pro Tips for Your Holiday Resort Tour
Want to do more during your Disney vacation? Check out these tips to make the most of your trip and visits to these Disney resorts.
Take the Monorail Tour:
Hop on the monorail to visit the Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Polynesian resorts. Each stop offers its own unique holiday magic. You can park at the Transportation Center like heading towards Magic Kingdom and take the Resort Monorail to start the loop to the Disney resorts located along the monorail.
Check Out the Treats:
Many resorts sell seasonal goodies, like gingerbread cookies and festive hot chocolate, that are perfect for a holiday snack. You can use the My Disney Experience App to see where you want to make your stops at. Each resort usually has a menu featuring their new or holiday treats. They even offer mobile pickup to many locations when you purchase directly from the app.
Plan for Photos:
The resort lobbies make for incredible photo backdrops—especially the Grand Floridian’s Gingerbread House or the Beach Club’s carousel. You can also purchase the Memory Maker photo package to be able to save all of your pictures.
Other Options for Christmas Festivities at Walt Disney World
Looking for more Christmas fun at Walt Disney World? Here are a few things you can add to your list:
- Disney Springs: Do the Christmas Tree stroll, enjoy holiday treats, and listen to live music.
- Magic Kingdom: Get tickets to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party and enjoy the holiday fun with Mickey and his friends.
- EPCOT: Enjoy the Festival of the Holidays at EPCOT. Make your way through each country to experience how each destination celebrates the joy of Christmas. Enjoy live music, treats, and even drinks.
- Hollywood Studios: Enjoy the festivities of Jollywood Nights. They offer tons of drinks and snack options for you to purchase and enjoy during the party.
How to Plan the Perfect Christmas Disney Vacation
Disney can feel a bit overwhelming especially if you are a first time visitor or haven’t visited in a few years. Walt Disney World is constantly growing and chaging so it is important to get up to date information to better plan for your next Disney vacation. Here are a few tips on how to plan the perfect Christmas Disney vacation:
- Do research and read articles and blogs such as this one to really help you find the best options for you and your family.
- You can take the stress out of planning your Disney vacation by using a travel agent that is knowledgeable in all things Disney. Interested in learning more? Check this out!
- Find a budget a that works for you and see which resort options are best for your budget.
- Book ahead of time. When booking with a travel agent, you can put down a $200 deposit and make payments towards your trip and have it paid off before arrival. The more in advance you book it the easier it is to make more payments towards your vacation to get everything you want.
- Put aside extra money for food, snacks, and souveneirs. You can also purchase Disney gift cards and use those to pay for any extras during your trip.
- Book experiences and make dining reservations ahead of time.
- Watch YouTube videos on how to plan your trip before booking. There are many good YouTube videos out there as well.
- Have a planner and plan out your vacation so you can make the most of every day.
READ MORE: WHY YOU SHOULD USE A TRAVEL AGENT TO PLAN YOUR NEXT DISNEY VACATION
Summary of the Best Walt Disney World Christmas Decorated Resorts
The resorts of Walt Disney World are more than just a place to stay—they’re an experience in themselves, especially at Christmas. Whether you’re in the mood for Victorian elegance, rustic charm, or tropical holiday vibes, these resorts bring the festive magic of Disney to life. I hope that this guide to the best Disney resorts at Christmas has helped you narrow down your options for the perfect holiday Disney vacation.
Which Disney resort are you most excited to visit during the holiday season? Let us know in the comments!
