Until 2025, the last time we had stayed at Disney’s Bay Lake Tower was back in 2019. Since then, the resort has undergone a full renovation, so it was high time for an updated look.
Bay Lake Tower remains one of the most popular resorts with my clients, and for good reason. You have deluxe-level amenities, monorail, boat and walking access to Magic Kingdom, monorail access to EPCOT, and exceptional dining all just steps away. Bay Lake Tower sits on Bay Lake, with one side offering peaceful water views and the other facing Magic Kingdom with truly fantastic fireworks viewing. The tower is connected to Disney’s Contemporary Resort by a convenient Sky Bridge, so everything at Contemporary is easily accessible. It continues to be a fantastic choice for families, couples, multigenerational groups and anyone who values location and ease.
Accommodations at Bay Lake Tower
Deluxe Studio
My family has always loved Deluxe Studio accommodations across Walt Disney World, and Bay Lake Tower is no exception. Studios offer a queen bed and a sleeper sofa, which helps free up floor space during the day. Many also include a fifth sleeper, which is always a welcome bonus so kids do not have to share.
You will also find a small kitchenette area and a bathroom that feels larger than a standard hotel room. After the renovation, the rooms feel brighter, cleaner, and more modern while still honoring the Contemporary’s iconic design roots. The look has a subtle retro vibe with warm tones, clean lines, and playful Disney artwork that reminds you exactly where you are.
Note: These photos are before the renovation, but you can gauge size and layout!
One Bedroom Villa
The One Bedroom Villa is the room type we book most often at Walt Disney World. The extra space makes such a difference, especially after long park days. You get a true bedroom with a king bed for the grownups, a sleeper sofa in the living area, and a full kitchen. We stayed in this room in September.
While I never cook full meals on vacation, I absolutely love having the refrigerator for quick breakfasts, cold drinks to grab on the way out, and a bottle of wine waiting for the evening. Ending a Disney day on your own balcony with a cold drink in hand is one of life’s simple pleasures.
One thing I particularly love about the Bay Lake Tower One Bedroom Villas is the additional full second bathroom. It makes mornings and evenings much easier.
The renovated decor here is wonderful. It feels like a respectful nod to the resort’s original 1971 opening with modern updates layered in. You see Disney details, but in a sophisticated, intentional way.
Kitchen and Living Room
2nd Full Bath & Laundry Closet
Bedroom & Bathroom
Balcony & Views
Three Bedroom Grand Villa
The Three Bedroom Grand Villa remains, in my opinion, the pinnacle of Disney villa accommodations. We enjoyed this room as a party of 10 back in 2019, and stayed in it again last summer when Honey and I had 5 teens in tow!
The sweeping windows in the two-story living room deliver breathtaking views of Magic Kingdom, the fireworks, Seven Seas Lagoon, and surrounding resorts on the park side, and tranquil Bay Lake views on the opposite side. The living room features a sleeper sofa and opens to a fully stocked kitchen with seating for ten. One of the villa’s four balconies is located off the kitchen, and I always recommend arranging grocery delivery when staying in a villa.
Other spaces on the main level include a spacious laundry room and an additional full bathroom, bringing the total to four.
The primary bedroom is also located on the main level and features a king bed and a large en suite bathroom with double sinks, garden tub, shower, and toilet.
Upstairs are two additional mirror-image bedrooms, each with two queen beds, private balconies, and their own en suite bathrooms.
Bedroom 2:
Bedroom 3
Overlooking the living room is a loft space with another sleeper sofa and TV area. This was a huge hit with our kids.
These villas offer either absolutely spectacular Magic Kingdom and Fireworks views, or serene and sweeping views of Bay Lake.
Dining at Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower
One of the biggest perks of staying at Bay Lake Tower is access to all of the Contemporary Resort dining.
California Grill
Still my number one Disney restaurant. Located on the 15th floor, California Grill offers incredible views and consistently excellent food. If fireworks are happening, you can step out onto the observation deck after your meal to watch. It never gets old.
Chef Mickey’s
A classic character dining experience in a bright, energetic space with monorails gliding overhead and Mary Blair’s iconic mural towering above. Great for families and character lovers.
Contempo Cafe
An excellent quick-service option for all meals. We especially love breakfast here, and yes, the giant Mickey waffle with banana caramel sauce is still a favorite.
Steakhouse 71 Restaurant and Lounge
Named for the year the Contemporary opened, this space blends mid-century inspiration with modern comfort. I have dined here multiple times and consistently enjoy both the food and atmosphere.
Contemporary Grounds
Gourmet coffee, smoothies, pastries, and character-printed lattes. A must for coffee lovers.
Amenities
Staying at Bay Lake Tower gives you access to all Contemporary Resort amenities, shops and recreation.
The marina offers boat rentals and fun excursions like fishing and parasailing. There are two pools, along with a splash area as well over on the Contemporary side. The Bay Lake Tower side has its own pool, and fun activities like giant chess, pool, bocce, ping pong and more!
Contemporary Resort Pool
Bay Lake Tower Pool
Final Thoughts
Bay Lake Tower continues to be a standout deluxe resort thanks to its unbeatable location, excellent room options, strong dining lineup, and easy transportation. The renovation has elevated an already fantastic resort and keeps it feeling fresh while honoring its iconic roots.
Let’s Travel & My Services
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