At World Drive we love hidden gems especially at Walt Disney World! So we thought our very first post should be about one of the most overlooked, underrated and sometimes the forgotten resort of Disney’s Coronado Springs. Let’s dive right in and explain why Coronado Springs is one of our favorite Walt Disney World properties.
Coronado Springs is off the beaten path. It is mostly famous for being Disney’s Convention Hotel. But don’t let that feature make you rule this resort off your list of places to visit.
As a local it takes approximately 8 minutes from Celebration to reach Coronado Springs via World Drive.
Before we delve into why it made our Top list let’s focus for a minute on why it is often overlooked.
As much as we love this resort we have to admit to it’s glaring obvious fault. The only transportation from this resort to and from the parks are buses. Sure, we appreciate the bus system but on our transportation rankings the buses land dead last. So if you were thinking about using the Monorail, the Skyliner or any Disney Water Transportation then this resort isn’t on any of the stops. Keep that in mind if you need faster transportation to get you around. A good alternative can be a Minnie Van, Uber or Lyft.
Now that we have the one tiny negative out of the way let’s focus on why this Resort is one of our hidden gems!
The Attention to Detail
Not everyone is a rabid Disney Park fan, cough cough like us, and we understand that. When Imagineers created Coronado Springs they recognized this as well. They designed this gorgeous resort that caters to business folk and those mature Disney fans who don’t want in-your-face Disney characters but rather the classic hidden Mickey. If that is you, bravo! This resort has you in mind.
The stunning attention to detail will take your breath away! The art throughout the resort may even stop you as you pass by even if you are in a hurry. Besides the splendid art displayed in thought provoking fashion you shouldn’t miss the perfectly tailored fixtures, arched corridors, decorative trusses, and cathedral domes throughout the property.
The Relaxed Atmosphere at Coronado Springs
As a local I appreciate the relaxed atmosphere at Coronado Springs and one should not take this subtle trait for granted! If you have ever been to a ridiculously popular spot at Disney you know people are everywhere and you are fighting just to find a seat to sit in! This is not the case here as there always seems to be enough space to move about without feeling like your bubble has been invaded.
For those who like less crowds this should be right up your alley. If you are overwhelmed by hordes of people (i.e. Magic Kingdom viewing of fireworks on Main Street comes to mind) this resort is off the beaten path and it’s nice to relax here even if you aren’t staying the night.
There is waterside seating outdoors near Laguna Bar, plenty of business seating inside near Panchito’s Gifts and Sundries, as well near Barcelona Lounge- no reservations needed.
Ample Parking & More Parking
Parking is a premium here in Florida, especially at Disney. If you aren’t staying at the resorts then you most likely have run into the covid-inspired Disney parking rule which is: No Reservation = No Parking. Without a reservation for either dining or a resort stay, you are SOL at parking at most of the resorts. You will find this rule very enforced at the Monorail Resorts (Contemporary, Polynesian and Grand Floridian) as well as the Skyliner Resorts (Riviera, Beach & Yacht Club) and Animal Kingdom Lodge. This rule is especially implemented around the holidays or busier seasons.
If you are hungry for Rix’s Sports Bar & Grill (a great place to watch football) or Three Bridges Bar & Grill (dining on the water, yes please!) then make a lunch or dinner trip on a whim. Parking at the Convention Center at Coronado Springs seems to be always open for us World Travelers so we patronize this resort for a bite or an adult beverage quite often.
Besides parking being available, which is already a win, you will find the parking lot easy to navigate. It has entrances to both the Convention Center as well as an entrance by Panchito’s Gifts & Sundries. It is a short walk to and fro, and won’t leave you scratching your head on where you parked in a giant asphalt maze.
Convenient Resort Shopping with Coronado Springs Specific Artwork
Speaking of Panchito’s Gifts & Sundries it is important for me to note that this little shop packs a wallop. Let me explain. Let’s say you have ever shopped at World of Disney at Disney Springs. Odds are if you are a local you have. If you haven’t the Cliff’s Note version is it has Black Friday crowds year round. Fun stuff if you love looking for Disney jewelry with five other people breathing down your neck.
What makes Panchito’s a little ray of sunshine is they sell some of the same merchandise you can find inside the parks and World of Disney, all at the convenience of little to no throngs of people. It actually gives you time, and space, to shop while not feeling rushed or trampled. It feels like a lazy Sunday afternoon inside with plenty of Cast Members around to help.
And hey let’s look at the little Easter Egg in the above photo. On the left side of the table below the t-shirt you will see on display a piece of artwork. That is a Coronado Springs inspired hand-drawn creation from Celebration’s own Larry Dotson. You will find lots of his resort artwork for purchase around Disney.
Coronado Springs has phenomenal Dining Atmosphere
Although we won’t cover all of the locations to eat and drink at Coronado Springs there are some special ones worth mentioning.
Three Bridges can and probably will woo you with some killer views with their waterfront dining and Sangria Flight. Being a self-proclaimed Disney foodie there hasn’t been anything on the food menu that inspired me. But their drinks are good for what they are. On the other hand the atmosphere is top notch! For a bar it calls us back time and time again for some pretty spectacular sunsets. You can check out the drink menu here.
Dahlia Lounge, located at the top of the Gran Destino Tower, rivals views with Three Bridges and is in our humble opinion, one of the best bars on property. World Drive will be doing a future blog covering the impressive lounge.
Also at the Gran Destino Tower is the Barcelona Lounge. This visually enchanting bar is a unique addition to those hunting for an adult beverage on Disney property. This room is stunning with all it’s beautiful aesthetically pleasing details.
Even if you aren’t hungry or thirsty the Lounge is a gorgeous set up to just walk through. It also is an ideal spot to relax or get some work done since it is so bright and open.
In short, add Coronado Springs on your lists of resorts to explore.
If you haven’t popped in to see this impressive resort, make time, as this property is stunning. With little nooks and corners that beg to be explored, inside and out.
Have you been to Coronado Springs? If you have leave a comment below and tell us what you loved (and hated) or drop us a line!