Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a pretty special place to stay on Walt Disney World property. This resort is as old as Walt Disney World, opening on October 1, 1971 along with the Magic Kingdom! Between the fun theme and its close proximity to the Magic Kingdom, this resort should be on everyone’s Disney Resort Hotel bucket list. Today we’re sharing five top things to do at Disney’s Contemporary Resort.

Ride the Monorail
There are three different hotels along the Magic Kingdom monorail route, but only one hotel has the monorail travel straight through it! There’s just something about riding on the highway in the sky and getting a great view of the inside of Disney’s Contemporary Resort at the same time. Since the monorail station is located near restaurants and shopping, it’s so convenient to hop on the next one and take a tour of the Magic Kingdom monorail resorts!

Meet Chef Mickey & Friends
Walt Disney World is great about offering character meals across property, and Disney’s Contemporary Resort is home to a great character buffet option. Chef Mickey’s is open daily for breakfast and dinner, giving guests a chance to meet Chef Mickey, himself! You’ll also get to spend time with Goofy, Minnie Mouse, Donald, and Pluto. So, enjoy your fill of the buffet, and be sure to save room for dessert!

Watch the Electrical Water Pageant
Colorful, glowing sea creatures light up the Seven Seas Lagoon each evening during the Electrical Water Pageant. Each night at 10:35 PM this 15-minute parade rolls through the lagoon, playing classic Disney tunes! If you’ve got a waterview room, you’ll be able to enjoy right from bed.

Dinner at California Grill
California Grill is one of the most sought-after reservations on Walt Disney World property. On the 15th floor of Disney’s Contemporary Resort enjoy breathtaking views of the Magic Kingdom and the Seven Seas Lagoon. The best time to dine is during the nightly Happily Ever After fireworks show! You can enjoy the Magic Kingdom nighttime spectacular from the top of the world.

Walk to Magic Kingdom
One of the best things about Disney’s Contemporary Resort is how close it is to the Magic Kingdom! While the monorail is very convenient, if you’re looking for the quickest way into Magic Kingdom’s gate, you’re better off walking. Disney’s Contemporary Resort provides guests with a short walking path that leads you straight to the gate! You’ll get views of Space Mountain on your walk over, and you may even have a monorail pass by overhead.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort is a one-of-a-kind Disney stay. With tasty dining options in every price range and the Magic Kingdom just a short walk away, you’re going to want to check this resort out for yourself! Stay tuned for next week’s Disney’s Magical Moments on Disney’s Yacht Club Resort.