The Best Lobbies in Walt Disney World

Walt Disney World is home to over twenty different Disney Resorts that range from Deluxe options with countless dining and recreational offerings to Value options that are just as comfortable on a more scaled down level. Each Disney Resort features its own unique theme that is brought to life in an immersive way through décor, architecture, music, landscaping, and more. While each Disney Resort is wonderful in its own way, some are simply a cut above the rest thanks in part to their stunning lobbies. Let’s check out the best lobbies to enjoy in Walt Disney World!

Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Kicking off the list is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort found just across Seven Seas Lagoon from the Magic Kingdom. The lobby can be found in the Great Ceremonial House and features a sprawling, open main area with two floors, lush greenery in the center, floor to ceiling windows letting in copious light, and a beachy light fixture to tie everything together. In addition to the ambiance, the Great Ceremonial House is also home to dining options including ‘Ohana, Kona Café, Capt. Cook’s, and Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto as well as Tambu Lounge and shopping options like BouTiki and Moana Mercantile.

Disney’s Contemporary Resort

One monorail stop away from Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is Disney’s Contemporary Resort which is well-known for the monorail entering inside of the building to get to the station. Designed as an A-frame, the Disney Resort features a massive open-air atrium where Guests can take in a large mural by Mary Blair, dine at Contempo Café or Chef Mickey’s, and shop at a variety of stores. The large windows letting in light, combined with the modern aesthetic and monorail silently gliding by make the lobby of Disney’s Contemporary Resort one of the best.

Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa

The final stop on the monorail’s Resort Loop is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, which brings Victorian elegance to life. The massive lobby of the Disney Resort features a soaring glass ceiling, elevator encased in a wrought iron birdcage, plush carpeting and rich details, and plenty of seating to take it all in. Guests who relax and spend time enjoying dining and shopping options in the lobby of Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa might even catch a musical performance from a pianist or larger classical band.

Disney’s Wilderness Lodge

From Victorian opulence to the rugged beauty of the National Parks, the next lobby can be found at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge. Nestled on the shores of Bay Lake, this Deluxe Disney Resort features a stunning lobby that is filled with cozy stone fireplaces, towering totem poles, authentic Native American artwork and artifacts, and endless wooden beams and details. Guests can find plenty of quiet nooks to enjoy in addition to dining at Whispering Canyon Café, Roaring Fork, Territory Lounge and more as well as shopping and recreational activities.

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge

Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge is a stunning Deluxe Disney Resort that can sometimes be overlooked due to its semi-remote location near Disney’s Animal Kingdom. The main lobby of the Disney Resort features an immense open-air area with a glass wall looking out onto the savanna where animals are freely roaming. The interior of the lobby is filled with artifacts and items from Africa that beautifully contrast with the dark wood accents all around. Guests can relax and enjoy the ambiance from comfortable seating or check out unique dining locations like The Mara, Boma, and Victoria Falls Lounge.

Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

It’s not only the Deluxe Disney Resorts that have stunning lobbies as showcased with Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. This Value Resort brings the beauty and vibrancy of animation to life from the moment Guests enter the bright and cheerful lobby. The Walls are lined with sketches and drawings of favorite characters, locations, and scenes from Disney films and the unique chandelier is comprised of hundreds of sketches. With stunning artwork found in every corner, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort has an unforgettable lobby.

Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter

The final lobby that shouldn’t be missed in Walt Disney World is found at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter. The smallest Disney Resort also features a relatively quaint lobby that packs big charm. Floor to ceiling glass panels lined with wrought iron bring the style of New Orleans to life alongside a bubbling fountain, bright colors and accents, cheerful jazz music, and a view straight down to the main pool. The lobby is also home to Scat Cat’s Club – Café and Lounge as well as Sassagoula Floatworks & Food Factory where Guests can dine and Jackson Square Gifts & Desires where they can shop. Soaking in the ambiance with some delicious Mickey Beignets is the perfect way to spend time at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter!