Disney’s Contemporary Resort, one of the most iconic hotels at Walt Disney World, has a rich history tied to its futuristic and modern design for the time it was built in 1971. When it opened as one of the original resorts alongside Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, the Contemporary stood out for its sleek, modern aesthetic and groundbreaking construction techniques. The resort was designed to embody the idea of “contemporary” living, with a clean, minimalist style and innovative architecture that mirrored the forward-thinking spirit of Walt Disney himself.
The resort’s most remarkable feature is its A-frame tower structure, designed in collaboration with United States Steel Corporation. What made it groundbreaking at the time was the method of construction: individual rooms were built offsite, fully furnished, and then slid into place like drawers into the steel frame of the building. This modular construction was an architectural marvel for the 1970s and contributed to the resort’s futuristic appeal.
Another iconic feature of Disney’s Contemporary Resort is the monorail, which passes right through the heart of the building. This was a key design element that added to the hotel’s allure as a symbol of modern transportation. Guests can board the monorail from inside the resort’s Grand Canyon Concourse, which also houses shops, restaurants, and a massive mural designed by Disney Legend Mary Blair, known for her work on “it’s a small world.” This integration of the monorail into the resort’s design further emphasized the seamless blend of luxury and technology, making it one of the most unique experiences for visitors at the time.
The Contemporary Resort’s connection to the monorail also underscores its role as part of Walt Disney’s vision for a futuristic city of tomorrow. Though that city never materialized in the way Disney envisioned, the resort itself became a symbol of the forward-thinking ideals that Walt Disney hoped to instill in the park.
Despite changes and updates over the years, including modernized rooms and the addition of Bay Lake Tower, the resort has maintained its original futuristic feel. Today, it remains a beloved piece of Disney history, offering stunning views of Magic Kingdom and keeping the spirit of innovation alive.
Dining
California Grill (Table Service)
Chef Mickey's (Table Service)
Steakhouse 71 (Table Service)
Contempo Cafe (Quick Service)
Contemporary Grounds (Coffee Bar)
Outer Rim (Lounge)
Admire stunning views of Bay Lake with specialty cocktails before—or after—dinner. Try a Piña CoLAVA, Watermelon Margarita, Blue “Glow-tini” or more! A full bar menu is also available.
The Sand Bar (Pool Bar)
At the Sand Bar Pool Bar, picnic poolside with burgers, hot dogs, and sandwiches, or cool off with a full bar menu and air-conditioning inside the enclosed bar.
Activities
The Main Pool is 6500 sq ft which includes a 17-foot high curving slide, and cabanas are available to rent. The smaller Bay Lake Pool is a round, quiet pool that is shallow on the outside and deeper in the center. Guests may also enjoy Interactive water fountains and two whirlpool spas.
Additional Fun: Kids can run freely at the children’s playground and Game Station Arcade. Pass an afternoon playing tennis, shuffleboard, volleyball, or Bocce Ball.
The Marina offers boat rental, water cruises, water sports, or fishing. The resort also offers a Fitness Center and spa services.
Movies: Nightly Disney Movies Under The Stars play on the lawn near the Sky Way Bridge.
Shopping
Step into the magic at Fantasia, a shop offering signature Disney character apparel and souvenirs as well as logo merchandise. You can also find a large assortment of Disney pins, Mickey ears, and other toys and gifts at this fantastic shop.
Fantasia Market features all your favorite snacks, beer, wine and spirits, magazines, newspapers, and travel necessities.
Bayview Gifts offers unique homewares, spectacular art collectibles, modern jewelry, clothing, watches, assorted chocolates, and fudge. Shop for premium Disney souvenirs at this colorful shop. Here you’ll also find merchandise from special collections!
Transportation
You have three Disney transportation options at Contemporary:
- Motorcoach Bus
- Ferryboat
- Monorail (to Magic Kingdom, transfer at TTC for EPCOT)
Magic Kingdom – 12 minutes by walking, 19 minutes by monorail
Epcot – 22 minutes by monorail, 22 minutes by bus
Disney’s Hollywood Studios – 22 minutes by bus
Disney’s Animal Kingdom – 25 minutes by bus
Disney Springs – 30 minutes by bus
Blizzard Beach Water Park – 24 minutes by bus
Typhoon Lagoon Water Park – 25 minutes by bus
A private “Minnie Van” can be rented, as well, for a by-service fee.
Pro Tips
- There are two separate check-ins for both Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower.
- You cannot use the pool at Bay Lake Tower unless you’re staying at Bay Lake Tower. But Bay Lake Tower guests are free to use the Contemporary Pool.
- California Grill is one of my favorite spots to watch the Magic Kingdom fireworks. There is also a wonderful verandah off the Grand Canyon Concourse if you don’t want to commit to a fancy dinner.
- There are two separate check-ins for both Contemporary and Bay Lake Tower.
- 70% of the wine collection at California Grill is from California vineyards.
- The chocolate layer cake at Steakhouse 71 is ahh-mazing!! If you are dining later in the evening, be sure to order it at the beginning of your meal – it’s been known to sell out.
- Rooms with a view of Bay Lake also have a great sunrise view.
