If you’re planning a Disney vacation during the holiday season, you’re in for an incredible treat with Christmas at Disney Resorts! The Disney resorts take holiday magic to the next level with jaw-dropping decorations, festive treats, and one-of-a-kind seasonal displays. Whether you’re staying on property or just looking to explore, visiting Disney resorts during Christmas is an absolute must.
As a travel agent who specializes in Disney vacations, I always encourage my clients to set aside time to visit the resorts during the holidays. It’s a fantastic way to soak in the holiday spirit, enjoy unique experiences, and create magical moments—without even needing a park ticket. Let’s dive into the best Disney resorts to visit at Christmastime and how you can make the most of your trip!
🎄 Why Visit Disney Resorts During the Holidays?
Disney doesn’t just decorate the parks for Christmas; they completely transform their resorts into festive, themed wonderlands. From massive Christmas trees to life-sized gingerbread displays, every resort has its own unique twist on holiday magic.
Even if you’re not staying at a Disney resort, resort-hopping during the holidays is a fun and free way to experience Disney’s attention to detail. Plus, it’s a great opportunity to enjoy holiday photo ops, seasonal treats, and even dining at some of the resorts’ best restaurants.
🏰 Best Disney Resorts to Visit During the Holidays
Here’s a list of must-see Disney resorts that bring the holiday season to life. Each one offers something unique, making them worth a stop during your visit!
1. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa 🌹
The Grand Floridian is the epitome of elegance, and it truly shines during the holiday season.
Holiday Highlights:
- Life-Sized Gingerbread House: This stunning gingerbread house is made with over 1,000 pounds of honey and thousands of other ingredients. It doubles as a shop where you can buy gingerbread shingles, peppermint bark, and other delicious treats.
- Victorian Holiday Decor: The resort’s lobby is decked out with Victorian-inspired Christmas decor, complete with a towering Christmas tree, sparkling lights, and live festive music.
Why Visit: Perfect for an elegant holiday experience and a chance to indulge in delicious seasonal treats.
2. Disney’s Wilderness Lodge 🪵
Looking for cozy, rustic holiday vibes? The Wilderness Lodge feels like a true winter retreat.
Holiday Highlights:
- Massive Christmas Tree: The lobby features a towering tree adorned with handmade ornaments that reflect the resort’s Pacific Northwest theme.
- Cozy Atmosphere: With roaring fireplaces, comfy seating areas, and woodsy holiday decor, it’s the perfect spot to relax and soak in the season.
Why Visit: Ideal for guests who want a warm, woodsy holiday setting and Instagram-worthy photo ops.
3. Disney’s Beach Club Resort 🌊
The Beach Club Resort combines seaside charm with festive holiday magic.
Holiday Highlights:
- Gingerbread Carousel: A fully rotating, life-sized carousel made entirely of gingerbread and other edible decorations. Each year, it’s themed to Disney movies or characters, making it a must-see.
- Beachy Holiday Decor: Expect coastal-themed decorations paired with festive lights and ornaments, all set against the resort’s relaxed beach vibes.
Why Visit: A great stop for families, especially with kids who’ll love the carousel and the delicious smell of gingerbread.
4. Disney’s Contemporary Resort 🎁
The Contemporary Resort puts a sleek, modern twist on holiday decor.
Holiday Highlights:
- Gingerbread Cinderella Castle: This massive display features a gingerbread castle decorated with icing, chocolate, and hand-painted Disney characters.
- Outdoor Christmas Tree: A towering Christmas tree outside the resort lights up beautifully at night, creating a magical photo opportunity.
Why Visit: Perfect for those staying near Magic Kingdom or anyone who loves modern decor with a festive twist.
5. Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge 🐾
For a global holiday experience, don’t miss the Animal Kingdom Lodge, which blends African culture with festive decor.
Holiday Highlights:
- African-Inspired Christmas Tree: The lobby’s massive tree is adorned with handcrafted ornaments, woven baskets, and traditional African designs.
- Savanna Views: Combine the festive decor with views of exotic animals just outside the resort for a one-of-a-kind experience.
Why Visit: A unique holiday destination that’s great for families and those looking for something different.
6. Disney’s Yacht Club Resort ⛵
The Yacht Club Resort offers a nautical take on holiday decor, with elegant touches throughout.
Holiday Highlights:
- Miniature Train Display: The lobby features a detailed holiday train set that winds through a festive village, delighting guests of all ages.
- Elegant Decor: Shades of blue, silver, and white complement the resort’s New England seaside style.
Why Visit: Perfect for guests seeking a calm, sophisticated holiday setting with whimsical details for families.
🎅 Tips for Enjoying Disney Resorts During the Holidays
Here are some practical tips to make your holiday resort-hopping adventure even more magical:
- Take Advantage of Free Transportation: You can visit many resorts without a park ticket by using Disney’s transportation system. Hop on the monorail to explore the Grand Floridian, Contemporary, and Polynesian Resorts, or take a bus to Wilderness Lodge and Animal Kingdom Lodge.
- Capture Holiday Photos: Each resort has unique decor that makes for fantastic photo ops. Bring your camera or smartphone to capture those magical moments! 📸
- Indulge in Seasonal Treats: Many resorts offer exclusive holiday snacks like gingerbread cookies, peppermint bark, and seasonal cocktails. Be sure to stop by the gingerbread displays for festive goodies! 🍪
- Plan Dining Reservations: If you’d like to enjoy a meal during your resort-hopping, book a dining reservation in advance. Popular spots like the Grand Floridian Café or Whispering Canyon Café are great for soaking in the festive atmosphere.
- Visit Early in the Day: Resorts can get busy, especially closer to Christmas, so plan your visit for earlier in the day to avoid crowds.
Why Work with a Disney Travel Specialist?
The holidays at Disney are magical, but they’re also one of the busiest times of the year. That’s where I come in! As a Disney travel specialist, I’ll help you:
- Plan a customized holiday itinerary, including resort-hopping, dining, and park visits.
- Reserve hard-to-get dining reservations and special holiday experiences.
- Share insider tips to help you avoid crowds and maximize your time.
- Handle all the details so you can relax and enjoy a stress-free holiday.
🎄 Ready to Plan Your Disney Holiday Adventure?
Whether you’re staying at a Disney resort or just visiting for the holiday decor, there’s no better time to experience the magic of Disney. From stunning Christmas trees to life-sized gingerbread houses, the Disney resorts offer something for everyone during the holiday season.
If you desire the parks for Christmas, be sure to grab a FREE download of our Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party guide before your next Disney holiday!
📅 Schedule a complimentary consultation with me here: https://schedule.nylas.com/sydney-sheridan-30min
Let’s make your Disney holiday dreams come true! 😊