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✨ WHY WE LOVED THE FOUR SEASONS RESORT ORLANDO AT WALT DISNEY WORLD: A Luxe Family-Friendly Disney Vacation Option 🏰🌴

  • Writer: Audra Claire
    Audra Claire
  • Jul 31, 2023
  • 6 min read

Updated: 4 days ago

If you're planning a Disney vacation and craving luxury, relaxation, and impeccable service, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is a resort you must consider. We visited this AAA Five Diamond resort in May, and I’m thrilled to share a full review of what makes it a standout choice for families, couples, and anyone looking to enjoy a magical Disney vacation with an upscale twist.


A Disney-Area Resort With the Four Seasons Touch 💫

This is a AAA five-diamond resort that guests can't stop raving about. For many guests, I see their resort decision come down to Disney's Grand Floridian Resort and Spa or The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World. I kept this in mind while touring the resort in May, making mental notes on the difference in theming, service offerings, facilities, and the subtle differences in clientele. Although the Four Seasons Orlando sits on Disney property, it’s not Disney-owned—which gives it a distinct, refined feel. The moment you drive through the Golden Oak neighborhood and arrive at this stunning Spanish Revival-style resort, you can tell it’s something special. The elegant interiors are open and welcoming, with subtle Disney touches—like a sparkling fireworks-inspired chandelier above the grand staircase 🎇.



Ideal Location Just Minutes from Magic Kingdom 🚗🎡

One of the best features of this resort is its proximity to Magic Kingdom Park. While you won’t be hopping on the monorail here, you’ll enjoy scheduled luxury bus transportation 🚌 to all four Walt Disney World theme parks. Just note: buses drop off at the Ticket and Transportation Center for Magic Kingdom and Epcot, and stroller folding is required 👶🏻🍼.


Exceptional Guest Service and Amenities 🌟

From the Disney Planning Center in the lobby (staffed by an official Disney Cast Member!) to the smiling faces at every turn, service here is next-level. The entire team works hard to create memorable stays, and it truly shows 💁🏼‍♀️.


Spacious Rooms and Family-Friendly Suites 🛌🪟

Guest rooms range from Standard Views to coveted Park View rooms where you can watch the fireworks right from your balcony 🎆. For families with more than two children or anyone wanting extra space, I highly recommend a suite—especially the Golden Oak View Suite, which offers a separate space for naps or early bedtimes.

The décor blends warm and cool neutrals for a peaceful vibe—nothing loud or “Disneyfied.” And the soundproofing? Spot-on. It’s truly a relaxing escape after a day in the parks 💤. The max. occupancy in rooms is 2 adults and 2 children (0-18). So if you have more than two children you'll want to keep that in mind. Cribs and rollaway beds are available upon request at no extra charge (subject to max. occupancy).



Explorer Island: A Dream for Kids (and Parents!) 🌊🛝🎮

Let’s talk about Explorer Island, the resort’s private water park. This family-focused area includes:

  • A massive family pool (complete with movie nights! 🍿🎬)

  • Lazy river

  • Waterslides and splash zones 💦

  • The Hideout (indoor games for tweens and teens 🎮🕹️)

  • Rock climbing wall 🧗🏻‍♂️

  • Sports courts and a playground 🏀

Everything is thoughtfully laid out for convenience—no long hikes between fun spots. Explorer Island is laid out in a way that provides a balance between sun-drenched pools and loungers, and shaded cove-like areas for napping and relaxing 🌴☀️.


If you do choose to stay at this resort I would absolutely recommend setting aside a day or two to enjoy all that the resort has to offer.


Little Princess? Don’t Miss the Magical Moments Spa Experience 👑💅

If your little one dreams of becoming a princess, the Magical Moments for Kids spa service is a charming alternative to Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique. Options like the Belle of the Ball package include hair, makeup, nails, and accessories—just bring your own dress! 👗✨ (Pro tip: Check out comfy, non-itchy dresses from Only Little Once or Trish Scully.)



Pamper Yourself at the Spa 🧖🏼‍♀️🌺

And speaking of the spa, it's awesome. This 13,000-square-foot luxury spa is an oasis in itself. Book signature treatments like the Healing Honey Treatment 🍯 or even IV therapy to recover from park days! Bonus: Even if you book a short service, you’ll still have access to the steam rooms, outdoor hot tubs, and relaxation lounges 🌸.


On-Site Dining Worth a Visit 🍽️🥂


If you're here for Disney experiences, you'll love the Character Breakfast that occurs every Thursday and Saturday morning at Ravello. Enjoy a fun morning with Goofy and his pals as you munch on yummy waffles, omelets, and breakfast favorites offered at the buffet.


  • Ravello offers a Disney character breakfast every Thursday and Saturday, featuring Goofy and friends! 🐶🍳

  • Capa, the Michelin-starred rooftop steakhouse, delivers exquisite Spanish-influenced cuisine, fresh seafood, and firework views from the 17th floor 🎇🥩🍷.


Kid-Friendly Perks and Family Fun 👧🏻🧒🏼🎉

  • Kids for All Seasons, the complimentary kids’ camp for ages 4–12, offers themed activities, swim time, and outdoor games 🎨🏖️

  • The app makes it easy to manage your stay, from special requests to checking the bus schedule 📲🗓️


Complimentary luxury buses transport guests to the Disney parks. The departure times are pre-scheduled and you can request a printed schedule or view on the app. These buses are not continual like the Disney buses are. This can be a pro or con depending on your needs. On the one hand, you know when exactly what time the bus is leaving for each park. On the other hand, if you miss it by just a few minutes you might have to wait quite a while for the next departure. One great thing about this is that each bus is going to one park. At some non Disney-owned resorts busses will drop off/ pick up passengers at multiple parks. This isn't fun when you're tired and ready to get back to your room.



The transportation is probably my biggest con for this resort. The luxury buses are very nice, but you do have more of a trek, by way of the ticket & transportation center, to arrive at Magic Kingdom Park and Epcot. The other consideration is that bus transportation is your only option. There's no monorail, Skyliner, or ferry boat to hop on. This means that you have to empty and collapse your stroller each time you board the bus.


So, a quick recap. The Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World is an amazing property. I would highly recommend a stay here. As with all resorts, there are certain vacationers who I think will enjoy the resort more than others.


Is the Four Seasons Resort Orlando Right for You? 🤔

Perfect For:

  • Families looking to balance park time with luxury downtime 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦🧘🏼‍♀️

  • Couples celebrating honeymoons, anniversaries, or special getaways 💍❤️

  • Guests who want a high-end, less Disney-themed resort experience 🌆

  • Four Seasons loyalists seeking that signature service ✨

Consider Other Options If:

  • You want to be immersed in classic Disney theming 🏰🎠

  • Transportation convenience is a top priority (especially to Magic Kingdom or Epcot)

  • You have young children and want to avoid folding strollers for bus rides 👶🏼


Quick Recap: Pros and Cons of the Four Seasons Orlando ✔️❌

PROS:

✅ Prime Disney location near Magic Kingdom

✅ 30-minute early theme park entry

✅ Explorer Island Water Park 🏊‍♀️

✅ Character breakfasts and princess spa experiences 👑

✅ Quiet, elegant rooms and suites

✅ Complimentary luxury kids’ camp 🎒

✅ Adults-only pool 🧘🏼‍♀️

✅ Michelin-star dining with firework views

✅ Disney Planning Center with Cast Member support

✅ Convenient mobile app for bus schedules & requests

CONS:

❌ No monorail, ferry, or Skyliner access

❌ Buses have scheduled departure times only

❌ Drop-off at the Ticket & Transportation Center for Magic Kingdom and Epcot

❌ Must collapse strollers to board buses



If you’re dreaming of a Disney vacation that combines luxury, service, and family-friendly amenities, the Four Seasons Resort Orlando checks all the boxes ✅. It's one of the best non-Disney resorts near Walt Disney World, and it's especially ideal for longer stays, resort days, and guests who want a retreat from the hustle and bustle of the theme parks.

Have questions about planning your Disney vacation or choosing the right resort for your family? I’d love to help you find the perfect fit—just reach out! 💌✨


And if you have any specific questions that I didn't answer here don't hesitate to reach out!















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