Jump to content

The One Thing That Astonished Us About Disney World’s Newest Hotel


Recommended Posts

Did you know that Disney just opened up a whole brand-new hotel?

2024-wdw-island-tower-at-disneys-polynes

Island Tower

Of course we’re talking about the Disney Vacation Club property called the Island Tower at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort! This property is really quite stunning, and we’ve had a chance to experience the grounds, the amenities, dining options, and even the rooms. We’ve loved our time here, but there has been one thing that really astonished us about Disney World’s newest hotel, and we’ve gotta talk with you about it!

Planning guide for the ultimate Disney vacation

As we were saying, while there’s so much to fall head over heels for at this new hotel, one thing truly astonished us – and not in a good way. Let’s talk about transportation.

2024-wdw-disneys-polynesian-village-reso

Island Tower

Now, if you’re a frequent Disney-goer, you know how vital good transportation is to your Disney World experience. After all, who wants to spend the majority of their precious park time trekking across a vast resort to catch a bus or monorail? That’s where the Island Tower at the Polynesian feels like it’s missing the mark.

wdw-2024-disneys-polynesian-village-reso

Island Tower

Despite all the glamour and excitement surrounding this new property (it officially opened just a few days ago, on December 17, 2024), we were surprised to find a glaring lack of convenient transportation options. Here’s the scoop: the Island Tower doesn’t have its own dedicated bus stop. Yep, you read that right. Guests staying here will need to trek back to the main Polynesian Village Resort area to catch buses or access the monorail.

2021-wdw-magic-kingdom-atmosphere-polyne

Directions to the Monorail at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort

Now, here at DFB, we’re not ones to shy away from a leisurely stroll, especially when the grounds are as gorgeous as those at the Polynesian. But after a long day at the parks, when your feet are begging for a break, a long hike back to the transportation options isn’t exactly the move. This makes things especially tricky if you’re trying to make rope drop at Magic Kingdom or hustle back for a midday nap.

Polynesian-Island-Tower-Hotel-Reopening-

Walking Path

For a hotel this high-end, we were honestly expecting something a little more streamlined. Maybe a separate bus stop? Or a more direct path to the transportation hub? As it stands, the lack of easy transportation access is a definite drawback for this otherwise spectacular addition to the Polynesian.

wdw-2024-disneys-polynesian-village-reso

Island Tower

Honestly, we can definitely see the appeal of calling a Minnie Van or rideshare service from the Island Tower instead of hoofing it back to the main transportation hub. But that’s an added cost and not exactly ideal when Disney’s selling you on the convenience of their resorts.

2024-wdw-polynesian-village-resort-islan

That view, though!

Does this mean you should skip the Island Tower altogether? Not necessarily! This place is gorgeous, and its location still gives you access to the monorail (if you’re willing to make the walk), plus all the dining and amenities of the Polynesian. It’s just something to keep in mind when planning your stay.

Polynesian-Island-Tower-Hotel-Reopening-

Island Tower

Hopefully, Disney finds a way to address this issue in the future, because the Island Tower deserves to shine without any logistical hiccups. For now, if you’re planning a stay here, bring comfy shoes (or budget for a Minnie Van). Trust us, your feet will thank you!

We’ll be sure to keep you updated on all the latest news coming from this new Island Tower, so stay tuned to DFB!

FIRST LOOK Inside the Rooms at Disney’s NEW Island Tower Hotel

Join the DFB Newsletter to get all the breaking news right in your inbox! Click here to Subscribe!

WE KNOW DISNEY.
YOU CAN, TOO.


DFBGuide-ShortCode-Image-1.png

Oh boy, planning a Disney trip can be quite the adventure, and we totally get it! But fear not, dear friends, we compiled EVERYTHING you need (and the things to avoid!) to plan the ULTIMATE Disney vacation.

Whether you're a rookie or a seasoned pro, our insider tips and tricks will have you exploring the parks like never before. So come along with us, and get planning your most magical vacation ever!

Will you be visiting the Island Tower in 2025? Tell us in the comments!

The post The One Thing That Astonished Us About Disney World's Newest Hotel first appeared on the disney food blog.

View the full article

Link to comment
Share on other sites

Join the conversation

You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.

Guest
Reply to this topic...

×   Pasted as rich text.   Paste as plain text instead

  Only 75 emoji are allowed.

×   Your link has been automatically embedded.   Display as a link instead

×   Your previous content has been restored.   Clear editor

×   You cannot paste images directly. Upload or insert images from URL.

Loading...
 Share

×
×
  • Create New...