The Pros of Staying at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
One of the most significant advantages of choosing Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is its convenient location. Situated just across the shores of Lake Buena Vista, this resort offers a short walk or a relaxing water taxi ride to Disney Springs. This proximity makes it an ideal choice for guests who plan to spend time exploring the shopping and dining district. With dozens of shops and restaurants available, you’ll find everything from quick-service options to fine dining, ensuring there’s something for every taste.
In addition to being close to Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs also boasts a variety of on-site dining options. The Turf Club Bar and Grill serves as a signature steakhouse-style restaurant, while The Artist’s Palette offers quick-service meals. For those looking for a casual bite, pool-side dining is also available. Don’t miss the Saratoga House-made Chips from The Artist’s Palette—they’re a must-try.
Beyond dining, the resort provides numerous recreational activities. Guests can enjoy two large feature pools, three smaller pools, and water play areas. There are also opportunities for sunrise yoga, bike rentals, and even a Disney-inspired painting class. Additionally, the resort features the Senses – A Disney Spa, offering a range of wellness services for guests looking to relax and unwind.
If you’re a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) member, staying at Saratoga Springs can be a great value. Many DVC members find that they often need fewer points to stay here compared to other DVC resorts. For non-members, renting DVC points is also an option, with sites like David’s Vacation Club Rentals allowing you to choose your dates and see the per-point cost for each resort.
The Cons of Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Despite its many perks, Saratoga Springs isn’t ideal for everyone. One major drawback is its distance from the theme parks. While Disney bus transportation is available, the travel time may be longer than from other resorts located closer to the parks. If proximity to a theme park is a priority, you might consider a resort in the Magic Kingdom or EPCOT area, or one connected to the Disney Skyliner for easier access.
Another challenge is the resort’s sprawling layout. Divided into five distinct areas—The Carousel, Congress Park, The Grandstand, The Paddock, and The Springs—this design means that some amenities may require a bit of a walk. Using Disney’s transportation system can also be inconvenient, as buses stop at multiple locations, which can be tiring after a long day at the parks.
Additionally, the equestrian theming of Saratoga Springs may not appeal to all guests. While the resort has undergone recent updates that add charm and elegance, it doesn’t have the same level of immersive theming as other Disney resorts like the Polynesian Village Resort or the Animal Kingdom Lodge. However, the Treehouse Villas are a standout feature, offering a unique and memorable experience even if the rest of the resort’s theming isn’t to your liking.
Should You Stay at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa?
Whether Saratoga Springs is the right choice for your family depends on your preferences and travel plans. If you’re looking to spend time at Disney Springs or prefer a more relaxed, resort-focused vacation, this hotel could be an excellent fit. Its combination of convenience, dining options, and recreational activities makes it a compelling choice.
However, if you prioritize proximity to the theme parks or prefer more traditional Disney theming, you might want to explore other options. Resorts like Disney’s Riviera Resort or Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort offer closer access to the parks while still allowing you to use DVC points. Ultimately, the decision comes down to what matters most for your next Disney World adventure.
