Top 10 Walt Disney World Resorts to Visit During Christmas

Walt Disney World goes all out when decking the halls for Christmas, and the Disney resorts are no exception!  Massive Christmas trees, intricate gingerbread displays, brightly colored lights and exquisitely themed ornaments are just a few of the festive sights guests can enjoy during their holiday visit. 

With so many gorgeous Christmas offerings at each of the Disney resorts, many guests plan a day to simply resort hop to take in these amazing displays.  If you are looking forward to a Christmas Disney trip, be sure to check out the festive cheer at these Top 10 Disney Resorts!

10.  Polynesian Resort

You’ll be saying Mele Kalikimaka when you visit the beautiful Disney Polynesian Resort during the Christmas season.  The décor here is the perfect marriage of traditional Christmas ornamentation with tropical paradise accents.  Wreaths and garlands are hung throughout the resort with exotic flowers, netting, and beaded embellishments.

Christmas trees are adorned with colorful leis, hibiscus flowers, pineapples, and aquatic life.  In the gift shop, guests can find smaller white coral trees decorated with ribbons, shells, fish, and starfish.  A very unique take on the classic Christmas tree! 

9.  Animal Kingdom Lodge

With its sprawling savanna areas and African-influenced art and décor, Animal Kingdom Lodge is a gorgeous resort to visit year-round.  But the beauty of this resort is amplified at Christmastime. The lobby of Jambo House is home to an immense Christmas tree adorned with safari-inspired decorations akin to the theming of Animal Kingdom Lodge.

In addition to the tree, gorgeous garlands hang from each level of the hotel.  There are also several smaller trees located throughout the space and African-inspired Christmas décor in every corner.

In the lobby of Jambo House, guests can also find “Ginger-affe” and Debra, a baby giraffe and zebra made entirely of gingerbread!

While this resort is located somewhat “out of the way,” the unique decorations make this a worthwhile stop if you are spending the day in nearby Animal Kingdom Park.  To really get the full effect, get cozy around one of the firepits or relax in a rocking chair while watching the animals roam the savanna.

8.  Swan and Dolphin

The Swan and Dolphin Resort claims to be “Santa’s Favorite Resort,” and for good reason!  Santa and Mrs. Claus make regular appearances to greet guests during special events.  The hotel also hosts several Christmastime activities such as cookie decorating, holiday movie marathons, and musical performances. 

Those who are not guests of the hotel may want to stop by just to admire the world’s largest chocolate Santa sculpture as well as the Santa’s Dancing Lights Spectacular display on the causeway.

7.  BoardWalk Inn

The BoardWalk has a large Christmas tree located on the outside lawn with traditional Americana ornaments.  Inside the lobby, there are several smaller trees as well as beautiful garland strung throughout the area and surrounding the fireplace.   

And new this year, guests will find a gingerbread replica of BoardWalk Deli! Guests can peek inside the large windows of the display and spot Mickey and Minnie busy at work creating Disney magic in the kitchen. The details of this display are absolutely amazing!

6.  Contemporary Resort

The massive tree located outside the Contemporary mirrors the modern style and theming of the resort.  One of the tallest trees in Walt Disney World, it is covered in bright lights and topped with a beautiful shining star.  Because it is outside, you can really appreciate the colorful shining lights contrasted against a dark night sky.

Inside the resort, guests will find another impressive gingerbread display showcasing Cinderella Castle.

5.  Fort Wilderness Campgrounds

Disney does a decent job decorating Fort Wilderness Resort for the holidays, but what makes this resort a must-see is the campgrounds!  Guests in campers, RVs, and cabins go all out when decorating for Christmastime, particularly the long-term guests. 

To take in the sights, rent a golf cart and cruise around the decorated campgrounds.  You will see it all here: light displays, trees, wreaths, and inflatable figures.  Each campsite exudes loads of personality and an obvious appreciation for Disney. 

4.  Yacht Club Resort

The Yacht Club Resort is home to several Christmas trees, garlands, and wreaths decked out with boating and maritime ornaments to fit the resort’s nautical theme.  But the main star here is the miniature Christmas village complete with working train. 

While the village is small and ornate, the entire display is huge, taking up a good portion of the lobby.  There are tons of intricate details to take in including hidden Mickeys, Easter eggs, and other Disney references.  Take your time admiring the display and see how many you can spot!

3.  Beach Club Resort

A sister resort to the more formal Yacht Club, the Beach Club Resort features marine decorations in charming pastels such as seafoam and coral.  Not only are guests entreated to aquatic-themed trees, garlands, and wreaths, but Beach Club also houses one of the most incredible gingerbread displays on property – the gingerbread carousel.    

Sitting in the center of the lobby, the elaborate carousel’s design is inspired by specific Disney characters and changes annually.  This year (2023), guests are treated to a DuckTales-inspired carousel featuring Huey, Dewey, Louie, and Webby.

2.  Wilderness Lodge

When I think of a cozy winter cabin, I think of the theming at Wilderness Lodge.  Designed to recreate the feel of rustic cabins in the quiet and beautiful wilderness – it’s no wonder so many guests feel this is the best resort to visit during Christmas. 

As soon as guests step into the lobby, they are greeted by the resort’s towering 60-foot tree adorned with antlers, teepees, pinecones, and other elements inspired by the Pacific Northwest.  To really take it all in, go up the stairs to the second floor balcony to get a closer look at the top of the tree.

With its roaring fireplaces, peaceful atmosphere, and stunning décor, the Wilderness Lodge is a great resort to slow down and take in some Christmas cheer.

1.  Grand Floridian Resort and Spa

And now, my favorite Disney resort to visit during Christmas – The Grand Floridian!  This Victorian-inspired resort is both elegant and sophisticated, and the Christmas decorations follow suit.  Guests will find gorgeous trees, wreaths, and garlands featuring lavish Victorian accents.  At the center of the lobby is a towering Christmas tree replete with elegant bows, floral accents, swans, and references to the 12 Days of Christmas.

And if these gorgeous decorations weren’t enough, the Grand Floridian is home to arguably the most impressive gingerbread display on property – a life-size gingerbread house!  The edible display fills the Grand Floridian lobby with the enticing smell of freshly baked gingerbread.  You can even buy some gingerbread roof shingles from the little bake shop at the back of the house.

If you time your visit right, you may catch the Grand Floridian lobby pianist performing Christmas selections while you snack on gingerbread and take in the sights.  I can’t think of a better way to get in the Christmas spirit!

Which of these Disney resorts tops your must-visit Christmas list?  Let me know in the comments!

Looking for other trip planning articles?  Check out our Top 3 Table Service Restaurants in Each Park HERE and our Walt Disney World Packing List HERE!

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