Saratoga Springs: Disney's HIDDEN Gem? (Orlando SHOCKER!)
Saratoga Springs: Disney's HIDDEN Gem? (Orlando SHOCKER!) - A Truly Human Review
Okay, listen up, fellow Disney fanatics. Forget the usual suspects. Seriously. You think you know Orlando? You’ve been to the Magic Kingdom, you’ve ridden Space Mountain, and you’ve waited in line for a Dole Whip for, like, an hour. But have you really experienced Disney? Because I'm here to tell you, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is… well, it's a bit of a shock. In a good way. A seriously good way. Buckle up, because this isn't your average, sterile hotel review. This is real life, with all its messy glory, Disney style.
First Impressions: Accessibility & Oh, the Space!
Right off the bat, I gotta say, the space. Oh, the space! Coming from, say, a cramped Value Resort room… Saratoga Springs feels like you've won the lottery. We’re talking huge villas, spread out, with actual elbow room. It’s perfect for families, you know, where the squabbles are naturally going to be a thing. And for those worried about accessibility, a huge thumbs up! Wheelchair accessible? Yep. Elevator? You betcha. Forget that feeling of being packed in like sardines. Here you can breathe. Getting around the property is pretty simple, too. And speaking of getting around… the car park [free of charge] is a lifesaver. No fumbling for cash or wrestling with parking machines.
On-Site Delights: Pools, Spas, and the Surprisingly Good Food
Let's talk about the good stuff, starting with… the pools! There are several, and while not all are as elaborate as the ones at the deluxe resorts, they're still fantastic. Especially when things get hot. Need a Pool with a view? Well, you might not get the view (i.e. Magic Kingdom), but a refreshing dip and a sunbed are certainly there. I'm also always a sucker for a good swimming pool [outdoor].
And for the relaxation seekers? They've got a real spa! I'm not talking about the tiny treatment room in a hallway; this is a dedicated spa space. Treat yo'self with a Body scrub, Body wrap, Massage, all the usual pampering. I'll confess, I almost splurged for every single treatment, though I ended up sticking with a deep tissue massage. It was so good, I nearly fell asleep and forgot about the kids. Nearly. Ah, well, Spa/sauna is also available.
Now, about the food. I’m not a huge fan of Disney food, but I was pleasantly surprised by Saratoga Springs. Restaurants abound, including a solid table-service option and several quick-service spots. I enjoyed the Asian cuisine in restaurant, I got Coffee/tea in restaurant to get through the long days, and the Poolside bar is the dream, especially for some happy hour moments. The desserts in restaurant and the coffee shop also deserve a shout-out. And for those who think fine dining is all they need, alternative meal arrangement is available for everyone's taste. Oh! And, yes, there's room service [24-hour]. Breakfast in bed? Absolutely. Breakfast in room! Sold.
What About the Nitty-Gritty? Cleanliness, Safety, and the Modern World
Okay, let's get down to the practical stuff. In our post-pandemic world, safety is paramount, and Saratoga Springs seemed to take it seriously. They've got the Anti-viral cleaning products, Daily disinfection in common areas, and Staff trained in safety protocol. It was reassuring. They have Hand sanitizer available. And you know the best thing? Room sanitization opt-out available! You don't feel like the staff would barge into your room at any moment. This is really a plus for privacy.
The Internet situation is where things get interesting. Free Wi-Fi in all rooms! is a godsend. Which brings us to… Internet access: it’s there, it works. No complaints. The room sanitization opt-out available is a great addition.
Dining, Drinking, and Snacking: More Than Just Mickey Bars
Look, you will find Mickey bars, but there's more to the food scene at Saratoga Springs than meets the eye. I was particularly fond of the snack bar – perfect for grabbing a quick bite before heading out to the parks.
The restaurants themselves offer a decent variety. There's breakfast [buffet] (because Disney!), breakfast service, Western cuisine in restaurant, and even some vegetarian restaurant options. They also have basic things like bottle of water and essential condiments.
Services and Conveniences: The Little Things That Matter
This resort is equipped with everything you could ask for and more. The concierge was super helpful! The daily housekeeping keeps everything nice and tidy. The gift/souvenir shop is handy for those last-minute treasures. There’s also laundry service and dry cleaning – a lifesaver if you spill something on your favorite Disney tee. Oh! And Daily housekeeping is also a great addition.
For the Kids: Happy Families Make Happy Memories
Okay, this is Disney, right? So, of course, they cater to the little ones. This is a family/child-friendly resort, with kids facilities and a babysitting service (if you need a date night!). There's also kids meal options.
Inside your Room - The Real Deal
Okay, let's get real, and let's get intimate. Let's talk about the rooms. They are…well, they're the reason I'm calling Saratoga Springs a hidden gem. The non-smoking rooms are a massive plus. Okay, so the air conditioning works, phew! It gets hot. But, more importantly, there's space. Seriously, a lot of space. The extra long bed is a bonus, the sofa is actually comfortable, and the desk is large enough to work from. The seating area is ideal if you're travelling with kids. And the mini bar… well, that's a must. And the bathroom phone also makes you feel like you're in luxury.
You get a desk for all of your work. The bathrobes are soft; the slippers are comfy. Coffee/tea maker? Yep. Free bottled water? Absolutely. Hair dryer? Check. And because I'm always looking for quiet time, the blackout curtains are a game-changer. They also have an in-room safe box (a necessity!), Satellite/cable channels (for those downtime moments), and a refrigerator - perfect for keeping those Mickey bars cold! Oh, and my favorite part of the room? The window that opens.
Getting Around: Disney Transportation & Beyond
Yes, there's airport transfer available. And car park [free of charge]! However, it's Disney, so you'll be using the bus system. It's efficient, but be prepared for some waits. You've got a taxi service if you need to go that route.
The Verdict: Why Saratoga Springs is a "Hidden Gem" Indeed
Look, Saratoga Springs isn’t perfect. It’s not the most luxurious Disney resort. However, it offers a winning combination of space, a relaxed atmosphere, and surprisingly good amenities. It feels less "theme park" and more "vacation". The value is undeniable. The accessibility is fantastic. Honestly, it’s a relief to stay somewhere that isn’t overflowing with crowds and frantic energy.
The "Orlando SHOCKER" part? This resort manages to be a quiet escape in the middle of the Disney chaos. It’s a perfect place to recharge your batteries, feel like you have space to breathe, and be just okay.
My Imperfect, Human, and Honest Recommendation:
Book it. Seriously, book it. Especially if:
- You value space and comfort over pure glitz.
- You have a family (or appreciate a family-friendly vibe).
- You want a relaxed, stress-free Disney experience.
- You are looking for an accessible vacation.
What it's NOT:
- The most luxurious option (but the space makes up for it!).
- Ideal if you want to be right on top of the action.
- A good place to stay if you're super into Disney theming.
In a nutshell: Saratoga Springs is a bit of a Disney secret weapon. It offers a real vacation feel. Give it a try. You might just be surprised. And trust me, you'll remember it.
A Compelling Offer for Saratoga Springs: Disney's HIDDEN Gem? (Orlando SHOCKER!)
Blythewood Getaway: Home2 Suites Luxury Awaits!
Okay, buckle up buttercup, because you're about to dive into a Saratoga Springs trip report so messy, so raw, so human, it'll probably leave you feeling simultaneously jealous and utterly relieved you weren't there with me. Here goes…
Disney's Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa: A Hot Mess with a Pool (and Churros!)
Day 1: Arrival & Disillusionment (and a REALLY Good Margarita)
- 1:00 PM: Arrive at MCO. Oh, the airport chaos! It's like a giant, sweaty, wheeled suitcase convention. Finding the Magical Express was a minor miracle. Seriously, I swear I saw a woman wrestling a Mickey Mouse balloon that was bigger than her. Victory!! Onward to Saratoga.
- 2:30 PM: Check-in at the Congress Park section. I'd specifically requested a room with a view, envisioning myself sipping coffee on a balcony overlooking the water, serenaded by birdsong. Instead? We got a view of another building. Ugh. Instant disappointment, which, let's be honest, is a Disney tradition.
- 3:00 PM: Room Reconnaissance. Okay, the room is…fine. Cleanish. The pull-out sofa looks like it’s seen some things. Praying nobody actually has to sleep on that thing. The Disney details are cute, I guess – the artwork, the hidden Mickeys (I'm determined to find at least one!). But still, the phantom view of the water haunts me.
- 4:00 PM: The Pool… salvation! We hit the High Rock Spring Pool. It's gorgeous, despite the (inevitable) shrieking children. The kids are so loud, I'm certain I lost a year of my hearing. But the cocktails at the bar… oh, the cocktails! A perfectly crafted margarita washed away all my bad-view woes. Seriously, it was a religious experience.
- 6:00 PM: Dinner at the Turf Club Bar and Grill. It was like some of the worst things that I'd heard in the most recent time period. I ordered the NY Strip, and, well, the steak was… chewy. Honestly, I could have wrestled a horse for a meal that wasn’t that awful. I should’ve just had another margarita.
- 8:00 PM: Walked around the resort. Found the Artist’s Palette. Got a Mickey pretzel, which, surprisingly, was delicious. The night was a balmy delight, the kind that reminds you why you escaped.
Day 2: The Spa (and the Quest for the Perfect Coffee)
- 8:00 AM: The coffee crisis. The coffee at the hotel is atrocious. I make it my mission to find a decent cup of joe, which takes me on a wild goose chase. First, the Artist's Palette. Then, a failed attempt to procure coffee at the Turf Club "quick service." Finally, success! I discover the hidden treasure of the coffee cart, a bit of heaven inside of a Styrofoam cup.
- 9:30 AM: Spa Day at Senses - A Disney Spa at Saratoga Springs Resort. I’d heard great things, so I was beyond excited. I got a massage and facial and was instantly transported to a world of fluff and relaxation. I was almost tempted to give up on the outside world and just live in a robe, forever, but alas, the massage ended.
- 12:00 PM: Lunch at the Turf Club Lounge (again, I know, I know). This time, I opted for the chicken sandwich. Still not amazing, but edible. The service was slow, and our waitress seemed thoroughly miserable. I get it, honey. We’ve all been there.
- 2:00 PM: The Marketplace for souvenirs and snacks. I bought a t-shirt that says "I survived Saratoga Springs – and all I got was this lousy t-shirt." Very fitting. Snacks are a must. Churros acquired – life is good again.
- 3:00 PM: Relaxing by the pool. Kids are still around, but I'm in a margarita-induced zen state. Watching people is an art.
- 7:00 PM: Dinner and Entertainment at Disney Springs. The crowds! The noise! But the atmosphere is electric. We ate at Chef Art Smith's Homecomin', and it was divine! The fried chicken was, without a doubt, the best thing I ate all trip. Afterward, we caught the live music.
Day 3: The Lake Buena Vista Area (and the Realization that I Need More Days)
- 8:00 AM: Final breakfast at the Artist's Palette. Okay, the coffee isn't perfect, but it's acceptable. Grateful for the small victories.
- 9:00 AM: A stroll along the Saratoga Springs promenade. It’s actually gorgeous. I take a million photos.
- 10:00 AM: Checking out. I have mixed feelings. I'm sad to leave, but also ready for some peace and quiet.
- 11:00 AM: Headed out to the park, and I was in the first line, it was a blast.
Overall Verdict:
Saratoga Springs is a mixed bag, like a family-sized bag of chips. The pools are great, the resort is beautiful, the food is… well, you know. But the location is fantastic, the theming is charming, and the overall vibe is relaxed. Would I go back? Absolutely. But next time, I'm bringing my own coffee maker, and maybe requesting a water view. And another margarita. Because, you know, sometimes, you just need a margarita. Or five.
P.S. I did find a hidden Mickey in the artwork in my room. Victory! Now, if I could just find a decent coffee shop in the real world…
Tianjin Getaway: Unbeatable Deals at Holiday Inn Wuqing!
Saratoga Springs: Disney's *Secret* Hideaway? (Or Orlando's Biggest Surprise?) - Let's Get Real.
Okay, spill it. Is Saratoga Springs really a good Disney resort, or is it just… *there*? I've heard it's the forgotten child.
Whoa, hold your horses! Forgotten child is putting it mildly. I went in with low expectations, bracing for some beige-on-beige nightmare. I left genuinely surprised. Like, *shocked*. It's not the flashiest, no. No fireworks spectaculars you can see from your balcony like at the Grand Floridian. But here's the deal: **It’s ridiculously chill.**
My first thought was, "Wow, spacious!" Seriously, the rooms are HUGE. We had a 1-bedroom villa, and it was like a small apartment. My kids could run around, which after a day battling crowds at Magic Kingdom, was a godsend. Then there's the theming. "Victorian Saratoga," they call it. I'm not going to lie, it's a little... *muted*. But it grew on me. It's not as in-your-face Disney as some places, which can be a welcome break. It’s more like, imagine you’re chilling in a fancy, quiet spa town. No screaming cartoon characters constantly trying to sell you something. Bonus points!
But the *biggest* advantage is the space. Walking around, you actually breathe. And, if you're lucky enough to get a room overlooking the water (ask for it!), you get a gorgeous view. It felt… peaceful. Something I thought was impossible in Orlando.
The rooms – are they actually nice? I'm picturing 1980s motel vibes.
Okay, ditch the '80s motel image! While it's *not* the Polynesian (I'm still dreaming of those views!), the rooms are solid. My villa had a full kitchen (major win!), a separate bedroom, a living room, and a washer and dryer. Washer and dryer! Saved my sanity, especially with kids. The decorating is… well, it’s not exactly cutting-edge design. Let’s call it “comfortably… Disney-fied Victorian.” Imagine dark wood, maybe a little floral print, and lots of space for your luggage. My kids were *thrilled* to have their own beds, and I, in turn, was thrilled to not have to share mine!
The studio rooms? A bit smaller, but still perfectly functional. They’ve been updated, so you aren’t looking at vintage furniture. The pull-down bed is cute, if you're looking for space-saving features. No complaints about the room itself. And the biggest highlight? The sheer size of the villa. After battling lines and heat all day, a luxurious, sprawling room is a godsend.
What's the deal with transportation? Is it a nightmare to get to the parks?
Okay, this is where things get *slightly* complicated. You've got the buses, and the boats. Saratoga Springs sprawls. It's massive. So, the bus situation can take a bit. You might have a longer ride than, say, if you stayed at the Contemporary. I'm not going to lie, I had a few moments of "Are we there yet?" But the buses run fairly frequently, and usually were fine - most of the time. However, I did have to wait. Once.
The boat to Disney Springs is FANTASTIC. Seriously, that's maybe the best part. A relaxing ride on the water, dropping you right at the shopping and dining. It's a perfect way to escape the park crowds and unwind with a drink. It's a BIG plus. Makes the resort feel much closer. Makes the whole experience more relaxed. Take it! Take it often!
Okay, the food. What's the culinary scene like? Is it all just burgers and pizza?
Alright, let's be honest. Saratoga Springs isn't a foodie paradise. It's not the Grand Floridian's signature dining, let me tell you. You've got the usual Disney resort fare – counter-service options, a couple of sit-down restaurants. The Turf Club Bar and Grill, the main sit-down restaurant is a bit… hit or miss. I had a perfectly acceptable meal there, but nothing mind-blowing to write home about. It felt a bit… generic Disney. Nothing to get excited over, but a solid place to take a break from the chaos.
But then there’s the quick service... It's fine. Nothing outstanding, but it gets the job done. You can’t go wrong with the pizza. Don't expect to order food that will redefine your life. But its the basic, fulfilling meals to keep you going.
The real winner here is the proximity to Disney Springs. You can hop on that glorious boat and eat some truly fantastic food. That's a major perk. In the end, you won’t STARVE. I was more than content to use the kitchen on my villa to make my own food. Sometimes, I just wanted to eat something that wasn't Mickey-shaped, and that was a huge advantage!
What's the pool situation like? Are they overcrowded?
The pools are pretty great! There’s the High Rock Spring Pool, the main one, and several smaller, more low-key pools scattered throughout the resort. I spent a lot of time at the High Rock Spring Pool. It's got a waterslide, which the kids LOVED. It's got a nice, family-friendly atmosphere. Surprisingly, it didn't feel *overcrowded* like some of the other Disney pools I've been to.
The smaller pools? Even better for relaxation. Quiet, peaceful, and perfect for a lazy afternoon. There's a definite advantage to having multiple pool options. During my stay it never felt difficult to just chill out by the water. And really, after battling the heat and the crowds, the pool is where it’s at.
What's the best thing about Saratoga Springs? Tell me something I actually *can't* get at other resorts.
Okay, here’s the real secret weapon: The *vibe*. I know, sounds silly. But it's the *lack* of crazy, in-your-face Disney everywhere. The quiet. The space. The general laid-back feeling. The boat to Disney Springs is also a huge plus. And I *loved* the ability to cook my own meals!
I've been to Disney before, and I've felt stressed. Exhausted. Overwhelmed by crowds. Saratoga Springs felt different. It felt like an escape from the chaos. It's not perfection, but after a long day at the parks, I was incredibly pleased to go back to that sprawling room and chill. And the pools, the pools, the pools!
What are your biggest complaints? Any downsides?
