Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Last fall our family took the plunge of purchasing into Disney Vacation Club (DVC).  In June we were able to take our first family trip as DVC owners.  We did a split stay between Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort and The Villas at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa.  (A review of The Villas at the Grand Floridian is to follow.)

We arrived at Bay Lake Tower later than expected due to a flight delay, but the standard “Welcome Home” greeting was like music to my ears.  We had heard this before as we had stayed at Vacation Club properties, but it had a new meaning now that we really were “home.”  Check-in was quick and easy, and within 15 minutes we were fitted with our MagicBands and headed to our room.

We had reserved a 1 Bedroom Theme Park View room and it did not disappoint!  Of course, the first thing we noticed was the beautiful view of Cinderella Castle and Space Mountain; especially being nighttime it looked so beautiful.  Unfortunately due to the delayed flight, we missed the Wishes Nighttime Spectacular fireworks.

The 1 Bedroom Villa is well-appointed with a full kitchen and 2 full bathrooms.  With 2 teenage daughters, this was a real lifesaver!  The bedroom had a king-sized bed, en suite bathroom and sliding doors that led to a balcony.  The main living room had a pull-out sofa and pull-out chair for sleeping which our daughters found very comfortable.  Also found in the Villa was a full washer/dryer combo, vacuum cleaner, pack and play and a high chair.

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

I had pre-ordered some groceries from  Garden Grocer, and was notified as soon as we arrived in the room that someone was on their way with our order.

DIStracted Tip: At Deluxe Resorts you do not need to be in your room to have your Garden Grocer order received.  The concierge will receive it for you and hold it until you check in.

I ordered about 6 weeks in advance which led to a bit of a discount, but overall, I didn’t find that their prices were that high.  I would definitely use them again.  I mainly ordered some snacks and breakfast items and drinks (water, juice and beer).  I decided at the last minute to add the Disney Dining Plan which is a great option for Disney Vacation Club members, so we didn’t need too many groceries.

After a long day of travel, we were ready for a bite to eat.  So we found our way to the Sky Way Bridge which connects Bay Lake Tower to the Contemporary Resort and grabbed a bite to eat at the Contempo Café.

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

The next day was our park day.  We started the day with breakfast at Chef Mickey’s.  We enjoyed a wonderful breakfast and then walked to the Magic Kingdom.  I think this is my favorite thing about staying at Bay Lake Tower. – the ability to walk to and from the park was awesome!  Bay Lake Tower amenities, like at all DVC properties are amazing.  Guests who stay at Bay Lake Tower can use the pool there (with an awesome slide!), and can use the amenities at the Contemporary Resort as well.  Some of the amenities of Bay Lake Tower include: Fitness Center, BBQ Pavilion, Community Hall with kids’ activities, Movies Under the Stars, and a Campfire & Marshmallow Roast.  Shared amenities at the Contemporary Resort include: Cabana Rentals, Bocce Ball Court, Pool and Splash Pool, Ping Bong, Beach Area, and Water Sports at Sammy Duval’s including Parasailing, Personal Watercraft rentals and fishing excursions.

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Photo by Jodi Kerr-Taylor

Our stay at Bay Lake Tower was a short one, only two nights before we moved over to the Villas at the Grand Floridian.  I wish I had more time there.  I regret not being able to go to the Top of the World Lounge (a DVC Members only benefit) or being able to watch Wishes fireworks from the balcony of our room (music for which can be found on the in-room information channels).  We absolutely loved the location of this Resort and have never felt more a part of the magic.  The room amenities were excellent and provided us with all the comforts of home.  Especially for a longer stay, the full kitchen comes in very handy and having laundry facilities in room is awesome!  I can’t wait to plan our next getaway and you can be sure it will be a longer visit!