By Dr. Jenna Liphart Rhoads
Disney’s Riviera Resort, located at Walt Disney World in Orlando, Florida, is located in the EPCOT resort area. The deluxe category resort is a Disney Skyliner stop making it easy for guests to get to both EPCOT and Hollywood Studios. Many guests enjoy this resort due to its “smaller” size making it easy to navigate and a more relaxing getaway from the energy of parks. If you are looking for a European Riviera experience all while taking advantage of the fun found in the Walt Disney World Resort parks, this luxurious resort may be the perfect spot for you!
Accommodation Types: Disney’s Riviera Resort boasts several room types perfect for traveling parties of various sizes. Smaller groups can choose from a Tower Studio (sleeps 2 adults) or Deluxe Studios (sleeps up to 5 adults) with either a standard (view of EPCOT or parking lot) or preferred view (view of courtyard, lake, landscaping, pool, or Disney Skyliner). For larger groups, the same views are offered in 1, 2, or 3-bedroom villas which include separate bedroom and full kitchen areas. All of the rooms are styled with influence from Europe and the Mediterranean. You can also view a collection of beautiful artwork along the halls.
Restaurants and Food Options: There are choices aplenty available at this resort! Quick service options include Primo Patio (breakfast, lunch, dinner, and grab-and-go available) on the ground floor and Le Petit Cafe (coffee bar and Parisian treats) is located in the lobby. Also located on the ground floor near the pool is Bar Riva. Bar Riva is an open-air bar that serves hand-crafted drinks and delectable food as well. The crowning jewel can be found on the top floor of the resort- Toppolino’s Terrace. This French and Italian-inspired restaurant hosts a unique character-dining experience in the morning, and a fine dining experience in the evenings. There is also a rooftop bar overlooking the lake. Reservations at Toppolino’s Terrace for all times of day are highly recommended.
Pools and Other Amenities: Disney’s Riviera Resort has two sparkling pools and one small child pool and splash area featuring Fantasia characters. The Riviera Pool features a winding slide, gurgling fountains, and poolside activities led by cast members. If you are seeking poolside respite, the Beau Soleil Pool and whirlpools are incredibly inviting. The resort also has a fitness center, a jogging trail around the lake and through adjacent Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, laundry facilities, movies under the stars, and nightly campfires. The fireworks display from EPCOT can also be seen from the beaches around the lake, which is a perfect way to enjoy the spectacular views without the crowds in the park.
Available Transportation: This resort has a lot of options for transportation around WDW property.
Bus: Animal Kingdom, Magic Kingdom, Disney Springs, and water parks
Disney Skyliner: Hollywood Studios, EPCOT
Minnie Van, Uber, Lyft: Almost anywhere on property!
Unique Experiences: Located on the ground level “back” lawn (facing the lake) is a variety of lawn games for families to enjoy including bocce ball and giant chess. Another unique feature of this resort is that it is within 8-10 minutes talking distance of the Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort main lobby. This close proximity allows guests to enjoy the food and restaurant options (such as Sebastian’s) with ease. Guests can also book boat and fishing tours that leave out of the dock at the resort.
Other Information: This resort is part of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) collection so all accommodations (no matter the room type) include a microwave and refrigerator.
Disney’s Riviera Resort offers upscale ambiance and relaxation with nods to the magic of Europe that Walt himself fell in love with. Make sure to work with your Royal Carriage Vacation travel expert when determining which accommodation type would best suit your travel party and for booking the perfect room type at this resort
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