If you’re dreaming of a Walt Disney World stay that blends luxury, convenience, and some of the most enviable transportation options on property, Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort should be at the top of your list. This sleek, modern Disney Vacation Club resort is connected to the iconic Contemporary via a sky bridge and offers not just beautiful accommodations, but a stress-free travel experience that makes your Disney days even more magical.
A Resort Designed for Convenience
Bay Lake Tower is known for its crisp, modern design and incredible proximity to Magic Kingdom—so close you can walk there in under 10 minutes. The resort offers studio, one-bedroom, two-bedroom, and three-bedroom villa layouts, making it ideal for families, friend groups, and anyone who appreciates extra space and kitchen/kitchenette amenities. Many rooms feature breathtaking views of Bay Lake or Cinderella Castle, adding a dose of Disney enchantment right from your balcony.
But while the rooms and views are incredible, one of the biggest perks of staying at Bay Lake Tower is the transportation. You’re not just close to the magic—you’re connected to it.
The Best Transportation Options at Bay Lake Tower
1. Walk to Magic Kingdom
This may be the single biggest advantage of staying here: you can walk to Magic Kingdom via a dedicated, well-lit, stroller-friendly walking path. It’s consistently the fastest, most reliable way to reach the park, especially during busy times when buses and monorails can get backed up. No lines, no waiting—just a peaceful stroll straight to the front gate.
Walking back at night after fireworks is especially convenient. Instead of crowds pressing toward monorail ramps or ferryboat queues, guests at Bay Lake Tower simply slip out the exit and walk home within minutes.
2. The Legendary Monorail Loop
Bay Lake Tower is connected to the main Contemporary building, which includes a monorail station right on the Grand Concourse level. From there you have direct access to Disney’s iconic Resort Monorail loop.
Here’s what that gets you:
- Magic Kingdom (1 stop away)
- Transportation and Ticket Center (TTC) for transfers to Epcot
- Polynesian Village Resort
- Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
This makes park hopping between Magic Kingdom and Epcot a breeze. It also makes dining reservations at the monorail resorts incredibly easy to reach—an underrated perk if you enjoy character breakfasts, dinner shows, or cocktails at Trader Sam’s.
The monorail is fast, frequent, and fully a part of the Disney experience. For many guests, riding it is as nostalgic and magical as any attraction.
3. Bus Transportation to Other Parks
While Magic Kingdom and Epcot are handled by walking and monorail travel, Disney provides bus service from Bay Lake Tower/Contemporary to:
- Disney’s Hollywood Studios
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom
- Disney Springs
- Blizzard Beach & Typhoon Lagoon (seasonal schedules vary)
Buses generally load in front of the Contemporary. They’re efficient and typically come at regular intervals, making it easy to reach the other parks without hassle.
4. Watercraft Transportation
For an extra scenic option, you can catch a water taxi from the Contemporary marina area. Boats typically run to Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Fort Wilderness Resort & Campground. These routes offer peaceful rides across Bay Lake and Seven Seas Lagoon—perfect for dinner plans at Whispering Canyon Café or a visit to Hoop-Dee-Doo Musical Revue.
Final Thoughts
Staying at Bay Lake Tower provides a rare combination of luxury accommodations and unmatched convenience. Whether you love the idea of walking to Magic Kingdom, riding the monorail above the resort, or hopping on a serene water taxi, transportation here is seamless and enjoyable. It’s one of the best places at Walt Disney World for travelers who value time, flexibility, and accessibility—while still being immersed in the magic.