My Stay at Disney's Boardwalk Inn Club Level: Is It Worth It?
Ahh, I can still taste that POG Mimosa. After countless Walt Disney World vacations, there was one thing my family had never done: stay Club Level.
So when my family spent 10 nights at Walt Disney World last April, we decided to finally try it. We stayed at Disney's BoardWalk Inn Club Level, and I went into the trip curious about one thing: Would Club Level actually be worth it?
The short answer? I don't know how I'm supposed to go back to “normal Disney”.
Arriving at Disney's BoardWalk Inn Club Level
We had an early morning flight into Orlando. After landing at MCO, collected our luggage, and taking Mears Connect to our resort, we arrived at Disney's BoardWalk Inn before standard check in time.
Our bags were taken care of for us, and we were greeted by Jeremy from the Concierge team, who escorted us up to the Club Level floor while we waited for our room to be ready.
Club Level guests have access to a private lounge and dedicated concierge team. At the BoardWalk Inn, the lounge is located on the fourth floor, behind a secured hallway that requires a MagicBand or Key to access.
The lounge is called the Inkeeper's Club. The moment we arrived, we were made to feel completely at home; and honestly, that is what I think Club Level does best. It makes you feel taken care of!
The Club Level Concierge Team
The food and drinks are wonderful, but the concierge team is one of the most underrated parts of the Club Level experience. During our stay, we needed a few things to make our room more comfortable, including a fan, extra blankets, toiletries, and towels. The team was quick to accommodate us.
They can also assist with things like helping you navigate Lightning Lane planning, checking availability for dining reservations and other experiences, and assisting with vacation logistics when they can. Having someone knowledgeable there to help you troubleshoot, check options, and assist with planning is an incredibly valuable perk.
And sometimes, they simply notice what would make your stay easier. One of our favorite Cast Members, Shelby, became a friend during our stay. One night, we jokingly asked her to save us some leftovers because we were going to miss dinner. That quickly became a trend.
Then one evening, she brought us an entire microwave. Did we ask for it? Nope. Did she know it would make our stay more convenient? Yes! So she did!! The next night, a whole table of the dinner course that night just for us while they set up for dessert. And that is exactly the kind of service that makes a Disney vacation feel special.
What Is the Food Like in the Club Level Lounge?
Let's talk about the food because I think this is one of the biggest questions people have when considering Club Level. During our 10 night stay, we used the lounge for essentially every meal.
Yes, every day.
The lounge offers food throughout the day, with offerings changing depending on the time. We typically enjoyed breakfast in the morning, had our dining reservations or other meals during the midday period, and returned to the lounge for dinner and dessert.
While Disney refers to their offerings as "small plates," we never left feeling like we needed to find another meal afterward. The short ribs were my absolute favorite! They were so tender they practically melted in your mouth. We loved that the food allowed us to slow down and enjoy the resort rather than feeling like we had to constantly rush from one reservation to the next.
We only ate at one traditional table service restaurant during our 10 night stay: Tony's Town Square Restaurant. That is not because there is anything wrong with Disney dining. We love Disney dining! But Club Level gave us the flexibility to enjoy our vacation much differently this time.
We weren't constantly trying to fit a breakfast reservation, lunch reservation, dinner reservation, Lightning Lane, park time, transportation, and everything else into one day. If anything we were rushing back in the evening to make it back before dessert ended & so we could say goodnight to our quick found friends!
Breakfast at the Inkeeper's Club
One of my favorite parts of our stay was waking up in the morning, putting on my complimentary robe and slippers, and walking down to the lounge for breakfast. You feel at least 10 times fancier doing this! My typical breakfast plate included scrambled eggs, fresh fruit, and my favorite offering: churro muffins. There were also bagels, danishes, oatmeal, yogurt, and rotating protein options. & then there was the Nespresso machine. I am not exaggerating when I say it was one of the fanciest Nespresso machines I have ever seen.
No stopping to purchase an iced coffee before heading to the parks. No waiting in line. Just walk to the lounge, make your coffee, grab your breakfast, and start your day!!
Although I loved eating in the lounge, one of my favorite mornings was actually spent in my room. I took my breakfast and coffee back to our balcony, sat outside, and watched the Skyliner in the distance. Another morning, I had breakfast in bed while watching The Parent Trap. Honestly? Best morning ever. That is something I don't think I would have done if we were rushing out the door to get to an early park opening.
The Snacks and Drinks
The lounge is stocked throughout the day with snacks and drinks, including things like:
Fresh fruit
Chips
Popcorn
Cheese-Its
Cookies
Candy
Uncrustables
Soft drinks
Coffee and espresso drinks
The team also works to accommodate dietary needs when possible.
For adults 21 and over, alcoholic beverages are available, including wine, beer and other options. And yes, you can ask about cocktails like the famous POG Mimosa. I am still thinking about that POG Mimosa!!!!
There is also a refrigerator/freezer just outside the lounge that is accessible 24/7 and stocked with Mickey Premium Ice Cream Bars and Mickey Ice Cream Sandwiches. This was dangerous for my self-control!
Desserts and Fireworks
Every evening, the lounge offers desserts and sweet treats.
But one of my favorite parts of the entire experience was being able to watch the EPCOT fireworks from the windows of the Inkeeper's Club. There is something so peaceful about watching fireworks from a comfortable lounge while enjoying dessert instead of standing in a crowded park.
And this is where I think Club Level really changed our vacation.
We spent more time enjoying our resort.
We spent more time at the pool.
We spent more time relaxing.
We spent more time enjoying the lounge.
We weren't constantly thinking about what we needed to do next!!
We could simply go with the flow.
& that is a luxury at Walt Disney World!!
Why Disney's BoardWalk Inn Was the Perfect Club Level Resort for Us
The location of Disney's BoardWalk Inn is hard to beat. You can walk to both EPCOT and Disney's Hollywood Studios. We frequently walked to both parks because it was often faster and easier than waiting for a boat.
Being able to easily return to the resort for a midday break made a huge difference for us.
We could go to the parks in the morning, return to the resort, enjoy the pool or the lounge, and then decide what we wanted to do next.
We didn't have to plan every single minute of the day around dining reservations! We are typically the family taking time out of our park day to bus to a different Resort for a dining reservation! We love to try & see new places but this trip made us really appreciate the “home base” and now, I think the Boardwalk will always hold a piece of home!
Who Is Disney Club Level Best For?
I want to be honest about this:
I do not think Club Level is for everyone.
If your goal is to save money on food or try a bunch of new places, if you’re planning on spending most of your day in the park, I would not recommend booking Club Level.
Yes, we saved a tremendous amount of money on food during our stay because we used the lounge for breakfast and dinner almost every day.
But that is not why I would book Club Level.
I would book Club Level for the experience. Club Level is best for families who:
Have some wiggle room in their vacation budget
Want to slow down and enjoy their resort
Plan to return to the resort during the day
Want access to food and drinks without constantly making reservations
Appreciate personalized service
Want help with park logistics
Enjoy a more upscale, relaxed vacation experience
Don't want every day to feel like a race from one Lightning Lane to the next dining reservation
This is for the family who wants to feel like they are on vacation! The family who wants to feel taken care of!! The family who wants to wake up, grab coffee, eat breakfast, go to the parks, come back for a pool break, enjoy dinner, and watch fireworks without feeling like they have to sprint through the entire day.
Would I Stay Club Level Again?
Absolutely.
In fact, it is now hard to imagine going back to Walt Disney World without staying Club Level.
If I had to choose between a better view and Club Level, I would choose Club Level every time. I would rather have a standard view and the ability to enjoy breakfast on my balcony with a cup of coffee than have the best possible view and spend every day rushing from reservation to reservation.
Our 10 night stay at Disney's BoardWalk Inn Club Level was incredibly relaxing, upscale, delicious, and so convenient. It made us want to spend more time at our resort. It made our days feel less rushed. And it gave us the freedom to enjoy Walt Disney World at our own pace.
So if you have some wiggle room in your vacation budget and you are looking for a Disney vacation that feels a little more relaxed, a little more luxurious, and a lot more taken care of...
I highly recommend considering Club Level.
Just be warned:
You may not want to go back.
Why a Disney Cruise Is the Perfect Vacation for the Whole Family
Before this summer, I had experienced Disney Cruise Line, but this was our first cruise as a family. We were joined by my parents, making it a true multi-generational vacation with three generations sailing together.
Our group included my husband and I, our daughter (who celebrated her 5th birthday on embarkation day), our 20-month-old son, and my parents. We all had different interests, different energy levels, and different ideas of the "perfect vacation."
By the end of the cruise, we all agreed on one thing: Disney Cruise Line really does have something for everyone.
For the Kids: A Vacation Full of Magic
Our daughter was in her element from the moment we stepped onboard. She loved meeting characters, watching the Broadway-style shows, swimming, and spending time in the Oceaneer Club. She woke up every day excited to see what adventure was next.
Our son was only 20 months old, but he had just as much fun. He loved dancing to the music around the ship, splashing in the toddler play areas, waving to Disney characters, and exploring every corner of the ship. Seeing Disney through his eyes made even the smallest moments feel magical.
For Mom and Dad: We Actually Got to Relax
One thing that surprised me most was that this vacation truly felt like a vacation for us, too.
While our daughter enjoyed the Oceaneer Club and our son spent time in "it's a small world" nursery, my husband and I had the chance to enjoy some of the experiences designed just for adults.
We spent time at the adults-only Quiet Cove Pool, enjoyed a pre-dinner drink together, and simply slowed down for a little while. It was such a nice reminder that Disney Cruise Line isn't just built for kids, it's built for parents, too.
Knowing our children were having an amazing time in safe, engaging spaces made it easy for us to enjoy those moments together.
For Grandma and Grandpa: Their Own Kind of Magic
One of my favorite parts of the cruise was watching my parents make memories with their grandchildren while also having plenty of time to enjoy the ship themselves.
They loved spending time lounging in the sun, taking in Broadway-style shows, relaxing at the piano bar in the evenings, and enjoying leisurely dinners together. They could join us for family activities or take time for themselves whenever they wanted.
One of my favorite memories from the trip was Pirate Night. My dad has never been one to dress up, not for Halloween, costume parties, anything. But that night, he surprised all of us by getting into the spirit and dressing up as a pirate for his grandchildren. Watching him step out of his comfort zone just to make the night more magical for them was such a simple moment, but one I’ll never forget.
There was never any pressure to stick to one schedule, which made the vacation enjoyable for everyone.
Everyone Vacationed Their Own Way
That's what impressed me the most.
Our daughter couldn't wait to get back to the kids' club.
Our son was happiest splashing, dancing, and exploring.
My parents enjoyed live entertainment, music, and relaxing around the ship.
My husband and I appreciated having dedicated adults-only spaces where we could unwind while knowing our kids were having just as much fun as we were.
At the end of the day, we'd all come back together for dinner, sharing stories about everything we'd done. Even though we didn't spend every minute together, we created memories together.
Why I Think Disney Cruises Are Perfect for Families
Before this trip, I thought Disney Cruise Line was simply another way to experience Disney.
Now I see it differently.
It's one of the few vacations where every generation genuinely enjoys themselves. No one has to compromise. Everyone gets to vacation in their own way while still spending meaningful time together.
As both a mom and a travel advisor, I can honestly say that's what makes a Disney Cruise so special.
Whether you're traveling with toddlers, grandparents, or the whole extended family, there's space for everyone to relax, reconnect, and make unforgettable memories.
Our first cruise as a family certainly won't be our last.
The Only "Downside"
If I had to come up with one downside to our cruise, it would be this: there's simply too much to do!
Between the Broadway-style shows, character meet-and-greets, deck parties, live music, trivia, the kids' clubs, adults-only lounges, family activities, movies, and time spent at the pools, we quickly realized we couldn't fit everything into one sailing.
And honestly? That's not a bad problem to have.
It just gives us another reason to book our next Disney Cruise and maybe stay a little longer next time.
If you've been thinking about taking a Disney Cruise but aren't sure if it's the right fit for your family, I'd love to help you find the perfect itinerary, ship, and stateroom. There's a reason so many families come back year after year—and now I completely understand why.
👉REQUEST A COMPLIMENTARY QUOTE!
About the Author
The Best Character Meals for Every Age and Budget
As a mom of 5 kiddos ranging from teens to toddlers if you ask me what I recall most about our Disney vacations it’s not just the rides; it’s the look on my children’s faces when they interact with their favorite character. That’s exactly what makes Disney character dining such a magical experience.
One of the things I love most about planning Disney vacations is finding the experiences that bring everyone in the family together. Character meals are at the top of that list as a chance to meet some of your favorite Disney friends and enjoy an incredible meal right in the heart of Disney Parks' magic.
While little ones will naturally gravitate toward character dining, I’ve found that all ages certainly appreciate the combination of storytelling with the comfort of a sit-down meal. These dining spaces are beautifully themed and invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy a delicious feast alongside favorite heroes and princesses.
Especially if your kids are interested in meeting the characters, dining is a great way to maximize your character engagement without waiting in separate lines for each. In addition to greeting the characters, most dining locations allow for photos and autographs throughout the interaction.
Let’s explore some of the best character dining options for families at World Disney World.
Finding the Right Meal for Your Family
Not every character meal is the same, and choosing the right one depends on what your family values most:
For Toddlers and Preschoolers: Look for meals with classic favorites and familiar characters. Menu or Family-style restaurants that bring the food right to your table, as opposed to a buffet style, are ideal for little ones.
Topolino’s Terrace: Disney’s Riviera Resort *TOP PICK
Storybook Dining at Artist’s Point with Snow White: Disney’s Wilderness Lodge *TOP PICK
‘Ohana: Disney’s Polynesian Resort
Garden Grill: EPCOT
For School-Aged Kids and Teens: Meals with interactive elements, games, or a broader menu can be more appealing. In addition, dining locations with immersive storytelling and decorations make it memorable for everyone.
Cinderella’s Royal Table: Magic Kingdom
1900 Park Fare: Grand Floridian Resort and Spa
Akershus Royal Banquet Hall: EPCOT
Be Our Guest (Character Sighting): Magic Kingdom
For Budget-Conscious Families: While character dining is more expensive than regular table-service restaurants, there are some character dining locations that offer more value for your money.
Tusker House: Animal Kingdom
Hollywood and Vine: Hollywood Studios
Cape May Cafe: Beach Club Resort
Garden Grill: EPCOT
Why Character Meals Are Worth It
While delicious, a character meal is about so much more than food. They really help with the timing and pacing of your day by providing a guaranteed sit-down and break from the busyness of the parks. It’s also a great way to enjoy immersive entertainment and check some character greetings and autographs off your list without waiting in lines.
Pro Tips from a Travel Advisor
Here are some tips for planning the best character dining locations and times for your family:
Let us help you snag those hard-to-get reservations EARLY: Character meals fill quickly, so booking ahead is key.
Plan Around Your Day: Consider when energy levels are highest. Breakfast can energize the day, lunch gives a midday reset, and dinner can wind down a busy park day.
Use the App: Mobile check-in and reminders help you stay on schedule and reduce stress.
Mix and Match: Try a mix of high-profile and smaller meals. Some meals offer more elaborate settings or unique characters, like Cinderella’s Royal Table and 1900 Park Fare, while others provide value and a quieter experience.
By choosing the right meals for your family’s ages, interests, and budget, you can turn an ordinary dining experience into one of the highlights of your Disney vacation.
Let one of our Disney travel specialists secure those hard-to-get dining reservations for you! Personalized planning so you can focus on making magical memories!
Discover the Magic of Stress-Free Disney Vacations with Magic Coordination Vacations
Planning a trip to Disney can be as daunting as it is exciting. With multiple parks to explore, countless dining options to choose from, and experiences to be had, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. That’s where Magic Coordination Vacations comes in—your trusted partner in crafting the ultimate Disney getaway. Here’s how our personalized service can turn your Disney dreams into reality, ensuring a seamless and magical experience for you and your family.
Feel the magic the moment you arrive! With Magic Coordination Vacations, every detail is taken care of, so you can focus on making unforgettable memories with every step you take in the magical world of Disney.
Why Choose a Disney Vacation?
Disney parks offer an array of spectacular attractions, shows, and experiences that cater to all ages. From the enchanting Cinderella Castle at Magic Kingdom to the thrilling Star Wars: Galaxy’s Edge at Disneyland, each park packs a unique punch that promises lasting memories. Disney is not just a theme park, but a vast universe of imagination and enjoyment suitable for every member of the family.
The Magic Coordination Vacations Difference
At Magic Coordination Vacations, we specialize in customizing Disney vacations that meet all your needs without you having to lift a finger. Here’s how we do it:
Tailored Itineraries: No two families are the same, which is why we don’t offer one-size-fits-all solutions. Whether you’re traveling with toddlers, teens, or a mix of ages, we craft itineraries that suit everyone’s needs and preferences.
Skip the Lines: With our insider knowledge and planning, you can enjoy more of your vacation. We arrange FastPasses, dining reservations, and even special access to some of the most sought-after attractions.
Accommodation and Dining: From staying at Disney Resorts with themes that transport you into a different world to dining recommendations that enhance your experience, we handle all aspects of your trip.
Ongoing Support: Our travel advisors are with you every step of the way—from planning to booking to your actual trip. Need to make a last-minute change? We’re just a phone call away.
Enjoy Disney Without the Hassle
Imagine visiting Disney and experiencing the pure joy of the parks without worrying about the nitty-gritty of planning. That’s the convenience Magic Coordination Vacations offers. We monitor deals, suggest the best times to visit, and provide tips that only seasoned Disney-goers know.
Start Planning Today!
Ready to embark on your magical Disney adventure? Visit our website and check out how other families enjoyed their hassle-free vacations through our testimonials. When you’re ready, contact us, and let’s start planning your dream Disney vacation. Magic Coordination Vacations is here to ensure that your Disney experience is nothing short of spectacular.