Everything You Need to Know About Disney's Coronado Springs Resort
Image & Art credit: The Walt Disney Company and any of its subsidiaries, affiliates, or associated companies.
When I was planning my 2023 Walt Disney World trip, my partner suggested we stay at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. At first, I wasn’t too sure. I’m the kind of person who gravitates toward resorts that are packed with Disney theming—think Art of Animation Resort, where Disney and Pixar movies come to life around you. Coronado Springs, however, is different. Its unique blend of Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American cultures gives it a more sophisticated and serene vibe.
But the more I thought about it, the more I realized that sometimes, stepping outside of the Disney bubble is exactly what you need for a relaxing experience. And I’m so glad I gave it a chance.
The Size and Theming of Coronado Springs Resort
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort is unlike any other Disney resort I’ve stayed at. It’s huge—massive, really. The resort spans over 2,300 rooms, and while that may sound overwhelming, it’s part of what makes the experience so special. Walking around the lake at the center of the resort, hearing the soft Latin and Central American-inspired music in the background, and soaking in the vibrant yet calming surroundings, I quickly realized it felt like being transported to another world.
The theming here is vibrant yet sophisticated, with the architecture inspired by Spanish, Mexican, and Southwest American cultures. The colorful mosaics, terracotta tiles, and beautifully crafted woodwork throughout the resort evoke a sense of history and grandeur. I remember arriving at the lobby, and immediately being taken in by its stunning design. The two-story, airy space is open and welcoming, with a balcony overlooking the lower level, giving you that “wow” moment when you first step inside. For me, this was a great first impression—it set the tone for a truly unique stay.
But, let me be real here—while Coronado Springs has beautiful theming, it’s not the same “in-your-face Disney magic” you’ll find at some of the more traditionally themed resorts. There are a few Mickeys scattered here and there, but this isn’t the place where you’re going to find yourself surrounded by Disney characters and films. And that’s okay. In fact, as I got deeper into my stay, I realized that the more subtle theming worked perfectly for me.
Gran Destino Tower: The Heart of Coronado Springs
One of the standout features of Coronado Springs is the Gran Destino Tower. This towering structure rises 15 stories above the resort and offers stunning views of the surrounding area. It’s a modern, sleek addition to the resort, combining Spanish influences with a touch of luxury. If you’re staying here, you’ll get to enjoy not only breathtaking views but also beautifully appointed rooms that make you feel like you’re at the pinnacle of comfort.
I have to admit, I had some concerns about the size of the resort. It’s so big that it can feel like a small city, with different areas stretching across the property. But one thing I really appreciated was how the internal transportation system worked. There are four bus stops throughout the resort, and they loop around the sections clockwise. This made it easy to get anywhere I needed to go, and even though it’s a large resort, the buses were always quick and convenient.
Dining at Coronado Springs: A Food Lover's Paradise
Now, let’s talk about food. Oh boy. I knew that Disney’s Coronado Springs had a variety of dining options, but I wasn’t fully prepared for how good they would be. From casual to upscale, this resort has something for every kind of guest.
One of my absolute favorite spots is Three Bridges Bar & Grill, an open-air restaurant situated in the middle of the resort’s picturesque lake. The ambiance was incredible, especially in September when the breeze made everything feel just right. But let’s talk about the food—I ordered three tacos, and honestly, three wasn’t enough. These tacos were to die for. Whether you’re in the mood for tapas, steak, or seafood, the dining options here are diverse and flavorful.
If you're looking for something more casual, El Mercado de Coronado offers quick bites, and Maya Grill serves up delicious Latin-inspired dishes that will definitely leave you satisfied. And for a more upscale experience, Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood on the rooftop of Gran Destino Tower offers a fine dining experience with unbeatable views.
But let’s not forget the surprise I wasn’t expecting: the Lost City of Cibola Pool. This pool isn’t just any pool—it’s a Mayan-inspired masterpiece, complete with a 50-foot pyramid and a water slide that’s as fun as it is impressive. But what really stole the show was the evening pool party. The resort hosts a vibrant event with music, LED water toys, and a fog machine that adds to the fun. Describing it doesn’t do it justice, but trust me when I say it was an unforgettable experience. And while this might be great for families, I think young adults will love the fun, laid-back vibe as well.
What Makes Coronado Springs Stand Out
One of the reasons I recommend Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort to young adults or anyone looking for a more grown-up Disney experience is because it strikes the perfect balance between relaxation and entertainment. It’s not as child-centric as some other resorts, and I noticed that it had a mature, peaceful vibe. There were definitely families, but the resort felt like it catered just as much to adults. It’s one of the reasons why, when I work with young adults planning their Disney trips, Coronado Springs is usually my first recommendation.
And let’s not forget the location—it’s centrally located within the Walt Disney World Resort, making it easy to get to all of the Disney Parks and Disney Springs. Whether you’re in the mood for a day at Magic Kingdom or just want to shop and eat at Disney Springs, the resort’s transportation options make getting around a breeze.
The Verdict: Is Coronado Springs for You?
If you're looking for a Disney resort with immersive Disney theming, Coronado Springs might not be the perfect match. But if you’re seeking a quieter, more sophisticated atmosphere with incredible amenities, vibrant cultural influences, and delicious food, all at a moderate price tag, then this resort could be just what you’re looking for.
For families, it offers something for everyone—kid-friendly dining, fun pools, and plenty of activities. For business travelers, it has top-notch conference facilities and a relaxing environment to unwind after a long day of work. For young adults or anyone looking to escape the usual hustle and bustle, Coronado Springs offers a serene yet exciting escape with plenty of entertainment, dining, and relaxation options.
For me, Coronado Springs turned out to be a pleasant surprise, and now it’s one of my favorite places to stay at Walt Disney World. So if you’re ready to embrace a Disney resort that feels like its own world while still offering the magic Disney is known for, Coronado Springs might just be the perfect choice for your next Disney vacation.
Hello, my name is Matthew and I hope you enjoyed this blog post. I am a travel planner specializing in Disney destinations and I would love the opportunity to work with you in planning your next magical adventure.
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