For those who prefer shopping and dining over constant theme park action
There are probably two reasons why you are reading this review.
One, you had no idea that there was a Disney World resort called Saratoga Springs.
Two, you actually want to know more about one of the most obscure Disney World resorts… ever?
Yes, not a lot of people think about Saratoga Springs when it comes to the Happiest Place on Earth. After all, Saratoga Springs isn’t located particularly close to any of the major theme parks, it doesn’t have a very Disney-y theme, and there isn’t a popular restaurant or amenity that makes it truly stand out.
Saratoga Springs is essentially seen as a community or even a small town located right next to Disney Springs. The main perk here is that you can actually walk to Disney Springs and be there in five minutes, which is great for those who love shopping and dining. However, not having a direct way to get to any of the theme parks usually works against the resort and is the main reason why its popularity has declined over the years.
Saratoga Springs is a Disney Vacation Club (DVC) Deluxe Villa hotel, with rooms starting at $480 per night. In theory, DVC members have priority booking, but anyone can reserve a room, and availability is generally good, even if you're booking just a month in advance. The resort also comes with the perks expected from a Disney World Resort, such as 30-minute Early Entry to the theme parks and complimentary bus transportation.
What we like about Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
Saratoga Springs is a very different kind of resort. It’s a large one, so large in fact that most people compare it more to a small community than a traditional resort or hotel. You’ll find multiple pools, multiple sports courts, a spa, the longest jogging trail in Disney World, playgrounds, arcades, a fitness center and even a golf course right by the resort. Phew, let me catch my breath.
I told you this place almost feels like a small city. If you want to escape the chaotic side of Disney, this might be the place for you. You can even rent bikes, go for a leisurely ride, and take in the beautiful gardens with Disney Springs in the distance. If you’ve come to Disney World to relax rather than wake up at 6am to rush to Magic Kingdom, this might be the perfect spot for you.
Saratoga Springs is also the perfect place for those who want to visit Disney Springs multiple times. There’s even a direct trail leading to Disney Springs, and it shouldn’t take more than five to ten minutes to get there, depending on where you’re staying within the resort.
Being that close is great news, as it means you not only have access to the dining options inside Saratoga Springs, but you can also head to Disney Springs late at night, enjoy a meal at places like The Boathouse or T-Rex, and then casually stroll back to the comfort of your room.
Saratoga Springs might also be a great choice if you're traveling with a large group, such as close friends or a biiig family. It’s one of the few resorts that offer special accommodations designed for 9 to even 12 guests, functioning more like a home with full kitchens and living rooms. Yeah, this makes Saratoga feel even more like a small town than a resort. The 2-Bedroom Villas, which accommodate up to 9 guests, start at $960 per night.
I mentioned this before, but there’s a golf course right by the property. I know nothing about golf, but Disney says this course has hosted multiple official PGA competitions in the past... so that means it’s... good? Probably? I mean, if you’re a golf fan, that’s another big plus for this resort.
What we don’t like about Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa
One of the main drawbacks of this resort is that it doesn’t have quick or direct access to any theme park. You can’t walk to any of them, there’s no monorail and there’s no Skyliner. Considering that this is a Deluxe Villa resort and you're paying at least $480 per night, that’s disappointing, especially since some Value Resorts offer Skyliner access for around $220 per night.
However, Saratoga Springs isn’t for those who prioritize Magic Kingdom, Epcot, Hollywood Studios, and Animal Kingdom above everything else. This, I think, is a resort for those who want to relax, go for a jog, ride a bike, and shop at Disney Springs. If your main goal when visiting Disney World is to spend as much time as possible in the theme parks - and let’s be honest, that’s the main objective for most guests - you should probably consider other options.
There is complimentary bus transportation to the theme parks, and Magic Kingdom isn’t even that far away. Once the bus leaves Saratoga Springs, it typically takes about 10 to 15 minutes to reach the main gates, which is a reasonable travel time. However, this brings us to another issue with Saratoga Springs that we need to talk about.
Saratoga Springs is just big. Maybe even too big. It’s divided into five different areas, each with its own parking lot and small pool. In that sense, if you’re looking for a place to relax, that’s great. The problem? Depending on where you're staying, you might have to walk up to 20 minutes just to reach Disney Springs. If you want a room close to the Disney Springs entrance and the main hub, where you'll find the largest swimming pool, you’ll need a Preferred Room, which starts at $560 per night.
For that price, you’re better off staying at a Moderate Resort or a Deluxe Resort like the Contemporary. Keep in mind that Saratoga Springs is, as mentioned, a DVC Deluxe Villa. You might be able to rent points or use your own, potentially scoring some nice deals on certain rooms. Some guests have reported paying about $350 a night for a room, which seems much more reasonable.
As for pools and restaurants, they’re all fine. Nothing mind-blowing, but considering how close Disney Springs is, you’re better off going there and dining at places like The Boathouse or The Polite Pig. There are multiple pools at the resort, and the main pool next to the lobby has a waterslide. Again, there’s nothing particularly special about it.
That might be another downside: There’s just nothing that really gives us that "oomph" when staying at Saratoga Springs. Even the theme feels a bit lost on guests. Saratoga Springs is inspired by the New York city where horse races are held, and you can find a few nods to that theme at the resort. The main problem, however, is that there isn’t anything that truly screams Disney, and many guests agree that this resort could be located anywhere in the world, as it feels a bit generic.
With all that said, I’d only recommend this resort to those who want to relax and get away from Disney… while still being at Disney. Or to those who really love Disney Springs, shopping, and good food. For all other guests, you’ll definitely have a better time staying at a Moderate or other Deluxe Resort.
Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa FAQ
How much is a room at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa?
Room rates vary by date and room type but typically start at $480 per night.
Is Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa within walking distance to any theme park?
No, Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa is not within walking distance to any theme park.
Is there a Skyliner at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa?
No, there isn’t a Skyliner at Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa.
How long is the walk from Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa to Disney Springs?
A walk from your room to Disney Springs can take anywhere from 5 to 20 minutes, depending on where your room is located.
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