In 2001 we stayed in a Villa at the Boardwalk Inn. This was wonderful. An oversized hotel room with a fridge, microwave, and a couch. Easy walk to Epcot (this was prior to the accident that caused the partial disabilities). It was a rare experience to pay more than $300 a night and feel like it was a good value (it has gone up since then, of course). The place is so fine, that you really don’t need any advice to make the most of it. Except for one thing: do not spring for a room with a view of the lake, unless you plan to stay up all night with the revelers on the Boardwalk.

This resort will be easy for people with disabilities. The walkway to Epcot is pretty much level. The boatride to MGM is okay, but people on wheels (and even ambulatory people) find it a challenge to board. But it's big enough, so with a little help it will work. The bus stop far from the lobby, down a slope a little too steep to be called gentle. People in wheelchairs will appreciate help both ways. The Boardwalk is just about perfect for those in wheelchairs, because it's flat, smooth, and wide. With a little shopping and plenty of dining, it's a nice convenience.

Disney's Boardwalk Inn is one of the select Disney Deluxe resorts and is located in the EPCOT/MGM area of the 43 square miles of Florida swampland, aka Walt Disney World. The Boardwalk recreates a turn-of-the-century American boardwalk, with dining entertainment and restaurants amid carnival sights. More than just a hotel, this is an entertainment extravaganza!

As well as having hotel rooms at the Boardwalk Inn, the Boardwalk Villas is a Disney vacation property, although the two areas as separated within the hotel complex.

Services and amenities:
The hotel offers a high level of services, including room service, self-service laundry facilities (very handy when staying here for 2 or more weeks), wireless Internet access, as well as self and valet parking (valet is for a small fee).

The rooms:
All of the rooms are decorated in a 1930s beach style, and there are there levels of room, as with other Disney properties. All of the basic room features are the same, but the levels depend on whether you have a standard (i.e. car park or equivalent view), garden, or water view. Unless you intend to spend much time in your hotel room, I would say to opt for a standard room--just ask for one that is close to reception so that you will not be walking a long way to and from your room.

All rooms accommodate up to five people on either two double beds plus a day bed or one king-size bed and one day bed. There are also deluxe rooms that are simply large, and six guests can stay in these rooms. A number of suites are also available, but unless you need to spend time in your room, I wouldn't bother paying the additional premiums, as hopefully you will be out and about exploring the theme parks!

Places to eat:
Another great thing about the Boardwalk is that it offers a wide range of places to eat (not to mention the other nearby resort hotels and the quick dash to EPCOT, where you can eat in 12 different countries in one day if your tummy can take it!).

The best restaurant is the FLYING FISH CAFÉ, where you can sample national fish dishes as well as creative steaks. Make sure to check out the catch of the day in this superb restaurant, where surprises fly through the air, literally.

SPOODLES is a more down-to-earth family affair that offers traditional American cuisine at reasonable (for Disney) prices.

The BIG RIVER GRILLE & BEREWING WORKS is a place to sample some home-made ales as well as some of the wholesome food on offer.

A rare treat is the ESPN club in that, although ESPN is owned by Disney, you can actually find some non-Disney food and burgers here! Served in a fun, albeit loud, sports environment, the ESPN club is great fun and offers a range of burgers, sandwiches, and salads at reasonable prices.

Best Things Nearby:
Epcot, Beach Club, ESPN, MGM

Best Things About the Resort:
Close walk to Epcot Center and the water slide

Resort Experience:
My 5-year-old daughter and my mom stayed at the Boardwalk Villas from April 6 - 12, 2005. We were so impressed by this resort from the moment we pulled up, and the man at the security gate said, "We have been expecting you! Welcome home!" It was a beautiful resort, and everyone was so nice and helpful. They have free balloons for the kids when you check in.

We stayed in a studio, and we had the best view. It was such a nice room, with a coffee maker, microwave, sink, toaster, and mini-fridge. The pool was amazing, with a full-size waterslide that my daughter and I could not get enough of.

They also have two play structures for the children and a community hall where they have crafts and games, etc. You can also get free lifejackets for rent there. Also, there is a pool right by Community Hall (the quiet pool).

The resort is right on the Boardwalk and close to the Swan and Dolphin. They have many restaurants to choose from on the Boardwalk, and the ESPN Club is the best! They broadcast live from there!

The bus service was great, and so was the boat servise to Epcot and MGM. It is also a very close to walk to Epcot and the Beach Club Resort. I am definitely going back to stay there and would not stay anywhere else.

We loved it there and can't wait to go back! This is true Disney quality!

• Unit Type: Studio
• Activities: Excellent
• Amenities: Excellent
• Unit Satisfaction: Excellent
• Family Friendliness: Excellent
• Service: Excellent

Even if you are not a member of the Disney Vacation Club, there is a little-known gem amongst all the Disney resorts. These properties are rentable if members of the vacation club are not using them. They are available as studios, one-bedrooms, two-bedrooms, and Select Grand Villa (three-bedroom) units. They come with a master suite and kitchen and even a washer, dryer, and dishes in the units. It is great to go on vacation with up to 12 people and all being able to have your own space. It was great being able to eat comfortably in our own accommodations and store those snack foods, breakfast items, and even desserts in our own room. The accommodations are roomy and tranquil, two words that are not always synonymous with Disney. These accommodations also exist at the Beach Club, Wilderness Lodge, and at the strictly member-type lodging at Old Key West and Saratoga Springs.

They are very comfortable and luxurious. This is located on a large boardwalk that had dining and entertainment. It is also has transportation to all Disney parks by boat or bus.