In this final two-part installment of my "Hidden Gems" of Disney World series, I'm heading over to Disney's onsite resort hotels to share some of my favorite well-kept secrets, off-the-beaten path restaurants, and little details that make Disney World extra magical. If you missed any of my previous posts in the series, start here.
Pepper Market Restaurant (Disney's Coronado Springs Resort)
Open and spacious, this quick-service eatery offers unique menu items and excellent service. In fact, it is my favorite quick-service restaurant in all of Disney World property...hands-down. This is especially true for breakfast. French toast-lovers MUST try the truly decadent Creme Brulee version of this breakfast favorite. Don't have much of a sweet tooth? Order the Mexican Eggs Benedict Burrito with your choice of Salsa Verde or Sauce Choron...yum!
1900 Park Fare Restaurant (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort)
Nestled in the lobby of this exquisite flagship resort, this restaurant plays host to multiple character meals throughout the day, including breakfast with Mary Poppins and an afternoon tea party with Alice in Wonderland. The crown jewel of this restaurant's offerings, however, is the Happily Ever After dinner. Cinderella, Prince Charming, and the wicked stepsisters are in attendance, making this a fun "princess meal" for older children. More reasonably priced and less crowded than other princess meal options, this dinner is truly a gem. Oh, and the strawberry soup....delicious!!
Beaches and Cream Restaurant (Disney's Beach Club Resort)
Spending an evening on Disney's Boardwalk? Looking for an "out-of-the-park" break on your Epcot day? Then stroll over to Disney's Beach Club Resort and visit this next hidden gem: the Beaches & Cream Soda Shop. Serving up some of the best burgers on property, this quaint little restaurant offers a heavy dose of nostalgia with its infamous ice cream sundaes. While Beaches & Cream does accept the Disney Dining Plan (sit-down credit), it doesn't take reservations. My advice: enjoy a late lunch or early dinner here, when crowds are much lighter.
The Observation Deck (Disney's Contemporary Resort)
Have a breakfast or dinner reservation at Chef Mickey's? Be sure to save some time to head out on this 4th-floor deck for a stunning view of Cinderella Castle.
The Parasol Parade (Disney's Grand Floridian Resort)
On one of your Magic Kingdom mornings, make a pre-park stop at the Grand Floridian for one of the most unique "hidden gems" of all the Disney resorts: the Parasol Parade!! Every Monday and Friday morning, promptly at 8:00am, the entire Grand Floridian Mousekeeping staff gathers for a cheery parade on their way to work. Best of all, a lucky family sometimes gets to lead the procession!! Will it be your family??
There you have it! The first five "hidden gems" of Disney World's onsite resort hotels. Check back next week for Part Two!
Meredith McCutcheon
Disney Specialist
Owner, Magic Minus the Mayhem: Rochester Hills
disneymadeeasy@yahoo.com
