Guide to Lake Buena Vista, Orlando
Lake Buena Vista: The heart of Orlando’s magicLake Buena Vista, home to the world-famous Walt Disney World, offers a variety of attractions beyond the iconic park. With attractions such as immaculate golf courses, unique dinner theaters, and the lively Disney Springs shopping complex, this city promises a blend of enchantment and adventure for every traveler.
If you are visiting Orlando to experience the magic of its world-famous amusement parks, Lake Buena Vista is the ideal place to stay. The distinct city tucked within the Greater Orlando area is intricately woven with the magic of Disney. The name Lake Buena Vista (or “good views” in Spanish) is a throwback to a street in Burbank, California where Walt Disney’s animated studios have been since the early 1940s. Born from a vision of exceptional entertainment and hospitality, the neighborhood has flourished around the iconic Walt Disney World. This expansive 40-square-mile wonderland is home to exhilarating theme parks, water parks, and entertainment complexes. Yet, the neighborhood's allure extends beyond the Disney enchantment. Boasting immaculate golf courses, world-class restaurants, and the bustling Disney Springs shopping district, Lake Buena Vista ensures a variety of attractions for every traveler. Amidst the excitement, the city emanates a vibrant-yet-laid-back Floridian charm, striking a perfect balance between thrill and relaxation. Whether you're a Disney devotee or a first-time visitor, Lake Buena Vista invites you to discover a world of magic, adventure, and warm hospitality.
Getting to Lake Buena Vista
Lake Buena Vista is 22 miles east of Orlando Airport (MCO). It generally takes a half hour to drive depending on traffic. Taxis and rideshare options generally range from $60 to $75 depending on demand and are a convenient way to get directly to your destination. Shuttle services, both shared and private, are available with advance booking, providing cost-effective and convenient travel. Mears Transportation and SuperShuttle are two popular shuttle services.
For guests staying at select Walt Disney World Resort hotels, Disney’s Magical Express is a complimentary shuttle service but does require advance reservations. Lastly, public transportation via Lynx buses connects the airport to Downtown Orlando, where you can transfer to another bus route heading to Lake Buena Vista. This option is budget-friendly but less convenient due to multiple transfers.
Disney World
Visiting Walt Disney World for the first time can be overwhelming. I recommend you download the Disney Experience app. It will help you purchase park tickets, view wait times, explore maps, find Disney characters, reserve dining, and just help alleviate anxiety that creeps up when trying to navigate the largest park in the world.
It is not by accident that Walt Disney World is the most visited park on the planet. Let’s start with the four separate theme parks. Experience traditional Disney charm in the Magic Kingdom. The Epcot, one of Dinsey World’s 4 theme parks, will help immerse you into a global cultural extravaganza. Hollywood Studios brings cinematic wizardry to life, while the Animal Kingdom offers a tribute to the wonders of nature. All of that is combined with four golf courses, two water parks, two entertainment districts, and hundreds of shops and restaurants – no wonder it’s called the Happiest Place on Earth.
ESPN Wide World of Sports
Experience the thrill of sports like never before at ESPN Wide World of Sports. This sprawling 220-acre multi-purpose sports complex is not just a venue for major athletic events; it’s also a state-of-the-art facility where amateur athletes can feel like pros. Witness spectacular games, tournaments, and even training sessions across sports like basketball, baseball, and soccer. The complex even hosts cheerleading and dance competitions. Whether you’re an avid sports enthusiast or a casual visitor, the electrifying atmosphere and impressive facilities at ESPN Wide World of Sports promise an unforgettable experience.
Golf
For a relaxing break during an extensive shopping day at Disney Springs, consider stopping by the Coca-Cola Store to unwind. Not only does it have a rooftop bar where you can take in panoramic views, it also serves more than 100 sodas from around the world, such as Beverly from Italy and Thums Up from India.
While it might not be the first place to come to mind, Lake Buena Vista is a golfer’s paradise. The area is home to several world-class golf courses nestled amidst stunning landscapes. Golfers can tee off from five beautifully manicured Disney courses, each offering unique challenges and settings. For a classic country-club style course, check out Lake Buena Vista Golf Course, while those interested purely in scenery might like the 18-hole championship Palm Golf Course with its glistening lakes, tropical sands, palm trees, and undulating green. Disney’s Oak Trail Golf Course is a stunning 9-hole course that is recognized by Audubon International as a Cooperative Wildlife Sanctuary. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a novice, the excellent facilities, combined with Florida’s sunny climate, make Lake Buena Vista a dream golfing destination.
Where to stay in Lake Buena Vista
While known for its extensive family-friendly options, Lake Buena Vista indeed presents a broad spectrum of accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. For a dose of family luxury and Disney magic, consider the Walt Disney World Dolphin Resort or the majestic Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort, while couples may prefer the upscale Four Seasons Resort Orlando.
For budget-friendly options, consider well-known hotel chains like the Holiday Inn Resort or the Best Western. For an enjoyable family experience, consider staying at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, where you can immerse yourself in themed rooms inspired by popular Disney films such as “The Little Mermaid,” “Cars,” “The Lion King,” and “Finding Nemo.” These rooms bring your favorite movie scenes to life, creating a memorable stay for the whole family.
Who should stay in Lake Buena Vista
Lake Buena Vista is the neighborhood for families visiting Orlando. From the thrilling Disney World theme parks and water attractions at Typhoon Lagoon, to diverse dining and shopping experiences at Disney Springs, there’s something for all ages. The neighborhood offers a range of family-friendly accommodations, including kid-themed hotels and resorts with amenities tailored to families, including breakfast events featuring beloved storybook characters, kids splash zones, free DVD rentals, onsite jungle gyms, and more. Combine this with golf courses, fun restaurants, and sunny weather and you have all the makings of a family vacation filled with fun, entertainment, and enduring memories.