Luxury travelers rejoiced the day that Four Seasons Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort opened its doors. From epic kid-friendly fun to stellar service, there are so many reasons we love this Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star retreat.
Here are just seven reasons to visit this Orlando gem right now.
It’s Not Just a Hotel; It’s an Attraction
There is so much to do on the 27-acre property that your kids might actually ask to leave the theme parks — if you can tear them away from the resort’s five-acre waterpark to begin with.
Little ones will love Explorer Island, Four Season’s family-friendly fun zone that features a massive 7,500-square-foot pool, lazy river, splash pad and two enormous waterslides. You can even jam out to your favorite tunes while swimming underwater.
When you need a respite from the Florida sun, head to The Hideout to play a game of billiards or life-size chess. A high-tech video game room has interactive touch-screen tables and virtual reality entertainment.
And when you’re ready for some alone time, the resort provides Kids for All Seasons, a complimentary supervised kids club for ages four to 12.
Alone Time for Mom and Dad
While your kids are being entertained, carve out some time for yourself. A Four-Star spa invites you to unwind with a whirlpool, steam room, fireplace-clad relaxation room and experience shower featuring LED lights, sound effects and aromas.
If you do have time for a treatment, indulge in one of the locally inspired offerings, like the 80-minute La Floridian body buff and wrap or the Healing Honey massage. Round out your spa day with an alfresco yoga class on the movement lawn. Left your athleisure-wear behind? Don’t sweat it — borrow complimentary workout gear at the gym.
Links lovers can head to the Tom Fazio-designed golf course (host to the LPGA Tour’s 2019 Diamond Resorts Tournament of Champions) for a round or two. If you don’t have time for 18 holes, there’s a recently enhanced practice facility you can visit to hit a few balls.
End your day on a relaxing note with a swim and a cocktail at the serene adults-only pool.
Onsite Disney Magic
Although this Orlando hotel is not technically owned by the mouse, it is on Disney property, which means you’ll enjoy many of the same perks available at the park’s hotels.
Take advantage of complimentary transportation to the theme parks, 60-day advance Fastpass+ selections (many hotels only offer 30-day advance selections) and the Extra Magic Hours benefit (early admittance and after-hours adventures inside the parks).
Four Seasons is also home to an array of colorful characters. The Good Morning Breakfast with Goofy and His Pals (spoiler: his pals are almost always Mickey and Minnie) at Ravello features a fabulous buffet and includes soft drinks, coffee and tea. A professional photographer will capture all the fun and complimentary digital downloads of the photos are included in the experience.
For something a little more luxe, staff at the lobby’s Disney Planning Center can help you book a VIP tour — our favorite way to experience the parks. You’ll receive door-to-door private transportation, a customized itinerary and your own personal escort to guide you efficiently and help you make the most of your day. Take advantage of expedited lines to minimize wait times and receive VIP seating for parades, shows and nighttime spectaculars.
Amazing Views
To never let the magic out of your sight, book one of the property’s Park View Rooms to soak up vistas of Epcot’s Spaceship Earth (the iconic golf ball-like sphere), Lake Buena Vista, the resort’s golf course and even Magic Kingdom’s nightly fireworks.
And these views are worth the upgrade — imagine seeing the park’s wonderful closing ceremony sans the crowds from the comfort of your own balcony. It’s a great opportunity for a fun family picnic or a romantic alfresco meal once the kids are (finally) asleep.
For a grown-up way to take in those magical pyrotechnics, make a reservation at Forbes Travel Guide Recommended Capa, a 17th-floor steakhouse boasting some of the best panoramas around.
And speaking of amazing views, we would be remiss not to mention the best seat in the house. Head to the family pool for the resort’s weekly Dive-In Movies, where you can watch classic Disney flicks and munch on gratis popcorn right in the water.
Four Seasons Luxury
Four Seasons Resort Orlando at Walt Disney World Resort is nestled in the private gated community of Golden Oak. While it’s only a short drive to the theme parks, it feels a world away from the chaos.
From the Spanish Revival architecture to the contemporary décor, everything about the property instills a sense of indulgent tranquility. The plush furniture, deep-soaking tubs and oversized robes (even for kids) beckon you to slow down and savor each detail.
And you’ll encounter the service that Four Seasons is famous for here, too: attentive poolside attendants are always on hand for chair setup, complimentary passed treats and waiter service. And if there’s something you desire, simply log onto the resort’s app to chat with a representative who, in mere moments, can take care of your every whim.
Even the merchandise here is luxurious — snag a pair of the exclusive Missoni-designed Minnie ears only sold at the Orlando hotel.
In-Room Amenities for All Ages
No matter your age, this luxe retreat has you covered with every creature comfort you can want. For little ones, the property carries not only cribs, but diaper bins and designer tot toiletries designed for sensitive skin.
For parents, of course there are impressive offerings like a Nespresso machine, a TV inset in the bathroom vanity and an iPad that allows you to make requests at the tap of a button.
But our favorite new amenity is the on-demand, in-room wine-by-the-glass system, Plum. Choose from two bottles expertly selected by the resort’s sommeliers and use the interactive touchscreen to pick your size. Never wait for room service again — or feel the need to buy an entire bottle.
The hotel can even personalize Plum with specialty wines in advance of your stay. Keep in mind that Plum Wine units are only available in Park View Rooms and suites.
Magical Moments
Who says pampering is just for grown-ups? The Four Season’s salon does Magical Moments makeovers that let your children really get into character.
Reserve an appointment for the Royal Treatment and your little princess will have professional makeup application and hairstyling, an express manicure and her choice of designer dress, tiara, bracelet and wand. A commemorative certificate and a sprinkle of fairy dust complete the transformation. The whole family can get in on the action, too. There are packages for your little prince (Shining Knight) and also for a shared mother-daughter experience (Princess
