Are you considering Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa for your next Walt Disney World vacation? This deluxe villa resort offers cozy accommodations that evoke the ambiance of the late 1800s upstate New York town of Saratoga Springs. 

It’s not your average resort hotel. So, we created this guide for Saratoga Springs that covers the specifics of the resort. It is meant to be used as a one-stop reference point.

That said, the most value you’ll find is in the articles we’ve written specific to each topic, including a separate detailed account of our stay. We’ve listed those articles at the bottom of this page. Each article offers in-depth insights, images, and personal experiences to ensure your visit to Disney’s Saratoga Springs is nothing short of enchanting. 

For example, we provide an overview of the pools at Saratoga Springs below with a few photos. But our separate article about the pools at Saratoga Springs discusses each pool along with tons of photos. So, if you’re interested in spending time at the pools, this guide branches out to that article. The same goes for dining, transportation, and room tours.

The Basics of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort & Spa

Here are a few basic things you’ll want to know about the resort:

• Check-In (4:00 p.m.)
• Check-Out (11:00 a.m.)
• Self-Parking (Complimentary)
• Free Wi-Fi Internet

Overview of Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa 

Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is a delightful retreat with a nod toward the original equestrian town. Nestled across the lake from Disney Springs, the resort is a place where the magic of Disney meets the warmth of another era. 

Imagine stepping into this unique landscape inspired by the original Saratoga Springs, known for its serene spas, horse racing events, and Victorian allure. Accommodations here are not just rooms; they’re cozy sanctuaries that feel like home. With updated amenities and a touch of nostalgia, each studio or villa offers extras you won’t find just anywhere. 

But the charm doesn’t stop at your door. Saratoga Springs invites you to embrace the outdoors. Enjoy leisurely strolls through lush grounds, bike rides along scenic paths, and afternoons by the pools. For the little ones, there’s Community Hall, a hub of fun activities reminiscent of summer camp. Meanwhile, golf enthusiasts will find their haven on the golf course greens at Disney’s Lake Buena Vista Golf Course.

Dining at Saratoga Springs is a delightful journey with the abundance of restaurants at nearby Disney Springs. While you won’t find a signature restaurant at this resort, you’ll feel spoiled by the culinary treasures nearby–it’s so difficult to decide where to dine.

When it comes to getting around Walt Disney World, your primary option will be the resort’s complimentary bus service. But a few other options are available, like taking a leisurely boat ride to Disney Springs.

Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is a deluxe villa resort that falls under the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) category at Walt Disney World. Here is a bit of an explanation:

• Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa is part of the Disney Vacation Club (DVC) family of resorts, which offers a unique approach to vacation ownership. 
• Disney Vacation Club is a program in which members purchase points, which they can use to book accommodations at various Disney Vacation Club Resorts, including Saratoga Springs.
• While Saratoga Springs primarily caters to DVC members, it also makes its rooms available to regular guests who aren’t DVC members. So, you don’t need to be a DVC member to stay at Saratoga Springs.

Saratoga Springs Resort Guest Benefits

Early birds can participate in Disney’s early theme park entry, which is extended to all resort guests. Additionally, guests will have access to the extended evening benefit. Both of these benefits are valuable perks for guests staying at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa, as well as many other Disney Resort Hotels. Here’s a more detailed explanation:

Early Theme Park Entry: This perk allows resort guests to enter any Walt Disney World theme park 30 minutes before they officially open to the general public. This early entry provides several advantages:

1. Lower Crowds: Being among the first to enter the park allows you to experience popular attractions with shorter wait times. This will help you to check off must-see rides and experiences ahead of the crowd.
2. Photography Opportunities: If you love capturing the magic of Disney, the early hours provide a fantastic opportunity for photos in front of iconic landmarks with fewer people in the background.
3. Cooler Temperatures: Morning hours are often cooler, which can be more comfortable for outdoor activities. But if you visit during cooler weather, don’t forget a jacket!

Extended Evening Hours: Disney Deluxe and Deluxe Villa Resort guests, which includes those staying at Saratoga Springs, enjoy the privilege of spending extra time in select theme parks on specific evenings. During extended evening hours, these parks stay open later than their regular closing time, usually for an additional two hours.

This benefit offers several advantages as well:

1. More Ride Time: This allows you to enjoy additional nighttime rides and attractions when lines tend to be shorter.
2. Magical Nighttime Atmosphere: Disney parks take on a unique and enchanting ambiance at night, with beautifully lit landscapes. So you’ll have time to savor the nighttime magic for longer with fewer crowds. 
3. Less Rush: With extended hours, you can explore at a more relaxed pace.

Accommodations

Saratoga Springs has the following room types: 

Deluxe Studio (Standard and Preferred Category) 

• Location: The Grandstand, The Carousel, The Paddock, The Springs, Congress Park
• Bedding: 1 queen bed and 1 double pull-down bed.
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 4 Guests 

Preferred rooms are an upgrade and are located in The Springs or Congress Park sections of the resort. 

1 Bedroom Villa (Standard Category):

• Location: The Grandstand, The Carousel, The Paddock, The Springs, Congress Park
• Bedding: 1 king bed, 1 queen-size pull-down bed, and 1 twin-size pull-down bed.
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 5 Guests and 1 Infant (under 3 years of age).

Preferred rooms are an upgrade and are located in The Springs or Congress Park sections of the resort. 

2 Bedroom Villa (Standard Category):

• Location: The Grandstand, The Carousel, The Paddock, The Springs, Congress Park
• Bedding: 1 king bed, 2 queen beds, 1 queen-size pull-down bed, and 1 twin-size pull-down bed.
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 9 Guests and 1 Infant (under 3 years of age).

Preferred rooms are an upgrade and are located in The Springs or Congress Park sections of the resort. 

2 Bedroom Lock-Off Villa (Standard Category):

• Location: The Grandstand, The Carousel, The Paddock, The Springs, Congress Park
• Bedding: 1 king bed, 1 queen bed, 1 queen-size pull-down bed, 1 double-size pull-down bed, and 1 twin-size pull-down bed.
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 9 Guests and 1 Infant (under 3 years of age).

Preferred rooms are an upgrade and are located in The Springs or Congress Park sections of the resort. 

3-Bedroom Grand Villa (Standard Category):

• Location: Available in The Grandstand, The Carousel, and The Paddock sections of the resort.
• Bedding: 1 king bed, 4 queen beds, and 1 queen-size pull-down bed.
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 12 Guests and 1 Infant (under 3 years of age).

Preferred rooms are an upgrade and are located in The Springs or Congress Park sections of the resort. 

Treehouse Villas

• Location: The Treehouse Villas (A Separate Resort Area)
• Bedding: 1 queen bed, 1 queen-size sleeper sofa, 1 bunk bed, 1 twin-size sleeper
• Capacity: Sleeps up to 9 Guests and 1 Infant (under 3 years of age)

Is the Preferred Category Worth It? 

The decision to book a preferred category room over a standard category at Saratoga Springs Resort depends on your priorities and preferences. Here are some factors to consider when making this choice:

Preferred Category (The Springs and Congress Park):

1. Proximity to Disney Springs: Preferred rooms in The Springs section of the resort are closer to the Carriage House. Preferred rooms in Congress Park are closer to Disney Springs. If you plan to visit Disney Springs multiple times for dining and entertainment, this location is exceptionally convenient.
2. Shorter Walks: Preferred rooms in The Springs mean shorter walks to key resort amenities, including the main lobby, feature pool, and dining options.
3. Convenience: Being closer to Disney Springs and essential resort facilities can save time and make your stay more convenient.

Standard Category (The Grandstand, The Carousel, and The Paddock):

1. Cost Savings: Standard category rooms are typically more budget-friendly than preferred rooms. If you’re looking to save money, a regular section of the resort may be a better choice.
2. Resort Size: While standard rooms are farther from Disney Springs, Saratoga Springs is spread out. Some guests enjoy the expansive resort and don’t mind the extra walking.

Ultimately, the decision to upgrade should align with your specific needs and preferences. If convenience and proximity to Disney Springs are a top priority, booking a preferred room might be worth it. If you’re more budget-conscious and don’t mind a bit of extra walking, a standard room can provide good value. Consider your group size, daily plans, and budget to make the best choice for your vacation.

Dining at Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa

• The Turf Club Bar and Grill: A table-service restaurant located in The Springs section of the resort, which offers dinner service. Enjoy a variety of culinary delights in a relaxed, equestrian-themed setting.
• The Artist’s Palette: The primary quick-service dining option at The Springs is adjacent to the lobby. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, it offers a range of casual, family-friendly dishes like sandwiches and salads. (Artist Palette Review)
• The Paddock Grill: A quick-service dining location at the Paddock Pool, serving items like Cobb salad, burgers, and shrimp tacos. It is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
• Backstretch Pool Bar: Located at The Grandstand Pool, this pool bar offers a full bar with drink items and a few food options, such as pizza by the slice, pretzels, ice cream, and other snacks. 
• On the Rocks: A pool bar located at The Springs Pool, primarily serving a cocktail menu. Guests often mobile order or walk into the main building to order quick service from The Artist’s Palette, which is nearby.
• Chip ‘n’ Dale’s Cafe: A snack bar located near the boat dock and the first hole of the golf course.

Rapid Fill Mugs are available at various locations across the resort. We have a separate guide to refillable mugs for Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort. It details the location of refill stations along with the current price and drink options.

These dining options cater to various tastes and provide convenient choices for Saratoga Springs guests. For a more in-depth exploration of each restaurant, refer to the separate article on dining at Saratoga Springs.

Recreation

Saratoga Springs offers a variety of activities, recreation, and pools. Most of the villages, except for The Carrousel, have their own pool areas.

The High Rock Springs Pool is the main feature pool. It offers waterfalls, a water slide, and a zero-entry area, providing hours of family enjoyment. Two whirlpool spas are available within the pool area.

At the Paddock Pool, you can take a refreshing dip or let the kids play in the separate children’s aquatic area. It’s also home to a thrilling 146-foot-long waterslide.

The Congress Park Pool is one of the resort’s leisure pools. It offers a tranquil escape with views of Disney Springs, making it a peaceful spot for a relaxing swim. This area has a separately fenced playground nearby.

The Grandstand Pool, located in a more secluded area, is ideal for those seeking a quiet retreat. With a splash pad, hot tub, and a significant-sized pool, it’s a serene oasis to unwind after a day at the parks.

Here are a few photos:

Transportation

The following transportation options are available at Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa.

• Buses
• Water Taxis
• Walking

We have an entire guide that discusses transportation options at Disney’s Saratoga Springs. It will teach you how to get from the resort to every destination (including other resorts) at Walt Disney World. You might also like a copy of our transportation map for Saratoga Springs. We’ve highlighted the location where guests can access transportation options at the resort.

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