Is Bonnet Creek Considered a Disney Resort?

By Anna Duncan

If you’re planning a trip to Walt Disney World Resort in Florida, you may have come across the term “Bonnet Creek” while researching accommodations. But what exactly is Bonnet Creek, and is it considered a Disney resort?

What is Bonnet Creek?

Bonnet Creek is a 482-acre resort complex located adjacent to Walt Disney World property in Lake Buena Vista, Florida. The complex features several hotels and vacation rental properties, including the Waldorf Astoria Orlando, Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek, Wyndham Grand Orlando Resort Bonnet Creek, and several others.

Is Bonnet Creek a Disney resort?

The short answer is no – Bonnet Creek is not a Disney-owned or operated resort. However, the complex’s location on Disney property can lead to some confusion for visitors.

Benefits of Staying at Bonnet Creek

While it may not be an official Disney resort, there are still several benefits to staying at Bonnet Creek. For starters, the location is incredibly convenient – guests can easily access all of the Walt Disney World theme parks and attractions via complimentary shuttle buses provided by each hotel.

Additionally, some of the properties within the complex offer exclusive perks for guests that are similar to what you would find at a Disney-owned resort. For example, guests staying at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando or Hilton Orlando Bonnet Creek can enjoy early access to select Walt Disney World theme parks on certain days of the week.

Differences from Staying at an Official Disney Resort

Despite these benefits, there are some key differences between staying at Bonnet Creek versus an official Disney resort. For example:

  • Guests do not have access to FastPass+ reservations as part of their stay.
  • The hotels within the complex do not offer complimentary transportation to and from Orlando International Airport, a service provided by Disney’s Magical Express for guests staying at official Disney resorts.
  • While the hotels themselves are luxurious and offer a range of amenities, they may not have the same level of theming or immersive experiences that you would find at a Disney resort.

Conclusion

In summary, while Bonnet Creek is not technically a Disney resort, it can still be a great option for visitors looking for convenient access to Walt Disney World and some exclusive perks. However, those looking for the full immersive Disney experience may be better suited to staying at an official Disney-owned resort.