*DIS Contributors review meals, resort stays, and entertainment that they have paid for during their own vacations. They only utilize discounts and offers if they are available to the general public, such as annual passholder discounts, Tables in Wonderland, or DVC membership discounts. They receive no additional compensation for dining experiences or events, so that they may give their honest opinions about price and value.
Every year my husband and I spend a week at Walt Disney World to enjoy the fun of all four parks and the accessibility they offer. We’re also big fans of the resorts and their efforts on accessible design, especially the access available for my motorized wheelchair.
On our last visit, we stayed at Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort, which had recently completed building and opening the new Gran Destino Tower. We had wanted to try out this resort for years, but had never made it due to our love for previous places we had stayed on site. Another factor for me as a wheelchair user is that when I find a hotel that is comfortable and accessible, I hate trying new options out because I worry they won’t be a good fit for me. I should have known that I would be wrong!
Coronado Springs turned out to be beautiful, comfortable, and very accessible. While we didn’t stay in the new tower, we were nearby in the Casitas area, and spent significant time in the remodeled dining area, shops, and the new restaurant, Toledo, on the top floor of the tower.
Happily, we were assigned a room in the area next to the tower that we had requested. For me, as a wheelchair user, it is helpful to be a shorter distance to the dining area and shops. I also liked it because we were near a quiet pool. While the main pool is gorgeous with a huge Mayan temple, water slide, and pool bar, I prefer staying in a more tranquil section of the resort so that when we come back after time in the park, we can relax and enjoy some pool time. Every Disney resort pool has a lift that is easy to use for getting in and out from my wheelchair.
The room itself was very wheelchair accessible with plenty of rolling space, and plenty of allowance to get into the bathroom and shower area. The newer furnishings are nice and comfortable. I really appreciated having the space for my motorized wheelchair and the fold down transfer bench for easy showering.
It did take a little bit of wandering to find accessible paths as the buildings have stairs, but plenty of ramps were available. Once we discovered the accessible paths, it was no trouble getting around the resort. One day we took a scenic walk out to the bridge crossing the lagoon and the new Three Bridges Bar & Grill in the middle, then around to the main pool and back past the tower. All of the new renovations are beautiful and seamlessly accessible.
We had read very good things about the new restaurant on the top floor of the tower called Toledo, so we decided to try it one evening. Because we made a reservation early enough, we had a gorgeous sunset view from the window, and we visited the outdoor terrace briefly to see the view of Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The restaurant and bar decor was stunning with a Spanish/Salvador Dali flavor. The service was excellent, as was the meal. We left delighted and stuffed. Our only regret was that we didn’t come earlier and enjoy a cocktail at the bar.
Downstairs in the quick service dining area, we enjoyed a number of terrific meals, including Mexican-inspired egg breakfasts, and spicy bowls filled with salsa, beans, and chicken or pork. We also did a little shopping, including buying a beach vacation Mickey shirt. One night, we sat outside and enjoyed some fun live music. And another afternoon, we sat at the main pool bar and enjoyed some fruity drinks.
While some people complain that Coronado Springs doesn’t have the Disney theming of the other resorts, it certainly is very beautiful and comfortable. Yes, the Mickey decor is subtle, but it’s still there, and as cute as ever. We really felt like we were away from home in a relaxing, tropical hotel. After the hustle and bustle of a day at the parks, this is a nice reprieve and a good way to rejuvenate. Additionally, I really appreciate the thoughtful accessible features that are incorporated throughout the resort and the rooms.
The bus transportation was also well-planned and accessible, as it always is. And we found the recently added feature on the app that predicts bus times to be very helpful in planning when we should head to the stop.
After this trip, Coronado Springs became one of my new favorite places to stay at Disney World, and I look forward to making a return visit.
