A Weekend at Disney’s Riviera Resort

The Riviera Resort in Walt Disney World is in a perfect location to be right in the middle of the Disney “bubble” while also in its own little area to really enjoy a vacation. Here you are a quick skyliner ride to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios, steps away from delicious dining options, and you have all the amenities to actually relax on your vacation.

We recently stayed in a Tower Studio room in the Riviera, and reviews got it right- this is a tiny room. It sleeps two, is tucked into the resort tower, and has a Murphy bed as the only bed option. However, the bathroom was gorgeous, and I’m always a fan of balconies. There is a nice sized desk, full length mirror, coffee maker and a decent amount of storage for being such a small room. They were very thoughtful about using every inch. I didn’t think it was too bad, but I wouldn’t pay over $200 a night. 

The Location

The resort is very easy to get to when driving into Disney World. It’s a short bus ride to Magic Kingdom or Animal Kingdom and it’s on the skyliner. You can walk to Caribbean Beach, or get to any area of the resort without feeling like you can get lost (some Disney resorts are HUGE in overall space). 

The Rooms

Like I said, our room was tiny. However, a lot of suites are available throughout the resort, many options with balconies, so the rooms get a thumbs up from me. This is a DVC resort and a standard Disney resort, so you really get a mix of room sizes from the tower studio to three-bedroom villas.

Cost

It’s pricey and honestly doesn’t need to be based on what you get here compared to other resorts. If I were to spend the regular room rate, I would much rather be within walking distance of Magic Kingdom or EPCOT. 

The Vibes

It doesn’t scream Disney, but there are subtle nods. It’s na elegant and classy property with a French-style setting. The buildings are beautiful, and the property transports you to a French bistro “but make it Disney” atmosphere. There is gogeoues artwork, especially the murals by the fountains. If you are a Tangled or Peter Pan fan, you have to check them out!

Amenities

With two pools, one splash pad, a slide, and a few jacuzzis, you have the amenities for a nice vacation. You also get the typical Disney perks like poolside crafts and games (available at all Disney resorts), a really lovely gym (available only at moderate and deluxe Disney resorts), Disney transportation (all Disney resorts), and yard games (all Disney resorts). You’ll also find a few tucked-away spaces to relax- like the library! 

Food

The Riviera Resort is home to some of our favorite on-property dining. Topolino’s Terrace for a character breakfast, the poolside Bar Riva for snacks and drinks, and Primo Piatto for a quick service but delicious dinner. Get the Banana Bread from the cafe in the lobby or Primo Piatto. It’s incredible!

Transportation

Hop on the skyliner to EPCOT and Hollywood or take the buses to Magic Kingdom, Animal Kingdom and Disney Springs.  

This is a small resort with very subtle nods to Disney. One building means you can get wherever you’re going within the resort, and you don’t need to leave, which is a park compared to most other Disney resorts. 

Overall, we really liked this resort and will absolutely stay here again! Have you stayed at the Riviera Resort in Walt Disney World?