Written by Marci Moore & Stephanie Forrester
Are you dreaming of your next visit to Walt Disney World? This brand new bellissimo resort which opened its doors December 16, 2019, may just become your new home away from home. This resort is a reflection of Walt and Lillian’s deep love for the European and Mediterranean landscapes. Imagineers sought to bring to life the magic of the Italian and French Rivieras, and this upscale retreat does just that.
★ Location:
- One of the most unique amenities about the resort is that it has its very own dedicated skyliner station. The skyliner provides a scenic, swift 9-12 minute flight to Hollywood Studios and Epcot.
- Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort is only a short walk from Riviera Resort.
★ Theme & Decor:
- The overall theming of the resort is a melding of both the French and Italian coastlines.
- The European-tinged Disney music was specifically created for this location as was the curated artwork located throughout this magical destination. Don’t overlook the mosaic murals that can be found near the skyliner station. Artisans laid over 1 million tiles by hand to create this 20-foot arched masterpiece that brings the magic of Tangled and Peter Pan to life.
- This resort not only incorporates more hidden Mickeys than any other Walt Disney World resort, it’s also home to the very first hidden Minnie. Be on the lookout for other classic characters that may be disguised within the impeccable European decor.
- True Disney fans will appreciate the collection of original framed photographs of Walt Disney located directly beside the lobby area.
★ Room Categories:
- Since this resort falls under the DVC category, it offers more options than the typical Disney destination.
- Room types include:
- Deluxe Studio
- Accommodates up to 5 adults
- Kitchenette
- Split bathroom layout that includes 2 showers
- 1 Bedroom Villa
- Accommodates up to 5 adults, but offers more square footage
- Living Area
- 2 Bedroom Villa
- Accommodates up to 9 adults which features 1 King bed, 2 Queen beds, a Queen pull-down, and a single pull-down trundle bed
- 3 Bedroom Villa
- Accommodates up to 12 adults
- Full Kitchen
- 3 separate sleeping areas
- Be Our Guest themed doorbell chime
- Dining Room
- Living Room
- Tower Room
- Unique only to Disney’s Riviera Resort
- Only accommodates two guests
- Murphy-style Queen bed
- Full bathroom
- Small private balcony
- Layout is designed to mimic Rapunzel’s tower
- Deluxe Studio
★ Dining Options:
- Le Petit Cafe – guests can enjoy coffee and pastries in the morning and drink offerings in the evenings.
- Bar Riva – guests can enjoy drinks and quick bites throughout the day.
- Primo Piatto – quick service location offerings changing throughout the day.
- Topolino’s Terrace – rooftop character breakfast and brunch, but transforms into a European signature dining experience by evening.
★ Unique Amenities:
- Bocce ball court
- Movies under the stars
- Giant chess board
- Splash area named, S’il Vous Plait, adorned with Fantasia characters
- Full service gym
- Smaller resort feel where all rooms can be accessed from the lobby elevators
- Scavenger hunt with prize upon completion
This chic resort has quickly climbed its way to the top of our list of favorite Walt Disney World resorts. A stay at the Riviera feels like a vacation within a vacation. Book your stay today at this prima classe locale, for a European escape that blends Disney charm and old world glamour.
Looking to go on a Disney vacation? Book with our sponsor, Mickey World Travel! Contact me to start planning your Walt Disney World vacation today!
Email: marci@mickeyworldtravel.com
