Resort Overview
Bay Lake Tower at Disney's Contemporary Resort opened in 2009 as a modern DVC property connected to the iconic Contemporary Resort via a covered skyway. Its prime location offers walking distance to Magic Kingdom (under 10 minutes) and monorail access to EPCOT and the Transportation and Ticket Center.
Bay Lake Tower stands as one of the most sought-after DVC resorts, commanding premium prices on the resale market. Its combination of location, amenities, and theming makes it a favorite among DVC members who prioritize Magic Kingdom access.
Location and Transportation
Getting to the Parks from Bay Lake Tower
| Destination | Transportation | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Magic Kingdom | Walk/Boat | 5-10 min |
| EPCOT | Monorail | 15-20 min |
| Hollywood Studios | Bus | 15-20 min |
| Animal Kingdom | Bus | 20-25 min |
Room Types and Capacity
Bay Lake Tower offers a variety of villa configurations to accommodate different family sizes:
| Room Type | Sleeps | Size (sq ft) | Points (Peak Week) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Deluxe Studio | 4 | 339 | 140-168 |
| One-Bedroom Villa | 4 | 802 | 238-280 |
| Two-Bedroom Villa | 8 | 1,152 | 350-420 |
| Three-Bedroom Grand Villa | 12 | 2,044 | 595-714 |
Room Views and Categories
Bay Lake Tower offers three view categories, each affecting point costs:
- Standard View: Parking lot, roof, or limited scenery views
- Lake View: Overlooking Bay Lake with stunning sunset views
- Theme Park View: Magic Kingdom vistas, perfect for fireworks
Amenities and Features
Resort Highlights
- Top of the World Lounge: Exclusive DVC member rooftop venue with Magic Kingdom fireworks views
- Contemporary Resort access: Full access to shops, restaurants, and pool
- Bay Cove Pool: Zero-entry pool with waterslide and whirlpool spa
- Chef Mickey's: Character breakfast and dinner at the Contemporary
- California Grill: Award-winning rooftop restaurant with fireworks viewing
- Fitness Center: Modern equipment and bay views
- Community Hall: Activities and games for families
Resale Market Analysis
Bay Lake Tower contracts are among the most expensive on the resale market, reflecting the resort's premium location and amenities:
Current Market Data (2025)
| Resale Price Range: | $145-165 per point |
| Disney Direct Price: | $250+ per point |
| Contract Expiration: | January 31, 2060 |
| Annual Dues (2025): | ~$9.00 per point |
| ROFR Risk: | High - Disney actively exercises |
Pros and Cons of Bay Lake Tower Ownership
Advantages:
- Unbeatable Magic Kingdom access—walk to the park
- Monorail loop access to EPCOT and TTC
- Exclusive Top of the World Lounge
- Modern, sleek design and amenities
- 35+ years remaining on contracts (expires 2060)
Considerations:
- Highest resale prices among WDW resorts
- Higher point requirements for rooms
- Strong ROFR activity from Disney
- High demand can make 7-month booking challenging
Who Should Buy Bay Lake Tower?
Bay Lake Tower is ideal for families who prioritize Magic Kingdom above other parks and value the convenience of walking to the park. It appeals to those who appreciate modern design, want monorail access, and are willing to pay premium prices for a premium location. If Magic Kingdom is your family's happy place, Bay Lake Tower delivers an unmatched experience.