One of the hidden gems at the Walt Disney World Resort is the Bonnet Creek Resort located near Downtown Disney. This resort is made up of the Hilton Bonnet Creek and Waldorf Astoria Orlando hotels and provides unparalleled accommodations and luxury….and that is coming from this DVC member, Disney resort loving gal!
This resort is also a great place to stay during runDisney race weekends! They have started offering a special experience for runners called Marathon Weekends which includes a special rate on accommodations, complimentary transportation to and from the race, snacks and beverages at the pre-race celebration, a runners welcome package and much more!
I recently had the opportunity to stay at the Waldorf Astoria Orlando during Wine & Dine Half Marathon Weekend and had an amazing time. Let’s take a look at the resort and some of what you get during Marathon Weekends.
The Resort
Waldorf Astoria hotels are known for their luxury, elegance and sophistication. This one is no exception and really makes you feel like you are far away from Walt Disney World. As you walk in the circular lobby you are greeted by this elegant seating area. Just look at the detail on the ceiling!
Off of the lobby is a complimentary water station with different flavored waters and the beautiful Peacock Alley. This lounge is full of comfy, plush furnishings and features a live pianist in the evenings. I must admit I was a bit jealous of everyone in there on the night of the Wine & Dine Half Marathon.
Out back is a gorgeous, simple pool area with numerous cabanas available. This pool is definitly geared more towards adults, but good news is that resort guests with children can head next door to the Hilton’s (the hotels are connected) large pool and lazy river!
The Rooms
The grand feeling in the lobby carries through to the guest room floors. Just walking down the hallway to your room, you know that there is something special in store.
Our Deluxe Room featured two queen beds, flat screen TV, work station, double closets, coffee maker and an incredibly spacious bathroom featuring a large jacuzzi tub and wonderful glass shower.
The rooms all come with two super comfy robes (that are available for purchase) and let me just tell you, these were PERFECT when I came back cold and wet from the Wine & Dine Half Marathon. I bundled right up in one of these.
And the beds…oh the beds! The fluffy pillows and warm comforter are the perfect way to rest up before and after a race. This was honestly one of the most comfortable beds I’ve ever slept in!
One of the perks of the Waldorf Astoria is their turndown service. Not only is your bed turned down, but slippers are left out for you and chocolates are waiting to be indulged in.
Marathon Weekend Amenities
Upon checking in during Marathon Weekends, you will be given a gift bag that includes instructions for the weekend and some accessories like bandaids! In your room you will find extra bottles of water and a few runner friendly snack to help fuel you for the big race.
Before the race, a pre-race celebration is held over at the Hilton, which is also where the complimentary race transportation leaves from. This is just a quick walk from the resort or there is a a shuttle to bring you over. Here you will find a TON of enthusiastic cheerleaders, food and beverage to fuel up and some really fun photo ops.
Since Wine & Dine is a night race, they had a lot of glowing items available too. I love these bracelets!
If you are looking for a pampering, relaxing and luxurious retreat during your runDisney race weekend, look no further than the Waldorf Astoria Orlando. The service and amenities are first-class and definitely help put you at ease during those hectic race weekends. Rooms are still available for the upcoming Walt Disney World Marathon Weekend and Princess Half Marathon Weekend at very reasonable rates…check it out!
Waldorf Astoria Orlando
14200 Bonnet Creek Resort Lane
Orlando, FL 32821
www.waldorfastoriaorlando.com
Phone: 407.597.5500
Reservations: 888.353.2009
Disclosure: I was a guest of the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and was provided with complementary accommodations for two nights. I was not required to write this post and no monetary compensation has been received. All opinions are 100% my own.
