Disney's Contemporary Resort Rooms

A 2005-2006 room redesign transformed formerly bright and bold decor to a more subdued color scheme, resulting in a sophisticated, laid-back ambiance. Red, yellow and green accents now complement an eye-pleasing primary palate of basic black and white, and multiple mirrors create an added aura of spaciousness. You'll find the same luxurious beds and linens as at other Deluxe Disney Resorts, as well as some features unique to the property -- such as a glass top desk, modern lighting fixtures and two sleek sinks that are pretty to look at but less practical to use due to their shallow capacity.

In addition to a 32-inch, flat-panel TV, an armoire and an alarm clock with an iPod docking station, rooms feature high-speed Internet ($9.95 daily), a Pack 'N Play, a small refrigerator and a coffeemaker. Standard rooms (437 square feet) sleep up to five plus a crib sleeper under the age of three and contain two queen beds (or a king bed) and a daybed.

Approximately two-thirds of rooms are located in the main Tower, overlooking the resort monorail station and Main Concourse, while remaining rooms are situated in an adjacent Garden Wing, close to waterfront activities and laundry facilities. Standard rooms in the Garden Wing are less convenient to the monorail, restaurants, shops and services, but feature the lowest rates on property ($285 and up) and the same amenities as Tower accommodations, with the exception of a balcony. Tower room balconies have a table and two chairs, allowing guests to enjoy the starring attraction of this visionary property -- the view.

If you hope to see Cinderella's Castle, expect to pay extra for the privilege. Tower rooms facing the Magic Kingdom are around $40 to $60 more per night ($440 to $655) than those with a Bay Lake view ($400 to $595). If you're traveling with kids of any age, the "wow" factor is well worth the splurge. Guests of Bay Lake View rooms enjoy a frontrow seat to the nightly Electrical Water Pageant, so either way you go, the scenery is pretty spectacular. For a great perspective and a good night's sleep, request a room on Tower floors nine to eleven, away from the commotion of Chef Mickey's and the fourth-floor Concourse.

Parents who don't want to be prisoners of the dark after the kids crash for the night have a number of space-stretching options. If you have the extra cash, you can book connecting rooms or else spring for a Garden or Tower suite with a parlor ($930 to $2,950). Tower suites are located on one of two Concierge Levels, where guests enjoy extra perks like plush robes, personal assistance and access to a private lounge serving complimentary food and beverages.

Of course, you could always check-in to a Villa at the new family-friendly Bay Lake Tower next door -- this home-away-from-home Disney Vacation Club property offers a playground, a kiddie pool and a Community Center, plus flexible room arrangements with a washer and dryer and a full kitchen.