The Wandering Disciple

Disney Imagineers are celebrated globally for the meticulous and detailed theming they infuse into the interiors of their theme parks. However, a lesser-known aspect of their genius is the way these immersive designs extend far beyond the park gates, permeating pretty much every facet of the Disney resort experience. Every element, down to the smallest detail, is carefully crafted to fully immerse guests into an elaborately constructed world of fantasy and adventure, ensuring the magic continues long after they leave the rides.  One outstanding example of this commitment to comprehensive storytelling is the "Dig Site" complex found at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. At first glance, it might appear to be nothing more than a well-designed resort pool area, centered around an impressively tall Mayan-inspired pyramid and featuring a standard playground structure. Yet, as guests take the time to explore the expansive grounds of the Dig Site, they quickly realize they are no...

Mayan ruins adorn the Dig, a popular activity spot at the Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World.  The Dig located at the center of the resort and features a pool, waterslide, the largest hot tub at Disney, a playground and the sand play area featured here.  (Photo: August 18, 2006)

The playground is one of the many activities guests can enjoy at the Dig at the Coronado Springs Resort at Walt Disney World.  The Dig is home to the pool, playground, arcade and more all themed to look like an Mexican archaeological site.  (Photo: August 18, 2006)

The Lost City of Cibola dominates The Dig Site at Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. The Dig is in the center of the lagoon and features the main pool with waterslide, an arcade and playground. (Photo: August 18, 2006)

The American Southwest and comes to life at Walt Disney World’s Coronado Springs Resort. Opened in 1997, the resort features over 1,900 rooms in three distinct southwestern themes. (Photo: August 17, 2006)

Across the lagoon sits the El Centro, the heart of Disney's Coronado Springs Resort. Most of the resorts amenities can be found here including dining, and a convention center. Opened in 1997, the Coronado Springs Resort features just under 2,000 rooms with a Southwest US/Mexico theme. (Photo: August 17, 2006)

Lake Buena Vista, Florida: Off the beaten path and tucked away in the Animal Kingdom region of Walt Disney World, the Cornado Springs Resort brings elements of the Mexico and the Southwestern United States and drops them right in the middle of Central Florida. Opened in 1997, the Coronado Springs was Walt Disney World’s first moderate hotel and was built with the business traveler in mind. The resorts convention center is the largest on the Disney property with over 220,000 square feet of meeting space. The resort features 1,915 guestrooms in three distinct villages surrounding a 15 acre lake. The rooms are in the moderate class and are 314 square feet and feature moderate class amenities like a flat screen television, coffee maker, table and chairs and a small refrigerator. In 2009, the resort added club rooms that feature the above amenities and add a DVD player, personalized front desk service, turndown service and a lounge features a continental breakfast, snacks and evening w...