Family Lives Inside Walt Disney World Resort in Themed Community

For some, living within the magical realm of Walt Disney World is a far-fetched dream. For Cristie Anne and her family, it's a reality.

They reside in Golden Oak, an exclusive residential community located inside the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida. Designed by Disney Imagineers, the neighborhood features homes with distinct characters, each seemingly plucked from a storybook.

Cristie Anne's family home, inspired by Belle's cottage from "Beauty and the Beast," showcases Imagineer-designed details throughout. "If you compare the exterior to the cottage from the live-action film, the inspiration is unmistakable," Cristie Anne told the Daily Mail. "While many homes in Golden Oak incorporate subtle Disney touches or beautifully themed interior spaces, very few are designed around an entire Disney story the way ours is."

The family has spent the last six years splitting their time between their primary residence in Miami and their Disney cottage. They initially sought a vacation home and were not actively looking to live within the theme park but were captivated by Golden Oak during a visit.

"Our daughter was only three years old at the time, so the idea of a Beauty and the Beast-inspired home at Disney sounded like perfection," Cristie Anne explained. "It felt like the perfect place to watch her grow up while creating family traditions together."

A Unique Living Experience

Golden Oak offers a unique lifestyle, blending the magic of Disney with the comforts of home. Homes in the community are reportedly priced between $2 million and $20 million. Residents benefit from proximity to the Disney parks, with travel times to park entrances often measured in minutes via private transportation.

This convenience allows for spontaneous visits to attractions, dining at Disney resorts, or watching fireworks without the pressure of a typical vacation itinerary. "We can pop into a park for one ride, have dinner at a resort hotel, or simply stay home and watch the fireworks from our house," Cristie Anne said. "It gives us the freedom to slow down, appreciate the little moments, and enjoy Disney at our own pace."

Despite being located within Walt Disney World, Golden Oak maintains a high level of privacy. Access is restricted to residents and their registered guests, and homes cannot be used as short-term rentals, preserving the neighborhood's residential character. "Security is exceptional, and only residents and their registered guests are allowed inside the community," Cristie Anne noted.

While daily necessities like supermarkets and schools are located off-property, residents have immediate access to Disney's extensive amenities, including restaurants, resorts, golf courses, and entertainment venues. "It really is the best of both worlds… the magic of Disney whenever we want it, with all the conveniences of everyday life just minutes away," she added.

Cristie Anne has no plans to sell their unique Disney home, cherishing the distinct way it allows her family to experience the magic of Disney.