We own at both Boardwalk Villas and Bay Lake Towers. 99% of our stays we choose The Boardwalk. I personally love being able to stay at Epcot for Illuminations and the causally walk back to our hotel, without fighting the crowds heading towards the bus. LOVE the International Gateway entrance And walking back along the boardwalk to the hotel, I still feel like I am part of the "magic". There is always some form of entertainment, like a magician or juggler, etc.

Most of our trips coincide with the Food & Wine festival, so again, love being close to Epcot. We also always walk to Hollywood studios as it is usually faster than taking the boat. (I believe it's about 1 mile).

We dislike the bus so much that unless we want to be at MK at opening (or go to AK) we walk over to the monorail (about 1.5 miles from hotel to monorail)

The Boardwalk also has a relaxing lounge where you can get coffee, pastries and "adult" drinks if you have some down time.