Our Best Disney Travel Tips: How to Choose from the 30 Walt Disney World Resorts

We often hear people saying things like, “The hotel doesn’t matter at Disney, you are hardly ever in the room.”

 

We couldn’t disagree more. 

 

Your Disney resort is where you’ll have your first taste of Disney magic. It’s where you’ll rest after a long day in the parks, and where you’ll make magical memories with the people you love best. Do you want to spend an afternoon cooling off in a lazy river? Or wake to watch giraffes graze as you sip your morning coffee? Are you swinging in for a weekend trip on a budget? Or planning a ten day dream vacation? 

 

Choosing a resort is the first step in creating a unique Disney experience - and key to having the best Disney vacation possible.

 

We’ve assembled this guide to the Disney resorts to help you identify what makes each resort unique, and what will appeal most to your crowd. 

 

Know exactly what you’re looking for? Jump ahead in the guide. 

 

Disney Value Resorts

Disney Moderate Resorts

Disney Deluxe Resorts

Best Disney Resorts for Kids 

Best Disney Resorts for Disney on a Budget 

Best Disney Resorts for Disney Wedding or Honeymoon

Best Disney Resorts for Bachelor/Bachelorette Parties

Best Disney Resorts for Your First Trip to Disney 

Which Disney Resorts are on the Monorail

Which Disney Resorts are on the Skyliner

Pet-Friendly Resorts

Disney’s Vacation Club Resorts 

 

Value, Moderate, Deluxe: Understanding the Differences in the Disney Resorts 

 

Another phrase we commonly hear is, “It doesn’t matter how much you spend, they’re all great.” On this point we do agree. Disney does an incredible job of ensuring that everyone who stays on property - and there are many benefits to staying on property - has an amazing and magical experience. The same standard of cleanliness and service apply everywhere, as does Disney’s incredible attention to detail. Whether you stay in a value resort or go for the deluxe, you are sure to have a whimsical and totally immersive Disney experience. 

 

Exploring the Pros and Cons of Disney’s Value Resorts

 

 

 

 

 

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Each of the Walt Disney World resort hotels are designed to be a valuable part of your unique Disney experience - not just a place to stay. That includes Disney’s Value Resorts. 

So what do we like most about Disney’s Value Resorts? 

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Cost. As the name implies, Disney’s value resorts are typically the most cost-efficient of the Walt Disney World Resort properties, with average pricing starting at: 

All-Star Movies $123/night

All-Star Music $123/night, $310/night for family suites

All-Star Sports $123/night

Pop Century $168/night

Art of Animation $195/night, $442/night for family suites

 

Family Suites. Yes, family suites are available at Value resorts and perks like this aren’t usually available at comparable budget hotels. It’s also proof of Disney’s commitment to providing a great experience for families. Doing Disney on a budget with four small kids? Don’t worry mom; Disney’s got your back. 

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Themes. Every resort has a theme, but Disney’s Value Resorts tend to have more kid-friendly themes that pack a bigger punch. Will Disney’s Boardwalk Resort will transport you back in time with its 1920’s charm? Absolutely. Are you likely to run into a full-size Lightning McQueen, three story high Dalmatian, or a Nemo-themed splash pad? Not so much. 

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Things to (Con)sider Before Booking a Value Resort

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Smaller Rooms. Notice we didn’t say, “small rooms.” However, rooms at the Value Resorts are, as you’d expect, smaller than rooms at the Moderate or Deluxe Resorts. If you are the kind of diehard Disney fans that are in the park from open to close, you can skip right over this one. 

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Dining. Disney’s Value Resorts do not offer table service restaurants - just food court options. For families with picky eaters (read: those whose kids are only going to order chicken fingers or pizza no matter where you go), or those who want to keep food costs down, Value Resorts are a great choice. 

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HUGE properties. Every Disney resort is large. Walking is part and parcel of the Disney experience. But Value Resorts tend to cover even more ground and be even more spread out, so take that into consideration when choosing the right resort for your crew. 

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Transportation. Disney buses are clean, comfortable, and efficient, which is why we call this is a consideration instead of a con. That said, if you want the fun and convenience of the monorail or the novelty of boating between destinations, you won’t find that at the Value Resorts - although both the Art of Animation Resort and Pop Century Resort are on the Skyliner route! 

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Here are our favorite things to see, do, and eat at each Value Resort: 

• Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort. If you have Buzz, Woody, and Jessie fans in your travel crew, All-Star Movies Resort will delight them with its Toy Story-themed area, which includes massive character statues and other thematic elements. 

• Disney’s All-Star Music Resort. We love the family suites at Disney’s All-Star Music Resort, which will appeal to adults and kids alike.

• Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort. Sports fans, rejoice: Disney has a resort just for you. Disney fans get to enjoy park magic while the rest of the travel gang gets their fill of basketball, surfing, tennis, and more. 

• Disney’s Pop Century Resort. The kid in us honors the kid in you. Disney’s Pop Century resort is a nod to iconic pop culture fixtures from each century, from Playdough and Rubix cubes to Yo-Yos. Bonus: this resort is on the Skyliner route.  

• Disney’s Art of Animation Resort. For the true Disney fan, Art of Animation Resort takes you through the classics, from The Lion King, Cars, and Finding Nemo suites and standard rooms, to a Little Mermaid themed- pool that actually plays music under the water! This resort is also on the Skyliner route. 

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Our recommendation: If budget is your chief concern OR you are truly a park warrior who just uses your room to recharge your Disney battery (and your phone battery), Value Resorts are the way to go. Have a little more flexibility in your budget - or more specific travel needs? Read on.

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Exploring the Pros and Cons of Disney’s Moderate Resorts

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There are key differences that give Moderate Resorts an edge over Value Resorts, and as you’d expect, they largely center around comfort and convenience. Here’s where Moderate Resorts have an advantage over Value Resorts. 

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Transportation. As we said, Disney’s bus system is fantastic, but less distance between the parks and the resorts, plus access to boats and the Skyliner (which services the Caribbean Beach Resort and Disney’s Riviera Resort) do give Moderate Resorts the point for convenience. 

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Dining. After a busy day at the parks, it feels great to sit down at a full-service restaurant and have someone bring you a cold drink - not to mention, order a meal that doesn’t require you to bus a tray. 

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Comfort. With comfortable lounges to grab a cocktail and swimming pools that include bonuses like a slide or hot tubs, Moderate Resorts are targeted for those who want a more balanced experience - a little park time and a little R&R. 

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Note that the themes here are also very appealing for your little ones. Read on to learn about Port Orleans’ Royal-themed rooms, and Under the Sea at the Caribbean Beach Resort, as well as all our favorite things to see, eat, drink, and do at Disney’s Moderate Resorts.

• Caribbean Beach Resort. With its island theme, tropical colors, and great pirate port-themed pool, this resort gives you a vacation within your vacation. Ask your Disney Travel Agent about their new Under the Sea-themed new rooms, Skyliner access, and the Sebastian Bistro - a hidden dining gem dining.      

• Coronado Springs is a unique moderate resort. The tower at Coronado Springs Resort gives you the most deluxe feel of all the moderate resorts with larger rooms, great onsite dining options, and even a Sangria-making class! Visiting Disney for an anniversary or honeymoon? This one could be a great fit for you. 

• Port Orleans Riverside. Our favorite resort for the princesses among you, Port Orleans Riverside has  “Royal” rooms with princess touches, including Tiana’s bayou-themed beds with fiber optic starry night skies. The resort is also set on a tranquil river location with boat access to Disney Springs, making it feel a world away while still giving you convenient park access. 

• Port Orleans French Quarter. This is the only moderate resort with a splash pad, and the only resort offering freshly made Beignets courtesy of the Scat Cat Club. It is also set on smaller grounds than the other moderate resorts, making it easier to navigate. 

• Ft. Wilderness Cabins and Campsite. There’s camping, and then there’s Disney camping. Ft. Wilderness cabins offer more space than other resort rooms, a kitchen area with an outdoor grill, and LOTS of activities (horseback riding, archery, kayaking and so much more). The grounds are vast so consider renting a golf cart, which will come in handy when you’re headed to the bonfire singalong with Chip and Dale, or the Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue dinner show. Note: campsites book up quickly, so if you’re booking at this resort, consider working with an agent.  

 

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Exploring the Pros and Cons of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts

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Ahhh, the Deluxe Resorts. As Disney fans down to our bones, we are among the travelers who visit Disney entirely for the parks. But even we must admit that Disney’s commitment to luxury, service, and comfort at the Deluxe Resorts could make them a destination in and of themselves. 

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Naturally, the Deluxe resorts feature larger rooms and full-service restaurants just like the Moderate Resorts. Where Deluxe Resorts differ from Moderate Resorts is in their amenities (like valet parking, character dining locations, and most importantly, Extended Evening Theme Park Entry) and in their overall experience. Simply put, Deluxe Resort feels deluxe - and definitely luxurious. 

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Here are some of the benefits of Disney’s Deluxe Resorts that we enjoy most:

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Transportation. There’s no gray area here. When it comes to park access, convenience, and breadth of options, the Deluxe Resorts are the clear winner. Disney’s Monorail services Disney’s Polynesian, Grand Floridian, and Contemporary Resorts, and guests can easily walk to the parks from the Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower, Boardwalk Inn, Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, Yacht Club and Beach Club, and Disney’s Deluxe Resort partners, the Swan and Dolphin. 

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Access. Guests staying at a Disney Deluxe Resort or Disney Deluxe Villa Resort have additional opportunities to join virtual queues during the Extended Evening Hours. Need we say more? 

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Amenities. Float in the lazy river at Disney’s Yacht Club and Beach Club Resorts, or choose from multiple hot tubs. Sip award-winning wines from around the world at Disney’s Animal Kingdom or Contemporary Resort. Discover high-end shopping right on the property (yes, we own a Disney-themed Lilly Pulitzer sundress; don’t judge). Recover from a busy park day with an incredible spa experience at the Grand Floridian. If you’re planning a true Disney dream vacation, Deluxe hotels are sure to give you a magical, memorable, and truly immersive experience. 

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Naturally, the biggest consideration with Deluxe Resorts is price. Deluxe Resorts are truly luxurious, with high-end finishes, luxury linens, and a more subtle Disney theme than you’ll find at Value or Moderate Resorts - and they are priced accordingly. For our money, Deluxe Resorts are best for families with older children who’ve visited the parks before; honeymooners, couples, and anyone who is deeply invested in the vacation experience - not just Disney magic. 

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Here are our favorite things to see, do, eat, and drink at Disney’s Deluxe Resorts: 

• Animal Kingdom Lodge. Savanna view rooms offer the unique, and magical experience of seeing the animals right outside your patio. You can also see them from resort common areas before taking advantage of unique (and delicious) dining options with African-inspired menus. Try the Boma Zebra cakes; they’re a fan favorite. 

• BoardWalk Inn. Adults, and families with older kids, this is a great hotel for you. Enjoy evening entertainment from jugglers, acrobats magicians, and more. There are also great bars and nightlife, including Jellyroll’s Piano Bar and Abracada Bar, and fantastic dining like Trattoria al Forno right downstairs. Bonus: this resort is an easy walk to both Hollywood Studios and EPCOT. 

• Contemporary. A classic, and one of our favorites, the Contemporary is home to Chef Mickey’s, and is within easy walking distance of the Magic Kingdom. Not up for a walk Disney’s iconic Resort Monorail runs right through the building. With Incredibles-themed décor in all rooms and varying room locations (choose the garden building or the main tower with resort views) Contemporary Resort is an excellent choice for families. Watch the Magical Fireworks Display right from the resort - or even from your room. 

• Grand Floridian Resort and Spa. Disney’s flagship resort, the Grand Floridian features newly renovated rooms with a nod to classics like Mary Poppins. It’s turn of the century charm is complemented by high-end dining at Nacroossee’s, Citrico, and Victoria and Alberts, as well as a Beauty and the Beast-themed bar called Enchanted Rose. It’s conveniently located along the Monorail, and a walking path leads you to Magic Kingdom and Disney’s Polynesian Resort.  

• Polynesian Village Resort. Did you know that the Polynesian Village is Disney’s most requested resort? Kids will love the Moana-inspired décor, a must-see volcano pool, and character breakfast at Ohana.  favorite O’Hana dinner famous for the noodles! Adults will love Trader Sam’s bar, a Disney classic. And the entire family will love dinner at Ohana - try the famous noodles!

• Wilderness Lodge. Perhaps Disney’s most relaxing resort, the Wilderness Lodge feels like a lakeside mountain retreat. Join Snow White and the Evil Queen for dinner at Artists Pointe, and boat to MK. Holiday travel pro tip? Wilderness Lodge is home to the best of Disney’s hundreds of Christmas trees - and that’s saying something.

• Disney’s Yacht. Club and its sister property, Disney’s Beach Club, each have a high-end nautical theme featuring dark wood tones, crisp whites and watery blues. For our money, this is definitely the Disney resort with the best pool thanks to its sand bottom, lazy river, and pirate ship waterslide. There’s also the fantastic Yachtsman Steakhouse (try the shrimp cocktail!) and guests can walk to the shops, restaurants, and nightlight of Disney’s Boardwalk. 

• Beach Club. With its shared pool and Coastal New England feel, the Beach Club shares the charm of Disney’s Yacht Club, plus a legendary character breakfast location at Cape May Café. Don’t miss Beaches and Cream ice cream shop with its Kitchen Sink Sundae. Among the most famous Disney dining experiences, ordering it is almost as fun as eating it. Try one and see what we mean. 

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Also included in the deluxe resort category are the Walt Disney World Swan and Dolphin and Swan Reserve. While not owned or operated by Disney, these resorts do share many of the same perks, including the coveted Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Theme Park Hours benefit. 

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All the Conveniences of Home: Disney Vacation Club Villa Resorts

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If you really want to swing for the fences, Disney’s Vacation Club Villas make your Disney trip a breeze with amenities that include full-service restaurants, in-room kitchen facilities, in-room laundry in many rooms, luggage service, swimming pools, on-site recreation, flexible room arrangements, and bus, boat, or Skyliner transportation. The price for DVC Villas is comparable to Deluxe Resorts, but may also exceed that price when booking a multi-room villa. DVC Villa Resorts have access to Extended Evening Theme Park Hours. 

Disney Vacation Club Resorts Include: 

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• Animal Kingdom Villas at Jambo House

• Bay Lake Tower at the Contemporary Resort (next to the Contemporary Tower, connected by a walking bridge)

• Beach Club Villas 

• BoardWalk Villas

• Boulder Ridge Villas at Wilderness Lodge (newly renovated midwestern mountain-themed rooms, located at Wilderness Lodge resort) 

• Copper Creek Villas and Cabins at the Wilderness Lodge (Full cabins offer a high-end private retreat with private hot tubs that sleep 8)

• Kidani Village at the Animal Kingdom Lodge (located in its own building near Animal Kingdom Lodge, the resort is shaped like Ram horns. Dine at Sanna to watch the animals while you eat)

• Old Key West  (Amenities include golf on-site, a boat ride to Disney Springs, and a hidden gem in Olivia’s restaurant)

• Polynesian Village Resort Villas and Bungalows (studio and 1-3 bedroom villas currently being built, plus existing Bungalows over the water but note - these villas can be pricy and hard to get without an agent!) 

• Disney’s Riviera Resort (Disney’s newest resort, amenities include great food onsite, fan-favorite character breakfast at Topolino’s, Skyliner access, and Tangled and Peter Pan-themed rooms)

• Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa (A tranquil park-like setting with great pools and water slides. Walk or boat to Disney Springs. Best price point for a Disney Vacation Club with newly renovated rooms)

• The Villas at the Grand Floridian

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Okay, So - Which Disney Resort Should You Choose? 

 

Whether you’re doing Disney on a budget, trying to find the best Disney resort for kids or the most romantic Disney resort for your wedding or honeymoon, every Disney trip is unique. With so many diverse options, having a memorable, magical, and unique Disney experience starts with choosing the Disney resort that is right for you.

 

Here are our recommendations for the best Disney resort for kids, honeymooners, Star Wars fans, Bachelor and Bachelorette parties, or your very first Disney trip.
 

The Best Disney Resorts for Kids 

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Of course, every Disney resort is great for kids; that’s what Disney does. Somehow they know exactly how to speak to kids - and to kids at heart. 

 

But not every kid is the same, and not every family has the same vacation goals. 

 

When it comes to choosing the best Disney resort for kids, here are the top things to consider (and yes, our recommendations). 

 

The best Disney resort for kids between the ages of 5 and 10: 

For us, this is the sweet spot for Value Resorts. Kids of this age are past the nap stage and don’t need bottles or special gear - like strollers - anymore. They can walk longer, ride more rides, sit through more shows, and generally have a longer park day. They don’t care so much about the amenities at the pool, and a really cool theme goes a long way. 

 

Our favorite: Disney’s Art of Animation Resort

 

The best Disney Resorts for small children: 

This will be a controversial recommendation, but we like Deluxe - and select Moderate - Resorts for families with young children. While pros like easy transportation options, quick, convenient access to the parks, greater comfort, less walking, and higher-end amenities - like incredible pools, poolside dining, and a much greater breadth of onsite dining options - won’t necessarily register with kids, they absolutely make the trip far easier on mom and dad. Our advice: fewer nights. More luxury. 

 

Note that we also like this option for families with teens - kids who will order a steak and actually eat it, or who appreciate the joys of a quieter, less kid-covered pool. 

 

Our favorite: Disney’s Contemporary Resort and Bay Lake Tower

 

Note: Not sure whether to go left or right? Whether you have babies or your kids are college-bound, Moderate Resorts are always a good choice. 

 

The Best Disney Resort for Honeymooners

 

Venturing to Disney on your Honeymoon? Our picks for best Disney Resort for honeymoons: Disney’s Grand Floridian and Polynesian Resort. Both resorts include amenities, luxury, and convenience that make them worth the visit even for those who don’t believe in magic. Spend a day at the spa at the Grand Floridian, or sip cocktails while seeing fantastic live shows at the Polynesian. Both are rich in atmosphere and romance. 

 

The Best Disney Resort for a Bachelor/Bachelorette Party 

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Our favorite resort for Bachelor and Bachelorette Parties is Disney’s Yacht and Beach Club Resorts. With nightlight within easy walking distance at Disney’s Boardwalk, and an incredible lazy river to float in by day - not to mention the Yachtsman Steakhouse, one of our favorite dining destinations in Disney, these are the perfect accommodations to kick off (and recover from) your festivities. You also have just a 5 minute walk to EPCOT park.

 

Disney’s Best Pet-Friendly Resorts

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Can’t bear to leave Fluffy at home? Walt Disney World has four pet-friendly hotels to choose from:

• Disney’s Yacht Club

• Port Orleans Riverside

• Art of Animation

• Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground

Pets may also be boarded at the Best Friends Pet Care kennel across from Port Orleans Riverside. Contact your Disney travel advisor for more information on bringing the furriest member of your family on your Disney adventure. 

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Every Disney hotel offers something special. Learn more about the resorts and choose one that’s perfect for your magical adventure by contacting our friends at Willow + Wand. 

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Not sure when to take that trip? How about what to pack? Get our free 2025 Disney Crowd Calendar and Disney Packing List here.