Walt Disney World Resort in Orlando, Florida, is not just famous for its iconic theme parks but also for its diverse and enchanting resort accommodations. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a seasoned Disney traveler, the experience of staying at a Disney World resort can elevate your vacation to new heights. But with so many options, how do you choose the best resort that fits your family’s needs, budget, and tastes? This guide will help you navigate through the best Disney World resorts, each with its own unique charm and experiences to offer.
Why Should You Stay at a Disney World Resort?
Staying at a Disney resort offers numerous advantages that go beyond just having a place to sleep. With themed accommodations, convenient transportation options, early park access, and immersive experiences, Disney World resorts are designed to keep you in the magic even when you’re not in the parks. Here are some compelling reasons why you might want to book your stay at one of the Walt Disney World Resort hotels:
- Proximity to the Parks: Disney World resorts are just minutes away from Magic Kingdom, EPCOT, Disney’s Hollywood Studios, and Disney’s Animal Kingdom. This means you spend less time traveling and more time experiencing the magic.
- Exclusive Perks: Guests who stay at Disney resorts enjoy benefits like early park entry and access to special events and activities.
- Themed Ambience: Disney resorts immerse you in themed environments that make you feel like you’re part of a fairytale or adventure. Whether you’re staying in a Polynesian paradise or a Victorian-inspired hotel, the theming is both immersive and spectacular.
- Convenience and Comfort: With convenient transportation to and from the parks, character dining experiences, and in-room celebrations, Disney World resorts offer unparalleled ease and comfort.
In this article, we will explore the best Disney World resorts across different categories, from luxury to budget-friendly options, ensuring that every kind of traveler finds the perfect place to stay.
What Are the Best Luxury Disney World Resorts?
If you’re looking for a truly magical and high-end experience, luxury Disney resorts provide unparalleled service, comfort, and immersive theming. These resorts offer the best of Disney’s world-class amenities and attention to detail. Here are the top luxury options you’ll want to consider:
1. Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
Why Is Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa a Top Choice?
Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa is the epitome of elegance and sophistication. Located just a short monorail ride from Magic Kingdom, this resort combines Victorian-era charm with modern amenities. The Grand Floridian is perfect for those seeking a refined atmosphere with all the luxury you would expect from a world-class resort.
- Theming and Ambience: Inspired by the grand hotels of the early 20th century, the Grand Floridian features a beautiful, airy lobby with a 5-story atrium, chandeliers, and opulent furnishings. The overall design is reminiscent of a grand seaside resort.
- Dining Options: The resort boasts some of the best dining experiences on Disney property, including the award-winning Victoria & Albert’s, which is ideal for a special evening out.
- Amenities: Guests can relax at the full-service spa, enjoy poolside cabanas, and take part in Disney’s famous character dining experiences.
2. Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
Why Is Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort Perfect for a Tropical Getaway?
If you’re seeking a tropical paradise with beautiful views of the Magic Kingdom’s fireworks, look no further than Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. This resort offers a laid-back, island-inspired atmosphere with lush landscaping, tiki torches, and thatched roofs.
- Theming and Ambience: Inspired by the South Pacific, the resort’s Polynesian theme is both vibrant and relaxing. Guests are welcomed with exotic landscaping, traditional Polynesian music, and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
- Dining Options: The resort offers some of the best dining experiences at Disney World, including the ‘Ohana restaurant, which is perfect for family-style dining. For those craving tropical drinks, the Trader Sam’s Grog Grotto is a must-visit.
- Amenities: The resort features a beautiful pool with a volcano theme, a white-sand beach, and the popular Spirit of Aloha dinner show.
3. Disney’s Contemporary Resort
What Makes Disney’s Contemporary Resort Stand Out?
For guests who love a modern and sleek design with easy access to Magic Kingdom, Disney’s Contemporary Resort offers an unmatched experience. This resort is known for its futuristic architecture and convenient location.
- Theming and Ambience: The Contemporary Resort’s minimalist design includes the iconic A-frame building with a monorail running right through it. The open-concept lobby is filled with modern art and has a chic, sophisticated vibe.
- Dining Options: One of the highlights is the California Grill, which offers stunning views of the Magic Kingdom fireworks and serves up fine dining. The resort is also home to the casual Contempo Café.
- Amenities: With an amazing pool, a water play area for children, and walking distance to Magic Kingdom, this resort is perfect for those looking for luxury with convenience.
What Are the Best Moderate Disney World Resorts?
Moderate Disney resorts provide great value while still offering a high level of comfort, theming, and amenities. These resorts typically feature themed rooms, pool areas, and dining options. Below are some of the best moderate Disney World resorts.
1. Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
Why Is Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort a Great Option for Families?
Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offers a relaxed, tropical atmosphere that’s perfect for families. With its beautiful beaches, lush gardens, and spacious rooms, it’s a fantastic mid-range option that offers both relaxation and fun.
- Theming and Ambience: The resort is themed to reflect the beauty and vibrancy of the Caribbean islands. Palm trees, white-sand beaches, and brightly colored buildings create a welcoming atmosphere.
- Dining Options: The resort is home to several dining options, including the popular Centertown Market, which offers quick-service dining with Caribbean flavors. The Banana Cabana pool bar is also a great spot to relax.
- Amenities: Families can enjoy a large pool, water play areas, and a variety of recreational activities like bike rentals and fishing.
2. Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside
Why Should You Stay at Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside?
Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside transports you to the peaceful charm of Louisiana with its Southern-inspired architecture and serene surroundings. This moderate resort is perfect for guests who want a laid-back vibe with plenty of activities.
- Theming and Ambience: With its beautifully landscaped gardens, river views, and Southern plantation-inspired architecture, the resort evokes the charm of the Louisiana Bayou.
- Dining Options: The resort is home to the Riverside Mill Food Court, a great spot for quick meals, as well as Boatwright’s Dining Hall, which serves hearty Southern fare.
- Amenities: The resort offers bike rentals, fishing, a large pool with a waterslide, and boat transportation to Disney Springs.
3. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
What Makes Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort Unique?
Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort offers a unique blend of southwestern and Mexican influences with a focus on relaxation and recreation. It’s an excellent choice for both families and adults who enjoy a resort with both serene spaces and lively activities.
- Theming and Ambience: With a southwestern flair, Coronado Springs features colorful Spanish-style architecture, stunning courtyard views, and beautiful fountains and gardens.
- Dining Options: The resort’s dining options include the popular Toledo – Tapas, Steak & Seafood restaurant and the casual Rix Sports Bar & Grill.
- Amenities: Coronado Springs boasts a large pool area with a Mayan pyramid theme, a fitness center, and a spa, making it a great choice for guests who want to unwind.
What Are the Best Budget Disney World Resorts?
For guests who want to experience the magic of Disney World without breaking the bank, budget resorts are an excellent choice. These resorts provide great value with themed rooms, fun amenities, and a casual vibe, all while keeping costs low.
1. Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
Why Should You Stay at Disney’s Art of Animation Resort?
Disney’s Art of Animation Resort is perfect for families who want a fun and immersive Disney experience without paying top-tier prices. With larger-than-life themed rooms, this resort is a treat for fans of Disney movies.
- Theming and Ambience: The resort is themed after Disney classics such as The Lion King, Cars, Finding Nemo, and The Little Mermaid. The rooms are vibrant and full of Disney magic, and the outdoor areas feature impressive character statues.
- Dining Options: The resort’s Landscape of Flavors food court is perfect for quick-service dining, with options that cater to all tastes.
- Amenities: The resort features one of the best pools at Disney, the Big Blue Pool, themed to Finding Nemo, and there are plenty of opportunities for outdoor play and family fun.
2. Disney’s Pop Century Resort
What Makes Disney’s Pop Century Resort a Fun and Affordable Choice?
Disney’s Pop Century Resort is a celebration of popular culture, with each section of the resort dedicated to a different decade. Whether you love the ‘50s, ‘60s, or ‘80s, you’ll enjoy the nostalgia-filled décor and vibrant atmosphere.
- Theming and Ambience: Pop Century is split into different sections representing each decade, from the 1950s to the 1990s. The resort is colorful, and each section includes large icons from the era, like giant jukeboxes, skateboards, and cell phones.
- Dining Options: The Everything Pop Shopping and Dining area offers quick-service meals in a retro, fast-food style.
- Amenities: The resort features two large pools, a playground, and an arcade for fun-filled entertainment after a day in the parks.
3. Disney’s All-Star Resorts (Sports, Movies, and Music)
What Are the Advantages of Staying at Disney’s All-Star Resorts?
The Disney All-Star Resorts offer a budget-friendly way to stay at Disney World while still enjoying the benefits of Disney resort amenities. Themed after movies, sports, and music, these resorts are perfect for guests looking for a fun atmosphere without the hefty price tag.
- Theming and Ambience: Each All-Star Resort has its own theme. All-Star Movies celebrates Disney films, All-Star Music features the world of music, and All-Star Sports showcases various athletic themes. All are filled with large, fun decorations and character statues.
- Dining Options: The All-Star Resorts feature food courts with quick-service options at affordable prices.
- Amenities: The resorts offer large pools, arcade games, and plenty of outdoor spaces for families to relax and play.
Conclusion
The best Disney World resort for your stay depends on your personal preferences, budget, and the experience you want to have. Whether you’re seeking a luxurious escape, a fun family-friendly adventure, or an affordable option to enjoy the magic of Disney, there’s a resort for everyone.
Luxury Resorts: If you’re looking for the best in luxury, the Grand Floridian, Polynesian Village, and Contemporary Resort provide unmatched elegance and proximity to the parks.
Moderate Resorts: For families who want a great experience at a moderate price, the Caribbean Beach, Port Orleans Riverside, and Coronado Springs resorts offer excellent theming and amenities.
Budget Resorts: If cost is a concern, Art of Animation, Pop Century, and the All-Star Resorts provide an immersive Disney experience at an affordable price.
No matter which resort you choose, staying at Disney World brings you closer to the magic, ensuring your vacation is as memorable as the attractions themselves. Happy travels!
