Written by: Katelyn Greene, Travel Planner
One of my favorite parts about a vacation to Walt Disney World Resort is not just the parks. It’s the resort you get to call home during your trip.
No matter which resort category you choose, there are several perks that come with staying on Disney property. All Disney resort guests receive complimentary transportation throughout the property, including buses, boats, the Skyliner, and monorail access depending on where you stay. Guests also enjoy early theme park entry each day, the ability to purchase and book Lightning Lane selections in advance of off-site guests, and the convenience of charging purchases to their room using a MagicBand or MagicMobile. These added benefits make it easy to stay fully immersed in the “Disney bubble” for your entire vacation.
One of the first decisions you’ll make when planning your trip is choosing where to stay. Disney resorts fall into three main categories: Value, Moderate, and Deluxe, and each offers something a little different depending on your budget, travel style, and how you plan to spend your time.
Value Resorts
Value resorts are Disney’s most affordable accommodations, but they are still full of fun theming and magical details. These resorts are known for their bright colors, oversized Disney characters, and high-energy atmosphere that is especially exciting for kids. While they are the most budget-friendly option, they still provide everything you need for a comfortable and immersive Disney stay.
At a value resort, you can expect lower nightly prices, quick-service dining locations, large pools, and complimentary transportation to the parks. These resorts are designed with convenience and fun in mind, making them a popular choice for families who plan to spend most of their time in the parks rather than at the resort.
Value Resort Options:
-Disney’s Pop Century Resort
-Disney’s Art of Animation Resort
-Disney’s All-Star Movies Resort
-Disney’s All-Star Music Resort
-Disney’s All-Star Sports Resort
Value resorts are a great fit for first-time Disney visitors, families with small children, or anyone looking to stay on Disney property without stretching the budget too far.
Moderate Resorts
Moderate resorts offer a noticeable step up in both atmosphere and amenities while still being more affordable than deluxe resorts. These resorts tend to feel more relaxed and immersive, with beautiful landscaping and thoughtful theming that creates a true vacation atmosphere.
Guests staying at moderate resorts will typically find larger rooms, more dining options, including table-service restaurants, and additional recreational offerings. The pools are also a highlight, often featuring water slides and hot tubs, which make spending time at the resort just as enjoyable as visiting the parks.
Moderate Resort Options:
-Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort
-Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort
-Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- Riverside
-Disney’s Port Orleans Resort- French Quarter
-The Cabins at Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort
-Disney’s Fort Wilderness Resort and Campground
Moderate resorts are ideal for families who want a little more space and comfort, guests who plan to enjoy time at their resort, or couples and adults looking for a quieter Disney experience without the higher price tag of deluxe resorts.
Guests who choose deluxe resorts often enjoy larger rooms, signature dining experiences, beautiful views, and the convenience of being just minutes from the parks. These resorts are also the only category that offers access to Extended Evening Theme Park Hours, giving guests even more time to enjoy the parks with smaller crowds.
Deluxe Resort Options:
-Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa
-Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort
-Disney’s Contemporary Resort
-Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
-Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge
-Disney’s Beach Club Resort
-Disney’s Yacht Club Resort
-Disney’s Boardwalk Inn
-Disney’s Riviera Resort
Another Deluxe offering includes Disney’s Deluxe Villas. These are part of Disney Vacation Club and offer villa-style accommodations, with added space, including studios and multi- bedroom options with features like kitchenettes or full kitchens.
Disney’s Deluxe Villas options:
-Bay Lake Tower at Disney’s Contemporary Resort
-Boulder Ridge Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
-Copper Creek Villas at Disney’s Wilderness Lodge
-Disney’s Animal Kingdom Villas
-Disney’s Beach Club Villas
-Disney’s Boardwalk Villas
-Disney’s Polynesian Villas & Bungalows
-Disney’s Saratoga Springs Resort and Spa
-Disney’s Old Key West Resort
-Disney’s Riviera Resort (Villa options)
-Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort and Spa Villas
Choosing the right Disney resort category can truly shape your vacation experience. If your goal is to maximize park time while keeping costs lower, a value resort may be the perfect fit. If you’re looking for a balance between comfort and price, moderate resorts offer a great middle ground. And if convenience and location are most important to you, a deluxe resort may be worth the splurge.
No matter which category you choose, staying at a Disney resort keeps you immersed in the magic from the moment you wake up until the end of a long park day. And when you return to your resort after a day full of rides, fireworks, and unforgettable memories, that magical Disney feeling is still there waiting for you! When you are ready to start planning, contact your Middle of the Magic Travel Planner and let us help you find the perfect resort for your vacation!
