Written by: Hannah Ruxton, Senior Travel Agent 

Pop Century is one of my favorite value resorts on Disney property, and is our go-to when looking for budget-friendly accommodations with our kids. Pop Century does a great job with theming, taking you through different decades and showcasing larger-than-life representations of popular items from each decade.

A Journey Through Time

Pop Century Resort is unique in that it offers a trip down memory lane, with each section of the resort themed after a different decade from the 20th century. From the 1950s all the way to the early 2000s, Pop Century brings back memories of music, pop culture, and iconic moments from each era. Whether you grew up with the big hair and rock ‘n’ roll of the ’80s or the neon colors and video games of the ’90s, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Themed Areas

Each of the resort’s buildings is dedicated to a different time period.

● The 1950s: This area features giant jukeboxes, a 50s-style bowling pin, and memorabilia that celebrates the birth of rock ‘n’ roll and the rise of television. It’s a great place for fans of Elvis Presley, sock hops, and classic cars.
● The 1960s: This section focuses on the vibrant colors and cultural revolutions of the era, with giant symbols of peace, love, and iconic 1960s toys, like the Big Wheel.
● The 1970s: A tribute to the groovy vibe of the ’70s, this area showcases everything from disco balls to larger-than-life representations of popular toys like the Rubik’s Cube.
● The 1980s: Here, guests can enjoy the neon colors, the rise of personal computers, and the pop culture explosion of the 1980s, with references to movies like “E.T.” and “Back to the Future.”
● The 1990s: From the boom of early video games to boy bands and the rise of the internet, the ’90s area of Pop Century celebrates the pop culture milestones of that decade.
● The Early 2000s: This area offers a glimpse of the millennium, featuring oversized items like a giant cellular phone, representing the rise of digital technology and the internet.

Theming and Design

Guests are treated to playful, colorful designs and oversized sculptures scattered throughout the property. These larger-than-life pop culture icons create a playful atmosphere that is perfect for families and photo ops. Imagine taking a photo with a giant Mickey Mouse phone from the ’90s or standing next to a massive 1950s car model!
Comfortable Accommodations
Pop Century Resort provides modern and comfortable accommodations that will keep you rested and refreshed during your Disney World adventure. The rooms are bright, spacious, and well-maintained, offering all the amenities you need for a nice stay. The resort features rooms that can accommodate up to four guests, making it an ideal option for families.

Dining Options

Pop Century features a quick-service dining location called Everything Pop Shopping & Dining. This newly refurbished food court is perfect for grabbing a quick meal before heading to the parks, with a wide variety of options ranging from burgers and sandwiches to pizza, salads, and more. The resort also has a gift shop where you can pick up snacks, drinks, and other Disney-themed merchandise. And of course, you can use your dining plan here too!

Fun Activities and Recreation

Beyond the parks, Pop Century offers plenty of recreational activities. The resort has three pools themed to match the decades: the Hippy Dippy Pool, with its flower power vibe from the ’60s, the Bowling Pin Pool inspired by the 1950s, and the Computer Pool, referencing the early digital age of the 1980s.
For those who enjoy a more laid-back experience, there are also walking paths and beautiful gardens to explore, as well as a large, central green space perfect for lounging or having a picnic. There are activity boards around the resort, so you can stay up-to-date with all offered activities.
Transportation to the Parks

Pop Century is conveniently located along Disney’s Skyliner transportation system, making it easy to access the nearby theme parks, including EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. This addition to Disney transportation has become a fan favorite for its convenience, speed, and great views of the property as you travel overhead. Additionally, the resort is serviced by Disney buses for trips to other parks, including Magic Kingdom and Animal Kingdom.

Value and Affordability

One of the biggest draws of Pop Century Resort is its affordability. As one of Disney World’s value resorts, it offers a great price point without sacrificing the quality of your Disney experience. Guests can enjoy the perks of staying on Disney property, such as access to early park entry and access to the water park on check-in day, and transportation to the parks, at a more budget-friendly rate compared to the more upscale Disney resorts.

If you’re looking for a playful, family-friendly resort that transports you back in time and provides all the Disney magic at a reasonable price, Pop Century is definitely a top choice. So pack your bags, bring your sense of nostalgia, and get ready to relive the best moments from the 20th century at Disney’s Pop Century Resort!