Planning a trip to Walt Disney World is always exciting! Choosing the right Disney resort can take your vacation from good to amazing. With so many different resorts to choose from—value, moderate, and deluxe—it can feel overwhelming at first. Each category offers unique benefits, so it’s important to think about what matters most to you. Whether it’s location, amenities, theming, or transportation, your resort choice can have a big impact on your Disney experience.
To help make your decision easier, here’s a detailed breakdown of five important things to consider when selecting a Disney resort.
1. Resort Activities & Theming: Finding the Right Atmosphere
Every Disney resort has its own unique theme and activities. Whether you want a fun and lively resort or a peaceful retreat, there’s an option for you. Theming at Disney resorts is an integral part of the experience, influencing everything from room decor to on-site entertainment.
- Value Resorts: These are the most budget-friendly options, like Disney’s Art of Animation Resort and Disney’s Pop Century Resort. They have bright, playful themes, larger-than-life decorations, and fun activities like poolside games and outdoor movie nights. Some even have themed pools with interactive water play areas.
- Moderate Resorts: Resorts such as Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – French Quarter and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offer a balance of relaxation and entertainment. These resorts have beautifully themed landscapes, unique pools with water slides, and activities like fishing, bike rentals, and carriage rides. They offer a slightly more immersive experience compared to Value Resorts.
- Deluxe Resorts: If you want the most immersive Disney experience, deluxe resorts like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge are top choices. They offer breathtaking views, cultural experiences, and even special perks like wildlife encounters, private cabanas, and fine dining options. The deluxe resorts also feature some of the most stunning lobbies and intricate theming in all of Walt Disney World.
Each resort has something special to offer, so be sure to check out the available activities to find one that fits your vacation style. Whether you want a resort that brings Disney magic to life in a fun way or one that offers a quiet escape, Disney has an option for you.
2. Dining Options: Quick-Service or Sit-Down Meals?
Food is a big part of any Disney vacation, and your resort’s dining options can make a huge difference. From grab-and-go meals to elegant dining experiences, Disney resorts cater to a variety of tastes and preferences.
- Quick-Service Dining: Every Disney resort has quick-service locations, making it easy to grab breakfast, lunch, or dinner on the go. These locations typically serve burgers, sandwiches, salads, and other casual fare. Some resorts offer specialty items that match their theme, such as beignets at Port Orleans – French Quarter or Caribbean-inspired dishes at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort.
- Table-Service Restaurants: Some resorts have full-service restaurants that offer gourmet meals. For example, Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa has Narcoossee’s and Citricos, two high-end dining spots that serve delicious seafood and international cuisine.
- Character Dining: Want to meet Disney characters while you eat? Resorts like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge offer Wish Makers Enchanted Dining, where you can dine with Snow White and her forest friends in a magical setting.
Even if your resort doesn’t have the dining experience you’re looking for, you can always make reservations at another resort or in one of the parks. Dining reservations are highly recommended, especially for popular character meals or signature restaurants.
3. Transportation: The Best Ways to Get to the Parks
One of the best perks of staying at a Disney resort is the free transportation. But not all resorts have the same options, so it’s important to know what’s available.
- Disney Buses: All resorts provide bus transportation to the theme parks, water parks, and Disney Springs. While buses are convenient, wait times can vary depending on the time of day and crowd levels. Keep in mind that Disney Skyliner resorts, for example, will not have buses that take you to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios, unless weather won’t allow the Skyliner to operate.
- Monorail Access: If you stay at Disney’s Contemporary Resort, Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, or Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa, you can take the monorail straight to Magic Kingdom and EPCOT. This is one of the fastest and most scenic ways to get to the parks.
- Disney Skyliner: This gondola system connects Disney’s Riviera Resort, Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort, Disney’s Art of Animation Resort, and Disney’s Pop Century Resort to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. The Skyliner offers a relaxing ride with great views and is a favorite among guests staying at connected resorts.
- Boat Transportation: Some resorts, like Disney’s Wilderness Lodge and Disney’s Port Orleans Resort – Riverside, offer boat rides to Magic Kingdom or Disney Springs. This option provides a peaceful and scenic way to travel.
- Walking Distance: Resorts like Disney’s BoardWalk Inn and Disney’s Beach Club Resort allow you to walk straight to EPCOT and Disney’s Hollywood Studios. Walking can be the fastest option for guests staying near these parks.
Choosing a resort with convenient transportation can save you time and make your trip more enjoyable. If you want to minimize travel time, consider staying at a resort with multiple transportation options.
4. Location: How Close Do You Want to Be to the Parks?
If you plan to spend most of your time at a specific park, staying nearby can help you avoid long travel times. Being close to your favorite park makes it easy to take midday breaks or return for nighttime shows without spending too much time commuting.
- Magic Kingdom Resorts: Deluxe resorts like Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa and Disney’s Contemporary Resort are just a short walk or monorail ride from Magic Kingdom, making them ideal for families who want quick access.
- EPCOT & Hollywood Studios Resorts: Resorts on Disney’s BoardWalk, like Disney’s Yacht Club Resort and Disney’s Beach Club Resort, offer quick access to EPCOT and Hollywood Studios via walking paths and the Skyliner.
- Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge: This resort is further from other parks but offers unique perks, like savanna-view rooms where you can see animals like giraffes and zebras. It’s perfect for guests who love wildlife and want a peaceful retreat.
Staying close to your favorite park makes getting around easier, especially if you have kids or plan to take midday breaks. If you plan to park-hop frequently, a centrally located resort can help maximize your time.
5. Budget: Value, Moderate, or Deluxe Resorts?
Your budget plays a big role in picking the right Disney resort. Disney divides its resorts into three price categories:
- Value Resorts: Starting at more than $100 per night these are the most affordable. Examples include Disney’s All-Star Resorts, Disney’s Pop Century Resort, and Disney’s Art of Animation Resort.
- Moderate Resorts: These resorts range from $200–$400 per night. Disney’s Coronado Springs Resort and Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort offer a balance of price and amenities.
- Deluxe Resorts: Starting at $400 per night and increasing exponentially, these resorts, like Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort and Disney’s Animal Kingdom Lodge, provide luxurious accommodations and extra perks.
If you’ll be spending most of your time in the parks, a value resort might be the best option. But if you want a more relaxing and immersive experience, a moderate or deluxe resort could be worth the splurge.
Final Thoughts
No matter which Disney resort you choose, you’ll have an amazing stay with all the magic and hospitality Disney is known for. Take the time to weigh your options and pick a resort that best fits your needs.
If you found this guide helpful, share it with your Disney-loving friends to help them plan the perfect trip!
Have you stayed at a Disney resort before? Which one is your favorite? Let us know in the comments!
