Guest Calls Out Deluxe Disney World Hotel, Says It’s “Not Worth It”

Although a Walt Disney World Resort vacation can be expensive, Disney provides several options to make it more affordable for guests with varying budgets. With over 400 dining locations, you can enjoy everything from Cheeseburger Spring Rolls and Mickey Pretzels to Filet Mignon, fresh seafood, and impressive buffet choices.

While tickets can be costly—especially with the addition of a Park Hopper option—Disney offers special ticket promotions throughout the year. Plus, the longer you stay, the more affordable the tickets become per day.

Related: Guest Shares Latest Disney World Hack to Save You Money

One of the largest expenses when visiting Disney World is the resort hotel. Even the more budget-friendly options, like Disney’s All-Star hotels, can cost a couple hundred dollars per night.

For many Disney fans, staying at a Deluxe Resort on Walt Disney World property is considered a dream vacation experience. These top-tier accommodations come with a hefty price tag, promising luxury, convenience, and an extra dose of magic.

However, one guest’s recent experience at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort is raising questions about whether these promises are being fulfilled.

Reddit user CoffeeChangesThings shared their experience staying at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort, one of the most iconic properties at Walt Disney World. Known for its lush tropical theming, monorail access, and stunning views of Magic Kingdom, the Polynesian is marketed as a high-end option. The guest decided to splurge for their final night, booking a $912 room with a lake view.

Unfortunately, the reality didn’t live up to their expectations. In their post, the guest described several issues with the room’s condition:

“A chunk of drywall was missing right next to the shower, and a metal end cap part of the shower fixture was missing, leaving a screw head exposed and rusty. The USB port in the nightstand was broken, and both receptacles in the wall plug were so worn out they wouldn’t hold any cords. Overall, very disappointed in what I was expecting to be much better quality for that price.”

The guest concluded their post with a lesson learned, stating, “They got me for $912…lesson learned I guess?”

Related: Here Are Our Favorite Disney Resorts In Each Category – Deluxe, Moderate and Value

The Reddit thread quickly garnered attention, with many Disney fans echoing the guest’s frustrations. Several commenters pointed out that while Disney’s Deluxe Resorts are priced as luxury accommodations, they often don’t meet the standards of true five-star hotels.

One commenter explained:

“‘Deluxe’ quality resorts at Disney are comparable to 3-4 star hotels at best. You’re not paying for a significantly nicer hotel. You’re paying to be closer to the park.”

Others recommended off-property hotels like the Four Seasons or Waldorf-Astoria, which they argued provide a genuinely luxurious experience without compromising on proximity to the parks.

Another factor contributing to the guest’s disappointment is the ongoing construction at Disney’s Polynesian Village Resort. The property is currently undergoing a significant expansion to add a new Disney Vacation Club tower. While Disney has informed guests about the construction, it hasn’t stopped complaints about noise, obstructed views, and an overall lackluster atmosphere.

Despite these disruptions, Disney continues to charge premium prices for rooms at the Polynesian, leaving many guests feeling shortchanged.

Some commenters encouraged the guest to bring their concerns to Disney, noting that cast members are often willing to compensate for disappointing experiences.

Would you pay top dollar for a Deluxe Resort, or do you prefer off-property options with higher standards for the same price—or less? Share your thoughts in the comments below!